Credits required
18
Cost per-credit*
$288.50
Estimated Total
$5,193
Delivery
Online
Criminal Justice, Minor (Online)
Gain a deeper understanding of law, crime and justice systems
Request Information
Why Choose the Online Criminal Justice Minor at the University
The Criminal Justice Minor at Nevada Online offers undergraduate students a flexible way to explore the structure and function of the criminal justice system, with a curriculum rooted in law, ethics, policing and corrections. This fully online minor develops a solid foundation in criminology and legal studies while enhancing a student’s major with skills in critical thinking, analysis and public policy understanding.
This minor in criminal justice is ideal for students interested in the study of crime, justice and the social systems that shape them. Whether you plan to pursue a career in law enforcement, courts, corrections, advocacy or public administration, this program adds depth and versatility to your undergraduate education.
*Program tuition. Base in-state tuition cost. Does not include student fees. Please note everyone's net tuition costs is specific to their own situation and will be different for each person. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Who Should Choose This Minor
The criminal justice minor is designed for undergraduate students majoring in fields such as:
- Political science
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Public health
- Business
- Communication studies
Students pursuing careers in law enforcement, legal support, public policy, or advocacy will benefit from the foundational knowledge provided by the minor. It also serves as excellent preparation for graduate study in criminology, public administration, or law.
Program Overview
Housed within the College of Liberal Arts, the criminal justice minor provides students with academic flexibility and real-world relevance. The program includes 18 credit hours—3 from required core courses and 15 from electives. It is available fully online and can be completed alongside any major except the criminal justice bachelor’s degree.
Who Should Choose This Minor
The criminal justice minor is designed for undergraduate students majoring in fields such as:
- Political science
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Public health
- Business
- Communication studies
Students pursuing careers in law enforcement, legal support, public policy, or advocacy will benefit from the foundational knowledge provided by the minor. It also serves as excellent preparation for graduate study in criminology, public administration, or law.
Program Snapshot
- Format: 100% online, asynchronous
- Total Credits: 18 credit hours
- Tuition (2025–2026): $288.50* per credit
- Estimated Tuition: $5,193 (excludes standard university fees)
- College Affiliation: College of Liberal Arts
- Transfer Credit: Up to 9 elective credits accepted (subject to approval)
- GPA Requirement: 2.0 for current students; 2.5 for transfer students
- Capstone Requirement: None
- Internship: Optional, not required
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Students should consult an academic advisor to align the minor with their major and graduation timeline.
Career Pathways
Students minoring in criminal justice graduate with the ability to analyze legal systems, examine responses to criminal behavior and understand the institutions that uphold justice. These skills are applicable across public and private sectors and complement many professional roles. Graduates commonly pursue careers or graduate programs in:
| Sector | Potential Opportunities |
| Law Enforcement | Police, probation, public safety |
| Legal Services | Court clerks, legal research, case coordination |
| Government and Policy | Program analysts, community engagement |
| Advocacy and Nonprofits | Victim advocacy, policy reform, reentry services |
| Graduate Study | Law school, criminology, public affairs |
These roles offer salaries competitive with national averages and support long-term advancement. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, protective service occupations and legal support roles are expected to maintain steady demand. View BLS Occupational Outlook
Curriculum and Courses
The program’s curriculum emphasizes the study of criminal justice systems in the United States and explores how communities, courts and correctional institutions respond to crime. The coursework introduces students to core components of the justice process while offering the flexibility to tailor electives based on personal or professional interests.
Required Course (3 credits)
- CRJ 104: Introduction to the Administration of Justice: Provides an overview of the American criminal justice system
Please refer to the University Course Catalog for complete details.
Students then complete 15 credits of upper-division electives. These electives must be selected from approved criminal justice courses and may include topics such as policing in America, criminal courts, gender and justice, or international crime.
All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better to count toward minor requirements.
Faculty and Student Support
Courses in the criminal justice program are taught by faculty with research expertise in policing, criminology, gender and justice, restorative justice and ethics in the justice system. Students gain insights from professors actively engaged in scholarship and applied research.
Support for online students includes:
- 24/7 access to the Canvas learning platform
- Academic advising and course planning
- Online library and research tools
- Career development services and resume assistance
- Technical support and help desk access
Whether pursuing a law-related career or simply wanting to build a broader understanding of justice and society, the program is designed to help you succeed.
Build Your Understanding of Justice
The Criminal Justice, Minor at Nevada Online allows students to develop a deeper awareness of how laws are enforced, interpreted and challenged in modern society. With a flexible curriculum, a respected university setting and convenient online access, this program helps you strengthen your academic background while preparing for impactful work in your community and beyond.
Why choose Nevada Online for your Criminal Justice Minor?
The online Criminal Justice Minor at the University of Nevada, Reno, offers a flexible, accredited 18-credit program exploring the legal and ethical aspects of the criminal justice system. It complements diverse majors, providing a foundation in criminology, law and justice administration for various careers and graduate studies through core and elective courses on police, courts and corrections.
Benefits of learning online with Nevada Online
Classes taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty
Access to a Carnegie® R1 research university
Choose from accessible, fully online programs
Continue your education from anywhere in the world, free from a fixed schedule