- Cohort format: You’ll take classes in sequence with the same group of classmates
- Structured curriculum: Courses are taken in a set order for a smooth learning path
- Built-in support: Our team handles your enrollment and reviews your records each session
- Flexibility: Keep working while you earn your degree
- Credit for Prior Learning: Get credit for law enforcement or military experience
- SFSU faculty: All courses are taught by University instructors
- Personalized help: You’ll have access to a dedicated support team and online success coach
- Full access: You’ll get the same University resources as on-campus students
- Asynchronous classes: Learn on your schedule with recorded lectures, discussions and materials available any time
Yes. Your degree will be granted by San Francisco State University, which is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). It’s the same degree as the on-campus bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Studies. You’re also welcome to walk in SFSU Commencement in May.
You’ll take two courses during each eight-week session, finishing in about two years. You’ll move through the program with your cohort, following the same course sequence. There are two sessions in fall and spring, and one in summer.
Yes. You may be eligible for financial aid. Visit the financial aid page for details.
Plan to spend about 15 to 20 hours per week on each class, including readings, assignments and online discussions.
Maybe. While your course won’t replace one by name, it may count as an elective. For example, if you took Introduction to Administration of Justice or Concepts of Criminal Law at a community college, those can count as three-unit electives. That would reduce the number of electives you need. Upper-division criminal justice courses from a four-year university (including SFSU) may also count.
Yes. If you’ve completed relevant training, you may be eligible for six units of upper-division credit that can replace two courses in the program. If you also have significant work experience, you may qualify for additional Credit for Prior Learning. These general units don’t replace specific courses but do count toward the 120 units required to graduate.
You’ll learn from faculty in the Department of Criminal Justice Studies at SFSU. Instructors include lecturers with field experience as well as assistant, associate and full professors. They bring a wide range of backgrounds, research interests and teaching styles.
No. The program is fully online and designed for students who need flexibility. All classes are asynchronous, so you can complete work on your own schedule.
No. Transcripts are only reviewed after you apply to the program. Pre-reviews are not available.
No. Transcripts are only reviewed after you apply to the program. Pre-reviews are not available.
Admission decisions are usually made four to six weeks after the final deadline. Your application will be reviewed once all transcripts and required documents are received.
Once you’ve completed 90 units as an undergraduate, you can apply to graduate. Use your Degree Progress Report (DPR) and the guide below to help you through the process.