Doctor in Criminal Justice
Pennsylvania Western University

Program Details

The online Doctor in Criminal Justice program equips professionals to handle current criminal justice issues and policy changes. The curriculum develops skills in in-depth analysis, policy implementation, and evaluation; deepens understanding of real-world concerns in the field; and provides a foundation for leadership within the criminal justice field. Coursework covers subjects such as correctional system crisis management, twenty-first century policing practices, civil liability training, and legal research methods.

Graduates go on to careers in higher-level management positions in: 

  • Federal, state and local police agencies
  • Sheriff's offices
  • Corrections departments
  • Juvenile justice agencies

% Online

Mostly Online

School Accreditation & Licensing

Pennsylvania Western University is accredited by:

Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Program Requirements & Restrictions

Minimum Education

Master Degree

Recommended GPA

3.0 or above (4.0 scale)

Application Requirements

Essay/Writing Sample, Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose/Intent

Additional Info

  • Requires one five-day summer residency on campus
  • Must hold an accredited master’s in criminal justice, criminology, or related discipline OR have a J.D. degree with professional experience