Gain an in-depth understanding of what drives criminal behavior through a research- and theory-based curriculum that explores sociological concepts.
Program Details
Next Start Date:
1/11/2027
Estimated Length:
2-4 Years
Credit Hours:
120
Cost Per Credit:
$455Program Benefits
- Accepts up to 90 transfer credits
- Receive up to 12 credits for completing any
basic academy approved by the Kentucky
Law Enforcement Council - Small class sizes
- No application fee
- 100% online
B.S. Criminology Overview
With the online Bachelor of Science in Criminology program from Campbellsville University, you will study the social, historical and psychological forces that contribute to crime. Investigate the theoretical concepts that explain criminal behavior and be prepared to use your elevated knowledge to create practical solutions for systemic challenges that allow crime to persist.
Our online criminology coursework is anchored in sociological research and focuses on the complex political and psychological issues that affect today’s criminal justice system. You will examine how individuals, social groups, structures and institutions have developed nuanced relationships with both criminal activity and the laws meant to mitigate it.
Learn from highly knowledgeable faculty members who bring professional experience from across the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, intelligence, corrections and the courts. By studying online at a Christ-centered university that features small class sizes, you’ll have opportunities to receive mentorship from professors who integrate Christian values into your academics.
Upon graduation, you will be ready for multiple paths to success in the criminal justice field. You can continue your studies through graduate school or take the next step in your criminal justice career. The skills and expertise you will acquire in this program are applicable to a variety of public, private and government roles, from guiding people through rehabilitation and reentry after incarceration to advocating for victims’ rights.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Course Map
The Bachelor of Science in Criminology program consists of 120 credit hours that cover criminological theory, sociology, research, statistics and criminal justice. With Campbellsville’s generous transfer credit policy, you may be able to apply up to 90 credit hours toward your course load and finish the four-year program in two years or less.
The General Education component of undergraduate degrees provides the student with a basic understanding of a broad range of subjects. This supports the liberal arts emphasis of the University’s academic mission.
- CJ 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice
- SOC 110: Introduction to Sociology
- CJ 235: Criminology
- CJ 361: Social Statistics
- CJ 362: Methods of Research
- CJ 400: Criminological Theory
Choose six courses from the following:
- CR 211: Introduction to Law & Society
- CJ 232: Juvenile Delinquency and Justice
- CR 322: History of Punishment
- CR 336: Poverty, Crime and Enforcement
- CJ 342: Race and Ethnic Relations
- SOC 343: Gender Studies
- CR 344: Women, Crime and Justice
- CR 351: Crime and Special Victims
- CR 360: White Collar Crime
- SOC 365: Social Change
- CR 372: Theoretical Crime Prevention
- CR 422: Substance Abuse in the Justice System
- CR 430: Crime and Popular Culture
- SOC 413: Sociology of Deviant Behavior
- SOC 415: Family Violence
- CR 460: Gender, Re-entry & Rehabilitation
- SOC 430: Environmental Sociology
- SOC 435: Sociology of Violence
- CJ 450: Victimology
- CR 470: Vulnerable Populations
- SOC 472: Social Theory
- CR 432: Life-Course Criminology
- CR 401: Contemporary Issues in Criminology
- CJ 485: Serial Killers
- CR 380: Special Topics
- CR 480: Special Topics
- CR 391: Independent Study
- CR 491: Independent Study
Choose 15 credit hours of upper division courses from business administration, sociology and psychology with advisor approval. Students must have coursework from all three disciplines.
Business Administration Electives
- BA 304: Business Law II
- BA 311: Principles of Management
- BA 384: Business Management
Sociology Electives
- SOC 312: Organizational Behavior
- SOC 342: Race and Ethnic Relations
- SOC 413: Sociology of Deviant Behavior
- SOC 415: Family Violence
Psychology Electives
- PSY 311: Learning and Behavior
- PSY 321: Lifespan Development
- PSY 333: Group Dynamics
- PSY 341: Social Psychology
Students must take courses totaling 28 credit hours to complete the 120 credit hours required for a bachelor’s degree.
Admissions Requirements
To apply to Campbellsville’s online criminology bachelor’s degree program, prospective students must:
- Complete the online application.
- Submit official copies of transcripts from each college or university previously or currently attended, along with a complete record of all courses attempted.
- If transferring fewer than 24 credit hours, submit official high school transcript.
Costs & Financial Aid
The online bachelor’s degree in criminology program costs $455 per credit hour. Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options to make their education even more affordable.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
A maximum of 90 credits can be transferred from an accredited institution. Students wishing to transfer credits from an associate degree can easily do so through Campbellsville University’s Transfer Scholarship.
Earn Credit for Your Experience: Apply up to 12 credits toward your program for completing any basic academy approved by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council.
The $1,500 transfer scholarship is available to students seeking a bachelor’s degree online at Campbellsville University after transferring from any of the 70-plus campuses in the Kentucky Community & Technical System (KCTCS). CU further honors your educational journey by offering KCTCS students priority admission to degree programs and seamless transfer of previously earned credits.
Campbellsville University is a Military Friendly® School and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Become a Trusted Expert in Criminology
Whether you’re preparing for graduate school or career advancement, this online bachelor’s in criminology program will help you thrive in a variety of meaningful roles. Potential career paths include:
- Crime analyst
- Victim advocate
- Policy analyst
- Investigator
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the well-rounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- You can apply for grants, scholarships, and federal financial aid. See the Save Time & Money tab above for the many options available. You can also apply for federal student aid: Campbellsville University's school code is 001959.
- Yes, you can. CU honors your educational journey with a generous transfer credit policy that empowers you to make the most of your earned credits. Upon your admission to Campbellsville University, we'll complete a transfer credit evaluation to find out how many of your credits will apply toward your degree. For more information, visit our transfer students page.
- To determine your eligibility for any financial aid, your first step is to complete the FAFSA form. Our school code is 001959. Visit our financial aid page to learn more about your options, which include scholarships and grants.
- You can apply to our online degree programs through the online application form. Remember to submit official copies of your high school and/or college transcripts, along with any other required documentation that is specific to your degree program. You can visit the admissions process page to learn more about what to expect throughout the process.