100%
Online Option
$270
Tuition Cost per Credit
2 years
Average Completion*
Help Young People Find a Better Path
Young people make mistakes. The choices made by families, communities, schools, and justice professionals can help determine what happens next.
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Juvenile Justice Studies Option at Athens State University prepares you to understand the unique challenges facing young people involved in or at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. You’ll explore juvenile delinquency, youth development, prevention, rehabilitation, courts, corrections, family and community influences, and the broader social factors that affect young people’s behavior.
If you’re interested in helping young people overcome challenges, supporting safer communities, and contributing to a justice system focused on accountability and positive outcomes, this program can prepare you for a career with purpose.
Program Overview
Juvenile justice is different from adult criminal justice. Young people are still developing. Their behavior can be influenced by family, peers, schools, communities, trauma, socioeconomic circumstances, and other factors. Effective juvenile justice professionals must understand those influences while balancing accountability, public safety, rehabilitation, and the needs of the individual.
The Juvenile Justice Studies Option builds on the foundation of a Criminal Justice degree while providing a focused understanding of youth and the juvenile justice system. You’ll examine why young people become involved in delinquent behavior, how the juvenile justice system responds, and what approaches can help prevent future involvement. The program combines criminal justice knowledge with perspectives from behavioral science, social services, education, and community intervention.
What You’ll Learn
Through the Juvenile Justice Studies Option, you’ll develop the ability to:
- Explain the structure and purpose of the juvenile justice system.
- Understand the unique legal and social considerations involving youth.
- Analyze the causes and patterns of juvenile delinquency.
- Examine the influence of families, peers, schools, and communities. Evaluate juvenile justice policies and interventions.
- Understand approaches to prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Analyze research related to youth and juvenile justice.
- Apply ethical principles to work with young people and families.
- Communicate effectively with diverse populations.
- Approach juvenile justice challenges with critical thinking and empathy.
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
Professionals who work with young people in the justice system need more than knowledge of laws and procedures. They need to understand youth development, communication, behavior, families, and communities.
Explore your career pathways with the B.S. in Criminal Justice – Juvenile Justice Studies Option, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$48k
Police Officer Estimated Entry Salary
$66k
Police Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Athens State University is proud to offer the lowest tuition of any public, four-year university in Alabama, making it possible to earn an advanced degree while keeping your education affordable. Combined with flexible online and hybrid learning, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities, our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice delivers exceptional value and a strong return on your investment.
Why Choose this Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is offered through a variety of flexible course formats, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.
Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s degree programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.
Invest in Your Future The Smart Way
Athens State University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education. As Alabama’s most affordable public, state university, we give you the opportunity to earn an advanced degree while making a smart investment in your future, without unnecessary debt. Plus, our learning partnerships make a degree from Athens Sate even more accessible.
Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone—our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
Our Faculty
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.