Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree
Distance learning can be an excellent option for people pursuing criminal justice careers. Online bachelor’s programs in the field prepare learners for jobs in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports on median salaries for all occupations, including popular careers in criminal justice:
In addition to preparing graduates for the careers above, criminal justice degrees can also make a solid educational foundation for aspiring lawyers, forensics technicians, and postsecondary instructors.
This degree guide explores common courses, career paths, and typical study costs for online bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice. It also includes a ranked list of the top online criminal justice bachelor’s programs.
Top Criminal Justice Programs
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Saint Leo University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. Learners can choose from one of 46 bachelor's degree programs and opt for remote study across 22 programs.
To earn a bachelor's of criminal justice degree, whether in-person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. Criminal justice students complete relevant coursework to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to begin a career in public safety.
Learners can also customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to help offset educational expenses.
- In-State$23,990
- Out-of-state$23,990
- In-State$15,218
- Out-of-state$15,218
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled2,779
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment84%
- AccreditationYes
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Located in New York, New York, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling remote students to benefit from top-ranked classes, world-class faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Students pursuing a criminal justice bachelor of science will participate in classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for a career in criminal justice. Along with studying institutional theory and practice, degree-seekers can also modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors to personalize their eduction. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The institution reports that 85% of all degree seekers receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$6,930
- Out-of-state$14,880
- In-State$11,090
- Out-of-state$20,520
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled15,210
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Degree-seekers who prefer flexible educational options should consider one of the 55 bachelor’s degrees from Tiffin University. Of its 55 bachelor's degree programs, 18 are offered online. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities, criminal justice students can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in criminal justice. While earning a bachelor of criminal justice, degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education.
- In-State$27,780
- Out-of-state$27,780
- In-State$12,600
- Out-of-state$12,600
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled2,934
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of New Haven
West Haven, CT
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible education can explore the University of New Haven's in-person and online degree offerings. The West Haven-based college supports both learning platforms, and students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
Enrollees seeking a bachelor of science in criminal justice take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of the field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes and choose degree concentrations, such as correctional rehabilitation, crime analysis, and police science. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$41,370
- Out-of-state$41,370
- In-State$17,820
- Out-of-state$17,820
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate91%
- Students Enrolled8,803
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Eastern Kentucky University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The public college offers 89 bachelor's degree programs, 17 of which are fully remote. One of these remote programs is the online bachelor’s degree in police studies.
Criminal justice students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as lectures covering conflict resolution and critical thinking skills. Students can also work with an academic advisor to customize their degrees by choosing a minor degree and elective classes. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $8,121.
- In-State$9,452
- Out-of-state$19,724
- In-State$9,900
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled13,984
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste Marie, MI
- 4 year
- Campus
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Lake Superior State University's 51 bachelor's programs. Students considering a career in law enforcement or a related career should consider a bachelor of science in criminal justice.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to professional communication, personal responsibility, and evidence analysis. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Enrollees can also access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program duration.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 96% receive financial aid awards.
- In-State$13,440
- Out-of-state$13,440
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled1,812
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Utica College
Utica, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Utica College. The Utica-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities with in-person and online programs. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Criminal justice students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community through the online bachelor of science (BS) in criminal justice program. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with criminal justice. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future careers.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs.
- In-State$22,314
- Out-of-state$22,314
- In-State$32,464
- Out-of-state$32,464
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled3,809
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Madonna University
Livonia, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking flexible study should consider Madonna University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. At present, the college provides 84 bachelor's degree programs, with 12 programs supporting remote study.
To earn a career in criminal justice, students can earn their bachelor of science in criminal justice degree. Students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Learners also have the option to pursue a minor or associate's degree in criminal justice.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Students can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution boasts that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$24,900
- Out-of-state$24,900
- In-State$16,380
- Out-of-state$16,380
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled2,125
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Students can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.
To earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice, remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Students can also declare minors and degree concentrations to personalize their learning experience. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
To help offset the cost of tuition, students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities.
- In-State$20,800
- Out-of-state$20,800
- In-State$29,632
- Out-of-state$29,632
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled18,800
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Anna Maria College
Paxton, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Anna Maria College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Located in Paxton, Massachusetts, the private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.
Students seeking to earn a bachelor of science in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning community. As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend relevant lectures given by educators in criminal justice and law enforcement. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future careers in the field.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can also benefit by utilizing institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. At the college, 100% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
- In-State$37,658
- Out-of-state$37,658
- In-State$10,530
- Out-of-state$10,530
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled1,521
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Drexel University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The college supports 101 bachelor's programs, with eight degrees available fully online While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
While earning a bachelor of science in criminology and justice studies, students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework to prepare for their future careers. Students can work with their academic advisors to customize their degrees and study trajectory. The college also connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
- In-State$54,766
- Out-of-state$54,766
- In-State$36,234
- Out-of-state$36,234
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled23,216
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Sam Houston State University's in-person and online degree offerings. To date, the college offers 65 in-person bachelor's programs, eight of which are fully remote. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
The university offers two types of criminal justice degrees. Students can choose to pursue a bachelor of science (BS) degree or a bachelor of arts (BA) degree. Both degree tracks are available online. Enrollees gain skills and knowledge through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students also receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $9,014, with 86% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$15,648
- In-State$5,765
- Out-of-state$13,108
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled21,612
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Ambrose University
Davenport, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Saint Ambrose University's 95 bachelor's programs. At the university, enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment and a world-class faculty, whether learning online or in person.
Students pursuing a bachelor of science in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled. The university also offers a criminal justice minor and specialized track for students planning to earn an advanced degree. In addition, students can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.
- In-State$33,290
- Out-of-state$33,290
- In-State$18,360
- Out-of-state$18,360
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled2,749
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of the University of Central Oklahoma's 108 bachelor's programs. Of these bachelor's degrees, the school offers four online degrees entirely online.
Students seeking to earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice gain skills and knowledge through fundamental and advanced coursework to prepare for a career in law enforcement or a related area. Students can work with their academic advisors to customize their degrees and study trajectory. Students also receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $7,755.
- In-State$6,822
- Out-of-state$17,709
- In-State$7,142
- Out-of-state$17,150
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,250
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis University
Romeoville, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking flexible study should consider Lewis University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. To date, the school offers 79 bachelor’s programs, with eight online degree options.
Students benefit from a supportive learning community, whether they choose to learn online or in person. While enrolled in the bachelor of arts in criminal justice degree, students complete general and public safety administration-specific coursework. Students gain skills and knowledge necessary for relevant careers through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. A leader in student success, the college also connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
To manage the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all enrollees, 100% receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$35,262
- Out-of-state$35,262
- In-State$14,760
- Out-of-state$14,760
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled6,531
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Honolulu, HI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Chaminade University of Honolulu, a private college in Honolulu, Hawaii, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. To date, the college offers 26 bachelor's programs, ten of which are fully remote. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies with a top-notch faculty and motivated peers.
To earn a bachelor of science (BS) in criminology and criminal justice, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to law enforcement, public safety, and other related fields. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$27,340
- Out-of-state$27,340
- In-State$27,720
- Out-of-state$27,720
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled1,685
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Washburn University
Topeka, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Washburn University. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. To date, the public college supports 61 bachelor's programs, nine of which are online.
Students seeking to earn a bachelor's in criminal justice (BCJ) join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. After enrolling, students complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule.
Students can also choose electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors to personalize their learning experience. Throughout their studies, students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. According to the college, 92% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average student awarded $5,912 in aid.
- In-State$9,044
- Out-of-state$20,328
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$19,470
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled5,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Cedar Crest College
Allentown, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cedar Crest College, a private college in Allentown, Pennsylvania, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. To date, the college offers 52 in-person bachelor's programs, four of which are fully remote. Online and in-person learners connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through on-campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Students pursuing a bachelor's of criminal justice can gain the skills and knowledge necessary for their career field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, which includes ethical leadership, juvenile studies, and criminal behavior. Throughout their program, students can also access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Students are eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.
- In-State$41,991
- Out-of-state$41,991
- In-State$14,479
- Out-of-state$14,479
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled1,440
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Adrian College
Adrian, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Adrian College is a private college offering hybrid education in Adrian, Michigan. Students can choose from 77 bachelor's degree programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
To earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice degree, students complete foundational and advanced coursework to prepare for a career in criminal justice or an advanced degree. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, and degree concentration. Throughout their studies, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid.
- In-State$38,032
- Out-of-state$38,032
- In-State$18,600
- Out-of-state$18,600
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled1,871
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
Ashland University
Ashland, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students interested in a flexible education should consider one of the 78 bachelor’s degrees from Ashland University. To date, the college offers 78 in-person bachelor's programs, five of which are fully remote. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Online students seeking a bachelor of science in criminal justice degree complete foundational and advanced coursework, as well as attend online lectures. Remote degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office.
- In-State$22,000
- Out-of-state$22,000
- In-State$6,972
- Out-of-state$6,972
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled4,929
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Why Get an Online Degree in Criminal Justice?
According to the BLS, police officers and detectives earned a median annual salary of $69,160 in 2022 — over $22,000 per year higher than the median salary for all occupations. The BLS projects 3% employment growth for careers like police officer and emergency management director from 2022 to 2032, indicating continuing demand for professionals in this field.
Online criminal justice degrees offer flexibility and accessibility to students pursuing criminal justice careers. Asynchronous learning allows degree-seekers to schedule their education around work and family responsibilities. Additionally, online learners can enroll in out-of-state programs without relocating.
How Much Does a Criminal Justice Degree Cost?
Tuition varies by school. Typically, in-state public schools offer the most affordable tuition rates, while out-of-state and private institutions are more expensive. Some online criminal justice degrees offer lower tuition specifically for online learners, which can save enrollees money as they complete their program.
In addition to tuition, online criminal justice degrees may include charges like student fees. Other expenses include textbooks and graduation fees. Learners should also budget for technology, as they must meet their program’s requirements for hardware, software, and internet speed.
How Much Do Criminal Justice Majors Make?
Earning potential depends on many factors, including location. For example, police and sheriff’s patrol officers earn the highest average wages in states like California, Washington, and New Jersey, according to 2022 BLS data. Hawaii and Alaska also offer high salaries.
However, several of these states have costs of living exceeding the national average, meaning that these higher wages may not have the same purchasing power as lower salaries in less expensive states.
Graduates of criminal justice schools often qualify for more career opportunities. For instance, the FBI requires special agents to hold a bachelor’s degree. Some specialized law enforcement agents also need an academic background in criminal justice and other subjects.
Courses for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Major-specific coursework in online criminal justice degrees explores criminal justice institutions, why crime happens, and how professionals in this field respond to crime. Students also learn how various agencies make communities safer. Many programs feature concentrations that align with specific careers.
While each school offers its own classes, the five courses below represent possible options for students pursuing affordable online criminal justice degrees. Research each prospective program to learn more about specific classes and specializations.
Essentials of Psychology
This introductory course covers the relationship between biology and psychology, the human nervous system, and development over the lifespan. Students analyze case studies and draw conclusions about psychological motivations.Police Studies
Students in this class learn about officers’ roles in law enforcement. Coursework explores law enforcement theories, procedures, and types of violence. Learners also examine police corruption and its impact on public safety. Assignments may include analyzing communities’ law enforcement needs and drafting community policing policies.Legal Research and Writing
Paralegals, lawyers, and judges need advanced research and writing skills. Students in this course improve their information literacy, use research aides, and write memoranda. Learners complete research projects on criminal justice topics such as parental custody. Prerequisites may include a first-year English or writing course.Law Enforcement Administration
This class introduces students to the management and organizational structures commonly found in law enforcement agencies. Topics include the procedures, processes, and documentation standards criminal justice professionals must follow. Coursework also covers organizational oversights and controls, chains of command, and defining elements of criminal justice bureaucracy.Theories of Criminology
Social scientists have developed multiple theories to explain crime and criminal behavior patterns. This survey course examines major historical and contemporary criminology theories. Students learn about biological, social, and psychological causes of criminal behavior and crime prevention models, including deterrence and early intervention.Criminal Justice Capstone
Criminal justice bachelor’s programs may conclude with a capstone experience. Learners design and execute an original research project that integrates their theoretical and practical knowledge of criminal justice concepts. The project prompts students to display advanced skills in academic research, case analysis, critical thinking, collaboration, and professional writing.
Career and Salary Outlook for Criminal Justice
Graduates of criminal justice schools can qualify for a variety of jobs. According to the BLS, several of these careers feature higher-than-average median wages and positive growth projections from 2022 to 2032.
Below, we explore several common career outcomes for professionals with criminal justice degrees. Job duties vary by state and employer. Some jobs require professional experience in addition to a criminal justice degree.
Police and Detectives
2022 Median Salary: $69,160
Police officers and detectives respond to emergencies, patrol, and arrest suspects. Other job duties include completing paperwork and testifying in court. Some entry-level positions require only a high school diploma. However, police and detectives must typically graduate from a police academy. Bachelor’s degree-holders may qualify for promotions and additional career opportunities.
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
2022 Median Salary: $59,860
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work with recently paroled criminals. They help parolees attain work and access social services, such as psychological and drug treatment. These officers also perform drug tests and update parolees’ files. These professionals typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a field like criminal justice or psychology.
Forensic Science Technicians
2022 Median Salary: $63,740
Forensic science technicians collect evidence from crime scenes. These professionals may specialize in subfields like sketching or photography. They perform laboratory tests and work alongside other scientists. Officers use these technicians’ findings to arrest and prosecute suspects. In addition to criminal justice knowledge, forensic science technicians typically need an academic background in the natural sciences.
Criminal Justice Degrees By State
Alabama Criminal Justice Degrees
Alaska Criminal Justice Degrees
Arizona Criminal Justice Degrees
Arkansas Criminal Justice Degrees
California Criminal Justice Degrees
Colorado Criminal Justice Degrees
Connecticut Criminal Justice Degrees
Delaware Criminal Justice Degrees
Florida Criminal Justice Degrees
Georgia Criminal Justice Degrees
Hawaii Criminal Justice Degrees
Idaho Criminal Justice Degrees
Illinois Criminal Justice Degrees
Indiana Criminal Justice Degrees
Kansas Criminal Justice Degrees
Kentucky Criminal Justice Degrees
Louisiana Criminal Justice Degrees
Maine Criminal Justice Degrees
Maryland Criminal Justice Degrees
Massachusetts Criminal Justice Degrees
Michigan Criminal Justice Degrees
Minnesota Criminal Justice Degrees
Mississippi Criminal Justice Degrees
Missouri Criminal Justice Degrees
Montana Criminal Justice Degrees
Nebraska Criminal Justice Degrees
New Hampshire Criminal Justice Degrees
Nevada Criminal Justice Degrees
New Jersey Criminal Justice Degrees
New Mexico Criminal Justice Degrees
New York Criminal Justice Degrees
North Carolina Criminal Justice Degrees
North Dakota Criminal Justice Degrees
Oklahoma Criminal Justice Degrees
Oregon Criminal Justice Degrees
Pennsylvania Criminal Justice Degrees
Rhode Island Criminal Justice Degrees
South Carolina Criminal Justice Degrees
South Dakota Criminal Justice Degrees
Tennessee Criminal Justice Degrees
Texas Criminal Justice Degrees
Vermont Criminal Justice Degrees
Virginia Criminal Justice Degrees
Washington Criminal Justice Degrees
West Virginia Criminal Justice Degrees
Frequently Asked Questions About an Online Criminal Justice Degree
How long does it take to get a criminology degree?
Bachelor’s programs in criminology typically require 120 semester credits, which takes four years of full-time study. You can shorten your graduation timeline by overloading your schedule, taking summer classes, or enrolling in an accelerated program. If you have existing college credits, you may be able to transfer them toward your degree and graduate more quickly.
Is an online criminal justice degree worth it?
Whether a degree is worth it depends on your career goals. Employers in law enforcement and the criminal justice system may require even entry-level job candidates to hold degrees, meaning pursuing a degree in this field is required for the roles you apply to.
Multiple criminal justice jobs offer higher-than-average wages, so the degree can offer a positive return on investment. Online degrees can offer cost-saving opportunities by helping learners avoid relocation, commuting, and parking costs. These reduced expenses can further increase your program’s return on investment.
Is criminology a stable job?
The BLS projects police officers, corrections counselors, private investigators, and other common careers in criminal justice will experience average or faster-than-average growth from 2022 to 2032. These positive projections may indicate career stability in the coming years.
What are the benefits of having a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice?
A criminal justice bachelor’s degree can help qualify graduates for a diverse set of careers. Bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice can also serve as an educational foundation for advanced study. Upon graduating, you can proceed into master’s programs in criminal justice, criminal investigation, criminology, sociology, and other related academic paths.
What is another name for a criminal justice degree?
The term “criminal justice” typically carries a specific meaning in academic contexts, referring to the study of institutions, procedures, and systems used in law enforcement, criminal courts, and corrections. Fields related to criminal justice include criminology, forensic science, public safety, and law.