10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

James M. Tobin
By
Updated on July 22, 2024
Edited by
Explore the best online criminal justice master's programs with this degree guide and ranking. Compare programs, research career paths, and more.

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Criminal justice programs engage learners in the interdisciplinary study of justice institutions, their policies, and their impacts. Master’s students explore the advanced analysis of criminal behavior and how justice institutions affect the people who interact with them. They also learn about research methods and solutions-based strategies for addressing crime and criminality.

This degree guide ranks 10 of the best online criminal justice master’s programs. Discover how an advanced degree can support entry into and advancement within the field.

Popular Online Criminal Justice Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

#1 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

University of Southern California

  • Location-markerLos Angeles, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

From its campus in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California hosts a top-ranked master's in criminal justice program. The master's in criminal justice program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new professional path entirely.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on criminal justice. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program recommends learners have a background in criminal justice before applying to the program.

Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.

University of Southern California at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 11%

Total Online Master's Programs: 55

Program Name: Master of science in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $46,272

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $46,272

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$57,256
  • Out-of-state$57,256
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$46,272
  • Out-of-state$46,272
  • Retention Rate96%
  • Acceptance Rate11%
  • Students Enrolled48,321
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment17%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Location-markerOrlando, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Based in Orlando, the University of Central Florida hosts a top-rated online master's in criminal justice. The MS in criminal justice program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in criminal justice. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in criminal justice or a related field.

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

University of Central Florida at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 44%

Total Online Master's Programs: 26

Program Name: Online criminal justice, MS

Graduate Tuition In State: $6,916

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,759

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,478
  • Out-of-state$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,916
  • Out-of-state$25,759
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate44%
  • Students Enrolled69,402
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Florida State University

  • Location-markerTallahassee, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Tallahassee, Florida State University offers an online master's in criminal justice. The master's in criminology and criminal justice program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates may advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.

The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in criminal justice. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants without a degree in criminal justice or a related field may need to meet prerequisite requirements to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.

Florida State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 36%

Total Online Master's Programs: 13

Program Name: Master's in criminology and criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $9,684

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,116

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,640
  • Out-of-state$19,084
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,684
  • Out-of-state$24,116
  • Retention Rate93%
  • Acceptance Rate36%
  • Students Enrolled42,450
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Averett University

  • Location-markerDanville, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The online master's in criminal justice degree at Averett University, located in Danville, Virginia, prioritizes flexibility. The master's in criminal justice program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of criminal justice. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on prior criminal justice experience gained during a bachelor's program.

Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

Averett University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 24%

Total Online Master's Programs: 11

Program Name: Master of science in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,790

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,790

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 Rate50%
  • Acceptance Rate24%
  • Students Enrolled485
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment97%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Boston University

  • Location-markerBoston, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The master's in criminal justice degree at Boston University uses a flexible distance learning format. Graduates train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree from the master's in criminal justice program. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.

The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on criminal justice. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in criminal justice typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.

Boston University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Admission Rate: 19%

Total Online Master's Programs: 24

Program Name: Master of science in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $54,720

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $54,720

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$54,720
  • Out-of-state$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$54,720
  • Out-of-state$54,720
  • Retention Rate94%
  • Acceptance Rate19%
  • Students Enrolled33,720
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment10%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Florida International University

  • Location-markerMiami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The online master's in criminal justice program, offered by Florida International University from its Miami campus, ranks as a top program in the field. The master of science in criminal justice builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.

The master's curriculum emphasizes current research in criminal justice. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program recommends learners have a background in criminal justice before applying.

Online enrollees add to their resume by pursuing internship opportunities at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build hands-on experience and professional connections.

Florida International University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 58%

Total Online Master's Programs: 31

Program Name: Master of science in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,912

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,393

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,721
  • Out-of-state$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,912
  • Out-of-state$21,393
  • Retention Rate89%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled58,711
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

California State University, Long Beach

  • Location-markerLong Beach, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

California State University, Long Beach offers a flexible online master's in criminal justice. Graduates prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous master's in criminology and criminal justice program. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum explores criminal justice research and methodologies. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in criminal justice for those applying.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program hosts networking events and other professional development activities to help graduate students expand their professional connections.

California State University, Long Beach at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 39%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program Name: Master of science in criminology and criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate87%
  • Acceptance Rate39%
  • Students Enrolled38,674
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee

  • Location-markerSarasota, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online criminal justice program. The MA in criminal justice program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates can also pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the criminal justice field. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. Applicants without a background in criminal justice may need to complete prerequisite courses before enrolling in the master's program.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.

University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 24%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program Name: MA in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,206
  • Out-of-state$15,121
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,350
  • Out-of-state$19,048
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate24%
  • Students Enrolled2,207
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment69%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Michigan State University

  • Location-markerEast Lansing, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in East Lansing, Michigan State University offers an online master's in criminal justice. The master of arts in criminal justice program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. A master's degree also helps candidates pursue new career paths.

The master's curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in criminal justice. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The admission requirements include a background in criminal justice or a related field.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.

Michigan State University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 71%

Total Online Master's Programs: 19

Program Name: Master of arts in criminal justice

Graduate Tuition In State: $18,858

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $37,056

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$15,555
  • Out-of-state$40,384
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$18,858
  • Out-of-state$37,056
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate71%
  • Students Enrolled49,809
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment26%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Georgia Southern University

  • Location-markerStatesboro, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Statesboro, Georgia Southern University offers an online master's in criminal justice. The master's program in criminal justice and criminology strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, candidates may advance their current career or move into new career paths.

The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on criminal justice. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in criminal justice or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The criminal justice program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

Georgia Southern University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Admission Rate: 54%

Total Online Master's Programs: 19

Program Name: Criminal justice and criminology with an emphasis in criminal justice, MS

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,977

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,890

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,371
  • Out-of-state$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,977
  • Out-of-state$19,890
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate54%
  • Students Enrolled26,054
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment41%
  • AccreditationYes

What Is a Master’s in Criminal Justice?

The best online master’s in criminal justice programs function as advanced extensions of bachelor’s programs in the field. Some programs take an academic approach, focusing on research and analysis. Others maintain a practical focus, preparing students for careers with leadership and growth potential.

Academic programs often attract students with in-field research interests, including individuals interested in doctoral degrees in criminal justice. Practical programs typically appeal more to learners focused on professional development.

Program Length and Format

Master’s degrees in criminal justice usually cover 30-36 credits across required courses and electives. Concentrated programs commit most or all electives toward specialization areas, such as criminology, corrections, criminal investigation, or homeland security. Programs typically culminate in master’s thesis classes or capstone projects.

Many schools accommodate full-time or part-time enrollment. You can also choose from fully online classes, traditional face-to-face instruction, or hybrid learning options.

Degree Types

Colleges and universities may offer criminal justice as a major or specialization within the following types of master’s programs:

  • Master of Arts: MA programs in criminal justice typically emphasize interdisciplinary viewpoints and academic theory. Enrollees learn to synthesize various professional and research perspectives to analyze criminal justice systems and understand their benefits, shortcomings, and social and political impacts.
  • Master of Science: Criminal justice programs with MS degree designations usually engage with quantitative research, statistical analysis, and technical skills. While MA, MS, and other master’s programs can all lead to doctoral studies, learners planning to pursue doctorates may prefer MS degrees due to their stronger focus on research.
  • Master of Criminal Justice: The MCJ designation applies to professional programs that emphasize a combination of research, academic theory, and practical training. MCJ programs support research and practitioner careers but may also lead to doctoral studies.
  • Master of Public Administration: MPA programs cover budgeting, strategic planning, human resource management, and other operational aspects of public-sector organizations. You can pursue an MPA with a criminal justice concentration if you’re interested in managing justice organizations or institutions.
  • Master of Business Administration: Some business schools offer MBA programs with criminal justice concentrations. These degrees also explore operational management but tend to focus more on the private sector. They may lead to management-level careers in security, private investigations, cybercrime consulting, and related areas.

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Curriculum

The best online master’s in criminal justice programs have variable coursework. While the exact classes you take depend on your degree designation, the program’s purpose, and your concentration area, the subsections below can provide a general idea of what to expect.

Core Coursework

Core coursework typically covers theories of crime and criminality, criminal justice research methods, and technical studies of justice systems and institutions. Many programs also explore statistical analysis methods, especially if they have MS or MCJ designations.

Schools balance core courses and electives in differing proportions. Electives let you study targeted topics of personal or professional interest.

Concentrations

Specialized programs typically focus most or all electives on a specialized study area. Concentration credits complement a lineup of core courses, which are typically common to all specialization options within a school.

If you have specific academic or professional interests, a concentrated program may appeal to you. Some potential criminal justice concentration areas include:

  • Criminal justice research and evaluation
  • Investigative criminology
  • Victimology
  • Behavioral crime analysis
  • Leadership in criminal justice
  • Forensic linguistics
  • Digital forensics
  • Investigative forensics
  • Homeland security

Culminating Project

Criminal justice master’s programs usually culminate in a master’s thesis or a capstone project.

A master’s thesis is a long-form work of original scholarly research on a topic selected by the student and approved by faculty supervisors. Capstones are intensive projects that require learners to synthesize and demonstrate everything they learned in their program. They may involve case studies and usually have a practical or applied focus.

The Cost of an Online Master’s in Criminal Justice

Average Annual Cost of an Online Master’s Program by Field of Study (2020-21)
Field of StudyAnnual Cost
Security, law enforcement, firefighting, and related protective services$22,690
Public administration and social services$24,808
Business, management, and marketing$22,457
Source: NCES

The table above examines the average annual cost of online master’s programs in criminal justice-related fields. Your costs may be higher or lower, depending on factors like:

  • Institution Type: Private schools tend to charge higher tuition fees than public schools. However, they often provide more in-house financial aid and scholarship programs.
  • Degree Designation: Graduate schools may apply different rates for their programs. On average, MBA students pay more in annual tuition and fees than MA, MS, and MPA students.
  • Learning Format: Studying online may lead to tuition breaks and relief from costs like relocation, transportation, and parking.

Budget-conscious learners can reduce costs by studying online, attending in-state public institutions, and seeking non-repayable aid like scholarships, fellowships, and grants.

Choosing the Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Program for You

Many features differentiate the best online criminal justice master’s programs. To choose the right learning opportunity, you’ll need to consider your options from multiple perspectives. The subsections below highlight specific aspects to evaluate when comparing programs.

Review the Admission Requirements.

To qualify for the best online criminal justice master’s programs, you will likely need:

  • A bachelor’s degree, ideally in a related field
  • Multiple authoritative letters of recommendation
  • A compelling reason for pursuing the degree, articulated in a well-written personal essay

Schools maintain different admission standards, and they can vary considerably. Some programs have more flexible GPA requirements than others. Similarly, some schools require GRE or GMAT scores, while others make them optional.

Always review admission requirements early in your program selection process. To save time and money, apply only to programs with admission standards that match your achievements.

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    Know Your Career Goals.

    Criminal justice programs vary in their intent and career preparation. For instance, if you want to become a criminal justice researcher, a research-focused MS program likely makes a better match than a theory-heavy MA degree.

    By knowing where you’re trying to get by earning your degree, you can select a concentration option to help advance your goals.

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    Identify Your Preferred Program Format.

    Online programs use various delivery formats, and you should know about their differences. Synchronous online courses follow rigid schedules and occur in real time, just like face-to-face classes. They offer more interactivity with less flexibility. Asynchronous courses involve pre-recorded lectures that allow you to study on your own schedule.

    Beyond investigating delivery formats, you should also check whether your program requires face-to-face components. For instance, many criminal justice programs include optional or required internships that you’ll need to complete in person.

    Finally, consider whether you prefer a full-time or part-time schedule and how each of these enrollment options works in the program’s context.

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    Compare Costs and Aid.

    Tuition fees are the primary determinant of program costs, but they don’t always tell the full story. You can reduce costs with scholarships and financial aid packages, which lower your net cost of attendance.

    To this end, carefully consider schools’ in-house scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Factor these sources in when comparing costs, and use the net cost of attendance as your main financial indicator.

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    Verify That the Institution Is Accredited.

    The best online criminal justice master’s programs are always hosted at accredited institutions. Accreditation ensures that employers, federal financial aid agencies, and other schools will recognize your program and credentials.

    Because accreditation has a critical impact on these areas, always ensure the school you choose holds a valid accreditation credential recognized by the Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Criminal Justice?

Master’s degrees in criminal justice can lead to many career options. Some programs prepare students for specific criminal justice careers, while others offer the latitude to pursue various potential paths upon graduation.

Criminal justice graduates often work in law enforcement, criminal court, corrections, or security agency settings. Some join academic or research institutions, while others pursue careers in the private sector.

Below, you will find detailed profiles of careers available to candidates with master’s degrees in criminal justice.

Related Programs

Not sure about criminal justice? Check out our best lists for related programs of study.

FAQ About Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

A master’s in criminal justice may help you qualify for careers with advancement or leadership potential, and professionals with graduate degrees tend to earn more money. From these perspectives, a graduate degree in criminal justice may lead to a favorable return on your investment.