California offers several higher education options for students interested in criminal justice, criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and legal studies. From public universities to specialized academic programs, students can explore different paths toward careers in the justice system.
For students considering this field, choosing the right college is an important first step. A criminal justice degree can provide knowledge of criminal law, policing, courts, corrections, crime prevention, and the social issues connected to public safety.
Quick Guide
- State: California
- Category: Education and Criminal Justice
- Based On: University program information provided in the original article
- Includes: Seven California universities offering criminal justice-related education
- Best For: Students interested in law enforcement, corrections, criminology, legal studies, and public safety careers
- Note: Tuition figures are taken from the original article and should be verified with each university. Admission requirements and career qualifications vary by program and employer.
- Source: Sonoma State University, Cal State LA, UC Irvine, UCLA, San Diego State University, and Cal State Long Beach.
Several California universities offer undergraduate programs, minors, and graduate-level opportunities related to criminal justice. Here are seven schools to consider, along with details about their academic programs, coursework, and contact information.
7. California State University – San Bernadino
California State University, San Bernardino, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice. The program introduces students to the history, structure, and functions of the American criminal justice system.
Students can study crime theories, criminal law, research methods, correctional institutions, police systems, and crime prevention. The university also provides opportunities to explore intelligence and crime analysis through a separate bachelor’s degree program.
The curriculum can support students interested in law enforcement, probation, corrections, crime analysis, and further graduate education.
Estimated program costs in original source: $6,904–$20,936. Confirm current tuition and fees directly with the university.
Address: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407
Phone: 909-537-5506
- Website: CSU San Bernardino Criminal Justice
6. California State University – Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach, offers criminal justice education through its School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management.
Students interested in this field can explore undergraduate and graduate academic opportunities covering crime, criminal investigations, corrections, and the justice system.
The coursework listed in the original article includes victimology, criminal courts, crime and inequality, homeland security, forensic photography, criminal evidence, and high-tech crime investigations.
These subjects provide a foundation for understanding different parts of the justice system and the challenges faced by professionals working in public safety and related fields.
Estimated program costs in original source: $6,904–$20,936.
Address: 1250 Bellflower Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90840
Phone: 562-985-4111
- Website: CSU Long Beach
5. San Diego State University
San Diego State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through its School of Public Affairs. The program examines how criminal justice systems operate and how policies affect communities.
Students study criminal justice and social control, juvenile justice, crime and law, and the relationship between society and the justice system. The curriculum also includes practical learning opportunities and prepares students to develop research, analytical, and communication skills.
Admission to the major has specific academic requirements, including prerequisite courses and GPA standards.
Estimated program costs in original source: $8,290–$20,170.
Address: 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182
Phone: 619-594-6224
Website: SDSU Criminal Justice Program
The University of California, Los Angeles, provides criminal justice-related academic opportunities through its Criminal Justice Program at the School of Law.
Its offerings include coursework and practical learning opportunities focused on criminal law, prison policy, criminal procedure, and the rights of individuals involved in the justice system.
Students can explore subjects such as criminal procedure, sentencing, federal white-collar crime, habeas corpus, and legal policies affecting correctional institutions.
The university’s clinics and practical learning opportunities can also help students develop a deeper understanding of legal challenges and criminal justice issues.
Estimated program costs in original source: $53,910–$64,417. These figures should not be assumed to represent the cost of every UCLA criminal justice-related course or program.
Address: 385 Charles E. Young Drive East, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Phone: 310-825-4841
Website: UCLA Criminal Justice Program
3. University of California – Irvine
The University of California, Irvine, offers studies through its Criminology, Law and Society program. The academic area examines how crime, legal institutions, and social forces influence one another.
Students can explore subjects involving criminology, constitutional law, domestic violence, legal systems, justice and inequality, and social control.
Its interdisciplinary approach can be useful for students interested in understanding the relationship between law, politics, economics, and criminal behavior. The subject area may also interest students considering further legal education.
Estimated program costs in original source: $15,185–$47,759.
Address: 2340 Social Ecology II, Irvine, CA 92697
Phone: 949-824-1442
Website: UC Irvine
2. California State University – Los Angeles
California State University, Los Angeles, provides criminal justice education through its School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice or a minor in the subject.
The program introduces students to the administration of justice, including how law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities operate. Its curriculum also explores California criminal justice policies and issues affecting adult and juvenile offenders.
Some of the subjects covered include juvenile justice, forensic mental health, hate crimes, offender reentry, police and the media, and criminal justice leadership.
Estimated program costs in original source: $6,814–$18,468.
Address: 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Phone: 323-343-3000
Website: Cal State LA
1. Sonoma State University
Sonoma State University offers a Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies program for students interested in understanding crime, law enforcement, corrections, and the broader justice system.
Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies or choose a minor in the subject. The bachelor’s degree generally requires 120 credits and takes approximately four years to complete.
Coursework covers several areas, including juvenile justice, white-collar crime, drugs and society, punishment, corrections, and relationships between police and communities.
Estimated program costs in original source: $7,988–$20,828.
Address: 1801 East Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Phone: 707-664-2880
How to Choose a Criminal Justice School in California
Before applying, prospective students should compare more than tuition costs. Look at the degree offered, course requirements, accreditation, internship opportunities, and whether the program supports their intended career path.
Students should also remember that earning a criminal justice degree does not automatically qualify someone to become a police officer, corrections officer, or federal agent. Those careers may require additional training, background checks, physical assessments, examinations, or other qualifications.
