PHOENIX – September 16, 2026 -- University of Phoenix has opened enrollment for a new three-year Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, a 90-credit online degree built specifically for working professionals already in the field.
The program requires at least three years of prior work experience
Unlike the university's standard four-year criminal justice bachelor's degree, which requires 120 credits, this accelerated track is capped at 90 credits and is open only to students with a minimum of three years of professional experience in criminal justice or security. The program sits within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and was approved by the Higher Learning Commission, which has continuously accredited University of Phoenix since 1978.
Coursework totals 90 credits across five-week terms
The degree breaks down into 36 credits of general education, 42 credits of required coursework and 12 elective credits. Courses run in five-week blocks entirely online, with no SAT or ACT requirement and no application fee. Students must complete a minimum of 42 upper-division credits and maintain at least a 2.00 GPA to graduate, and all students must complete the required CJA/486 Administration Capstone course, which integrates competencies from across the curriculum.
Eligible students can transfer up to 57 credits
The program accepts up to 57 transfer credits from prior coursework, military training or professional certificates, though a minimum of 30 credits must be completed directly at University of Phoenix. This transfer allowance, combined with fewer elective credits than the standard four-year track, is what shortens the overall timeline for experienced professionals.
Faculty average nearly 28 years of professional experience
Instructors in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences average 27.7 years of professional experience, including former police chiefs, captains, commanders, detectives, judges, district attorneys, sheriffs and corrections leaders. Franzi Walsh, associate dean of the Criminal Justice, Public Administration and Security programs, said the program was built for professionals who need academic rigor that reflects the work they already do. "Students learn from faculty with deep professional experience across criminal justice, public safety, legal and security environments," Walsh said.
Graduates can opt into a pathway toward a master's degree
Students considering graduate study can complete up to three approved courses through an optional Criminal Justice/Security Master's Pathway, applied toward their elective requirements. The pathway is designed to prepare students for the university's Master of Administration of Justice and Security or Master of Public Administration programs, though completing it does not guarantee graduate admission. The university notes that requirements for law enforcement, corrections or peace officer roles vary by agency and may include criteria beyond a completed degree.