School of Public Service and Administration
Bachelor of Arts (B.A), Criminal Justice
Program Overview
The on-campus undergraduate Criminal Justice program provides students with the tools to be proficient practitioners in the field. At Anderson University, we’ll teach you how the structures and functions of the criminal justice system work together. You’ll learn how to critically analyze criminal justice issues and provide forward-thinking solutions. This program leads to careers in police and sheriffs’ departments, probation and parole departments, the FBI, the State Law Enforcement Division, drug enforcement agencies, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Marshals Office, correctional institutions, juvenile justice agencies, and private security.
Program at a
Glance
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS
122
DETAILS
Total Credit Hours: 122
Program Type: Undergraduate
Format: Seated (Main Campus)
Time to Complete: 4 Years (8 Semesters)
Start Date: Fall: August 23, 2023 | Spring: January 8, 2024
Why AU?
Anderson University isn’t just the largest private institution of higher education in South Carolina—it’s one of the premier Christian universities in the nation. AU provides a rigorous educational experience, grounded in faith and innovation, and is regularly recognized by national organizations for affordability, excellence, and a commitment to our student’s engagement and growth. Here, you’ll discover your purpose, uncover your passion, and take a journey toward joy.
Career Outlook
Career Outlook
Admission Requirements
: :
Previous Degree Required
No previous degree is required to enroll in this program.: :
Transcript Requirements
Official high school or GED transcripts will need to be submitted as part of the application process for this program. Transfer students must submit official transcripts from their previous school.: :
Additional Admission Requirements
Two essays (prompts) or official SAT, ACT, or CLT scores are required during the application process.: :
Application Deadline
Anderson University has a rolling admission process (students are notified when the are accepted whenever that is during the year) but students are encouraged to apply by the following dates: December 1st for the best scholarship consideration and no later than July 1st to begin in the fall semester.More Information
I-20 Approved: Yes
I-17 Approved: No
Non Degree Option Available (Minor): Criminal Justice
Program Director:
Dr. Chuck Williamson
Dr. Chuck Williamson
Breakdown of Credit Hours:
41 Credit Hours – University Core Requirements | 33 Credit Hours – Criminal Justice Major Core Requirements | 24 Credit Hours – Cognate Course Requirements | 24 Credit Hours – General Electives
41 Credit Hours – University Core Requirements | 33 Credit Hours – Criminal Justice Major Core Requirements | 24 Credit Hours – Cognate Course Requirements | 24 Credit Hours – General Electives
Alumni Spotlight
Visit the AU NETWORK and meet more alumni in their Journey of Significance.
SCSA
For Graphic Design Graduate Caroline Hopper, what began as an internship morphed into a rewarding career with The Walt Disney Company.
Caroline Hopper
'17
South Carolina School of the Arts
COB
Since graduating from the Anderson University College of Business, Andy O’Brien has practiced accounting in several different types of settings, from small firm to manufacturer.
Andy O’Brien
'10
College of Business
COB
Gary and Apryl Bailey, graduates of the Anderson University College of Business, purchased a dilapidated building and transformed it into an award-winning downtown destination.
Gary and Apryl Bailey
'00, '01
College of Business
CAS, COB
After obtaining her undergraduate degree from Anderson University, Courtney Wright joined the staff of Bon Secours St. Francis Health System.
Courtney Wright
'10,'16
College of Business
SCSA
Morgan McCarver is a multi-award-winning ceramic artist based in Asheville, North Carolina.
Morgan McCarver
'19
South Carolina School of the Arts
SPSA
To be effective as a school resource officer (SRO), it helps to have a big heart and a servant’s attitude.
Tracy Grate
'21
School of Public Service and Administration
COE
Jenny Clark had a good job at an Upstate company, but after more than 20 years, she decided to follow her heart and pursue her dream of teaching.
Jenny Clark
'23
College of Education
COB
Though Michael Zequeira has been rising through the ranks in the U.S. Army, he’s never forgotten lifelong lessons learned as a student in the Anderson University College of Business.
Michael Zequeira
'11
College of Business
CYB
Nathan Rackley originally considered the medical field, but as a student employee in an IT department, he started seeing how God could use his skills in computer technology.
Nathan Rackley
'22
Center for Cybersecurity
COB
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, but an Organizational Leadership graduate is grateful to her professors and others who helped her realize her goal of a college degree.
April Wardlaw
'21
College of Business
SPSA
The first Criminal Justice graduate to become a certified drone pilot, Andrew Culp has used his knowledge to benefit law enforcement agencies in this new area.
Andrew Culp
'21
School of Public Service and Administration
COE
Despite the challenges that come with teaching special education, Andrea Dyar says the positives far outweigh the negatives.
Andrea Dyar
'19
College of Education
Anderson University is a national leader in higher education in its use of technology to support and enhance all aspects of its core function—teaching and learning, which has led to the institution being recognized as an Apple Distinguished School since 2014. Through Anderson’s Digital Learning Initiative, Anderson has provided all of its residential undergraduate students and select graduate program students with an iPad Air and Apple Pencil. The mission of transforming learning experiences and preparing students to serve their communities and careers in the twenty-first century is enhanced through mobile devices developed by Apple.
