Biology is not just a study of the building blocks of life — it’s a foundational science that can be an amazing starting point for a wide variety of careers. Combined with a concentration in criminal justice, you could be ready to step into unique roles in the science and law enforcement fields.

About Salem’s Biology and Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

At Salem University, our Bachelor of Science in Biology with a specialization in Criminal Justice provides comprehensive knowledge of biological sciences and how to apply it in practical settings, including in the legal and criminal justice fields. Our bachelor’s in biology program curriculum embraces both qualitative and quantitative approaches to support ethical decision-making. We offer a supportive, diverse experience that combines classroom instruction by experienced faculty with skills-building exercises and real-world applications. A bachelor’s in biology can also be a great stepping-off point toward getting your Master of Science in Health and Human Performance.

We’ve designed our bachelor’s in biology with a specialization in criminal justice program curriculum with the goal of providing a high-quality education that prepares you for lifelong learning. We aim to develop your leadership and problem-solving skills and encourage our students to read critically, ask appropriate questions, gather information, and apply critical analysis. And we do all of this within a framework that fits into your current life and responsibilities with our unique, one-course-a-month schedule. Salem offers STEM Designated Degree Programs identified by the US Department of Homeland Security, signaling their importance to the Nation and the World.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Criminal Justice?

A bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis in criminal justice can help you prepare for entry-level employment in areas like:

  • Police Officer
  • Athletic and Fitness Trainer
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • State Trooper
  • Correctional Counselor
  • Athletic Nutritionist

What Will I Learn in Salem’s Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Criminal Justice?

With Salem’s Criminal Justice specialization, you’ll start with gathering knowledge and skills related to physical and biological sciences. From there, you’ll build on that base by studying topics like foundational anatomy and physiology concepts; the structure and composition of living organisms at the cellular and macromolecular levels; evolutionary origins and physiology; chemical laws and principles; and the fundamentals of biochemistry, including protein sequences, enzyme kinetics, and metabolism. In your criminal justice classes, you will focus on practical applications of these concepts so you can apply what you’re learning to the skills and tasks you’ll need in the field.

In your specialized Criminal Justice courses, you’ll cover topics like:

  • The history and sources of criminal law, coupled with analysis of the substantive elements of specific offenses
  • Criminal procedure, from arrest to post-conviction remedies and laws of evidence and arrest, search and seizure, right to counsel, due process, civil remedies, and more
  • The logical and scientific principles necessary for the detection and investigative analysis of criminal activities, including wiretaps, undercover operations, informants, surveillance, and extradition
  • An in-depth look at important cases that have passed through the U.S. Supreme Court and their subsequent historical and political impact
  • Modern management theory in criminal justice and the application of management techniques appropriate to each area of the system, including civil liability, political power, ethics, and interagency cooperation

What Biology and Criminal Justice Classes Will I Take?

The Bachelor of Science in Biology degree with a specialization in Criminal Justice program requires the completion of 75 foundational and elective credits, as well as 30 core biology credits that include:

  • BIO110 General Biology
  • BIO111 General Biology 2
  • BIO112 General Biology Lab
  • BIO210 Anatomy & Physiology
  • BIO211 Anatomy & Physiology 2
  • BIO499 Senior Capstone Project
  • CHM110 General Chemistry
  • CHM111 General Chemistry 2
  • CHM112 General Chemistry Lab
  • CHM210 Organic Chemistry
  • CHM211 Organic Chemistry 2
  • CHM212 Organic Chemistry Lab
  • CHM350 Biochemistry
  • CHM351 Biochemistry 2
  • PHY110 General Physics
  • PHY111 General Physics 2
  • PHY112 General Physics Lab

You’ll also take 15 credits in the Criminal Justice specialization:

  • CJU205 Criminal Law
  • CJU210 Criminal Procedure
  • CJU230 Criminal Investigations
  • CJU405 Constitutional Law
  • CJU449 Criminal Justice Management

How Long Will It Take to Get My Biology and Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree?

On average, a full-time student can earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree with a specialization in Criminal Justice in approximately 40 months. However, we recognize every student is different, with different circumstances. Contact one of our admissions advisors to discuss your specific questions and goals.

Why Choose Salem University?

Since 1888, Salem University has built upon our tradition of accessible, affordable higher education by constantly innovating and looking to the future. We aim to develop lifelong learners who embrace problem-solving with a global perspective. We offer:

  • Accelerated undergraduate and graduate programs of study with continuous enrollment via distance education or on-campus
  • A unique one-course-a-month format that allows students to focus on a single subject at a time and build their knowledge in a way that feels natural
  • Online courses are structured to work within the constraints of full-time employment, allowing you to earn your degree with minimum disruption to your busy schedule
  • Supportive faculty and staff who serve as thought leaders and mentors
  • A beautiful 100-acre campus situated in the Smoky Mountains where programs of study are available for campus residents and commuter students

Admission Requirements

Admission to Salem is open to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or ability/disability. Anyone wishing to attend Salem can obtain the necessary application from the Office of Admissions or apply online. The completed application should be submitted to the Office of Admissions at the earliest possible date. The University admits students on a rolling, monthly start basis. Acceptance is within the discretion of Salem University; some programs have additional admissions requirements.

Take the Next Step

If you’re interested in getting started on your degree from Salem University, request more information by filling out a quick form or start a live chat with us today!