The difference between a BA and a BS in criminal justice primarily lies in the focus and coursework of each degree, which reflects distinct educational paths tailored to different career objectives within the field of criminal justice.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice

• Liberal Arts Focus: A BA degree typically has a broader liberal arts focus, incorporating a wider range of humanities and social science courses. This approach is designed to develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
• Elective Flexibility: Students may have more flexibility in choosing electives that align with their interests, such as psychology, sociology, or political science, which can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the societal factors related to criminal behavior and the justice system.
  
• Career Paths: Graduates with a BA in Criminal Justice are well-suited for roles that require strong communication and analytical skills, such as positions in law enforcement, social services, or community outreach programs.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice

• Technical and Practical Focus: A BS degree generally emphasizes a more technical or practical approach to criminal justice. The curriculum may include more courses in the natural sciences, mathematics, or applied criminal justice technologies, like digital forensics.
  
• Specialized Coursework: Students might encounter more specialized coursework related to forensic science, criminalistics, or cybercrime, preparing them for specific technical roles within the criminal justice field.
  
• Career Paths: Graduates with a BS in Criminal Justice are often considered for roles that require a detailed understanding of the technical aspects of criminal justice, such as crime scene investigation, forensic analysis, or cybersecurity within law enforcement agencies.

Deciding which bachelor’s degree to pursue depends on your career goals, interests, and the specific skills you want to develop. 

Here are some key points to consider:

Your professional goals: Consider what type of role you envision for yourself within the criminal justice system. Do you see yourself working directly on crime scenes, or are you more interested in the societal impact of crime and rehabilitation?

Your interests: Reflect on whether you're more fascinated by the science and practicality of criminal justice or the social theories and policies behind it.

Educational content: Compare the curriculums of both BA and BS programs to see which more closely aligns with your interests and career aspirations.

Truth is, while a criminal justice major can be demanding, its challenges are also what make it a rewarding field of study. The difficulty of a criminal justice major will vary based on several factors, including your personal interests, strengths, and the specific requirements of your program. 

Yes, there is. While criminal law specifically deals with the legal aspects and consequences of crime, criminal justice covers a wider spectrum, including the societal implications of criminal behavior and the recognition of victims' rights.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects overall employment of police and detectives to grow from 2022 to 2032.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment Statistics, [career data accessed April 2024] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm. Employment conditions in your area may vary.