Resource Articles
Online PhD in Criminal Justice
Request InformationEnhance your credentials and develop the expertise to lead, educate, and inspire the next generation of criminal justice professionals.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule August 29, 2022
Transfer Credits
- Up to 38 Credits
Explore our PhD in Criminal Justice
Make a greater impact within your organization and your field with Walden’s online PhD in Criminal Justice, one of the first online criminal justice doctoral programs available to meet the needs of working professionals. You can attain a new level of credibility and influence with an online PhD in Criminal Justice.
Whether you want to pursue leadership roles within the field or begin a career in criminal justice education, our criminal justice PhD program can give you the skills and knowledge you need to embrace exciting new career opportunities.
In this online program, you’ll explore contemporary theory and practice as well as national and international issues in the administration of criminal justice. Taught by seasoned doctoral-level faculty with practical experience in the field, coursework spans topics such as risk factors for criminal behavior, leadership theory, human services, technology and law enforcement, homeland security, and public management. Walden’s online PhD in Criminal Justice gives you the opportunity to integrate scholarly research with your experience to create effective solutions to real-world problems.
Four academic residencies that support your progress at key points in your doctoral journey. Residencies are designed to enhance both your development as a scholar-practitioner and your ability to effect positive social change.
Program Savings
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on August 29, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowCurriculum – General Program Specialization
-
Minimum Degree Requirements
- Doctoral Writing Assessment
- Foundation courses (3 cr.)
- Core courses (20 cr.)
- Elective courses (15 cr.)
- Research courses (20 cr.)
- Completion of Doctoral Dissertation
- Dissertation support course (5 cr.)
- Dissertation writing courses (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
- Four PhD residencies
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
Please refer to Walden’s catalog for more information about degree requirements.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Fast Track to Your PhD
For the highly motivated student with discipline and a flexible schedule, Walden offers an expedited path to your doctoral degree. With the Fast Track option, you can complete your PhD in Criminal Justice in a shorter amount of time by taking additional courses per term. Learn more about this exciting option or contact your Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286 to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits Doctoral Writing Assessment
DRWA 8880G Doctoral Writing AssessmentThis course is part of Walden's commitment to help prepare students to meet the university's expectations for writing in courses at the doctoral level. In this course, students write a short academic essay that will be scored by a team of writing assessors. Based on the essay score, students will complete or be exempted from additional required writing support needed to meet writing proficiency standards. This required assessment course is free. Students will be enrolled automatically in it at the beginning of their doctoral program.
(0 cr.) Foundation Course
CRJS 8002 Foundations of Doctoral StudyStudents in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals and develop a program of study and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in public policy and administration.
(3 cr.) Core Courses
CRJS 8350 History and Contemporary Issues in Criminal JusticeStudents in this course look at the evolution of crime—from lone criminals to worldwide syndicates—using the scientific rigor built into the selected readings and discussions. Among the topics examined are the philosophy of community- and problem-oriented policing, transnational crime, terrorism, and the new nexus between them. Current and future leaders are equipped with the knowledge and depth of understanding to assess and manage the opportunities, innovations, and challenges in their profession.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8351 Policy and Analysis in Criminal Justice SystemsCriminal justice professionals must understand the various factors that influence the development of criminal justice policy, and how to evaluate whether existing policy meets its objectives. In this course, students will examine the principles of policy analysis and the role that scientific information plays in the development of criminal justice policy. Topics explored include policing, corrections, and sentencing; juvenile justice; the relationship among drugs, race, and crime; deterrence as a crime control policy; and the use of public registries. Through further analysis of criminal justice policies, students determine how these policies have changed over time, gaining insight into possible future trends of policy development and analysis.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8352 Leadership: Putting Theory into Practice in Criminal Justice AdministrationStudents in this course are introduced to the problems that currently confront the administration of the criminal justice system, as well as problems predicted for the future. To be prepared to lead efforts to address these challenges, students acquire powerful models for strategic, critical, and reflective thinking. Students immerse themselves in discussion about the major components of effective justice administration: organizational thought and theory, leadership, human capital, policy development and implementation, and collaboration with other public safety and community organizations.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8381 Program EvaluationStudents in this course are introduced to the tools used by policymakers and policy analysts to evaluate the impact of social programs. Topics include selecting programs to evaluate, crafting program descriptions, identifying stakeholders and their interests, developing logic models, framing evaluation questions, applying utilization-focused evaluation techniques, using quantitative and qualitative tools to complete formative and summative evaluations, and providing evaluation reports and feedback to decision makers. By the end of the course, each student will develop a program-evaluation design for a social program.
(5 cr.) Electives Courses
CRJS XXXX CRJS Elective CourseYou may select any five-credit-hour graduate course from the PhD in Criminal Justice specialization courses.
(5 cr.) Research Courses
RSCH 8110 Research Theory, Design, and MethodsIn this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
Prerequisites
(5 cr.) RSCH 8210 Quantitative Reasoning and AnalysisIn this research course, students are provided with the opportunity to develop core knowledge and skills for designing and carrying out quantitative research at the doctoral level, including the application of statistical concepts and techniques. Students explore classical common statistical tests, the importance of the logic of inference, and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. Students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to derive statistics from quantitative data and interpret and present results.
Prerequisites
Doctor of Social Work
- RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
- RSCH 8110
- RESI 8801C
PhD in Social Work
- RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
All Other Programs
- RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110
- RESI 8401
(5 cr.) RSCH 8310 Qualitative Reasoning and AnalysisStudents in this research course are provided with the opportunity to develop basic knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry, how theory and theoretical and conceptual frameworks uniquely apply to qualitative research, data collection procedures and analysis strategy, and how the role of the researcher is expressed in the ethical and rigorous conduct of qualitative research. Students practice collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting data, and they develop a detailed research topic for conducting a qualitative study.
Prerequisites
(5 cr.) Choose One
Completion of Doctoral Capstone - Dissertation Preparation Courses
CRJS 8115 Writing a Quality ProspectusThe prospectus is a brief paper, typically 5–10 pages in length, that helps students organize, delineate, and make decisions regarding their doctoral study and appropriate research methodology. Students create a prospectus to establish the background for the problem statement; the problem statement itself; a survey of the relevant literature (typically 25–75 references); and a research, implementation, and evaluation plan for the solution of the problem. Students in this 5-credit course focus specifically on the process of writing the dissertation prospectus. They employ their preliminary research plan to develop a problem statement for their dissertation. Students further refine the problem statement and carry out the planning and the library research that lends to the formulation of a dissertation prospectus.
Prerequisites
- RSCH 8110
- RSCH 8210
- RSCH 8310
(5 cr.) Dissertation Writing Courses
CRJS 9000 DissertationThrough this course, doctoral students have the opportunity to integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a dissertation supervisory committee chair and committee members. Students complete a prospectus, proposal, Institutional Review Board application, and dissertation. Once students register for CRJS 9000, they will be registered each term until successful completion of the dissertation.Students take this course for a minimum of 4 quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.To complete a dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
(5 cr. per term for a minimum of 4 quarters until completion) VIEW ALL COURSES -
Minimum Degree Requirements
- Doctoral Writing Assessment
- Foundation courses (3 cr.)
- Core courses (35 cr.)
- Research courses (20 cr.)
- Completion of Doctoral Dissertation
- Dissertation support course (5 cr.)
- Dissertation writing courses (5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms; taken continuously until completion)
- Four PhD residencies
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
Please refer to Walden’s catalog for more information about degree requirements.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Fast Track to Your PhD
For the highly motivated student with discipline and a flexible schedule, Walden offers an expedited path to your doctoral degree. With the Fast Track option, you can complete your PhD in Criminal Justice in a shorter amount of time by taking additional courses per term. Learn more about this exciting option or contact your Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286 to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits Doctoral Writing Assessment
DRWA 8880G Doctoral Writing AssessmentThis course is part of Walden's commitment to help prepare students to meet the university's expectations for writing in courses at the doctoral level. In this course, students write a short academic essay that will be scored by a team of writing assessors. Based on the essay score, students will complete or be exempted from additional required writing support needed to meet writing proficiency standards. This required assessment course is free. Students will be enrolled automatically in it at the beginning of their doctoral program.
(0 cr.) Foundation Course
CRJS 8002 Foundations of Doctoral StudyStudents in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and social change agent. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals and develop a program of study and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in public policy and administration.
(3 cr.) Core Courses
CRJS 8350 History and Contemporary Issues in Criminal JusticeStudents in this course look at the evolution of crime—from lone criminals to worldwide syndicates—using the scientific rigor built into the selected readings and discussions. Among the topics examined are the philosophy of community- and problem-oriented policing, transnational crime, terrorism, and the new nexus between them. Current and future leaders are equipped with the knowledge and depth of understanding to assess and manage the opportunities, innovations, and challenges in their profession.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8351 Policy and Analysis in Criminal Justice SystemsCriminal justice professionals must understand the various factors that influence the development of criminal justice policy, and how to evaluate whether existing policy meets its objectives. In this course, students will examine the principles of policy analysis and the role that scientific information plays in the development of criminal justice policy. Topics explored include policing, corrections, and sentencing; juvenile justice; the relationship among drugs, race, and crime; deterrence as a crime control policy; and the use of public registries. Through further analysis of criminal justice policies, students determine how these policies have changed over time, gaining insight into possible future trends of policy development and analysis.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8352 Leadership: Putting Theory into Practice in Criminal Justice AdministrationStudents in this course are introduced to the problems that currently confront the administration of the criminal justice system, as well as problems predicted for the future. To be prepared to lead efforts to address these challenges, students acquire powerful models for strategic, critical, and reflective thinking. Students immerse themselves in discussion about the major components of effective justice administration: organizational thought and theory, leadership, human capital, policy development and implementation, and collaboration with other public safety and community organizations.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8137 The Nature of Crime and CriminologyStudents in this course are introduced to contemporary views and theories of maladaptive and criminal behavior. They examine a broad conceptualization of criminal behavior from an interdisciplinary perspective as well as theories and application of criminal profiling. Students also explore specific views of criminal behavior germane to groups, such as psychopaths, serial offenders, and sexually violent predators. At the end of this course, students will have an understanding of the theories and practices that are the foundations of the field of criminology.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8215 Controversies in Criminal JusticeIn this course, students review recent events that have significantly changed how the legal system interprets the U.S. Constitution, the U.S. Code, and the U.S. Patriot Act. Students analyze case studies to further explore relevant events, such as how the terrorist acts of September 11, 2001, have broadened the interpretation of certain areas of the law. Students heighten their understanding of how social and historical changes have shifted perspectives and sparked debates on expanding the rights of government versus safeguarding personal civil rights and civil liberties.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8217 Technological Solutions and 21st-Century CrimeIn consideration of modern technological innovation and the spread of knowledge through digital means, the relationship between technology and criminal activity is increasing. In this course, students explore this relationship and gain a comprehensive view of cyber crime, including current trends. They learn how law enforcement agencies use technology to track and apprehend criminals. Through real-world scenarios, students examine legal responses to cyber crime and learn different approaches and techniques for solving cyber crimes and handling related challenges. Students also have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of building cases and prosecuting crimes through practical exercises in identification, data mining, and the protection and gathering of evidence.
(5 cr.) CRJS 8381 Program EvaluationStudents in this course are introduced to the tools used by policymakers and policy analysts to evaluate the impact of social programs. Topics include selecting programs to evaluate, crafting program descriptions, identifying stakeholders and their interests, developing logic models, framing evaluation questions, applying utilization-focused evaluation techniques, using quantitative and qualitative tools to complete formative and summative evaluations, and providing evaluation reports and feedback to decision makers. By the end of the course, each student will develop a program-evaluation design for a social program.
(5 cr.) Electives Courses
CRJS XXXX CRJS Elective CourseYou may select any five-credit-hour graduate course from the PhD in Criminal Justice specialization courses.
(5 cr.) Research Courses
RSCH 8110 Research Theory, Design, and MethodsIn this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
Prerequisites
(5 cr.) RSCH 8210 Quantitative Reasoning and AnalysisIn this research course, students are provided with the opportunity to develop core knowledge and skills for designing and carrying out quantitative research at the doctoral level, including the application of statistical concepts and techniques. Students explore classical common statistical tests, the importance of the logic of inference, and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. Students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to derive statistics from quantitative data and interpret and present results.
Prerequisites
Doctor of Social Work
- RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
- RSCH 8110
- RESI 8801C
PhD in Social Work
- RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
All Other Programs
- RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110
- RESI 8401
(5 cr.) RSCH 8310 Qualitative Reasoning and AnalysisStudents in this research course are provided with the opportunity to develop basic knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry, how theory and theoretical and conceptual frameworks uniquely apply to qualitative research, data collection procedures and analysis strategy, and how the role of the researcher is expressed in the ethical and rigorous conduct of qualitative research. Students practice collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting data, and they develop a detailed research topic for conducting a qualitative study.
Prerequisites
(5 cr.) Choose One
Completion of Doctoral Capstone - Dissertation Preparation Courses
CRJS 8115 Writing a Quality ProspectusThe prospectus is a brief paper, typically 5–10 pages in length, that helps students organize, delineate, and make decisions regarding their doctoral study and appropriate research methodology. Students create a prospectus to establish the background for the problem statement; the problem statement itself; a survey of the relevant literature (typically 25–75 references); and a research, implementation, and evaluation plan for the solution of the problem. Students in this 5-credit course focus specifically on the process of writing the dissertation prospectus. They employ their preliminary research plan to develop a problem statement for their dissertation. Students further refine the problem statement and carry out the planning and the library research that lends to the formulation of a dissertation prospectus.
Prerequisites
- RSCH 8110
- RSCH 8210
- RSCH 8310
(5 cr.) Dissertation Writing Courses
CRJS 9000 DissertationThrough this course, doctoral students have the opportunity to integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a dissertation supervisory committee chair and committee members. Students complete a prospectus, proposal, Institutional Review Board application, and dissertation. Once students register for CRJS 9000, they will be registered each term until successful completion of the dissertation.Students take this course for a minimum of 4 quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.To complete a dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
(5 cr. per term for a minimum of 4 quarters until completion) VIEW ALL COURSES
Admission Requirements
Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Residencies
Four academic residencies support your progress at key points in your doctoral journey. Residencies also strengthen your scholarly and professional connections.
At Walden, we’ll guide you every step of the way with a comprehensive suite of support resources designed to help you confidently pursue the finish line, including our Doctoral Degree CoachTM. Are you ready to reach a higher level in your field?
A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate
Earning your doctorate requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.
- Map and track milestones: Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished, all in one place.
- Meet weekly targets: No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.
- Connect with faculty: Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.
- Access helpful resources: Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.
Earn Your Master of Philosophy Degree Along the Way
Walden understands the rigors involved with preparing for your doctorate. To signify how far you’ve come on your journey, you will be eligible to be awarded a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree upon completion of program requirements, prior to completion of your dissertation.
Walden is one of a few universities that offer this advanced research master’s degree. Highlight your academic achievement and show employers and others that you possess comprehensive knowledge in your field of study.
Fast-Track Option
Walden offers a Fast-Track Option. Students can complete their doctorate in less time by taking advantage of this path. With the Fast-Track Option, students take additional courses and begin their dissertation early to expedite their path through the program.
General Program Specialization
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 63 quarter credits | $636 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $40,068^ | |
| Tuition-Dissertation | 20-130† quarter credits | $636 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $12,720–$82,680* | |
| Technology Fee | $165 per quarter | $1,815–$5,280* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies |
$1,375 each (virtual) $1,475 (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,500–$5,900 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $60,103 |
$133,928*+ |
|||
| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.5-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
Paying for Your Education
Our Enrollment Specialists can help you outline a plan and find resources for funding your education.
Learn moreProgram Savings
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on August 29, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowGeneral Program
Examine expert theories on the root causes of crime and explore how historical events have affected and shaped the criminal justice system.
Emergency Management
This specialization can prepare you with the skills you need to effectively lead, motivate, and manage others during times of crisis.
Global Leadership
Gain insight into how to lead effectively in the international environment—particularly in developing countries or regions.
Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
Examine how protective measures and policies can be implemented without infringing upon individual rights and freedoms.
Justice Administration
Students pursuing this specialization have the opportunity to study the risk factors associated with criminal behavior as well as how history has shaped the modern criminal justice system.
Law and Public Policy
Through this specialization, students explore how past and present legal decisions influence the creation of public policy.
Online Teaching in Higher Education
Explore the unique attributes of adult learners, teaching and learning theory, trends in higher education, and the key elements of instructional design and delivery.
Public Management and Leadership
Gain leadership and interpersonal skills that can help you be a competent leader, shape public policy, and inspire and motivate your employees.
Program Outcomes
What’s the Career Impact of Earning a PhD in Criminal Justice?
Earning your PhD is the ultimate intellectual feat, signifying that you’ve reached the highest level of proficiency in your field. In academia, PhDs are highly valued. Criminal justice organizations of all kinds seek knowledgeable leaders with advanced critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
What Can I Do With a Criminal Justice PhD?
With a criminal justice doctorate, you’ll gain the respect, influence, and credibility that come with an elite career credential. Open the door to advancement and new opportunities in leadership, consulting, and higher education. Career options span the public and private sectors and academia, and include:
- Professor/instructor
- Government contractor
- Intelligence analyst
- Research consultant
- Consulting to law enforcement agency
- Bureau chief
- Warden
- Police chief
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of Walden’s online PhD in Criminal Justice program, you will be prepared to:
- Evaluate the root causes of crime and its impact on criminal justice policies, practices, and procedures.
- Evaluate philosophies on managing human resources in criminal justice organizations.
- Synthesize theory and research on the historical trends and current perspectives in criminal justice.
- Apply data analysis techniques and research design methods to scholarly research in criminal justice.
- Evaluate the role of the criminal justice system in advancing social justice and positive social change.
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FAQ About Walden’s Online PhD in Criminal Justice
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From senior management positions to teaching to consulting, a PhD in Criminal Justice can open a wide range of professional opportunities in a variety of settings. Career roles could include city administrator, police captain, research consultant, criminal investigator, intelligence analyst, bureau chief, and more. Walden University’s PhD in Criminal Justice offers seven specializations—in addition to a General Program—so that you can tailor your degree to the career in criminal justice you wish to pursue.
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
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Professionals in the criminal justice field confront tough challenges every day as they work to reduce crime, improve public safety, and protect and serve society. Issues confronting criminal justice professionals may include:
- Human Trafficking – This issue is a point of focus for many criminal justice professionals and state and federal lawmakers who are working to shape policy, laws, and programs to reduce occurrences and protect and support victims.
- Mental Illness – Tackling the mental health issue in the U.S. criminal justice system is a big job, and one law enforcement officers, criminologists, mental health providers, policymakers, and other professionals with careers in criminal justice are working together to address.
- Drug Crime – Drug-related arrests are putting a big strain on the U.S. criminal justice system. Many professionals in criminal justice have dedicated their careers to combating drug crime through better law enforcement, more effective policy, and new laws.
- Cybercrime – Data breaches. Extortion. Cyberstalking and other forms of online harassment. Identity theft. With internet-related crimes on the rise in the U.S., cybercrime has become one of the fastest-growing areas of focus in the criminal justice field.
- Homeland Security – Professionals with criminal justice careers that focus on homeland security work every day to combat terrorism, cybercrimes, human trafficking, and other threats to the safety of our country.
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The study of criminology is complex and the varieties of criminal justice jobs are numerous. If you’re looking to begin or advance your criminal justice career, there are a number of disciplines you can study, including:
- Human Services – Professionals working in human services devote themselves to helping people find stability in their lives, from children’s protective service workers to social workers to addiction counselors.
- Psychology – Like human services professionals, psychology professionals can be instrumental in helping crime victims as well as those with a history of drug abuse or crime, improve their future through better mental health.
- Emergency Management – Communitywide emergencies not only threaten lives and property, they create opportunities for criminals. This is why emergency management professionals also plan for the aftermath of emergencies and develop procedures to prevent and address crime.
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There are a number of things that can differentiate a criminal justice program, including flexibility, specializations offered, and student support. Coursework in Walden’s PhD in Criminal Justice degree program is 100% online, making earning a degree more accessible than ever. Walden offers two tracks for the PhD program: One for students who have earned their master’s in criminal justice or a related field, and one for students who have a master’s degree in another discipline. Walden’s class sizes are small and students have comprehensive support services throughout their program.
Questions about our PhD in Criminal Justice?
Fill out the form and we will contact you to provide information about furthering your education.
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