If you have a passion for the law and law enforcement, then a career in criminal justice might be just what you are looking for. Los Angeles has many good educational institutions from where you can obtain a high-quality degree in this field. Here is a list of the top ones. Each school’s position is based on accurate information obtained from student surveys, government records and other official sources.

Featured Programs and Schools

1) The California State University – Los Angeles

The California State University – Los Angeles is one of the largest public universities in California with a student body that exceeds 27,000. It offers 129 Bachelor’s, 112 Master’s and 4 Doctoral degree programs. A couple of these relate to criminal justice including the “Minor in Criminal Justice” and the “B.S. in Criminal Justice.”

In 2015, the California State University – Los Angeles produced 195 criminal justice graduates. This number is set to increase in the coming years as more and more people enter the field.

2) The Platt College

A small private educational institution, the Platt College is located in a large suburb in Alhambra. There are 23 Associate’s degrees and 7 Bachelor’s degrees to choose from. 2 of these degree programs are in criminal justice. In 2015, 30 people graduated with a criminal justice degree from the Platt College. The small class size ensures personalized attention for each student.

3) The California State University – Dominguez Hills

Established in 1960, the California State University – Dominguez Hills is part of the California State University system which runs 23 campuses across the Golden State. With more than 14,500 students, it is a major public university situated in a small city in California. 2 of its degree programs are in criminal justice. Cal State Dominguez Hills awarded criminal justice bachelor’s degrees to 181 students in 2015.

4) The California State University – Fullerton

Going by student strength, the California State University – Fullerton (Cal State Fullerton) is the largest institution among the 23-campus California State University (CSU) system. It has more than 40,000 registered students with almost 6,000 of them enrolled in graduate study programs.

Cal State Fullerton offers two degree programs in criminal justice. In 2015, the institution conferred 318 bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice to successful students. The number of graduates in this field is set to increase in the coming years.

5) The California State University – Long Beach

The California State University – Long Beach (Cal State Long Beach) is the third-largest institution among the 23-campus California State University (CSU) system. It has more than 37,000 registered students.

Cal State Long Beach offers 3 degree programs in criminal justice. In 2015, 126 students earned a bachelor’s degree and 5 students earned a master’s degree in criminal justice from this outstanding school.

Selecting the Right Criminal Justice School in Los Angeles

Selecting the right criminal justice school in Los Angeles can be a crucial decision, as it will impact your education, career, and future opportunities. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed choice:

Identify your Goals

Determine what you want to achieve with your criminal justice degree, such as a specific job or career path, and how important factors like location, cost, and prestige are to you.

Research Available Programs

Compile a list of criminal justice schools in Los Angeles, focusing on those that align with your goals. You can search online, ask for recommendations from friends, or consult local law enforcement agencies for suggestions.

Review Accreditation

Ensure that the schools on your list are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Higher Learning Commission or regional accrediting bodies. Accreditation is a sign of quality and can impact your ability to transfer credits or qualify for federal financial aid.

Evaluate Curriculum

Examine the course offerings and curriculum of each school to ensure they cover the subjects and skills you want to learn. Look for programs that offer hands-on experiences, such as internships or co-op opportunities, to gain practical skills.

Assess Faculty Credentials

Research the backgrounds of the faculty members at each school. Look for instructors with relevant experience in the criminal justice field, as well as strong academic credentials.

Compare Costs and Financial Aid

Consider tuition, fees, and other expenses for each school, and research available financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Make sure to factor in the cost of living in Los Angeles as well.

Visit Campuses

If possible, visit each school on your list to get a feel for the campus environment, facilities, and resources. Talk to current students and faculty members to gather firsthand insights.

Assess Career Support

Investigate each school’s career support services, such as job placement assistance, career counseling, and networking opportunities. Look for schools with strong connections to local law enforcement agencies and criminal justice organizations.

Review Rankings and Reputation

Consider the reputation and rankings of each school on your list, but don’t rely solely on these factors. Use them as one part of your overall evaluation.

Make your Decision

After carefully considering all the factors, choose the criminal justice school in Los Angeles that best aligns with your goals, needs, and preferences.

Remember, the right school for you will depend on your personal goals, priorities, and circumstances. Take the time to thoroughly research and evaluate your options to make the best decision for your future.

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