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A criminal justice degree can lead to new and exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the top online criminal justice programs.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Degrees in the Criminal Justice Field
Many schools offer online criminal justice degrees. Professionals in the criminal justice field use strategic thinking and observational skills to solve crimes and oversee justice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for protective service occupations to grow 8% from 2020-2030.
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice prepares graduates to enter this growing field. This page lists the most affordable criminal justice degrees online, including costs and common classes.
Questions About Criminal Justice Degrees
What jobs can you get with a criminal justice degree?
Criminal justice careers include police officer, detective, and correctional officer. Some degree-holders continue their education and become lawyers.
What's the difference between criminal justice and criminology?
Criminal justice focuses on the law enforcement system. Criminology explores criminals' sociological and psychological behaviors. Criminologists seek to understand the cause of criminal actions.
What do you study in criminal justice?
Learners study the inner workings of the U.S. justice system. Enrollees learn best practices for preventing crime. They also study laws, theories, and ethics.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Best Online Criminal Justice Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Online Criminal Justice Colleges
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Louisville offers 218 programs from its Kentucky campus. Students at the public institution can enroll online or in person. The bachelor of science in criminal justice is a high-quality, flexible option.
Criminal justice majors take general education classes and upper-division courses in the field. The curriculum builds in-demand abilities like critical thinking and problem-solving. The program requires a minimum of 123 credits.
The school reports an average per-credit cost of $553. The financial aid office provides scholarship and grant opportunities for online learners. The accredited institution meets federal requirements to distribute financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. The school reports that 98% of learners receive financial aid.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,966
Out-of-state
$28,312
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,260
Out-of-state
$27,374
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
22,211
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
4 years
Online + Campus
Designed with a flexible schedule, the online bachelor's in administration of justice at Mississippi College appeals to working professionals. Distance learners take classes online using the school's learning management platform. After earning a bachelor's degree online, graduates often work in criminal justice and other fields.
Undergraduates enroll in synchronous and asynchronous classes. Many students prefer asynchronous courses because these classes do not require meeting at set times. Criminal justice majors can add electives, a minor, or a specialization to customize their degree. The program encourages experiential learning opportunities to help students build hands-on skills.
At the private institution, 1,969 learners take online classes. Online degree-seekers at the accredited institution can pay for their degree with scholarships and grants. Many employers offer tuition remission programs for employees pursuing a degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,200
Out-of-state
$18,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,610
Out-of-state
$11,610
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Students Enrolled
4,667
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Denver offers in-person and online programs as a public institution. The student body includes 18,704 online learners. Degree-seekers who benefit from online delivery methods can enroll in the BA in criminal justice program.
The online format makes it easier for majors to earn 120 credits and complete a bachelor's degree. Undergraduates interact with faculty and classmates through the learning management platform. Online students coordinate with the program to fulfill internship requirements locally.
The school delivers three online bachelor's programs and offers online student services to help enrollees succeed in a distance learning environment. Academic advising, online tutoring, and career advising services prepare graduates for the job market.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$24,408
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,786
Out-of-state
$22,590
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
24,723
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Monroe College
Bronx, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor of science in criminal justice program at Monroe College offers a flexible, affordable route to a college degree. Located in the Bronx, New York, the private institution welcomes 2,533 students to its online programs. The criminal justice program features a strong academic curriculum and an affordable price.
Enrollees earn a bachelor's after completing 120 credits. Students select online general education classes and electives in addition to their criminal justice courses.
Due to the school's accreditation, distance learners can qualify for federal aid programs like the Pell Grant.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,796
Out-of-state
$14,796
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,070
Out-of-state
$16,070
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
6,541
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, PA
4 years
Online + Campus
A private institution, Lancaster Bible College offers online and in-person degrees. The school's online division enrolls 564 students. The online enrollment format of the bachelor of arts in criminal justice program appeals to busy degree-seekers and working professionals.
During the 120-credit program, majors complete graduation requirements in a virtual classroom environment. Each student coordinates with the program to fulfill in-person requirements locally.
The institution boasts a strong track record in online education. Degree-seekers benefit from several options, with four online bachelor's programs available from the school. Online student services help learners join the college community and succeed in their classes. Enrollees prepare for the job market through academic advising, online tutoring, and career advising.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,330
Out-of-state
$26,330
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,470
Out-of-state
$10,470
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
2,038
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Averett University
Danville, VA
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Danville, Virginia, campus, Averett University enrolls undergraduates in on-campus and online programs as a private institution. The school educates 472 distance learners. The online bachelor of science in sociology and criminal justice program prioritizes accessibility for degree-seekers interested in criminal justice-related careers.
The online format makes it easier for many learners to earn 120 credits and complete a bachelor's degree. The learning management platform promotes interactions between students and faculty. The program helps students meet any in-person requirements, like internships, locally.
The school offers 10 online bachelor's programs and provides student services for online learners. Online tutoring, academic counseling, and career advising services help enrollees prepare for the job market.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,520
Out-of-state
$11,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,790
Out-of-state
$11,790
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
472
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Middle Tennessee State University, located in Murfreesboro, provides online and on-campus programs, which emphasize experiential learning. The online bachelor of science in criminal justice administration helps learners build the knowledge and skills required for entry-level roles in the field.
The program fosters in-demand skills like critical thinking. Even in a remote format, majors build strong interpersonal and communication abilities. For example, undergraduates develop real-world skills during internships. Workshops and research projects also offer industry-specific job training.
The program typically takes four years to complete. At the accredited institution, online learners use scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to pay for their degree. Prospective students can learn more about enrolling in the program by contacting the school.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$25,872
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,946
Out-of-state
$24,768
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
22,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Hussian College-Daymar College Nashville
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Hussian College-Daymar College Nashville, located in Tennessee, offers on-campus and online programs. The private institution maintains accreditation and offers career counseling and academic advising for learners. The bachelor's in criminal justice administration prepares distance learners for the workforce.
The curriculum builds strong communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Majors also strengthen hard skills in criminal justice. The program promotes experiential learning to help enrollees gain hands-on experience. A bachelor's degree in criminal justice helps graduates break into many entry-level roles.
Contact the school with questions about application requirements, start dates, and financial aid opportunities.
Hussian College-Daymar College Nashville at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 204
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Student Graduation Percentage: 50%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,724
Out-of-state
$20,724
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
204
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#9 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Hussian College-Daymar College Clarksville
Clarksville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Tennessee campus, Hussian College-Daymar College Clarksville enrolls learners as a private institution. Experiential learning opportunities add a valuable component to the school's bachelor's programs.
Internships, research projects, and other forms of experiential learning play a central role in online programs. The online bachelor's in criminal justice administration helps undergraduates meet the requirements for diverse entry-level careers.
The criminal justice program prioritizes in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Experience inside and outside of the classroom encourage strong communication skills. For example, internships emphasize hands-on training, and workshops help criminal justice majors identify job opportunities.
Full-time students generally earn their criminal justice degree within four years. Online learners can use scholarships and grants to pay for their education at the accredited institution. The school can provide information about admission requirements and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,884
Out-of-state
$19,884
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
655
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#10 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
University of Management and Technology
Arlington, VA
4 years
Online
The University of Management and Technology provides student support resources at its Arlington, Virginia, campus and online. Student services help undergraduates plan their degree and follow diverse career paths.
The 120-credit program trains majors for diverse entry-level roles. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help undergraduates individualize their course of study.
Online students find scholarships and grants with the help of financial aid advisors. Criminal justice majors prepare for the workforce thanks to job fairs and workshops offered by the career services office. The school hosts virtual events that connect distance learners with the campus community. Admissions advisors assist applicants throughout the enrollment process.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,360
Out-of-state
$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,020
Out-of-state
$7,020
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
295
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Distance Education Accrediting Commission
#11 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Hussian College-Daymar College Bowling Green
Bowling Green, KY
4 years
Online + Campus
Hussian College-Daymar College Bowling Green, a private institution, provides on-campus and online programs. Experiential learning opportunities connect online students with opportunities in their industry. The online bachelor's in criminal justice administration helps undergraduates meet the requirements for diverse entry-level careers.
The online criminal justice program builds in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Majors also gain analytical and communication skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Internships provide valuable hands-on experience, for example, and workshops help criminal justice majors identify job opportunities.
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's degree in four years. The school's accreditation status means online learners can submit the FAFSA and use federal financial aid to pay for college. Contact the school with questions about applying online.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,636
Out-of-state
$20,636
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
66
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
#12 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
The University of Tennessee-Martin
Martin, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
A public institution, The University of Tennessee-Martin delivers an online bachelor's in justice studies. The online program prioritizes experiential learning. Enrollees prepare for a variety of criminal justice-related careers.
Degree-seekers strengthen in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. Classes and experiential learning opportunities encourage interpersonal and communication skills. For example, undergraduates can pursue internships to gain hands-on experience. Research projects and workshops also train criminal justice majors for the workforce.
Bachelor's programs typically require four years for full-time students. The school's accreditation status means online learners can federal aid to cover their costs. Contact the school with questions about application requirements and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,214
Out-of-state
$14,254
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,096
Out-of-state
$15,136
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
7,117
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Dalton State College
Dalton, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
Designed for the busy schedule of working professionals, the online bachelor's in criminal justice program at Dalton State College prioritizes flexibility. Distance learners strengthen their knowledge and skills in a convenient virtual classroom environment. Graduates can work in criminal justice or related fields.
Undergraduates choose from synchronous and asynchronous classes to meet graduation requirements. Busy students often prefer asynchronous classes, which do not require set meeting times. The school offers minors for learners who want to complement their criminal justice major with specialized studies. The program connects degree-seekers with experiential learning opportunities to help them gain hands-on skills.
The school's student body includes 3,607 distance learners. The institution's accreditation status allows online learners to submit the FAFSA and use federal aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for their degree. Working professionals can also participate in tuition assistance programs offered by their employer.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,563
Out-of-state
$9,469
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,794
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
75%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
North Greenville University
Tigerville, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
From its campus in Tigerville, South Carolina, North Greenville University enrolls learners in on-campus and online programs. Experiential learning opportunities connect online learners with opportunities in their industry. The bachelor's in criminal justice program helps learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in the field.
The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving, both of which are high-demand skills. Majors also gain analytical and communication skills during classes and experiential learning opportunities. Internships, for example, help undergraduates build their skills and expand their resumes. Workshops and research projects also provide career-focused training.
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's in four years. At the accredited institution, online learners can qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. The school can provide information about admission requirements and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,050
Out-of-state
$22,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,400
Out-of-state
$11,400
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
2,280
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Florida Technical College
Orlando, FL
4 years
Campus
Located in Orlando, Florida Technical College enrolls learners online and in person as a private institution. Diverse experiential learning opportunities encourage online students to build career-ready skills. The online bachelor's in criminal justice with an emphasis in homeland security provides training for criminal justice careers and jobs in other fields.
The rigorous curriculum strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Classes and experiential learning opportunities also encourage strong communication skills. Internships help undergraduates gain practical experience. Workshops and research projects also offer industry-specific job training.
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's degree in four years. Online learners can qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of funding at the accredited institution. Contact the program to learn about admission requirements and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
#16 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
The online bachelor of arts in criminology and criminal justice at the University of Memphis provides flexibility for working professionals balancing school with their career. Distance learners take classes in a virtual learning format. The online criminal justice program prepares learners for diverse career paths.
Undergraduates can take synchronous and asynchronous classes depending on their schedule and needs. Busy students often prefer asynchronous classes, which prioritize flexibility and require no set meeting times. In addition to criminal justice courses, majors can complement their studies with electives, a minor, or a specialization. Experiential learning opportunities connect degree-seekers with opportunities in the field.
The school reports a total online enrollment of 11,963. The school's accreditation allows online students to submit the FAFSA and qualify for federal aid programs like the Pell Grant. Many employers also offer tuition remission programs for employees pursuing a degree.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,208
Out-of-state
$12,048
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,216
Out-of-state
$12,672
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
22,205
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ
4 years
Online
The online bachelor's in criminology and criminal justice program at Arizona State University provides a flexible and affordable option for degree-seekers. Learners complete a rigorous program at an affordable price.
Undergraduates in the criminal justice program earn a bachelor's degree by completing 120 credits. The graduation requirements include criminal justice classes, electives, and general education courses.
At the accredited institution, online degree-seekers can submit the FAFSA and use federal aid programs like the Pell Grant to pay for school.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,710
Out-of-state
$10,820
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,516
Out-of-state
$6,516
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
53,993
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Charleston, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
Citadel Military College of South Carolina, a public institution, provides on-campus and online programs from its main location in Charleston. A variety of experiential learning opportunities emphasize career-ready skills. The online bachelor's in criminal justice program emphasizes key skills for criminal justice-related careers.
The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving. Coursework and experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, strengthen communication skills. Workshops, practicums, and research projects also help criminal justice majors prepare for the job market.
Full-time students generally earn their criminal justice degree within four years. The school's accreditation status means online learners can use scholarships and grants to cover educational costs. Contact the school to learn about admission requirements and application deadlines.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$75
Out-of-state
$75
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,740
Out-of-state
$18,390
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
3,740
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Florence campus, the University of North Alabama enrolls learners as a public institution. The school's experiential learning opportunities build industry-specific skills. The online bachelor's in criminal justice helps learners gain the knowledge and abilities required for entry-level roles in the field.
The rigorous curriculum strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Outside the classroom, majors also build strong analytical and communication skills. For example, internships offer real-world training. Workshops, practicums, and research projects also provide valuable training for the workforce.
Full-time students typically earn their bachelor's degree in four years. The school's accreditation status means online learners can qualify for federal grants and financial aid. Prospective students can learn more about the application process by contacting the school.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$19,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,660
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
8,086
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Western Illinois University
Macomb, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
From its Macomb campus, Western Illinois University enrolls learners as a public institution. Experiential learning opportunities help online students gain industry-specific training. Undergraduates can enroll in the online bachelor of science in law enforcement and justice administration program to prepare for criminal justice careers.
In-demand skills like analytical thinking and problem-solving play a central role in the criminal justice program. Enrollees build practical skills during internships. Workshops help criminal justice majors identify job opportunities.
Bachelor's programs typically require four years for full-time students. At the accredited institution, online learners can qualify for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Prospective students can contact the program for information about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,712
Out-of-state
$8,712
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,156
Out-of-state
$8,156
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
7,490
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Earning a criminal justice degree can lead to fulfilling criminal justice careers. Workers provide vital services and prevent potential tragedies. A criminal justice degree can also help professionals increase their earning potential.
Students can often work part-time or full-time while pursuing an online criminal justice degree. Asynchronous classes let students watch recorded lectures anytime. Some schools may charge less for online programs.
An online bachelor's degree costs an average of $51,091, according to EducationData.org. However, costs vary by school and learners' residency status. Students attending public in-state schools usually pay the most affordable tuition. Learners earning a degree from an out-of-state or private school may spend much more.
Students who pursue an online criminal justice degree can save money by not commuting. They can also enroll in the most affordable program without relocating.
Additional Online Student Fees
Online learners should budget for extra expenses. Some schools charge technology fees for tech support and virtual classroom platforms. Schools may also charge graduation fees.
Online students may need to buy a new computer or upgrade their internet. They also need to buy supplies and books. Buying used books or renting them can save money. Criminal justice degree-seekers may need to pay for tools like fingerprint-dusting kits for fieldwork.
How Much Do Criminal Justice Graduates Make?
Salaries vary depending on workers' experience, geographic location, and employer. For example, Californian detectives and criminal investigators earn a mean wage of $111,480. The same professionals in Florida only earn $80,360.
Criminal justice graduates can also work as police officers. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $67,290. Correctional officers make a median of $47,440 per year.
Courses in Criminal Justice
Most criminal justice bachelor's programs require 120 credits. Full-time learners can earn the degree in four years. Students with transfer credits or an associate degree may complete the program in two years.
Degree-seekers study the laws and theories that guide criminal justice. Many classes require course discussions. Students learn how to prevent and respond to crimes. Some programs let students choose a minor or concentration. Options may include forensic psychology and criminology.
See below for three common criminal justice classes. Keep in mind that classes vary by program.
The U.S. Legal System
This class covers the judicial system. Students learn about a judge and jury's role in navigating issues between respondents and defendants. Part of the class also focuses on alternative dispute measures, like mediation. Learners gain knowledge of the local, state, and federal legal systems.
Corrections
This class covers the U.S. penal system. Learners discover the history of corrections. They also identify current issues, such as lack of resources. Part of the class examines how penal systems in developed countries vary. Students discuss theories and best practices for corrections.
Constitutional Law
Most criminal justice programs feature a constitutional law course. In this class, students learn how the justice system upholds the laws outlined in the document. Learners study notable Supreme Court cases that led to new laws. Enrollees must usually memorize the Bill of Rights.
Career and Salary Outlook for Criminal Justice Students
An online criminal justice degree prepares learners for various careers. Learners can choose a program that aligns with their desired career. For example, aspiring investigators should look for a program that offers a minor in detective work.
In this section, we highlight three potential criminal justice careers. Click the embedded links in the chart for more information.
Police officers patrol areas and arrest people who commit criminal behavior. They also respond to calls, issue citations, and make traffic stops. Some police officers provide protective services. Detectives inspect crime scenes and observe suspects' activities. Both police and detectives create reports of their observations and findings.
The government hires most detectives. However, detectives may also work for individuals or companies. These professionals provide supplemental work for criminal investigations. In some situations, private investigators look into financial or personal matters for clients.
These professionals work with people in custody, on parole, or on probation. They evaluate the best course for rehabilitation. Probation officers visit clients and record their progress. They also connect inmates with services like career counseling.
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