BS in Criminal Justice – Juvenile Justice

The youth in our country hold the future in their hands, and to lose them to the criminal justice system would be detrimental to the success of our cities, states, and nation. Through our Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice – Juvenile Justice degree, you can explore how to work with juveniles and save them from going down the wrong path. If they are already involved in criminal activity, you can be trained to help them turn away from it.

Through Liberty University’s bachelor’s in juvenile justice, you can study how to rehabilitate and prevent repeat offenders. Community-based corrections involve providing correctional supervision and services in a community setting as an alternative to jail or prison. This is especially effective with juveniles, who tend to be hardened upon entering a standard correctional facility.

Our professors can help you develop a practical understanding of community-based corrections, delinquency, and crime prevention. By studying the internal workings of the criminal justice system and how it responds to juvenile delinquency, you can prepare to pursue a career in juvenile corrections. You can also learn some of the more successful methods for establishing rehabilitation programs.

120

Credit Hours

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Next start date: Aug 18, 2025

Degree SACSCOC

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC


Solve Real-World Cold Cases

Thanks to an Illuminate Grant for Justice Project DNA testing equipment and training, you can work alongside professors from our Criminal Justice, School of Law, and Biology departments to research cold cases.

This hands-on experience allows you to contribute to important criminal justice reform efforts, including helping advocates exonerate wrongly convicted individuals.

Study at a University with a Legacy of Excellence

Our bachelor’s in criminal justice degree has produced graduates of distinction who have interned with agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Marshals, Metropolitan Police Department, and NCIS.

Some of our graduates have gained employment with the U.S. Department of Defense, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), AECOM Defense Services Sector, and the Virginia State Police.

Learn from Professors with Hands-On Knowledge

Study under experienced professors who are recognized for their teaching excellence and who have served with top law enforcement agencies like the FBI and the Virginia Beach Police Department.

Get Involved and Build Connections

Join our Criminal Justice Club to connect with peers and professionals who share your passion for criminal justice. The club hosts events designed to help you build valuable connections and gain insights into your future career.


Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialization in juvenile justice can help prepare you to pursue the following occupations: 

  • Corrections recreation leader
  • Deputy prison warden
  • Juvenile justice detention officer
  • Juvenile rehabilitation coordinator
  • Juvenile/youth counselor
  • Probation officer
  • Youth correction facility director
Criminal Justice Juvenile Justice
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In our BS in Criminal Justice – Juvenile Justice degree, you can learn how to develop and implement strategies to prevent adult and juvenile crime. Throughout this degree, our experienced professors will impart their knowledge and training in the juvenile justice system. You will study the legal issues and ramifications of specific court decisions regarding juveniles so that you have a background on situations you might experience in your career.

You can also explore how to analyze community-based corrections programs – such as boot camps, electronic monitoring, and restorative justice programs – for effectiveness and proper implementation. You will study the data on each method and possible solutions to reduce recidivism in youths participating in any of these programs.

Degree Information

Learn from Experienced Faculty Who Care About Your Growth

Liberty University’s criminal justice faculty bring a wealth of professional experience to the classroom. As practitioners in the field, they help bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. Their backgrounds in law enforcement, juvenile justice, and public service can offer meaningful insights as you prepare to explore your place in the justice system.

Study at an Institution That Meets High Standards

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which reflects a commitment to academic quality and integrity. By choosing Liberty, you’re engaging in a program that meets rigorous educational standards and supports your pursuit of excellence in the criminal justice field.

Develop a Biblical Worldview to Guide Your Career

As part of your education at Liberty, you’ll be encouraged to explore how your faith can influence your approach to juvenile justice. Courses are taught from a biblical worldview, helping you consider how values like compassion, justice, and integrity can play a role in your professional path and personal growth.

Build Connections Through Clubs and Honor Societies

Liberty offers opportunities for you to connect with peers and professionals through groups like Alpha Phi Sigma (the National Criminal Justice Honor Society) and the Criminal Justice Club. These organizations host events and create spaces for networking, service, and career exploration as you navigate your interests in juvenile justice.

Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:

  • Admission application
  • Official high school transcripts
  • Official college transcripts (if applicable)
  • Admission essay