Looking for a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice in North Carolina? You should consider these top-tier undergraduate programs and jobs in Criminal Justice.
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Bachelor's Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
The best degrees in North Carolina for criminal justice are the best to get you started on a path to a greater career. Bachelor's degrees are an excellent way to prepare for work in a variety of fields. With a bachelor's degree, graduates possess the skills needed to move forward in their field.
Bachelor's degree-holders earn an average of $1,334 per week, or $5,336 per month and $69,368 per year. With a bachelor's degree, the unemployment rate is 3.5%, versus 6.2% for those with a high school degree.
Criminal Justice Bachelor's Programs for You
Working and Living in North Carolina in the Criminal Justice Profession
Criminal justice degrees are becoming increasingly popular as people become more interested in law enforcement and other aspects of the criminal justice system. There are a variety of criminal justice degrees, but most programs cover a few common courses. These courses typically include an introduction to the criminal justice system, criminal law, criminology, and criminal procedure. Many programs also require students to take courses in research methods and statistics. Upon completion of a criminal justice degree, graduates can pursue a variety of careers. Many find jobs working in law enforcement, but there are also opportunities to work in the court system, corrections, and private security. Some graduates even go on to become lawyers or judges.
The annual wage in North Carolina is $38,370, or $18.45 per hour. The lowest 10% of earners make $22,360 per year and the highest 10% make $99,300, according to the BLS. The following demonstrates the earnings for detectives and criminal investigators in North Carolina in comparison to other states.
Key
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in North Carolina
Detectives and Criminal Investigators Nationally
All Occupations in North Carolina
All Occupations Nationally
Salaries for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in North Carolina and Nationwide
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As stated by MERIC, North Carolina ranks number 23 out of 51 states (including Washington, D.C.). Typically, cost of living indexes measure the average cost of living in specific states compared to the national average. According to the U.S. average, all locations are either above (more expensive) or below (less expensive) that average. North Carolina's cost of living is 95, which is -5% lower than the national average. In the following table, you can compare the cost of groceries, housing, utilities, and more in North Carolina with the average cost in the United States.
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Jobs for detectives and criminal investigators are projected to grow by 2.5% in the next decade. The BLS projects that the occupation's total employment will change from 112,500 in 2020 to 115,300 in 2030. This position requires a bachelor's degree. The following are typical job titles:
Detectives and criminal investigators
Criminal Investigator
Deputy United States Marshal
FBI Investigator
Homicide Detective
Narcotics Detective
Narcotics Investigator
Police Detective
Bachelor's Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
#1 Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
Campbell University
Buies Creek, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Located in Buies Creek, Campbell University supports both in-person and remote study opportunities across 79 bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor's in criminal justice introduces students to foundational skills and knowledge while also building general skills such as communication and critical thinking. Graduates can pursue industry-relevant careers or go on to study at the graduate level.
The institution connects learners with success-oriented resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Dedicated financial aid counselors can help degree-seekers understand their available education funding options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Campbell University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $32,380
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,380
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $38,700
Average Tuition
In-state
$34,290
Out-of-state
$34,290
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
5,964
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible study can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs at East Carolina University. The school's criminal justice BS prepares students for the demands of the field through rigorous study. Graduates can also apply their knowledge to further studies in criminal justice, such as a master's degree.
Enrollees benefit from institutional support throughout their studies. Learners can connect with the Office of Financial Aid to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The average financial aid award available through the school is $7,941.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 79%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,452
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,729
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,300
Average Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Elizabeth City State University, a leader in hybrid education, offers 37 bachelor's programs, five of which are available online. The school offers a bachelor's in criminal justice that equips students with the skills needed to succeed in a criminal justice career. Graduates can enter the workforce or pursue further education, such as a master's degree.
Enrollees can benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Depending on eligibility, students can benefit from financial aid funding. The typical undergraduate receives $9,291 in financial aid.
Elizabeth City State University at a Glance:
Type of school: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 66%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,000
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $25,100
Average Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,002
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
With its main campus in Fayetteville, Fayetteville State University facilitates in-person and online learning across 33 bachelor's programs. The school's bachelor's in criminal justice prepares students for the demands of the field through rigorous study.
Learners seeking career, academic, and financial guidance can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources while enrolled. Students seeking to defray the costs of their degree can meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss funding opportunities and determine eligibility. Typically, 95% of all enrollees receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid package totaling $10,377.
Fayetteville State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 69%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,982
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,590
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $27,500
Average Tuition
In-state
$2,982
Out-of-state
$14,590
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
6,726
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice in North Carolina
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners looking for flexible study in dual modalities can choose from one of Gardner-Webb University's 46 bachelor's programs. The bachelor of science in criminal justice administration is one of many robust programs, equipping students with industry-relevant knowledge. After the program, graduates can apply their knowledge to a career or graduate studies.
Undergraduate enrollees benefit from institutional support throughout their studies in numerous areas. Degree-seekers also gain access to financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, depending on eligibility.
Gardner-Webb University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 67%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $31,220
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,220
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $35,100
Average Tuition
In-state
$31,220
Out-of-state
$31,220
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
3,536
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Financing a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice
There's a big need for financial aid to help pay for college. The awards can be in the form of scholarships, grants, fellowships, or work-study programs. Some students qualify for federal and private student loans. The college's financial aid office provides information about scholarship and grant opportunities for applicants.
For scholarship, grant, work-study, and loan opportunities, students should contact the college's financial aid department.
Average Cost of Attending College in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the cost of attending college varies by institution. While there are some differences between public and private institutions, there are also some commonalities. If you are interested in attending a public institution, please review the information below.
Public 4-Year School Tuition Rates: North Carolina vs. National Average
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North Carolina
National Average
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What about attending a private university? Tuition is often more expensive at private colleges. You can learn more about private colleges in North Carolina by reviewing this graph.
Private 4-Year School Tuition Rates: North Carolina vs. National Average
Key
North Carolina
National Average
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Federal Student Loan Information
Are you thinking of borrowing student loans to pay for your education? Prior to taking out a loan, you should consider a few points so that you will not make any mistakes.
When it becomes time to repay the loan, you must ensure that you can make all the payments on time.
In order to succeed in your career goals, it is important to consider whether obtaining a degree from a particular school will provide you with the expertise you need.
In order to avoid financial hardship once you take out a loan, make sure you understand the repayment schedule.
The following data will assist you in determining what students tend to borrow.
Undergraduate Federal Loans
Demographic
Percent who borrowed
Amount borrowed
Total
66.6%
$27,400
Female
69.6%
$28,100
Male
62.5%
$26,500
White, not Hispanic or Latino
66.1%
$26,700
Black, not Hispanic or Latino
85.7%
$34,800
Hispanic or Latino/a, of any race
67.7%
$25,700
Asian, not Hispanic or Latino
43%
$22,700
Other or Two or more races,
not Hispanic or Latino
The main differences between online and on-campus programs include the cost and the size of the class. An online program offers numerous advantages, including flexibility, affordability, and convenience. On average, on-campus degrees cost more due to student fees, which are optional for distance learners. Having a habit of attending classes has its advantages.
Top Criminal Justice Degree Options Available by State
A private college may offer some advantages over a public college. A private institution is generally more expensive than a public institution. The cost of education at a public college can be offset by research grants and scholarships to assist with the cost. In private institutions, tuition is charged to students, although merit scholarships are usually available for those who have achieved high GPAs or SAT scores.
There are usually smaller class sizes at private schools, allowing students to connect with professors directly. A comparison of the pros and cons of attending a public versus a private institution is offered below.
Pros and Cons
Private
Unique program offerings
Cultural or religious options
Local prestige
Higher costs
Less regulatory oversight
Public
Government-issued tuition costs
Government funding, benefits, and regulation
Oftentimes large classrooms
Frequently Asked Questions
In North Carolina, what is the salary for detectives and criminal investigators?
The mean annual salary for detectives and criminal investigators in North Carolina is $66,030.
Are criminal justice majors in demand?
The total number of detectives and criminal investigators is projected to change by 2.5% from 2020 to 2030.
Can I get an online bachelor's degree in criminal justice?
You can get an online bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Almost all schools in today's environment offer some form of online education.
How long does it usually take to complete a bachelor's degree?
The average bachelor's degree takes four years for a full-time student to complete. The completion time of part-time students will differ, as will the duration of their studies.
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