The Best Schools for Criminal Justice Majors
The criminal justice system plays a critical role in maintaining a fair and peaceful society. It includes various professions within law enforcement, court and legal services, corrections, and rehabilitation.
Students interested in these careers can pursue an online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. These programs usually require four years of full-time study and include diverse classes like juvenile delinquency, criminology, and psychology.
The following guide explores college application requirements, concentration options, and potential jobs for criminal justice majors. Keep reading to discover the best schools for criminal justice that can help prepare learners to protect and serve their communities.
10 Best Schools for Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Florida International University provides numerous top-tier bachelor's programs. The public college supports 36 online bachelor's degrees from its main campus in Miami, Florida. The bachelor of science in criminal justice prepares remote learners for the demands of the public safety administration field.
The criminal justice degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every degree-seeker. Students complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives and modify their coursework. Enrollees can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.
Currently, undergraduate criminal justice students pay $16,529 in tuition. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution. At the college, degree-seekers receive an average of $8,958 in financial aid.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
- In-State$6,168
- Out-of-state$18,566
- In-State$911
- Out-of-state$2,003
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled55,687
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Central Florida, a public, four-year college, enables study across 47 online programs. Undergraduates can choose from 19 online bachelor's degrees to pursue. Individuals seeking competitive, customizable study relevant to the public safety administration field will find the school's online bachelor of arts or science in criminal justice an attractive option. Working professionals and busy students will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Throughout the program, participants attend industry-relevant lectures while completing criminal justice-specific coursework. These classes equip degree-seekers with knowledge and skills applicable to a post-graduate career. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to individualize their degree by exploring electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. According to the college, alumni earn a median salary of $39,900 six years after completing their degree. The average undergraduate student pays $11,617 in tuition and fees every year, after aid. Prospective learners can meet with the criminal justice department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
The University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
- In-State$6,368
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled67,959
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Pennsylvania State University World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 year
- Online
Pennsylvania State University World Campus, a public, four-year college in University Park, Pennsylvania, supports distance learning across 207 virtual programs. Undergraduates seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of 67 online bachelor's degrees. Learners looking to advance in the criminal justice field will find the school's bachelor of science in criminal justice an attractive option. Participants in the criminal justice program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. According to the college, alumni earn a median salary of $43,600 six years after completing their degree. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements. The school admits 76% of applicants.
- In-State$15,054
- Out-of-state$15,054
- In-State$24,164
- Out-of-state$24,164
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled13,979
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Louisiana Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Louisiana Monroe supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 34 online programs. Undergraduates studying remotely can benefit from pursuing one of 14 online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of arts in criminal justice is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the public safety administration field. Working professionals and busy learners will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the criminal justice field. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips participants with relevant skills needed to succeed in a criminal justice career. Degree-seekers choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The institution reports a median salary of $38,100 earned by alumni six years after completing their studies. Typically, undergraduate students pay $9,710 in tuition and fees each year. Before applying, prospective applicants should connect with the criminal justice department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
The University of Louisiana Monroe at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,756
Total Online Programs: 34
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 80%
- In-State$5,788
- Out-of-state$17,888
- In-State$6,490
- Out-of-state$18,590
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled8,398
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Natchitoches, Northwestern State University of Louisiana enables distance learning across 53 virtual programs. Undergraduates can choose from 16 online bachelor's degrees to pursue. Individuals looking for a public safety administration-adjacent career can pursue study through the bachelor of arts in criminal justice at their own pace. The criminal justice program prioritizes flexibility through full- or part-time study options.
Students complete industry-relevant courses throughout their studies, gaining specific knowledge of the criminal justice field. Degree-seekers also take general education classes to develop a strong foundation of communication and critical thinking abilities. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The institution reports that alumni six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $35,700. The average undergraduate student pays $12,336 in tuition and fees every year, after aid. Learners hoping to gain admission to the criminal justice program should connect with the department directly to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,906
Total Online Programs: 53
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 82%
- In-State$5,180
- Out-of-state$15,968
- In-State$5,738
- Out-of-state$16,526
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled9,389
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
Trine University
- Angola, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Angola, Indiana, Trine university offers many different program options for degree-seekers of all kinds. A leader in distance education, the institution supports 875 remote learners. For students looking to advance in the criminal justice field, the school's online bachelor of science in criminal justice is a wise choice. The program supports people from all walks of life through flexible enrollment options.
During the program, participants complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the criminal justice field. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear: graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $40,000 for alumni six years after completing their studies. Prospective applicants can meet with the criminal justice department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information. The college admits 82% of all applicants.
- In-State$34,330
- Out-of-state$34,330
- In-State$45,350
- Out-of-state$45,350
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled4,088
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Fort Hays State University
- Hays, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Fort Hays State University enrolls distance learners in 40 virtual programs. Undergraduates from across the globe can connect with the school through one of its 24 fully online bachelor's degrees. From its main campus in Hays, Kansas, the college supports an online bachelor of arts or science in criminal justice. The criminal justice program supports flexible study for students learning remotely.
Throughout their coursework, participants gain industry-relevant knowledge through advanced courses. Enrollees also gain broader knowledge and skills in general education classes, preparing them for life after their degree. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $36,800 earned by alumni six years after completing their studies. Typically, undergraduate students pay $12,108 in tuition and fees each year. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the financial aid office.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,759
Total Online Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 91%
- In-State$4,140
- Out-of-state$14,580
- In-State$3,729
- Out-of-state$10,602
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled12,949
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- Durant, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southeastern Oklahoma State University is a public, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degrees. The institution prides itself on its leadership in remote learning, offering 13 fully virtual bachelor's programs. Distance learners looking to earn an online degree in public safety administration can enroll in the bachelor of arts in criminal justice.
The criminal justice degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every degree-seeker. Participants in the program take advanced criminal justice courses, as well as general education classes. In consultation with their academic advisor, enrollees can modify their course load to suit their needs.
Criminal justice students can expect to pay $14,880 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid. Degree-seekers typically receive a financial aid award package amounting to $7,828, on average.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,047
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 74%
- In-State$6,420
- Out-of-state$15,360
- In-State$4,734
- Out-of-state$11,070
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled5,479
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
McNeese State University supports 4,070 distance learners across 26 fully virtual programs. Undergraduates choose from seven remote bachelor's programs available through the college. Individuals hoping to advance in the public safety administration field can enroll in the college's online bachelor of science in criminal justice. The criminal justice program supports flexible study for enrollees learning remotely.
Throughout their coursework, participants gain industry-relevant knowledge through advanced courses. Enrollees also take general education classes to develop a broad foundation of skills, including communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. In consultation with their academic advisor, learners can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for alumni six years after their degree completion is $36,600, according to the college. When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers should know that the average cost of tuition and fees after aid is $11,974. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, applicants should contact the financial aid office.
McNeese State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,070
Total Online Programs: 26
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 81%
- In-State$5,147
- Out-of-state$7,203
- In-State$5,703
- Out-of-state$7,203
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled6,230
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
- Oshkosh, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, a public four-year college, enables study across nine online programs. Of these, three are at the bachelor's level, available to undergraduates. Learners looking for advanced, remote study relevant to the criminal justice field can enroll in the school's online bachelor of applied studies in criminal justice. The program offers flexible study options, where enrollees can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
During the program, participants complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. The program curriculum prepares degree-seekers for the demands of the field. Learners can modify their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $37,900 for alumni six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Undergraduates pay a net price of $11,980 per year at the institution. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,533
Total Online Programs: 9
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Admission Rate: 76%
- In-State$6,422
- Out-of-state$13,995
- In-State$8,108
- Out-of-state$17,798
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled13,705
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
What Is a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice?
Total Credits
120 credits
Length
4 years (full time)
Average Tuition and Fees
$8,504 per year*
*Average includes security, law enforcement, firefighting, and related protective services bachelor’s programs.
Many criminal justice programs ground students in a liberal arts foundation, enabling graduates to pursue public and private sector careers in all levels of government.
The curriculum emphasizes the complexities of the American criminal justice system, covering law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. Using criminological theories, criminal justice majors explore crime and deviant behavior from a sociological perspective.
Learners can pursue a bachelor of science (BS) or a bachelor of arts (BA) in this field. There are usually only minor differences between these options: For instance, a liberal arts-focused BA degree may require foreign language coursework, while a STEM-centered BS may not.
Minors such as informatics, linguistics, and journalism allow criminal justice majors to expand their expertise. Programs may also offer criminal justice internships at local and state government agencies and nonprofits.
Criminal Justice Degree Concentrations
Criminal justice majors can potentially enjoy greater career relevance when they pursue concentrations within the field. Much like a minor, specializations allow students to explore subjects that fall within or intersect with criminal justice. Common concentrations include:
- Homeland Security: This specialization focuses on protecting the nation from threats like terrorism through border security, emergency management, and intelligence analysis.
- Forensic Science: A forensic science concentration applies scientific principles and techniques to investigate crime scenes, collect and analyze evidence, and aid in solving criminal cases.
- Criminology: Enrollees examine the causes, effects, and prevention of crime by studying the social, psychological, and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior.
- Cybersecurity: This focus covers safeguarding digital systems, networks, and data from cyberthreats and attacks. Assignments cover methods of preventing, detecting, and responding to cyberincidents.
- Criminal Justice Administration: Coursework in this concentration covers the management and leadership aspects of the criminal justice system. Classes focus on policy development, organizational management, budgeting, and decision-making in law enforcement agencies and correctional institutions.
Why Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Online?
Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reveals 10.1 million college students nationwide took at least one online course in 2022, including 4.9 million students enrolled exclusively in distance education classes. The advantages of online learning make it a popular option to pursue a college degree. Online programs offer the same quality and education as on-campus programs with added benefits, such as:
- Potentially lower tuition, even if you live out of state
- Flexible learning format
- Self-paced options
- No commutes to campus
- Greater diversity in classrooms
- Better work-life balance, especially for parents and caregivers
- More college options
How to Get Into a Top Criminal Justice School
Each criminal justice school has its own requirements and preferences when reviewing candidates for its bachelor’s program. However, most institutions require applicants to hold a high school diploma or an equivalent, like a GED certificate. Additional materials like those listed below are also common components of college applications.
High School Transcripts
Online criminal justice schools usually look for courses that prove college readiness in math and English. Many institutions stipulate a minimum 2.0-2.7 high school GPA. If students do not meet GPA minimums, some schools consider standardized test scores or placement exams.
Extracurriculars
No matter their major, colleges may prefer students who participated in diverse extracurriculars, including sports, language clubs, and music groups. Criminal justice candidates can focus specifically on psychology, law, forensics, or debate clubs. Volunteer experience can also bolster applications by showing learners’ commitment to their communities.
Essay
Many schools require bachelor’s applicants to submit a self-reflective essay about their experiences. Consider discussing your interest in criminal justice as a major and career path to help the admissions committee understand what drives you.
Letters of Recommendation
Undergraduate degree-seekers may need recommendation letters from educators, mentors, and other nonfamily professionals.
ACT/SAT Scores
Many institutions have made ACT and SAT scores optional, while others request scores only if a student’s GPA does not meet required minimums. Generally, schools look for scores totaling at least 20 for the ACT or 1030 for the SAT. Students who have earned these scores — or higher — can submit these results to boost their applications, even if not required.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice?
Graduates of online criminal justice programs can pursue work in many different settings, such as police departments, law offices, and correctional facilities. Popular criminal justice jobs include police officer, probation officer, and corrections officer.
Many federal agencies prefer candidates who hold bachelor’s degrees. Even for professions that only require a high school diploma, a college degree can often lead to higher pay.
The list below includes a few career paths for criminal justice degree-holders.
Patrol Officer
Across the country, there are 674,200 police and sheriff’s patrol officers — the largest subsector of law enforcement. Patrol officers ensure the safety of people and property by enforcing laws at the city, county, or state levels, depending on their jurisdiction. A background check, physical examination, and psychological evaluation may be necessary for employment.
Probation Officer
Pursuing a bachelor’s in criminal justice can lead to probation officer careers. While on duty, these officers aid in the rehabilitation of parolees and probationers. They also provide testimony in court.
FBI Special Agent
- Average Salary Range: $81,000-$129,000
- Job Growth (2023-33): N/A
The FBI accepts special agent candidates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in criminal justice. A major in criminal justice can help prepare professionals for diverse special agent responsibilities, including carrying out a search warrant, overseeing lab services, testifying in court, and gathering evidence. FBI special agents can also pursue advanced managerial positions.
Crime Scene Technician
A criminal justice degree with a specialization in crime scene investigation can help qualify you for technician roles. Crime scene techs collect evidence for criminal trials, compile reports, and maintain precise records. These professionals are experts in taking exact measurements; photographing crime scenes; and processing evidence like fingerprints, blood, and firearms.
Digital Forensics Analyst
- Average Annual Wage (August 2024): $70,430
- Job Growth (2023-33): N/A
A criminal justice curriculum that focuses on digital forensics can prepare you to enter the cybersecurity field. Digital forensics analysts combine general forensic skills like analyzing and preserving evidence with computer network defense tactics to investigate computer security events.
Beyond the Bachelor’s Degree
Upon completing a criminal justice degree, individuals can begin their professional journey or pursue advanced studies.
Law school can be a valuable next step after a criminal justice undergraduate education. Law students with a juris doctor degree can specialize in criminal law or other subfields like intellectual property, corporate, health, or tax law.
With a master’s in social work, you can pivot into a career as a forensic social worker. A master’s in cybercrime can lead to advanced opportunities and higher pay within the digital forensics and cybersecurity sector.
If you are interested in working in academia, a Ph.D. in criminal justice can qualify you for research and professorial positions.
FAQ About the Best Schools for Criminal Justice
The best criminal justice program depends on your interests and career plans. For example, aspiring law officials might prefer the police officer training at McNeese State University, while social justice advocates might enjoy the diversity of the criminal justice courses at Penn State World Campus.
