Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree Programs Near Philadelphia

If you're looking for criminal justice bachelor’s degree programs near Philadelphia, �첥��’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration offers several advantages worth considering:

1. Practical Curriculum

The program includes comprehensive coursework in Criminology, Criminal Law, Judicial Process, Corrections, Juvenile Justice, Research Methods, and Ethics. Qualified students may also take unique electives, such as earning credit from the Police Academy.

A highlight of the curriculum is the senior-year practicum, which allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Under faculty supervision, students gain hands-on experience with agencies such as police departments, probation and parole offices, juvenile justice centers, county courts, correctional institutions, victim advocacy centers, and nonprofits.

This practicum enhances academic learning, builds professional networks, strengthens resumes, and often leads to job offers or recommendations for graduate school.

2. Campus Involvement

�첥�� offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved beyond the classroom, developing professional skills, confidence, and meaningful connections that enhance their academic journey. These experiences are designed to complement coursework, promote civic engagement, and prepare students for the complex realities of the criminal justice field.

The Criminal Justice Association (CJA) is a key student organization that brings classroom learning to life by hosting guest speakers from law enforcement and the legal system, organizing field trips to correctional facilities and courts, and leading community service initiatives.

Students can also participate in faculty-mentored research on topics such as policing reform, recidivism, and juvenile justice, with opportunities to present their work at academic conferences or campus events.

3. Career Opportunities and Preparation

��Ծ��’s location in Reading, PA, gives students access to a variety of urban, suburban, and rural criminal justice systems, creating valuable opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and job placements in courts, police departments, correctional institutions, and federal agencies.

��Ծ��’s Office of Career Development offers personalized career counseling, résumé support, and internship assistance, along with career fairs and networking events to connect students with professionals in the criminal justice field.

Thanks to this comprehensive preparation, �첥�� graduates pursue successful careers in law enforcement, corrections, probation and parole, and federal agencies, and many continue on to top law schools and graduate programs nationwide.

4. Values-Based Education

As a Franciscan university, �첥�� is rooted in a mission that emphasizes ethics, service, respect for human dignity, and social justice. Students are encouraged to think critically about the role of justice in society and to approach their future careers with integrity, compassion, and civic responsibility.

These values are integrated into the classroom, campus culture, and service-learning experiences, helping students develop not only as professionals but also as thoughtful, ethical leaders committed to the common good.

5. Accreditation, Support, and Faculty

�첥�� is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring students receive a high-quality, credible education. The supportive academic environment is characterized by small class sizes and access to a wide range of resources, including academic advising, tutoring services, and health and wellness support.

The Criminal Justice Administration program is led by experienced faculty with backgrounds in law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and federal agencies. Their professional backgrounds enrich the classroom experience with practical insights and current industry perspectives, while their commitment to student success ensures personalized support and mentorship.

Kickstart Your Career in Criminal Justice

For students who want to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice near Philadelphia, �첥�� offers practical learning, strong career support, and a values-driven education. With experienced faculty and real-world opportunities, students are prepared to become ethical, skilled professionals in the field. Learn more or apply today!

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