Criminal Justice Studies

Program Learning Objectives

• Analyze how systemic inequality both shapes and is shaped by crime, law and justice systems
• Examine how people and communities influence, challenge and reshape legal institutions and ideas
• Understand the history and politics behind criminological knowledge
• Critique and assess claims, data and research related to crime, law and justice
• Complete a senior capstone project that shows strong writing, ethical reasoning and critical thinking skills

Cost and Length

Cost
$24,900 total ($415 per unit)
Gator Pass: Receive a free transit pass while enrolled. (Fall and spring only. $130 value per term.)

Length
2 years. This is a cohort-based program. You’ll take 2 online courses every 8 weeks and finish your degree in 2 years.

When to Apply

• Fall: October 1 to April 1
• Spring: May 1 to October 1

Criminal Justice Studies

The bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Studies explores how crime, law and justice systems are created, implemented and challenged. You’ll learn to think critically about how these systems connect with social and political issues, especially those related to race, class, gender, sexuality and age in the U.S.

This program helps you build skills in ethical reasoning and critical analysis. You’ll learn to question assumptions, assess policies and explore new ways to address the causes and effects of crime and delinquency.

SFSU’s College of Professional & Global Education offers this fully online degree completion program in partnership with the Department of Criminal Justice Studies and the College of Health and Social Sciences.

What Students Say

“When I joined the San Francisco Police Department at 21 years old, I had to pause my education after obtaining my AA in Administration of Justice. I enrolled into the SFSU Criminal Justice program about ten years later because it was a great program and fit my schedule. I believe my experience in gaining my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice helped me succeed in promoting through the ranks to lieutenant, captain and being appointed to commander and ultimately deputy chief. As an alumni, I’m giving back, teaching in my ninth year and mentoring students in our program at SFSU.”

Jim D.
Graduate and Lecturer

“The day I found my perfect graduation dress, I received a phone call offering me an internship in the field of criminal justice. I thank San Francisco State University’s Criminal Justice Studies program for providing me opportunities, continuous support, and an education that prepared me to be a University of San Diego School of Law student and Deputy District Attorney. During Legal Psychology class, I learned of the internship opportunity in victim services where I enjoyed my first of many internships working for a district attorney’s office. My professors wrote recommendation letters not only for internships, but for law school and job applications. The courses I took were relevant in my resumes, and Professor Snipes’ writing course particularly prepared me for legal writing as a law student. I have fond memories of attending classes with students and professors who have become good friends, enjoying morning coffees on 19th Avenue, and graduating at AT&T Park. San Francisco State University will always hold a place in my heart.”

Mikael B. 
Graduate

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