B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice: Built for the Whole Justice System
Build the knowledge, ethics, and research skills to pursue justice, from law enforcement and corrections to advocacy and policy, with an interdisciplinary degree designed for the real criminal justice system, not a textbook version of it.
- On-Campus or Online
- Internship Included
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum
- Chicago Court and Agency Access
Request More Information
Program at a Glance
What You'll Learn
- Analyze the forces that shape crime and punishment
- Apply criminological theory to behavior and prevention
- Conduct research on criminal justice questions
- Evaluate reform efforts and shape the field's future
- Communicate professionally across diverse communities
- Gain real experience through an internship practicum
Full Course List
Next start: September 21, 2026 — seats filling fast.
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent (no application fee)
- Online application at nl.edu
- Transfer students: generous credit acceptance; prior-learning credit available
- Grade of C or better in all core major courses
- Note: some law enforcement and corrections roles require additional state or local requirements
Courts, corrections, advocacy, policy, and reform, an interdisciplinary degree that prepares you for the whole justice system, not just law enforcement.
Mass incarceration, victimology, and reform movements are core coursework, preparing you for the field as it actually exists.
A required internship plus access to one of the country's largest court, agency, and advocacy ecosystems.
Where Will Your Degree Take You?
NLU Criminology and Criminal Justice graduates enter careers across the full spectrum of the justice system, law enforcement, courts, corrections, advocacy, and policy. The research methods requirement and internship mean graduates arrive with documented experience and analytical skills, not just theory.
Police and detectives earn a median salary of $77,270 with about 62,200 openings a year (BLS, May 2024). Chicago’s position as a major urban center offers unmatched access to courts, agencies, and nonprofits, and the degree is a strong foundation for graduate study in law or criminology. Some roles require additional state or local requirements.
How to Apply in 3 Simple Steps
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Request Information
Submit the form above. An NLU advisor will reach out within one business day.
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Connect With an Advisor
Your advisor walks you through requirements, financial aid, and career pathways, including any additional licensing for specific roles.
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Apply and Start Classes
Submit your application at nl.edu with no application fee. Next start: September 21, 2026. Your advisor guides you through every step.
Take the First Step
No commitment required. An NLU advisor will reach out within one business day to map your path through the justice system.
Take the First Step- On-Campus or Online
- Internship Included
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum
- Chicago Court and Agency Access
*Salary and openings: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Police and Detectives (SOC 33-3050), May 2024.
**Tuition and recognition: National Louis University undergraduate tuition (2025-2026); Washington Monthly Best Bang for the Buck (Midwest), 2023.
***Curriculum: SmartCatalog, National Louis University, Criminology and Criminal Justice B.A. (nl.smartcatalogiq.com, current catalog).