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YourPace Criminal Justice

Advance Your Career with UMPI’s YourPace Criminal Justice Program

The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) offers a flexible and affordable pathway to a career in criminal justice through its innovative YourPace competency-based education program. Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your skills, our online criminal justice program provides the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

With degree options including AA, BAS, BA, BLS, BAS Minor, and Pre-Law tracks (BAS & BLS), you can tailor your education to match your goals—be it law enforcement, judiciary services, forensics, private security, or Homeland Security.

Rooted in social justice, our program blends theory, methodology, and hands-on learning. You’ll explore criminal behavior through sociological and psychological lenses, study crime’s impact on society, and gain real-world experience through supervised fieldwork.

Prepare for a meaningful career and make a difference in your community with UMPI’s flexible, accredited YourPace Criminal Justice program.

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What Is Competency-Based Education?

Designed to leverage your previous knowledge, college coursework, and work experience, competency-based education enables you to earn your degree at your pace as you demonstrate mastery of relevant academic content.

How our YourPace online programs save you time and money:

  • Prove your knowledge, move ahead—the faster you advance, the more you save
  • Flat tuition rate per 8-week session, no matter how many courses you complete
  • With no weekly deadlines, you control the speed of completion*

*Time to completion varies by student and is based on several factors including prior college coursework, relevant work experience, amount of time dedicated to studying, and the number of courses completed each session.

Upcoming Session Dates

The Dates YourPace Students need to know

There are six opportunities throughout the year to begin our YourPace online program. Find the start date below that works best for you and apply before the application deadline. Please note, application and document deadlines are the same. UMPI must receive all documents including official transcripts by the document deadline to be considered. Transcripts can often take 10 or more business days from the request date to be received by UMPI, please plan accordingly.

TermAPP DEADLINEDOCUMENT DEADLINECONFIRMATION DEADLINEREGISTRATION DEADLINETUITION DEADLINESTART DATECLASS END DATETerm Length
Spring 202/07/2502/18/2502/25/2503/04/2503/06/2503/10/2505/02/258 weeks
Summer 104/11/2504/22/2504/29/2505/06/2505/08/2505/12/2507/03/258 weeks
Summer 206/06/2506/17/2506/24/2507/01/2507/03/2507/07/2508/29/258 weeks
Fall 108/01/2508/12/2508/19/2508/26/2508/28/2509/02/2510/24/258 weeks
Fall 209/26/2510/07/2510/14/2510/21/2510/23/2510/27/2512/19/258 weeks
Spring 112/12/2512/23/2512/30/2501/06/2601/08/2601/12/2603/06/268 weeks

YourPace Criminal Justice Program Offerings

The University of Maine at Presque Isle offers a range of criminal justice programs in the YourPace modality designed to match your career goals. With flexible options and expert faculty, we provide the tools and support you need to succeed in the competitive field of criminal justice. Explore our program offerings below and find the perfect pathway to build your future in criminal justice.

Build a Strong Foundation with UMPI’s Criminal Justice AA Degree

The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) offers a flexible, 100% online Associate of Arts (AA) in Criminal Justice through its innovative YourPace competency-based education program. This University of Maine System-accredited program provides a solid foundation for understanding the criminal justice system, law enforcement practices, and social justice principles.

Designed to prepare students for entry-level roles or further education, the program covers key areas such as criminal law, corrections, investigative techniques, and the sociological and psychological factors influencing crime. Whether you plan to enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor’s degree, this program equips you with the critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills needed to succeed.

Start your journey toward a rewarding career in criminal justice with UMPI’s affordable and flexible AA program today.

Get to know our online B.A. in Criminal Justice program

As more and more institutions increase their college education requirements, the 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree program equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to deepen your expertise and stand out among the competition. As a graduate, you will be prepared for higher-level opportunities in law enforcement, as well as judiciary services, forensics and investigation, private security, and Homeland Security.

Our accredited online B.A. in Criminal Justice program strongly focuses on social justice issues. In this program, you will gain a solid understanding of the theories and methodology of criminal institutions and the sociological and psychological study of different types of crime. You will also gain hands-on supervised field experience in a criminal justice or social service agency. Coursework examines the effects of crime in the media, economic and social reactions to criminal behavior, and the justice system.

As a graduate of this criminal justice online program, you will:

  • Obtain supervised field experience in a criminal justice or social service agency
  • Leverage knowledge of criminal justice institutions and processes, theories of crime and punishment, criminal law, and social science research methods in real-world settings
  • Understand the sociological study of crime and its attempted control, as well as understand social attitudes, prejudices, and group dynamics
  • Comprehend and address critical content regarding stratification, social change, and emotional and cultural intelligence
  • Develop the business communication skills and social psychology to aid your work in criminal justice and social institutions

Criminal justice career opportunities:

  • Deputy U.S. Marshal
  • Fraud Investigator
  • Court Administrator
  • Loss Prevention Manager
  • Criminal Investigator
  • Security Manager
  • Corrections Administrator
  • Community Corrections Officer
  • Victim Advocate
  • Law Enforcement (local, state, federal)

Advance Your Career with UMPI’s Criminal Justice BAS Degree

The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Criminal Justice—a flexible, 100% online program designed for those with prior technical or applied credits looking to expand their expertise and leadership potential. Delivered through UMPI’s innovative YourPace competency-based education platform, this program allows you to earn your degree faster and on your schedule while building on the skills and experience you already have.

Unlike traditional programs, the BAS in Criminal Justice is tailored for professionals and students aiming to advance into supervisory, administrative, or specialized roles within the criminal justice system. With a curriculum focused on practical application, you’ll deepen your understanding of law enforcement practices, judicial systems, corrections, and security operations. Courses emphasize critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership—key skills for today’s evolving criminal justice landscape.

You’ll explore topics such as:

  • Theories of criminal behavior and their real-world applications
  • Corrections and rehabilitation strategies
  • Judicial processes and case management
  • Homeland security and private security practices
  • The impact of social justice and diversity on criminal justice systems

With UMPI’s YourPace BAS program, you gain more than a degree—you gain a competitive edge. Whether you’re advancing in law enforcement, transitioning into private security, or preparing for leadership in forensics or Homeland Security, this program equips you with the knowledge and credentials to stand out.

Take charge of your future with UMPI’s affordable, accredited Criminal Justice BAS degree. Flexible, career-focused, and designed for working professionals—this is the next step toward achieving your goals.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) offers a fully online Criminal Justice minor within the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree through its innovative YourPace competency-based education program. Designed for students looking to enhance their BAS degree with specialized knowledge in criminal justice, this minor provides a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and its role in today’s society.

The BAS Criminal Justice minor is ideal for students who bring prior technical or applied credits and want to expand their expertise in law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and social justice. Courses within the program explore topics such as criminal law, investigative techniques, ethical considerations, and the sociological and psychological factors that drive criminal behavior. This minor equips students with analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills that are highly valued across criminal justice professions and related fields.

By combining technical experience with specialized coursework, graduates will be well-prepared for roles in law enforcement, private security, corrections, and related areas, or for advancing to a full bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice.

UMPI’s Criminal Justice BAS minor offers the flexibility and affordability working professionals need while delivering a high-quality education that aligns with workforce demands.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle’s YourPace competency-based education program offers a Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) in Criminal Justice, providing a flexible and affordable pathway for individuals ready to advance their careers in the criminal justice field. As part of the University of Maine System, this accredited online program combines a broad liberal studies foundation with focused coursework in criminal justice, preparing graduates for leadership roles in law enforcement, public safety, corrections, and related fields.

The BLS degree is designed for students seeking to expand their skills and knowledge while maintaining the flexibility to balance education with personal and professional commitments. Through courses grounded in social justice and practical application, students develop a deeper understanding of criminal law, criminology, judicial systems, corrections, and the societal impacts of crime. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills essential for success in both public and private sector roles.

With its competency-based format, UMPI’s YourPace program allows you to move through the material at your own speed, ensuring you can apply what you already know while gaining new expertise. Whether you are looking to advance within your current role, pursue opportunities in private security or Homeland Security, or lay the groundwork for further education, the Criminal Justice BLS program provides the tools and knowledge to help you achieve your goals.

Take the next step toward a rewarding and impactful career with the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Criminal Justice BLS degree program.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle’s YourPace program offers a fully online Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Criminal Justice with a Pre-Law Minor, designed for students seeking a flexible, career-driven path into law and the criminal justice system. This University of Maine System-accredited program allows you to build on prior technical or applied credits, combining practical criminal justice coursework with focused pre-law studies to prepare you for law school or law-related careers.

The BAS Pre-Law Minor program delivers a strong foundation in criminal justice principles, including law enforcement, judicial systems, corrections, and investigative techniques. You will also gain critical insights into constitutional law, legal reasoning, and the societal impacts of crime and justice. Courses emphasize analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills—core competencies needed for success in law school, legal professions, or advanced criminal justice roles.

With the flexibility of UMPI’s YourPace model, you can progress through coursework at your own speed, balancing education with work or personal commitments. This program equips you with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in law enforcement, private investigation, judiciary services, or legal support roles, while providing a seamless pathway to graduate-level legal studies.

Take charge of your future and prepare for a rewarding career in law or criminal justice with UMPI’s online BAS in Criminal Justice with a Pre-Law Minor.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle’s YourPace program offers a fully online Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) in Criminal Justice with a Pre-Law Minor, providing a flexible and comprehensive pathway for students interested in the intersections of law, society, and criminal justice. This accredited program is ideal for those looking to build a broad, interdisciplinary education while preparing for law school or law-related careers.

The BLS Pre-Law Minor blends criminal justice fundamentals with coursework in legal studies, constitutional law, and critical reasoning. This program explores the social, political, and ethical issues shaping the criminal justice system and legal professions. You will develop essential skills in research, legal analysis, communication, and critical thinking—key competencies for success in law school, graduate studies, or careers in law enforcement, policy, and judiciary services.

As part of UMPI’s innovative YourPace model, you can complete courses at your own speed, allowing you to balance education with professional or personal responsibilities. The flexibility of the BLS degree combined with the focused Pre-Law Minor ensures you gain both breadth of knowledge and specialized preparation for your next steps, whether that is pursuing law school or advancing into roles in criminal justice, public administration, or legal support.

Prepare for a future in law, criminal justice, or policy with UMPI’s online BLS in Criminal Justice with a Pre-Law Minor, and take the next step toward making a meaningful impact.

In-person Criminal Justice Program Options

Not interested in the YourPace modality?
We offer multiple on-campus in-person Criminal Justice pathways to degree completion.

In-person Criminal Justice Program

Honor Society

The Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society within the Criminal Justice Program at UMPI represents a prestigious recognition of academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to the field of criminal justice. As the national honor society for students in the field of criminal justice, Alpha Phi Sigma serves as a beacon of achievement and dedication. Members of this esteemed society are drawn from the ranks of top-performing students who have demonstrated exceptional scholarship, integrity, and service within their academic pursuits and beyond.

YourPace teacher Stacey

YourPace Tuition

Learn more about our affordable tuition

The YourPace Criminal Justice Online Program offers an affordable flat tuition rate, ensuring you pay the same amount per session regardless of how many courses you complete. With no hidden fees or additional textbook costs, this flexible competency-based education program allows you to save more the faster you finish. Whether you’re looking to accelerate your degree or complete courses at your own pace, you’ll benefit from transparent pricing and a cost-effective learning experience through the University of Maine at Presque Isle.

**Tuition and fees are subject to change

Tuition breakdown:

$1,700** per session

Flat-Rate Tuition

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Although over half of our students are interested in law enforcement, the Criminal Justice program prepares its graduates to work in all facets of criminal justice and social services, including programs for youth at risk, victims of violence, probation, corrections, and the court system.

The Associate’s degree is a two-year program that prepares students for entry level positions in local criminal justice agencies. To be competitive for opportunities in state and federal positions, a Bachelor’s degree is recommended. A Bachelor’s degree is frequently required for promotion to command level positions. Many agencies also offer a pay differential based on years of education completed.

Yes. Almost 85% of our A.A. students continue on to complete their B.A.. In many ways, the Associates is the first half of the Bachelors program.

English, English, English! The coursework in Criminal Justice is very writing-intensive, so a good grounding in English (especially college preparatory or advanced placement) will help. Do not worry if that is not your strongest class, however; we have a Writing Center and peer tutors to help you become a better writer. Any classes about American Government will also prepare you for your Constitutional and Criminal Law courses.

There are various opportunities for students to become Academy trained while completing their degree. The Preservice (100 hours) course is offered on site at UMPI or the Presque Isle Police Department and students can transfer in three general elective credits for that certification. Students may also pursue full academy training in their senior year for up to 12 credits.

While Criminology programs offer a broad theoretical understanding of crime founded in sociology, the Criminal Justice program at UMPI combines that macro base with a more grounded applied curriculum analyzing the day-to-day workings of the criminal justice system.

Our graduates are working in various state and federal law enforcement agencies including: the Secret Service; Customs & Border Protection; Border Patrol; Maine Warden Service; Maine State Police, as well as various local departments across the state and beyond. We also have graduates working in a range of other non-policing agencies including: Domestic Violence Shelters; Department of Health and Human Services; Catholic Charities Maine; Department of Corrections; Probation and Parole.

This Criminal Justice program is unlike any found in Canada because it combines the broad liberal arts base taught by doctoral trained faculty that you would find in Canadian universities, with the practical applications that are usually only offered in Canadian community colleges.

As we are located only 15 miles from the border of New Brunswick, we have several Canadian students and have tailored flexibility into our course work to meet their needs. Along with a Canadian Criminal Justice course, we also have internship opportunities with Canadian Customs and the RCMP.

Have questions or need more information about competency based education?

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Ready to take the next step toward earning your degree online from UMPI?

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UMPI is ranked as one of the top 10 Regional Colleges in the North for graduates with least debt—UMPI is the top institution in Maine and all of New England to appear on this list. – U.S. News & World Report, 2024.

EXPECT to Finish at YourPace

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YourPace Admissions

Requirements for these criminal justice program offerings

We’ve made the admission process simple and streamlined so it’s easier for you to get started. Those interested in earning their competency based education degree in Criminal Justice should have the equivalent of a high school diploma and possess some prior college credit and/or work experience.

Admission Requirements:

No Application Fee

Minimum 1.75 GPA

Admissions Requirements and Guidelines for Undergraduate Programs

  • Students must be 20 years of age at the time of application.
  • High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., HiSet, GED)
  • Minimum cumulative college of GPA 1.75 from most recently attended institution
    • Submission of all official transcripts:Transcripts are only considered official if they are sent directly to UMPI from the granting institution or their electronic ordering service. Student-submitted transcripts are not accepted.
  • Students who do not have any college credits must submit the following:
    • Provide high school transcript, high school equivalency test (HiSet), or GED

Instructions for international students:

  • All international transcripts will only be accepted if the student provides them through an evaluation service. The evaluation agency must be a member of NACES or AICE. We will not accept unofficial copies (e.g., from the student)
  • Canadian schools and universities from a French-only institution (mostly in the province of Quebec) must be evaluated
  • International students are required to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from an English language proficiency test taken no more than two-years prior to date of application

Additional guidelines for international applicants may be found here.

Please Note: Student under 20 years of age do not meet the requirements for the YourPace programs. We do offer other programs that may meet your needs. If you would like more information about our traditional programs, please visit https://www.umpi.edu/admissions/. You can also reach out to the Admissions Office at umpi-admissions@maine.edu or by calling 207.768.9433.

Institutions and third-party vendors may submit official documents such as official transcripts and English proficiency exam score reports to: edocs@maine.edu

Mailing Address:

Application Processing Center
PO Box 412
Bangor, ME 04402-0412

YourPace Criminal Justice Courses

The University of Maine at Presque Isle’s YourPace Criminal Justice Program is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s dynamic Criminal Justice landscape. Select the tab below to explore the degree option that aligns with your goals and start building a strong foundation for your future success.

Criminal Justice, A.A.

The Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice is a two-year degree program designed to introduce students to the entire criminal justice system (law enforcement, law and the courts, juvenile justice and corrections).

Requirements

Associates Degree: There are 5 general education courses, 7 required criminal justice courses and 5 criminal justice open electives with a minimum of 61 credits for degree completion. The Associate’s degree represents the base of the Bachelor’s degree and it is a seamless transition for Associate’s candidates to go on and finish the four-year program.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Criminal Justice, B.A.S.

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at UMPI is designed to provide students with a robust foundation in liberal arts and social sciences, seamlessly integrating criminology and criminal justice disciplines. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, emphasizing the application of principles in real-world settings.

The program prepares students for a wide range of career paths, including federal, state, and local law enforcement positions, criminal justice social services, and other related fields. Additionally, it serves as an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to pursue advanced studies, including law school. By earning a Criminal Justice BAS degree at UMPI, students gain the tools and expertise to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Criminal Justice Minor, B.A.S.

UMPI’s YourPace Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) program with a Criminal Justice Minor equips students with a foundational understanding of criminal law, criminology, and justice systems. This minor emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields.

The flexible YourPace model allows students to complete the Criminal Justice Minor at their own speed, integrating prior academic credits and professional experience into their degree plan. Enhance your career prospects with this dynamic and career-focused minor in Criminal Justice.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Criminal Justice, B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at UMPI is designed to provide students with a robust foundation in liberal arts and social sciences, seamlessly integrating criminology and criminal justice disciplines. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, emphasizing the application of principles in real-world settings.

A standout feature of the Criminal Justice BAS degree is the opportunity for students to earn up to eighteen credits through field experiences, allowing them to apply their learning in professional environments. This hands-on approach equips graduates with the skills and insights needed to excel in diverse roles across the criminal justice system.

The program prepares students for a wide range of career paths, including federal, state, and local law enforcement positions, criminal justice social services, and other related fields. Additionally, it serves as an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to pursue advanced studies, including law school. By earning a Criminal Justice BAS degree at UMPI, students gain the tools and expertise to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Take a look at the topics you’ll study in our online criminal justice program

To earn your B.A. in Criminal Justice, you need to complete 120 credit hours of coursework. Each course is built around a series of competencies. Once you have mastered the series, you complete the course. Using our personalized learning model, we look at your past college credit, prior learning, and work experience to create your custom degree plan.

The program includes 40 credit hours of general education courses, 45 credit hours of Criminal Justice core, 6 credit hours of Criminal Justice electives, and 29 credit hours of electives.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Criminal Justice, B.L.S.

The Bachelor of Liberal Studies in Criminal Justice at UMPI provides students with a strong foundation in liberal arts and criminology while focusing on the practical applications of criminal justice principles. This program integrates theoretical insights with hands-on learning, preparing students to address real-world challenges in the criminal justice system.

Graduates are prepared for careers in federal, state, and local law enforcement, corrections, criminal justice social services, and related areas. Additionally, the program offers an excellent foundation for those pursuing advanced studies, including law school. By earning a Criminal Justice B.L.S. degree at UMPI, students gain the expertise to make meaningful contributions in their communities and beyond.

Degree Requirements
To earn your B.L.S. in Criminal Justice, you must complete 120 credit hours of coursework. Each course is competency-based, allowing you to progress as you demonstrate mastery of the material. Using UMPI’s personalized YourPace model, your prior college credits, work experience, and learning history help create a custom degree plan.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Pre-Law, B.A.S. Minor

The Pre-Law Minor within UMPI’s YourPace Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) program is designed to provide students with a robust foundation for pursuing careers in law or legal-adjacent fields. This program integrates critical thinking, research, and communication skills with practical applications, making it ideal for students seeking to enhance their professional and academic opportunities.

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, ethics, and problem-solving strategies essential for law school or roles in business, government, and social justice organizations. The YourPace model ensures a flexible learning experience tailored to individual needs, allowing students to progress through competencies at their own speed.

By choosing the Pre-Law Minor within the B.A.S. program, students gain an edge in competitive fields, preparing them for advanced studies or career pathways that demand a deep understanding of the legal system.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

Pre-Law, B.L.S. Minor

UMPI’s YourPace Bachelor of Liberal Studies (B.L.S.) program offers a Pre-Law Minor that equips students with the foundational skills needed to excel in legal studies and related professions. Combining liberal arts education with focused legal studies, this minor emphasizes analytical thinking, persuasive communication, and ethical decision-making.

The Pre-Law Minor within the B.L.S. program prepares students for diverse career paths, including public service, advocacy, and consulting, while also serving as a stepping stone for graduate or law school. The flexible YourPace model allows students to integrate prior learning and professional experience into their academic journey, creating a customized path to success.

Whether aiming for law school or a career in fields requiring legal acumen, the Pre-Law Minor in the B.L.S. program provides the tools and confidence to make a lasting impact.

View Course Catalog YourPace Course Search

NECHE

The University of Maine at Presque Isle is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

University of Maine System

UMPI is a respected member of the University of Maine System.

C-BEN

UMPI is proud to be a member institution in the Competency-Based Education Network (C-BEN).

What can you do with a degree in Criminal Justice?

Next Step: Admissions

We’re so excited that you’re considering the University of Maine at Presque Isle! As a student at UMPI, we want your experience to be anything but ordinary! So what makes UMPI extraordinary? Our Learning Environment, Our Student Engagement and Our Location!

No matter what stage of life you are in, we can help you take the plunge into higher education and put you on YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS!

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