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Programs
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Activating Your Inner ActuaryIf a career in risk management interests you, consider Ashland University’s Actuarial Science program.
Very few universities of Ashland University’s size have an actuarial program. In fact, it's one of only 15 colleges/universities in Ohio with an Actuarial Programs (UCAP) designation and 5 private colleges/universities.
Students...
UndergraduateDegree Type: AA, MinorThe Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention and Human ServicesThe Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services offers a minor in addictions for students pursuing any bachelor’s degrees. The minor, in addition to a degree in psychology, criminal justice, social work, and nursing, fulfills the educational requirement for the...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BABroadening Your Communication CareerAre you passionate about connecting with others and seeking a career that builds relationships? Consider the Communication Studies program at Ashland University. This comprehensive program will prepare you for a broad range of careers in communication.
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Ed.Educating an Artistic YouthDo you have a passion for art and a desire to educate and inspire children? Consider Ashland University College of Arts and Sciences’ Art Education program. It’s one of Ohio’s leading teacher preparation programs, preparing you to be a well-rounded practicing artist with excellent teaching skills.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSBanking on BiologyInterested in the connection between humans and the world around us? Consider majoring in Biology at Ashland to prepare for a career in medicine, research biology, and other emerging biology fields.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSCollaborating in Chemistry for Modern AdvancementsNew medicines, materials, cleaner fuels, innovative criminal lab procedures, and so much more of modern life depends on advancements in the diverse fields of Chemistry. So if you’re looking for an exciting and challenging scientific career, start by exploring the Chemistry and Biochemistry program...
UndergraduateEnhance your major program with a marketable minor that will provide an invaluable understanding of the society all around you. Knowledge about families and working with families has emerged as a critical area of concern for health, social service, and education professionals.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BS, BADeveloping a Technology-Driven WorldToday’s technology-focused world needs innovative, technology-focused professionals who specialize in areas such as programming, software development, networks, system administration, and cybersecurity. Ashland University’s cutting-edge Computer Science program provides you with the hands-on training and skills you need to enter an in-demand, high-income career in technology.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAFostering Your ImaginationAre you an enthusiastic writer thinking about turning your passion into a career? Develop your voice in Ashland University’s Creative Writing program.
A degree in Creative Writing is an asset to nearly any career you pursue because it helps you develop critical thinking and clear expression.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BA, AAWhat Can I do With a Major in Criminal Justice? Possible Career Occupations(Note: not all criminal justice occupations are listed. Some career options may require additional study. Some of our Graduates go on to graduate school or law school.)
Federal Occupations: Department of Homeland Security (Border Patrol, Customs) Federal...
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Defending Technology from CybercriminalsThe Cybersecurity major prepares you to protect individuals, companies and governments from malicious cyber-attacks. You will develop strong problem-solving skills, a robust understanding of computer systems, solid analytical skills, and firm awareness with laws and regulations pertaining to information security.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BADigital Storytelling Starts HereAre you a curious, critical thinker and an avid storyteller seeking ways to be heard? Gather and create news content for all storytelling platforms including print, broadcast, and digital in Ashland University’s immersive Digital Media Journalism program.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAMastering the Behind-the-ScenesAre you interested in the art of visual storytelling? The Digital Media Production program at Ashland University emphasizes the production process from concept to completion to prepare you for a career in the rapidly developing world of digital media.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAJoin Us on a Literary JourneyAre you passionate about literature and language? Join the English Department at Ashland University to start your literary journey across centuries and around the globe.
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Environmental Science is one of the most in-demand scientific fields of study with promising career opportunities.
When you major in Environmental Science at Ashland University you will have personal attention from your professors, a new 2,500 square foot greenhouse, expanded research facilities and many more.
An Environmental Science major at...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BA, BFAFine-tuning Your Artistic CapabilitiesExperience art on a whole new level in Ashland University’s Fine Art program.
The Fine Art program at the College of Arts and Sciences is a diverse program devoted to providing you with a fundamental core of art knowledge and strong technical skills. Choose from five...
UndergraduateAre you currently enrolled in a program at Ashland University and looking to expand your skill set and marketability? Consider a minor in a foreign language.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSSolving Crimes With ScienceConsider adding the Forensic Biology concentration to your major at Ashland University if you’re interested in applying biological principles to law enforcement.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Ed.AFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BS, B.S.EdAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BA, BSFostering a Visual Business WorldAre you looking for a creative career developing visual solutions for clients? Look no further than Ashland University’s Graphic Design Program.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAUnderstanding Our World by Studying Its PastUnderstanding the greatest minds and key events of the past is key to becoming an educated citizen and successful future professional. The History program at Ashland University helps you examine the past while building your writing, analysis, and communication skills to give you...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSBAWhy Should a Student Pursue this Degree?The Homeland Security program is designed for those who want to work on the front lines and be involved with emergencies as they happen. People who excel in this field aren’t averse to confronting a disaster directly.
This program will give you the...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAPassing Your Love of Language OnDo you have a love of language and literature and want to teach? Bring your passion to life for the next generation of high school students in the Integrated Language Arts program at Ashland University.
This program prepares you for teacher licensure in Integrated...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSEDTeaching Mathematics to the Next GenerationDo you have a love for math and an interest in teaching your passion to the next generation? Look no further than Ashland University’s Integrated Mathematics Education program.
The Integrated Mathematics Education program combines Ashland University’s exceptional math and education programs to prepare you...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSEDAre you interested in teaching social studies to young minds? Learn how to confidently and competently bring the social sciences to life for the next generation in the Integrated Social Studies Education program at Ashland University.
This major combines the strengths of the College of Arts and Sciences with the...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSThe Interdisciplinary Studies Major provides students with an opportunity to complete a degree with a primary foundation in practical thinking and ethics. In addition, the student will develop this foundation through the choice of two concentrations in either the humanities, the sciences, or a business-oriented practicum. It will conclude with...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAEntering the International StageTake an active role on the global stage in the International Political Studies program at Ashland University.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BS, BAMolding a Mathematical MindAre you an excellent problem solver with a mathematical mindset? A recent study found that the average starting salary of mathematics majors is higher than the starting salaries of business, communication, advertising, and accounting majors. The Mathematics program at Ashland University is designed to help you...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSMedical Laboratory Scientists are health-care professionals who collect and analyze body fluids, tissues, and other samples from patients, either in a hospital setting or a clinical laboratory. This program is a concentration within our Biology major that includes six semesters of coursework at Ashland University and a fourth year at...UndergraduateAdvantages of Minoring in SpanishMinoring in Spanish at Ashland University can be very rewarding to your future career. Why? It shows you are flexible, work well with diversity, excel in challenging situations, and have strong communication skills. Knowledge of a foreign language can land you a job and can...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSWhat to ExpectThis degree program will provide a path to achieve baccalaureate degrees if your interests lie in multiple areas and/or if your accumulated semester credit hours may not otherwise combine to qualify you for one of AU's existing baccalaureate degrees. The Multidisciplinary Studies program enables you to pursue...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BMLearning to Teach MusicIf you want to be a music teacher, Ashland University’s Music Education program is a great place to start.
This program combines courses in music with courses from our College of Education, which is nationally recognized as one of the best programs in the state. You’ll...
UndergraduateThe music minor programs are designed for students majoring in another field that want significant music study as a part of their education. The required courses for the music minor can be distributed over several years, to ease scheduling. Students select either an Applied performance track (the applied Music Minor)...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAMaking A Career in MusicDo you want to explore the world of music? The Bachelor of Arts in Music provides a thorough musical education within the context of a liberal arts education.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAPursuing WisdomAre you a deep thinker with an inquisitive mind? Embrace your curiosity in Ashland University’s Philosophy program.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BS, BSEDAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAShaping Public PolicyAre you interested in the fusion between economics and politics? The distinctive Political Economy program at Ashland University combines courses from the College of Arts & Sciences and College of Business & Economics to give you a solid understanding of the many ways politics and economics interact...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAA Powerful Way to LearnAre you a natural leader with an interest in politics or government? Consider the Political Science Program at Ashland University.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BS, BAResearch OpportunitiesStudents majoring in psychology are encouraged to become involved in research in our department, and faculty and students alike regularly publish and present research at regional, national and international conferences. In the past ten years our students have made over 90 conference presentations at local, regional, and national...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAPreparing the Faces of the FutureAre you an effective communicator looking to expand your skills? Do you want to play an integral role in the ever-changing, dynamic field of communication? Look no further than Ashland University’s Public Relations and Strategic Communication program.
In today’s complex, digitally connected world, companies...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BADeepen and broaden your understanding of Christianity and World Religions.When you study Religion at Ashland University, you will explore the fields of:
Biblical Studies Christian Theology History of Christianity Practical Theology Christian Ethics World ReligionsAs a Religion major, with the direction and guidance of your professors, you will...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSEducating a Scientific YouthDo you have a passion for teaching and want to introduce young minds to the wonders of science? Ashland University’s teacher-training program is highly regarded as one of the best in Ohio. When you graduate with a degree in any of our science education majors, you’ll...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSSWPreparing You for a Lifetime of AdvocacyAshland University’s Social Work program trains you to serve at-risk populations. Nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), this program is one of the largest programs in the Colleges of Arts & Sciences. It prepares you to take the licensing...
UndergraduateDegree Type: B.S.Integrating the Software Lifecycle into Your LifecycleThe Software Design and Development program prepares you to be a proficient designer, developer, and troubleshooter of computer software systems. You will develop strong problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills, while taking courses that go in depth into each stage of the software lifecycle.
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSEDAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAUniting Sport and PeopleDo you have passion for sports and an interest in communication? Consider merging your interests in the Sport Communication program at Ashland University.
No other sport communication program in the country takes the same full-circle approach to the field as we do, making this program stand...
UndergraduateDegree Type: BAAFTER THE FALL 2020 SEMESTER, THIS PROGRAM IS NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
UndergraduateDegree Type: BSInvestigating Chemicals to Reduce Harmful EffectsHave you ever wondered why prescription drugs have side effects? Or why some plants and animals are poisonous? Or how exposure to air pollutants like sulfur and nitrogen oxides might affect people’s health?
You’ll learn the answers to these questions—and prepare for an exciting...
GraduateGraduate
GraduateDegree Type: MAThere are many hybrid and online master's degree programs available, but how many can combine the rich interaction of a brick-and-mortar classroom with the convenience of learning from home? Ashland University's Master of Arts programs in American History and Government take online learning to the next level. At Ashland, you'll...
GraduateDegree Type: MAAre you a dedicated professional looking to improve your strategic communication skills?
Ashland University's Master of Arts in Strategic Communication & Leadership (MASCL) program is one of the most innovative programs nationwide.
GraduateDegree Type: MFAExpand your writing practice and refine your craft within the supportive community of Ashland University’s Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program.
Online-AdultOnline-Adult
Online-AdultDegree Type: AA, MinorThe Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention and Human ServicesThe Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services offers a minor in addictions for students pursuing any bachelor’s degrees. The minor, in addition to a degree in psychology, criminal justice, social work, and nursing, fulfills the educational requirement for the...
Online-AdultDegree Type: BABroadening Your Communication CareerAre you passionate about connecting with others and seeking a career that builds relationships? Consider the Communication Studies program at Ashland University. This comprehensive program will prepare you for a broad range of careers in communication.
Online-AdultDegree Type: BSFinish Your Degree to Meet Your Career Goals Organizational Leadership Online DegreeThis degree will give you the credential to advance your career in any company or industry, or to move your career in a new direction. The program offers a great opportunity to study with your peers – adults...
Online-AdultDegree Type: BSFinish your degree without putting your life on hold Organizational Training and Development Online DegreeThis degree will give you the credential to move your career from “doing” to “teaching.” The program offers a great opportunity to study with your peers – adults with substantial work experience. Not only do...
Online-AdultDegree Type: B.S.Defending Technology from CybercriminalsThe Cybersecurity major prepares you to protect individuals, companies and governments from malicious cyber-attacks. You will develop strong problem-solving skills, a robust understanding of computer systems, solid analytical skills, and firm awareness with laws and regulations pertaining to information security.
Online-AdultDegree Type: BSBAWhy Should a Student Pursue this Degree?The Homeland Security program is designed for those who want to work on the front lines and be involved with emergencies as they happen. People who excel in this field aren’t averse to confronting a disaster directly.
This program will give you the...
Online-AdultDegree Type: BSThe Interdisciplinary Studies Major provides students with an opportunity to complete a degree with a primary foundation in practical thinking and ethics. In addition, the student will develop this foundation through the choice of two concentrations in either the humanities, the sciences, or a business-oriented practicum. It will conclude with...
Online-AdultDegree Type: BSWhat to ExpectThis degree program will provide a path to achieve baccalaureate degrees if your interests lie in multiple areas and/or if your accumulated semester credit hours may not otherwise combine to qualify you for one of AU's existing baccalaureate degrees. The Multidisciplinary Studies program enables you to pursue...
Online-AdultDegree Type: BS, AALooking to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice on your own time? As an online student in Ashland University’s Criminal Justice program, you’ll learn in an interactive online learning environment with ultimate flexibility to meet your schedule.
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Curriculum
Curriculum
What Can I do With a Major in Criminal Justice?
Possible Career Occupations
(Note: not all criminal justice occupations are listed. Some career options may require additional study. Some of our Graduates go on to graduate school or law school.)
Federal Occupations:
- Department of Homeland Security (Border Patrol, Customs)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Federal Police Officer
- Deputy U.S. Marshal
- Secret Service Officer and Secret Service Investigator
- Drug Enforcement Agency
- Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent
- Department of Transportation
- Office of Inspector General
- Internal Revenue Service Special Agent
- U.S. Secret Service Uniform Division
- U.S. Postal Inspector Agent
- Federal Air Marshal
- Transportation Security Administration Office of Law Enforcement
State Occupations:
- State Highway Patrol or State Police
- Crime Labs
- Victim-Offender Advocate Programs
- Attorney General’s Office, Narcotics, Organized Crime, Bur of Motor Vehicles
- Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Enforcement Officer
- State Watercraft Officer
- State Liquor Control
- College Security
- Worker’s Compensation
Local Occupations:
Policing in Municipal, Village, Township, County Sheriff’s Departments, and Park Police Departments
Correctional Occupations:
- Federal, State, County, or Municipal Probation Officer
- Juvenile Probation and also Detention Centers
- State Parole Officer
- State Victim-Witness Assistant
- Federal or State Prisons (Officer, Case Management, Unit Supervisor)
Private Sector Law Enforcement:
- Retail Loss Prevention and Corporate Security
- Insurance Companies
- Private Detective
- Hospital Police or Security
- Security Patrol Officers
United States Department of Labor; Bureau of Labor Statistics
Checking with the United States Department of Labor; Bureau of Statistics on May 14, 2021, the following information is detailed in their “Occupational Outlook Handbook” regarding employment in the following fields:
Police & Detectives: Employment of police and detectives is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The need for public safety is expected to lead to new openings for officers, although demand may vary by geographic location.
Correctional Officers: State and local budget constraints and prison population levels will determine how many correctional officers are necessary. Changes to criminal laws can have a large effect on how many people are arrested and incarcerated each year. Community-based programs designed to rehabilitate prisoners and limit their risk of repeated offenses may also reduce prisoner counts. Job prospects should still be good due to the need to replace correctional officers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force, such as to retire.
Private Detectives and Investigators: Employment of private detectives and investigators is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for private detectives and investigators will stem from security concerns and from the need to protect confidential information. Strong competition can be expected for jobs.
A Few Classes Could Change Your Job Prospects
Substance use is a problem for all industries and businesses. In your career, you may encounter someone who is struggling with addiction. Be a step ahead in your field and learn proven treatment practices. Ashland University’s addictions counseling programs focus on preparing you for work that involves people suffering from substance use disorders and their affected families.
We offer education at several levels: an associate degree, a minor paired with another bachelor's degree major and credentialing/licensure in Ohio for addictions counseling. Popular majors that complement addictions counseling include criminal justice, nursing, psychology and social work. Learn more! (link to addictions.ashland.edu)
Criminal Justice Career Outlook
One of the most appealing things about a degree in criminal justice is how versatile it is. Not only does it open doors for a career in local, state, or federal law enforcement, there are opportunities for careers in corrections, forensics, probation, and parole, and the private sector in security and cybersecurity. Employment in protective service occupations is projected to grow 3 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average, and will result in about 95,200 new jobs. Applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree, especially those with experience, are the most likely to be hired by federal agencies. Learn More!
