Prepare to restore justice within neighborhoods and cultures, as you evaluate current practices in the justice system.
With an emphasis on human dignity and balancing justice with mercy, you will investigate the historical roots of and responses to criminal behavior in the United States, the development of the modern legal system, and determine possibilities for prevention and restorative justice in the online criminal justice degree at Houghton College.
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18 Months
Students taking a full course load can complete the program in as few as 18 months.
A Redemptive Approach
The Criminal Justice degree at Houghton College is focused on restorative justice—a distinctly Christian approach that encourages reconciliation among individuals and within communities.
What will I learn?
Develop a holistic approach to criminal justice through courses in psychology, political science, sociology, intercultural studies, and business administration.
Through Houghton’s BA in Criminal Justice you will:
- Address the history of, and concerns related to, social justice in the modern legal system
- Go in-depth in subjects such as criminal law, juvenile justice, environmental crime and justice, and more
- Receive professional preparation, including processes for civil service exams
- Learn from dedicated faculty members who recognize the image of God in every person, regardless of what they have done
- Connect with active practitioners working in law enforcement, corrections, probation, prevention, alternative sentencing programs, and prison ministries.
Study on Your Time
Instead of 'live,' in-class sessions, you will participate in video content, readings, and online discussions at your convenience. Scheduled real-time video conferencing allows you to interact with faculty and classmates.
Learn from Faculty with Real-world Experience
Faculty includes former police officers, lawyers, licensed clinical psychologists, social psychologists, researchers, nonprofit leaders, and professionals in intelligence.
Get Experience in the Field
Internships give you hands-on learning in a criminal justice setting, giving you the chance to integrate theory with professional practice. Opportunities include local DA offices, federal agencies, law firms, and many others.
Cost and Affordability
The 2020-21 cost per credit hour for the Criminal Justice degree is
$392
Cost per credit hour
$14,896
Program Cost
(38 credits)
$150
Audit fee per class
(non-degree-seeking)
Tuition and fees are subject to change annually. Costs for books are not included.
Program outcomes
Students earning a BA degree in Criminal Justice through Houghton Online are prepared to enter careers in:
- Criminology
- Cybercrime
- Forensic Science
- International criminal justice
- Law enforcement
- Victim and family advocacy
Meet a Faculty Member
Application Requirements
Choose A Start Date
July 6, 2021
August 30, 2021
Documents and Supporting Materials
You’ll be asked to provide your official high school transcript, 1 recommendation letter, and your test scores (can be waived)
Personal Statement
Your personal statement should be between 300 and 500 words (roughly a half of page to a page of typed writing).
Personal StatementHave Questions?
Discover if earning your degree in Criminal Justice from Houghton Online is right for you.
Get more details on your program of interest
Contact 800-777-2556 or online@houghton.edu to connect with an admissions representative.