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Criminal Justice: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice with Law Enforcement concentration is designed for students seeking a strong foundation in law enforcement, corrections, and the American justice system. This associate degree program prepares you for entry-level positions while providing the flexibility to continue toward a bachelor’s degree.

Develop Critical Thinking Skills in Law Enforcement

Students develop analytical abilities to assess criminal behavior, investigate cases, and understand the complexities of the criminal justice system through hands-on learning experiences and classroom instruction.

Train with Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals

Learn from faculty with real-world experience in police departments, corrections facilities, and public safety agencies who bring practical knowledge to every course.

On-Campus Learning with Law Enforcement Academy Externships

Study on campus in Florida with access to police academies and public safety institutes through partnership programs that provide direct law enforcement training and externship opportunities.

Prepare for Entry-Level Law Enforcement Careers

Graduates ready to pursue careers as a police officer, corrections officer, crime scene technician, or security professional with the skills and credentials employers seek.

At a Glance

66

Credit Hours

18

Courses

22

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Work in entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, and security
  • Available On-Campus
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice offers students a strong foundation in the principles, procedures, and practices of the American criminal justice system. The program examines key areas such as criminal behavior, law enforcement organization and administration, juvenile systems, legal doctrines, and fundamentals of criminal investigations.
 
Through classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences, students gain practical skills that prepare them to apply their knowledge in real-world criminal justice settings. Graduates equip themselves to pursue entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, private security, or related fields and to continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree.
 
The program promotes law enforcement careers in the state of Florida through a partnership with local police academies and public safety institutes. Students complete Law Enforcement Academy Externships that provide direct exposure to police departments and the criminal justice profession.

Program Mission

The mission of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with a Law Enforcement Concentration is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level positions in law enforcement. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical application, the program covers areas such as criminal behavior patterns, law enforcement organizations, juvenile justice systems, legal principles and doctrines, and the fundamentals of criminal investigations. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of a career in the criminal justice field.

Program Goals

  1. To develop students’ understanding of the American Criminal Justice System.
  2. To understand the history of the criminal justice system, including its evolution and its impact on society.
  3. Demonstrate a capacity to think critically about issues involving the criminal justice system.
  4. To develop skills that are necessary for careers in criminal justice and related fields and have students uphold the ethical standard of criminal justice professionals.

Prerequisites

None.

Program Highlights

  • Students complete criminal justice major courses, including Law Enforcement Academy Externships. These externships connect students with police academies and provide hands-on law enforcement training.
  • General education courses develop critical thinking, research methods, and communication skills while criminal justice courses cover criminology, criminal law, criminal investigations, corrections, juvenile justice, and law enforcement procedures.
  • Students complete coursework in areas such as evidence collection, physical evidence handling, legal system procedures, and administrative responsibilities commonly associated with law enforcement careers.
  • College credit earned through this associate degree program transfers to Keiser University’s bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice, allowing students to continue their education and pursue advanced career opportunities.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. While the criminal justice programs do not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the curriculum meets rigorous academic standards and prepares students for successful careers in criminal justice.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus
 
Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Courses
 
The Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice offers students a comprehensive foundation in the principles, procedures, and practices of the criminal justice system. Through criminal justice major courses and general education requirements, students examine criminal behavior, law enforcement administration, juvenile justice, legal doctrines, and criminal investigation fundamentals. The program includes Law Enforcement Academy Externships that provide hands-on experience with local police academies and public safety institutes.
 
To receive an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice w/ Law Enforcement Concentration, students must complete 66 credit hours as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Criminal Justice Major Courses (42.0 credit hours)
Criminology 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Criminal Justice 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Corrections 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Law Enforcement 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Juvenile Procedures 3.0 credit hours
Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals 3.0 credit hours
Criminal Law 3.0 credit hours
Criminal Investigations 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship I 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship II 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship III 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship IV 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship V 3.0 credit hours
Law Enforcement Academy Externship VI 3.0 credit hours
General Education Courses (24.0 credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (6.0 credit hours)
American History Pre 1876 3.0 credit hours
American History Since 1876 3.0 credit hours
Political Science 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Psychology 3.0 credit hours
Sociology 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
English (6.0 credit hours)
English Composition I 3.0 credit hours
English Composition II 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature 3.0 credit hours
English Literature 3.0 credit hours
Contemporary World Literature 3.0 credit hours
Creative Writing 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
Intermediate Algebra 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
General Biology 3.0 credit hours
General Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Environmental Science 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
General Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
General Chemistry Laboratory 1.0 credit hour
Advanced Chemistry 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Chemistry Laboratory 3.0 credit hours

Credit hours in parentheses indicate the required number of credit hours in each discipline.

If you’re someone who cares about…

Protecting your community, helping victims, and working within the criminal justice field to solve crimes and bring justice,

a criminal justice degree might be your career path

Students in the criminal justice field show resilience, strong communication skills, and the ability to think critically under pressure.

Whether your interests lie in law enforcement, corrections, or crime scene investigation, this associate degree in criminal justice provides the foundation to turn your commitment into a meaningful criminal justice career.

Associate of Science in Criminal Justice-banner
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What Jobs Can You Get with a Criminal Justice Associate Degree?

Graduates of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice prepare for entry-level positions across the justice system. This criminal justice program supports students pursuing careers in law enforcement agencies, corrections facilities, private security, homeland security, and forensic science. The degree program provides practical skills in criminal investigation, evidence collection, and understanding the court system while preparing students for continued education toward a bachelor’s degree.

Career Pathways in Criminal Justice

  • Police officer
  • Corrections officer
  • Crime scene technician
  • Private investigator
  • Probation officer
  • Victim advocate
  • Private detective
  • Crime scene investigator
  • Law enforcement officer
  • Forensic science technician
  • Court security officer Paralegal

Are You Already in Law Enforcement?

Certified Police and Correctional Officers – Keiser University will accept up to 15 credit hours of law enforcement academy and 12 credit hours of correctional officer training toward any of our Criminal Justice degrees. Must be employed as law enforcement or correctional officer and the transfer credit will be evaluated by the dean at the campus

Associate of Science in Criminal Justice-

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Criminal Justice Career

  • Criminal investigation techniques
  • Understanding of criminal law and legal procedures
  • Legal document preparation
  • Communication skills for law enforcement professionals
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
  • Knowledge of the court system and trial process
  • Understanding of corrections and juvenile justice
  • Physical evidence handling protocols
  • Administrative skills for law enforcement settings
  • Research methods for criminal justice
  • Writing skills for reports and legal documents

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

MILO simulators are a great addition to our Criminal Justice and Homeland Security programs. The MILO simulator provides live-action scenarios, allowing our Criminal Justice students to practice de-escalation techniques and interact directly with the simulation.

The MILO Range simulator is an interactive training system used primarily by law enforcement, military personnel, correctional officers, and security professionals to practice real-world scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.

The MILO simulator is another example of our hands-on, career-focused educational approach, which goes beyond the traditional classroom setting by placing students in real-life scenarios where they can engage with the types of situations they may face in the future.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Heather S
Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate
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Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate
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When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate
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Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student
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I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student
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Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student
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I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student
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Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate
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What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate
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I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student
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Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student
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I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate
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Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Jillian Bellis
Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student
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Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student
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Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student
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The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate
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Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing
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I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate
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I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate
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KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student
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“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate
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“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Osmara Cailam
Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate
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“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer
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“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA
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“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate
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“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate
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“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD
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“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN
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“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing
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“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate
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“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Ryan Bushey
Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production
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“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Danna Murphy
Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate
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“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Jane Krolewski
Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate
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“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate
View more

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate
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“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Jason Liska
Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic
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Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate
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I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University
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My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.
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“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University
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I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

Ryan G
Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates
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“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits
  4. Enroll and choose your start date

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Keiser University’s criminal justice programs prepare students for meaningful careers in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and related fields. With on-campus learning options and partnerships with local police academies, our programs provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Whether you aim to become a police officer, work in corrections, pursue forensic science, or serve your community through homeland security, Keiser provides the education and support needed to launch your criminal justice career.

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Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study on-campus at Florida locations. Choose one class at a time. The program offers class schedules at select campuses with access to law enforcement training facilities.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid become available for students who qualify.

Top Questions About Earning a Criminal Justice Associate Degree

Can I get a criminal justice degree online at Keiser University?

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with Law Enforcement concentration requires on-campus attendance due to the Law Enforcement Academy Externships and hands-on training components. However, Keiser University offers online options for the Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice and other criminal justice degree programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels.

What's the difference between the AS and AA in Criminal Justice?

The Associate of Science (AS) includes 66 credit hours with Law Enforcement Academy Externships (18 credit hours total) and focuses on preparing students for direct entry into law enforcement careers. The Associate of Arts (AA) includes 60 credit hours without externships and serves students planning to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. Both provide strong foundations in the criminal justice system.

What careers can I pursue with this degree?

Graduates pursue entry-level positions as police officers (after completing police academy requirements), corrections officers, crime scene technicians, victim advocates, private investigators, and court security officers. The degree also prepares students for continued education toward a bachelor’s degree for expanded career opportunities.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, financial aid is available to students pursuing an online or on-campus degree including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Can you become a police officer with this degree?

Yes. A criminal justice degree from Keiser University provides foundational knowledge in criminal law, law enforcement procedures, and the justice system needed to pursue careers as a police officer. While you still need to complete police academy training through your hiring agency, this degree program helps fulfill education requirements and prepares you for the application process. The Law Enforcement Academy Externships provide direct exposure to police departments and law enforcement training.

How long does it take to complete this program?

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice typically takes approximately 24 months to complete when attending full-time. Actual completion time varies based on factors like course load, transfer credits, and individual scheduling needs.

How much does it cost to earn this degree?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

What courses make up the criminal justice major?

The criminal justice major courses include Criminology, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Corrections, Introduction to Law Enforcement, Introduction to Juvenile Procedures, Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals, Criminal Law, Criminal Investigations, and Law Enforcement Academy Externship courses. These courses examine the criminal justice system, criminal behavior, law enforcement organizations, and investigative procedures.

What do the Law Enforcement Academy Externships involve?

Law Enforcement Academy Externships provide hands-on training at police academies and public safety institutes through Keiser’s partnerships in Florida. These externship courses allow students to gain practical experience in law enforcement procedures, physical training, legal protocols, and police department operations while completing their associate degree program.

Can I continue to a bachelor's degree after completing this program?

Yes. The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice transfers to Keiser University’s bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice and related fields. Many students use this associate degree as a stepping stone toward a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice or other bachelor’s degree programs that expand career opportunities in the criminal justice field.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy