Criminal Justice

The System Needs You

Justice isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Neither is your education. Our programs are built around your goals—equipping you with the skills, experience and mentorship to shape your future.

16% Projected Job Growth

Criminal justice related occupations are expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations

+100 Distinct Careers

related to the Criminal Justice field in the U.S.

CHOOSE YOUR LEVEL 

Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice

Change for Good. Justice for All.

Build a more just system—and your future in it.
Choose a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) and gain the real-world skills, experience and perspective to launch your career in criminal justice.

Why a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from UK?

  • 100% online or on-campus options to fit your life
  • Two degree options, focusing on broader social sciences (BA) or science-based approaches (BS).
  • Learn your way, with online and on-campus options
  • Faculty mentorship from industry experts
  • Gain experience for law school, forensic psychology, criminology, and other advanced degree programs
  • Graduate job-ready with hands-on experience in your field and a flexible career path

Admissions Overview

  • Must be a declared Criminal Justice major at UK
  • Choose between a BA or BS track
  • Submit transcripts and a personal essay (500–750 words)
  • Submit official high school transcript or GED, admissions essay, and application fee
  • Transfer credits accepts

BSCJ vs. BACJ: Which Path Fits You?

  • Both require 120 total credit hours
  • Both provide strong foundations in criminal justice systems and practice
  • Both prepare you for careers, graduate study, or professional programs
  • The BSCJ includes 15 credit hours in science or math (biology, physical science, computer science, or math).

Application Deadlines

Fall

Aug. 1

Spring

Dec. 1

Scholarships

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, a wide range of scholarships are available to support students across social work and criminal justice programs.

How to Apply

All UK Scholarships are managed through Scholarship Universe.
Login using your UK linkblue email and password and complete your student profile. Navigate to the “Scholarships” tab to view and apply for opportunities.

When you apply, you’ll automatically be considered for all available scholarships.

Incoming Freshmen can apply for scholarships via Student Success’s Freshmen section.

For additional support, visit StudentSuccess.uky.edu.

Deadline for Lewis Honors College scholarship consideration is December 1.

The KY Edge Scholarship Fund

The KY Edge Scholarship Fund supports Kentucky students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Social Work and Criminal Justice at the University of Kentucky. As part of the College of Social Work’s KY E.D.G.E. (Education. Development. Growth. Empowerment.) initiative, the scholarship is designed to expand educational access, reduce financial barriers and help prepare students for careers that strengthen Kentucky communities.

In addition to financial assistance, KY E.D.G.E. connects students with academic and professional support resources that promote student success. Opportunities may include advising, tutoring, mentorship, professional development experiences, networking opportunities and work-study placements.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Complete the FAFSA, Scholarship Application, and UK Admission Application by the priority deadline
  • Demonstrate unmet financial need (priority given to Pell-eligible and first-generation students)
  • Be a resident of Kentucky
  • Have a minimum 2.5 high school GPA
  • Agree to participate in a work-study position within the College of Social Work
  • Enroll full-time in a Social Work or Criminal Justice program

Unlock Your Cheat Code & Go Further in Criminal Justice

Before applying, please note that you are applying to the University of Kentucky, not directly to the Criminal Justice program. During the university application process, select Criminal Justice from the list of available academic majors.

Apply Now for UK

Petition for Exceptional Consideration

Our programs are academically rigorous, and prior academic performance is an important indicator of success. If your academic record does not fully reflect your abilities, you may submit additional information for exceptional consideration. Admission decisions are made by a faculty Admissions Committee, with notification provided by phone and/or email.