Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia
Criminal justice schools in Georgia can train students for the careers that keep Georgia residents safe. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Atlanta has a violent crime and homicide rate lower than most other cities in the U.S. of similar size, and with the median household income in the state set at $49,342 in 2014, many criminal justice professionals can make lucrative salaries. Learn more about the field of criminal justice in Georgia, including which criminal justice schools provide different types of degrees for aspiring legal and protective service professionals.
Georgia’s Best Criminal Justice Schools
Finding more information on the best criminal justice schools in Georgia is made easy with the following list. Using a wide collection of data, this chart has identified some of the most important factors students look at when selecting a training program, such as tuition rates, student-teacher ratios and graduation rates, and given each a grade. This breakdown provides students a closer look at the criminal justice schools that come out on the top of the list in Georgia.
Albany State University
- Albany, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners seeking flexible study should consider Albany State University. The public institution offers hybrid programs at the undergraduate level. Regardless of location, degree-seekers can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Students pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice complete major-specific coursework as part of the curriculum. These classes equip enrollees with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
Degree candidates can declare minors and concentrations. Learners can further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Enrollees seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities. The institution boasts that 96% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,786
- In-State$3,438
- Out-of-state$13,716
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled6,122
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Mercer University
- Macon, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners seeking flexible study should consider Mercer University. The Macon-based institution offers in-person and remote programs, including a bachelor's in criminal justice. Regardless of location, enrollees can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Degree candidates complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Degree-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Learners can choose electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors. Enrollees seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
To defray the costs of education, degree candidates can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The school reports that 100% of all enrollees get some form of aid.
- In-State$25,528
- Out-of-state$25,528
- In-State$15,422
- Out-of-state$15,422
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled8,740
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Georgia
- Dahlonega, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from University of North Georgia. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs. Learners pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Degree candidates gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, becoming better prepared for their future careers. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Learners receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Eligible enrollees can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding to their educational expenses. On average, students receive $5,859 in financial aid.
- In-State$3,898
- Out-of-state$13,851
- In-State$4,140
- Out-of-state$16,488
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled19,748
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment30%
- AccreditationYes
Columbus State University
- Columbus, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Columbus State University offers numerous bachelor's programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Located in Columbus, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Students pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their program. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Learners can benefit from academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college notes that 92% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$6,300
- Out-of-state$11,394
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled7,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Kennesaw State University
- Kennesaw, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Kennesaw State University. The college supports 90 bachelor's programs, with 14 enabling fully remote study. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Degree-seekers in the bachelor of science in criminal justice program gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their program and study trajectory. Enrollees can receive personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
A financial aid counselor can help interested applicants determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. At the college, 92% of all enrollees get financial aid.
- In-State$4,450
- Out-of-state$15,704
- In-State$5,328
- Out-of-state$19,188
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled37,807
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Point University
- West Point, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Point University. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. Degree-seekers can enroll in 35 bachelor's programs, 14 of which are online.
Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice. Degree candidates complete major-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational and advanced coursework with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
To defray the costs of education, learners can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
- In-State$20,085
- Out-of-state$20,085
- In-State$12,360
- Out-of-state$12,360
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate29%
- Students Enrolled2,389
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Shorter University
- Rome, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Shorter University. Students can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Rome. To date, the private college supports 41 bachelor's programs, 40 of which are online.
Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice. The college provides learners with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree candidates can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their education.
Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Students benefit from many institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.
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$21,940
- Out-of-state$21,940
- In-State$12,360
- Out-of-state$12,360
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate60%
- Students Enrolled1,487
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Reinhardt University
- Waleska, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Reinhardt University is a private college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Undergraduates connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Degree-seekers pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with the field. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes, with the option to make modifications.
Students can also choose electives and declare minors and concentrations. Institutional resources like career services and academic advising help learners throughout their program.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. To date, 100% of all degree candidates receive financial aid.
- In-State$23,300
- Out-of-state$23,300
- In-State$8,906
- Out-of-state$8,906
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled1,521
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Valdosta State University
- Valdosta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Valdosta-based Valdosta State University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. The public institution offers 49 bachelor's programs on campus. Degree-seekers can also pursue remote study across nine programs.
Learners pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice across modalities benefit from a robust curriculum. Degree-seekers complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes, and can modify their course load to suit career goals.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.
Degree candidates can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $7,165.
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,426
- In-State$4,572
- Out-of-state$16,470
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled11,270
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia State University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its main campus in Atlanta, Georgia State University supports numerous hybrid degrees for undergraduate students. To date, the college offers 56 in-person bachelor's programs. One option includes a bachelor's in criminal justice. Enrollees benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their studies. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Degree candidates can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid. At the college, 93% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$7,158
- Out-of-state$22,389
- In-State$7,164
- Out-of-state$22,662
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled35,041
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia College & State University
- Milledgeville, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Georgia College & State University. Of its 40 bachelor's degrees, one runs in an online format. Enrollees pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their program. Degree candidates can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and concentrations. Learners receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Interested applicants can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid by working with the financial aid office. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $7,671, with 96% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
- In-State$7,508
- Out-of-state$26,688
- In-State$5,292
- Out-of-state$18,846
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled7,031
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Clark Atlanta University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree should consider Clark Atlanta University. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs. One option includes a bachelor's in criminal justice. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Degree candidates can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Students receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
The college connects degree candidates with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. At the college, 97% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
- In-State$20,888
- Out-of-state$20,888
- In-State$16,290
- Out-of-state$16,290
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled3,920
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment1%
- AccreditationYes
Clayton State University
- Morrow, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Clayton State University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Morrow. Learners enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice program connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree-seekers engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study, gaining practical knowledge.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue concentrations and minors. Degree candidates can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Typically, enrollees receive an average financial aid package of $7,437.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,786
- In-State$5,760
- Out-of-state$12,411
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled6,879
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
University of Georgia
- Athens, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its main campus in Athens, University of Georgia supports numerous hybrid degrees for undergraduate students. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of arts in criminal justice. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, becoming better prepared for their future careers. Depending on their career goals, degree-seekers can declare a double major, minor, or concentration. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The institution reports that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$28,830
- In-State$8,878
- Out-of-state$25,186
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled38,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Atlanta Metropolitan State College
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Atlanta Metropolitan State College supports a variety of undergraduate-level degrees. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Atlanta-based campus. At present, the college provides six bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in criminal justice.
Degree-seekers across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Degree candidates can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
The college connects learners with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. At the college, 92% of all incoming students receive financial aid.
- In-State$2,425
- Out-of-state$9,051
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,844
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Savannah State University
- Savannah, GA
- 4 year
- Campus
Savannah State University, a public college in Savannah, provides flexible study options for undergraduate learners near and far. Students pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college reports that 97% of all learners receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid award package being $7,231.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,786
- In-State$3,528
- Out-of-state$13,068
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate33%
- Students Enrolled3,668
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Valley State University
- Fort Valley, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 39 bachelor’s degrees from Fort Valley State University. Located in Fort Valley, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Students pursuing a bachelor of arts in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework. Degree-seekers can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or concentration. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid. The institution reports that 97% of all students receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$4,064
- Out-of-state$14,785
- In-State$3,258
- Out-of-state$12,096
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate52%
- Students Enrolled2,624
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
Georgia Southern University
- Statesboro, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Georgia Southern University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Learners can choose from one of 92 bachelor's programs, or opt for remote study across four programs.
Learners in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice and criminology. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree. Enrollees seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 91% of all learners receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$4,371
- Out-of-state$15,425
- In-State$4,977
- Out-of-state$19,890
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled26,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
Dalton State College
- Dalton, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Dalton State College. The Dalton-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. Students pursuing a bachelor of science in criminal justice can connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.
Degree-seekers build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare concentrations and minors. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding options. The average enrollee receives $5,517 in financial aid.
- In-State$2,563
- Out-of-state$9,469
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,964
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Augusta University
- Augusta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 42 bachelor’s degrees from Augusta University. The public college offers 42 bachelor's programs, six of which are fully remote. Students in the bachelor's in criminal justice program benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Learners can modify their degree depending on their career goals by working with an academic advisor. Throughout their studies, degree candidates can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. On average, students receive $7,690 in financial aid.
- In-State$6,892
- Out-of-state$22,270
- In-State$5,504
- Out-of-state$18,772
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled8,650
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers in Georgia
Most jobs associated with criminal justice require some level of higher education, from an academy program to a bachelor’s or doctoral degree in criminal justice. For a look at the most popular criminal justice careers in Florida scroll over the tabs below. Click each occupation to show the degree requirements, the median salary for each occupation in Georgia specifically, and how many people are employed each profession across the state.
Career | Total Employed in Georgia | Median Salary | Degree Level Required |
---|---|---|---|
Police, Sheriff and Highway Patrol Officers | 24,670 | $38,430 | Academy Program |
Correctional Officer | 16,710 | $28,520 | Certificate |
Paralegal and Legal Assistant | 7,750 | $49,980 | Associate |
Compliance Officer | 6,960 | $58,030 | Bachelor’s |
Court, Municipal and License Clerks | 3,560 | $30,330 | Associate |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators | 3,370 | $47,480 | Academy Program + experience |
Probation Officer | 3,310 | $35,200 | Bachelor’s |
Where to Get Hired After Criminal Justice School in Georgia
There are many opportunities to work in the criminal justice field in Georgia once school is over. Data below shows opportunities and places where a criminal justice school graduate can apply. These departments are also additional resources for future career openings or to find out what are requirements and benefits for different agencies.
Protective Services Potential Employers
- High Council of Justice of Georgia
- Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources
- City of Atlanta
- Georgia Department of Public Safety
- State of Georgia Police
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation
- Henry County Police Department
- American Pool Georgia
- Georgia Recreation and Park Association
- Georgia Transportation Security Administration
Total Number of Employees in Georgia: 106,450
Legal Occupations Potential Employers
- Georgia State Bar Association
- Georgia Attorney Generals Office
- Georgia Secretary of State
- Supreme Court of Georgia
- Judicial Council of Georgia
- Private practice law firms
- Georgia Association of Paralegals
- Georgia Department of Revenue
- Georgia Chamber of Commerce
Largest Areas of Employment in Descending Order
Protective service
- Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell
- Southern Georgia Non-Metro Area
- Augusta, Richmond County
- Middle Georgia Non-Metro Area
- Savannah
Legal service
- Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell
- Savannah
- Augusta, Richmond County
- Macon
- Southern Georgia, Non-Metro Area
Profesional Resources for Criminal Justice in Georgia
Business Compliance Resources
Correctional Resources
Court and Judicial Resources
Legal Resources
Law Enforcement Resources
Wildlife and Environmental Resources
Expert Advice on Criminal Justice in Georgia: Dean Dabney
Dean Dabney is an Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia State University. His scholarly interests include the organizational culture within law enforcement agencies, forms of deviance and/or criminal behaviors that occur in organizational settings, and qualitative research methods. He has published 4 books, including the recently released Speaking Truth to Power: Confidential Informants and Police Investigations and several dozen articles appearing in such outlets as British Journal of Criminology, Criminal Justice & Behavior, Punishment & Society and Justice Quarterly.
Q. What skills do students gain in a criminal justice degree program in Georgia?
The substantive emphasis of criminal justice programs varies somewhat across schools. For instance, some emphasize a more applied approach, while others are more liberal arts focused. Generally speaking, research universities exemplify the latter while two- and four-year schools the former. Regardless, they will tend to provide substantive content in police, courts, corrections and crime. This provides basic background understanding for folks entering the criminal justice system as a practitioner or prepares them for law or graduate studies.
Q. How can these programs prepare students to superficially work in Georgia’s criminal justice field?
The substantive coverage of police, courts, corrections and crime provides background understanding on how their practitioner oriented job will work. Perhaps more importantly, a liberal arts emphasis will prepare them as better communicators (written and verbal) and help them understand cultural differences that are central to the job.
Q. Some students may be interested in a criminal justice career because they are fans of shows life CSi and Criminal Minds. What would you tell those prospective students about the realities of the criminal justice field?
Most undergraduate criminal justice programs are generalist in nature and do not prepare them for these specific jobs. They should seek out a program specifically designed to provide forensic science content and/or plan to attend graduate school in a hard science area.
Q. If there are Georgia students who are not sure whether criminal justice is the right degree for them, what would you tell them?
They should contact the undergraduate coordinator or academic assistance professional at prospective schools to get a sense of the substantive emphasis of the program and sorts of job placements that they yield.