About this Program

Offered both at our West Virginia campus and through our innovative online learning platform, Salem’s Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice can teach you the foundational skills you need to pursue an entry-level position as a police officer, corrections officer, and more. Associate degree graduates can also go on to enroll in our bachelor’s degree program to further your career goals.

With an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, you can develop the foundational knowledge you need to pursue a job as a police officer, corrections officer, and other entry-level criminal justice roles. Salem International University offers a 20-month, 60-credit Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice designed to teach you what you need to know to take the first step into the criminal justice field or prepare for a bachelor’s degree. We offer this program on campus in West Virginia or through convenient online learning.

Career Opportunities

An Associate of Arts degree specializing in Criminal Justice can lead to the following career paths:

  • Entry Level Police Officer
  • Entry Level Correctional Officer

Course Format

Salem offers undergraduate and graduate programs of study with continuous enrollment via distance education or on ground at our Salem, West Virginia campus. Courses are delivered in a monthly format (4-weeks) and completed on ground, online, or through a blended approach that uses both delivery methods. 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. Traditional on ground programs of study are available for campus residents and commuter students.

Course Numbers/Names

Successful completion of 60 credit-hours with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0, including at least 15 credits in the program as approved by the department. Please see the current Salem Undergraduate Catalog for available courses.

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 online here. 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.