Criminal Justice Program  at SAU Tech

Prepare for Careers in Law Enforcement and Public Safety

Southern Arkansas University Tech offers a comprehensive Criminal Justice degree program for current and aspiring law enforcement professionals seeking career advancement, college credentials, and a pathway to a bachelor's degree. Through partnerships with the Arkansas Law Enforcement Academy (ALETA) and SAU Tech's Credit for Prior Learning program, officers can earn college credit for their training and accelerate completion of a criminal justice degree.


Graduates of the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy (ALETA) Basic Police Training receive 11 college credit hours and are awarded a Certificate of Proficiency in Criminal Justice from SAU Tech. These credits apply directly toward the Technical Certificate in Criminal Justice.


Eligible students may qualify for the Law Enforcement Scholarship, which covers tuition costs for the required general education courses. This scholarship helps Arkansas law enforcement officers earn a criminal justice degree at a reduced cost while balancing work and educational goals. Download the application→


Degree Type: Associate of Science, Technical Certificate, Certificate of Proficiency

Transferability: Multiple transfer options available→

Format: Online

Financial Aid: Grants, Scholarships, & Loans→

What You’ll Learn In Criminal Justice

SAU Tech’s Criminal Justice courses provide a comprehensive introduction to:

  • The U.S. criminal justice system
  • Criminal law and court systems
  • Police procedures and ethics
  • Juvenile justice and corrections
  • Public policy and criminal investigation
  • Criminal behavior and societal impact

You’ll also complete core general education courses in English, history, math, and communication to support your long-term academic and career growth.

Career Opportunities in Criminal Justice

Graduates of SAU Tech’s Criminal Justice program are prepared for entry-level positions or continued study leading to roles such as:

  • Police Officer or Sheriff’s Deputy (with academy training)
  • Corrections Officer or Probation Assistant
  • Security Specialist or Loss Prevention Officer
  • Court Clerk or Legal Assistant
  • Emergency Dispatcher
  • Federal or State Law Enforcement (with further training/education)
  • Social Services and Juvenile Justice roles

With additional study at SAU or another university, students may pursue careers in investigations, federal agencies, criminal law, parole, and homeland security.

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Why Choose SAU Tech for Criminal Justice?

  • Transfer guaranteed to SAU’s BS in Criminal Justice program
  • Affordable, flexible online courses for busy students or working professionals
  • Faculty with real-world experience in law enforcement and legal systems
  • Access to stackable credentials for job-readiness and specialization
  • One of the most cost-effective ways to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in Arkansas

Students won’t need to figure out transfer pathways alone—SAU Tech’s and SAU’s coordinated advising ensures credit transfers and degree progress are as smooth and affordable as possible.

Criminal Justice Program Overview

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Start Your Criminal Justice Journey Today

Need help building your degree plan or understanding your transfer options? Contact us today!

Get In Touch

Criminal Justice

  • Faculty: Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy
  • Advisor: MaShira Singleton, msingleton@sautech.edu, 870-574-4492
  • Jodi Eppinette, Associate Vice Chancellor for Instruction, jeppinet@sautech.edu, 870-574-4584
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