students hanging out and smiling in west campus

Criminal Justice Major

Study Criminal Justice at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll graduate equipped to enter a growing field, prepared for positions ranging from information security analyst, paralegal and legal assistant to private detective, gaming surveillance officer, and law enforcement officers. We’ll help you learn in real-world contexts through local prison tours, at-risk youth volunteering, and internships with local police departments, courts, and law offices. You’ll hear from professionals in the field at different stages of their careers. Ultimately you’ll be prepared to make society safer by learning the methods of reducing crime, advanced police practices, and improving prison, jail, and parole policies.

Program at a Glance

The School of Behavioral Sciences equips students for compassionate leadership in fields like physical therapy, social work, and psychology, guided by experienced faculty and hands-on learning.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • October 5, 2024
  • October 25, 2024
  • December 6, 2024

Application Deadline

Early Action        (Freshmen Only)

  • November 15

Regular Decision

  • March 1 priority application deadline
  • June 1 final deadline
  • August 1 final transfer deadline

Apply Now

Program Information

  • Program Units: 51

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
Yellow ribbon icon

Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

Police officer directing traffic

Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Critique how major components of the justice system respond to crime, criminals, and victims.
  • Use data and social science research to respond to contemporary criminal justice systems.
  • Illustrate ways in which social inequalities are linked to criminal justice systems.
  • Demonstrate a Christian worldview in recognizing, understanding, and applying ethical reasoning skills.

By the Numbers

1 of 126 Best Western Colleges according to Princeton Review's 2023 Best Colleges Guide
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
100 % of incoming students receive financial aid

Get Started

ashley lucas smiling

Ashley Lucas ’19 studied Criminal Justice at Azusa Pacific with hopes of working with juveniles changing the criminal justice system to benefit individuals hindered by it.

Program Details

You’ll analyze methods of reducing crime; advance police practices; improve prison, jail, and parole policies; and make society safer.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

You might think that a private college education is beyond your reach, but there are many financial resources available to help make an Azusa Pacific education a reality. APU students may take advantage of three basic types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.

Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.

Education Loans

Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.

Military Benefits

Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.

Student Employment

On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.

Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.

Net Price Calculator

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Featured Faculty

Candice R. Williams

Candice R. Williams

Associate Professor

Louis Tuthill

Louis Tuthill

Adjunct Professor, Department of Criminal Justice

Career Outlook and Outcomes

Professor teaching

Criminal Justice Major: Integrating Christian Faith into Your Studies

APU gives you a unique opportunity to integrate your faith into the criminal justice major, where you’ll explore some of society’s most pressing challenges.

Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.

Related Programs