Back to Nova Southeastern University
Take a comprehensive approach to understanding crime with a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from Nova Southeastern University, recognized by Forbes as one of the nation's only non-profit, fully accredited online programs.
NSU’s doctoral criminal justice program offers a flexible online curriculum and specialty degree tracks to prepare you for your area of interest in this dynamic field.
Earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice from NSU has provided me with the knowledge and credentials necessary to enter into the professions of research and academia. As a full-time police chief, the program offered by NSU afforded me the opportunity to achieve my goals from a highly recommended and SACSCOC-accredited institution.
Jay Fortenbery | Retired Police Chief, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice
Quick Facts
Specialize Your Degree with Concentrations
Become an expert in your area of study with a concentrated degree path.
What Can You Do with a Criminal Justice Doctorate?
Many of our graduates go on to administer social policy, teach the next generation in academia, and break new ground in research.
Others hold upper-level jobs such as:
- Criminal Investigators
- Correctional Authorities
- Consultants
- Criminologists
What Will You Learn in the Program?
Receive an interdisciplinary, comprehensive curriculum that covers theories, best practices, and research methods, giving you an edge in whichever sector of criminal justice you decide to work in.
Core Curriculum
Required Courses (33 Credits)
Credits
Concentration Curriculum
Required Courses (15 Credits)
Credits
Required Courses (15 Credits)
Credits
Curriculum
Required Courses (15 Credits)
Credits
Required Courses (15 Credits)
Credits
Dissertation Curriculum
A dissertation is required and coursework consists of 12 credits.
Required Courses (12 Credits)
Credits
What will my degree say?
It will say Doctor of Philosophy. You will also receive a certificate stating Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice.
Is the program accredited?
Visit the College of Education and School of Criminal Justice Accreditation page for information on university accreditation.
What are the benefits of an online environment?
Traditional courses require you to attend classes in person two or three days per week. With an online environment, you can check your email and bulletin board at any time convenient to you in your home.
Do you limit the number of students who can enroll in the program?
Yes, we limit the number of students who are admitted. We typically accept 20 students per year.
How long will it take to complete my Ph.D. in Criminal Justice?
There are three semesters offered each year: Fall (Aug.), Winter (Jan.), and Summer (May). Typically, students complete the program in two and a half years by taking three courses per semester; however, students are never enrolled in more than two at a time. Please see suggested course of study.
How many classes do I need to take to be considered a full-time student?
A student who is registered for a minimum of two courses is considered to be a full-time student.
Can I take two or more specialty tracks?
Yes. It is possible for students to take additional specialty tracks. Students must complete all five courses within a given track to get credit for that track.
Is financial aid available for students taking online courses?
Yes, financial aid is available for online courses. Individuals should evaluate their eligibility for financial aid by calling the Office of Student Financial Aid at (954) 262-3380 or 800-522-3243.
When should I complete an Application for Degree?
An Application for Degree should be submitted with payment no later than the last term in which your program will be completed.
Where do I obtain an Application for Degree form?
To access the Online Application for Degree/Diploma, you must first read these important instructions.
How do I register for courses?
To register for courses, you must first be formally accepted into one of our programs. To learn how to become a student, please visit our admissions page.
Students must register for courses during the registration periods each term. To register for your courses, please log in to SharkLink where you will find all of your course planning and registration tools, how to order your books online, access to your online courses, and other useful academic information.
How do I request more information?
If you would like additional information, please call (954) 262-8500 or toll free at 800-986-3223, ext. 28500.
Crisis and Emergency Management
Related Degrees
Interested in making an impact in the courtroom and your community? These degrees will give you the skill set you need to have a successful career in the areas of law or education.
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Gain the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become a trusted, highly adept lawyer
with this comprehensive program.
Prepares you to:
- Serve clients and communities
- Be a respected, trusted lawyer
- Develop practical skills in the ever-changing legal landscape
Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution
Become a specialist in the field of conflict resolution by advancing your studies
in conflict prevention, analysis, mitigation, and resolution. 76 credits to complete;
offered online and in person.
Prepares you to:
- Become an arbitrator, mediator, or conciliator
- Produce publications for your field
- Work in higher ed, government, and more
Admission Requirements
Ready for the Next Step?
We’re thrilled you’re applying to NSU’s Ph.D. in Criminal Justice program.
This program opens opportunities in areas of research, academia, and management for those who are ready to advance as well as for individuals considering a career change.
Applications for admission are accepted online for annual Fall starts. The deadline to apply is May 31.
Have the following items ready to submit with your online application:
- $50 application fee
- Transcripts from all schools attended
- Personal statement of 300 words
- Three academic or professional letters of recommendation
- Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
- One of the following:
- Copy of master’s thesis or equivalent capstone project
- GRE score of 300 or better
- Sample of published work
- J.D. or doctorate in related field
You will also be asked to complete an interview with program faculty for admission.
Applicants who have attended foreign universities or colleges are required to have their academic credentials evaluated for U.S. institutional equivalence. Please visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services for more information. International students are encouraged to contact the Office of International Student Services at (954) 262-7240 or 844-701-3925, ext. 27240, or by email at intl@nova.edu, or visit the Office of International Students and Scholars.
