Criminal Justice Schools in California [2022 Guide]

Fresno Pacific University has wide array of degree options, including undergraduate degrees for students interested in pursuing a career in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, mediation, paralegal, administration and social services. Related degrees offered at Fresno include a BA degree in criminal justice or pre-law, a graduate certificate in restorative justice and an evening BA degree completion program in criminology and restorative justice, which is geared towards those interested in the study of criminal justice practices, rather than law enforcement These programs are designed to prepare students for employment in the criminal justice system while also setting a foundation for further education.

National University has several degree paths for those interested in the criminal justice field, including online degree options. Students can minor in criminal justice or can earn a certificate or BS degree in criminal justice administration, a BS degree in homeland security and emergency management or a master's degree in criminal justice. In addition, National University offers several transition programs, in which students can transition from a BS in criminal justice administration to a master's in criminal justice administration, forensic science, public administration or juvenile justice. Students may be able to receive credit for previous experience such as past employment, military training, community service and non-credit courses.

At California State University, Los Angeles, students can earn degrees in both criminalistics and criminal justice, including a minor in criminal justice or forensic science, a BS degree in criminal justice or a master's degree in criminalistics and criminal justice. The minor in criminal justice is geared towards those interested in administration, with lower and upper-level courses required. The BS degree focuses on theory, research and law, with over half the courses major-related. The Master's program combines research with practice, and offers students a unique opportunity, as the program is in the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center, along with the LAPD and sheriff's office crime labs.

California State University San Bernardino students can minor in criminal justice, or earn a BA degree in crime analysis or criminal justice or a MA degree in criminal justice. The MA degree can be completed fully online, or with a combination of online and on-campus courses, and the BA degree program offers some evening and online classes. The BA program can be tailored to a student's interests, with individually selected coursework placing emphasis on a specific area such as law enforcement, corrections, parole or probation. Students resources include academic advising through the Mentor Advising Center, and career counseling with faculty experts.

California Baptist University (CBU) is a private Christian university offering students a spiritual and academic educational experience, with criminal justice degree programs designed for students planning a career in the criminal justice system while also providing a foundation for future graduate school work. Students can choose criminal justice as a minor, or pursue a BS degree in criminal justice. The BS degree can be earned online along with general education courses, and once general education requirements are met, consists of lower and upper division courses and degree specific electives. CBU also offers a master's degree in forensic psychology.

The Administration of Justice program at Lassen Community College gives students the opportunity to pursue a degree while collaborating with experienced faculty members. Students will enroll in a series of courses that cover the information required to excel in this field. Course topics includes areas such as juvenile procedures, criminology, correctional science and investigative techniques. Those requiring academic assistance can attend the Learning Center's hours of operation to receive tutoring sessions, student workshops, or access the computer lab. The Training, Education and Collaboration Center (TECC) is also available to give students professional development opportunities with individualized training, webinars, networking and e-learning modules.

Through the Administration of Justice program at Contra Costa College, students are able to receive the necessary training to work as a professional in a criminal justice field. The program is designed to equip students with important skills such as communication strategies, writing for criminal justice roles, and ethics and leadership. Upon graduation, students may be able to successfully pass various academy programs or enter the workforce or transfer their credits to continue pursuing their education at a four-year institution.

The Law Enforcement & Correctional Training program at Fresno City College provides entry-level students and existing professionals the area-specific skills needed to excel in a criminal justice field. Also known as the Fresno City College Police Academy, students are able to enroll in various areas of study including administration of justice, police and correctional academies, and requalification courses. Prior to enrollment, students are encouraged to begin a regular physical conditioning program so they pass the Physical Agility Test. Veterans are also able to apply their G.I. bills towards the cost of tuition by contacting the school's Veteran's Office.

At Santa Rosa Junior College, students are able to enroll in the Administration of Justice for Transfer degree program to begin or advance their career in a criminal justice occupation. This program is designed to educate students with comprehensive theory and hands-on practice of criminal justice studies so they may qualify to further their education at a four-year institution. Upon successful program completions, students should be well-versed in the area-specific communication, critical thinking, legal and other areas within this discipline.

The Administration of Justice department at Long Beach City College gives students the opportunity to study four different areas that fall under criminal justice disciplines: administration of justice, criminal forensics, public administration and public service. These associate degree programs are intended to result in immediate employment eligibility in a student's respective field or to transfer to a four-year institution for further academic instruction. For those looking for further backing, the Department of Counseling and Student Development is available to assist students in balancing their personal, academic, and professional lives in order to support student development and academic success.