Take a leadership role in our changing society with PennWest’s online Doctorate in Criminal Justice.
Built on PennWest California’s unique graduate program, this online program focuses on professional development and practical approaches to contemporary criminal justice issues.
The program includes one five-day summer residency on campus (or virtually) followed by two years of part-time, online study. During this time, you will strengthen your skills with in-depth analysis and policy evaluation and implementation, and you will deepen your understanding of real-world concerns such as federal consent decrees, police use of force, wrongful convictions and reducing recidivism. After passing a comprehensive exam, you will develop a doctoral research portfolio based on theory and applied research relevant to your career.
You’ll graduate with the skills you need to advance as a professional in this high-demand field.
Our online DCJ program collaborates with the Pennsylvania Center for Investigative and Forensic Sciences, based at PennWest California. The Center consults with working practitioners and offers credentials such as a “Criminal Justice Instructor Development” certificate.
Earn this advanced degree while you continue to work as a professional in your field.
Learn from highly experienced experts who understand the issues in today’s society and can help you achieve justice more often.
The DCJ program is the first regionally accredited professional doctorate in criminal justice in the country.
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100% online with 1-week residency
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for those with doctorates in Criminal Justice are expected to grow faster than average over the next 10 years.
What Can I Do With a Doctorate in Criminal Justice?
PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.