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Bachelor's in Criminal Justice Leadership
Level up as a leader in the criminal justice field.
The online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota helps you take the next step in your career—whether you’re a seasoned police officer, public safety professional, or someone entering the field with a passion for service and leadership.
This flexible, transfer-friendly bachelor’s program, offered through the School of Advancing Studies, is designed for working adults. Whether you’re starting with no prior college experience or bringing in previously earned credits, you’ll only take the courses you need to finish your degree allowing you to complete your education more efficiently.
Gain advanced skills in ethical leadership, communication, and organizational management while preparing for roles in law enforcement, peacekeeping, public safety, corrections, and probation. Courses are taught by current or recently retired criminal justice professionals who bring real-world insight and model leadership in action.
You’ll also build a strong network of peers in the field, creating lasting professional connections and expanding your career opportunities.
Saint Mary’s supports Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified professionals looking to advance their careers or pursue a second career.
Talk to us about our generous credit transfer policy and take the next step toward completing your bachelor’s degree in criminal justice leadership on your terms, on your schedule.
Note: This program does not provide POST certification. Students seeking to become POST-certified must attend a school with a POST-approved curriculum.
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B.S. in Criminal Justice Program Highlights
- Are you a member of Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) or the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA)? Saint Mary’s is proud to partner with both organizations to offer unique scholarships, helping members like you save money while completing your degree.
- Earn credit for Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) continuing education requirements, military training, and more.
- Fast-track to a graduate degree by taking courses that count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Ask your transfer counselor for details.
What You’ll Learn in the B.S. in Criminal Justice Program
- Integration of criminal justice system facets
- Decision-making and its impact on the system
- Leadership and management principles to empower
- Inclusion, adaptability, and respect for diversity
- Critical thinking, self-evaluation, and resilience
- Ethical and professional conduct
Information Sessions
Accelerate Your B.S. Degree
How to apply for the B.S. in Criminal Justice Program
Saint Mary’s accepts applications for online bachelor degree programs year-round. You can start your program in the fall, spring, or summer semester once accepted.
Admission Requirements
To apply, you’ll need to provide:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts
- If you’ve completed college-level coursework: submit official transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended.
- If you haven’t completed any college-level coursework: submit an official high school transcript showing your diploma.
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable) Interview with a program administrator (if requested)
What’s an official transcript?
It must be sent directly to Saint Mary’s University by the issuing institution. International transcripts must be evaluated course-by-course by an approved credential evaluation service, such as:
- World Education Services (WES)
- Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
- Educational Perspectives
- One Earth International Credential Evaluators
- Any NACES member (naces.org)
Send Materials To:
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Office of Admission
2500 Park Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Application Deadlines
- Fall Term 1-August 1
- Fall Term 2-October 1
- Spring Term 1-December 1
- Spring Term 2-February 1
- Summer Term 1-April 1
- Summer Term 2-June 1
Tuition & Financial Aid
Course Catalog
Careers & Salary
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice leadership gives you the expertise to fast forward your career as a police officer, sheriff deputy, crime prevention specialist, corrections officer, or probation officer — or maximize your critical thinking skills for a career with the border patrol or Homeland Security.
Border Patrol Officer
$56,884 per year*Corrections Officer
$53,290 per year*Related Programs
Advance your career with flexible online programs designed for busy adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Saint Mary’s, we want you to succeed, and we help you do so, inside and outside of the classroom:
Student Central: Your one stop for student services
Library: Resources and services are available 24/7 to all students.
Writing Center: Offers virtual and face-to-face services to support students
Career Services: Can help you develop your career-readiness skills at any point in your education
The only thing virtual about your online experience is the classroom. Our flexible online programs offer the rigor and reputation you expect from Saint Mary’s.
Explore more here.
Life gets busy. Whether you’re raising a family, pursuing your career, or playing an active role in your community, we know you want to keep up with what you love while you take the next step in your career. That’s why Saint Mary’s online programs are flexible and designed to fit your demanding life.
News and Information from the School of Advancing Studies
Law Enforcement Jobs: Become a Leader in an Important Field
It’s a Great Time to Pursue Financial Analyst Jobs
Sources and Disclaimer
Indeed, Border Patrol Officer at https://www.indeed.com/career/border-patrol-agent/salaries (visited Oct. 30, 2024).
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correction Officers and Bailiffs at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/correctional-officers.htm (visited Oct. 1, 2024).
**This program is not designed or intended to meet educational requirements for law enforcement officer licensure in any jurisdiction. For more information about Saint Mary’s programs and peace officer certification in Minnesota, visit our Professional Licensure page