2025 Best Online Criminal Justice Degrees

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Norwich takes the top spot with reported median earnings of $64,050. We also appreciate the 11:1 student-faculty ratio across all programs, which offers personalized academic support. Norwich's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is a fully online program, accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Students have the flexibility to begin the program at multiple start dates throughout the year and can transfer up to 90 credits, potentially completing the degree in under two years. This program not only covers essential topics in law enforcement and policy development but also offers specializations like intelligence and security management.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: With graduate median earnings reported at $64,015, Concordia's program is in the top 2% for earnings potential. This is complemented by extensive financial aid support, with an average package worth $16,487, which positions the school in the top 24%, ensuring that education is accessible to a broader range of learners. You're required to complete 120 credit hours, including 45 in major-specific courses, within as few as 2 years. Unique tracks include the MN POST Licensing Eligibility, preparing you for the MN POST Licensing Exam, and the Non-POST CJS Track, which suits those in non-law enforcement roles or current police officers.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Marian distinguishes itself with a median earnings score that ranks in the top 2% for students graduating with a criminal justice degree, suggesting that you may expect substantial financial returns upon completing this program. Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 ensures you might benefit from more personalized attention, closely approaching the top 30% of programs. Marian's criminal justice program offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on law enforcement, corrections, and social and juvenile justice. The program, delivered entirely online, allows for flexible scheduling with classes beginning every seven weeks. The program includes both general education and core courses like Law Enforcement Administration and Crisis Intervention. Additionally, law enforcement professionals receive a 10% tuition discount.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Beyond earnings potential, SNHU stands out with its impressive online enrollment numbers. With nearly 157,898 students engaged in online studies, SNHU not only leads in accessibility but also demonstrates its commitment to providing quality online programs. We commend SNHU for catering specifically to military learners, with about 14,093 using the GI Bill, placing it among the top schools for military student enrollment.

The curriculum spans 40 courses, with each lasting 8 weeks. The program is designed to equip you with skills in community relations, effective communication strategies, and understanding the impact of technology on criminal justice agencies. You can choose from eight specializations, including Cybercrime, Homeland Security & Counterterrorism, and Human Services & Advocacy. The program also includes an embedded communication certificate to enhance your qualifications. Additionally, some credits can be awarded for prior learning in certain law enforcement training programs.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Central Christian College of Kansas distinguishes itself with a relatively high median earnings for graduates, standing at approximately $62,469, which places it in the top 3% nationwide. Students can also benefit from generous financial aid packages which average around $17,158, placing the school in the top 23% for financial aid support. This confluence of strong financial earnings post-graduation and substantial financial aid accessibility ensures an advantageous return on your educational investment. This criminal justice program requires you to take one course at a time, each lasting six weeks, ensuring a focused learning experience. Notable courses include Criminal Law, Forensics, Crisis Management, and Corrections. The program also allows the transfer of up to 90 previous credits, potentially reducing the duration and cost of your studies. Students can apply credits from military training or police academy experiences, offering further flexibility and customization in your academic path.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Endicott College distinguishes itself with an impressive median earnings of $62,266 for graduates, placing it within the top 3% of institutions for this metric. Moreover, students at Endicott benefit from an average financial aid package of $16,533, which falls in the upper quartile when compared to peer institutions. This program consists of a comprehensive 126-credit curriculum, combining theory and practice across key areas such as criminal law, criminology, and forensic science. Taught by seasoned professionals, courses cover technology applications in criminal justice, psychology, and sociology, fostering extensive understanding and critical inquiry skills. The program emphasizes real-world applications, with options to specialize in Homeland Security or Trauma Studies, and culminates with a final research project.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Along with earnings potential, we recognize CSU Global for its extensive online enrollment, which positions it among the top 5% of schools with robust digital learning communities. This broad enrollment is indicative of the program's reach and the flexibility it offers to distance learners, ensuring a diverse and dynamic online learning environment. This bachelor's degree is a 120-credit, fully online program designed to fit into your schedule. The degree features core courses and optional specializations in areas like criminology and homeland security. This curriculum is strategically created in partnership with FEMA and other industry organizations, allowing you to earn FEMA certificates that enhance your credentials. The program delves into contemporary practices like cybercrime and forensics, equipping you with the skills necessary for roles across law enforcement and the justice system.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: APUS' program graduates report median earnings of $61,351, positioning it among the top 4% nationwide for this metric. If you are part of the military community, you will find a welcoming environment here, with 18,012 students using the GI Bill, reinforcing APUS’s strong commitment to serving military learners. This bachelor's degree offers a comprehensive exploration of U.S. law enforcement, criminology, and criminal investigations. The 120-credit program allows you to transfer up to 90 credits, optimizing past educational achievements. Courses start monthly, lasting 8 to 16 weeks, providing flexibility. With tuition benefits like a Preferred Military Rate reducing costs to $250 per credit, financial accessibility is prioritized.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration

Why we like them: CSU is highly regarded for its substantial online enrollment, standing in the top 2% among universities with 15,948 students enrolled online. CSU's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration provides a comprehensive curriculum designed for entry-level and seasoned professionals. This program covers essential topics, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, without specific licensure or certification requirements. It comprises 120 credits, allowing for the transfer of up to 90 credits. Tuition is priced at $270 per credit.

Online degree: Bachelor of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: MBU is distinguished in our rankings primarily for the promising earnings median of its graduates, which stands at $59,300, placing it in the top 6% nationally. This signifies the potential for you to achieve substantial financial returns upon completion of your degree. MBU offers a transfer-friendly policy enabling you to apply up to 96 existing credits, plus potential career experiences towards your degree. The degree requires 120 credit hours, and students can transfer up to 96 credits, including relevant career experience. Courses cover current trends in criminal justice, taught by professionals in the field. The program also features an accelerated track.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Lynn University earns its place among the top institutions with median earnings reported at $58,830, an impressive rank in the top 7% nationally. This criminal justice curriculum is comprehensive, covering law enforcement, corrections, judicial systems, civil rights, and more. Students engage with field-based exercises and have the option to complete an internship for practical experience. The program is designed to be completed in four years, with new terms starting three times a year. Courses delve into criminology, political studies, psychology, ethics, victimology, and offer a holistic perspective on criminal behavior.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in in Criminal Justice Leadership

Why we like them: Saint Mary's criminal justice graduates report median earnings of $58,646, placing the program in the top 7% nationwide. A noteworthy 100% of students receive financial aid, emphasizing the institution's dedication to affordability. Requiring 36 credits that can be completed in just one year (if also applying transfer credits), the program offers a convenient and expedited path to your degree. With multiple start dates throughout the year, you can begin your studies at a time that best suits your schedule. The curriculum is designed to provide insights into decision-making processes within the criminal justice system, promote awareness of sociocultural diversity, and enhance your leadership abilities. Moreover, Saint Mary's allows for substantial credit transfer, accepting up to 90 credits, which can significantly accelerate your path to graduation.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Aurora's criminal justice program positions it in the top 8% of programs for earnings potential. The program is designed for working professionals seeking to advance in fields such as law enforcement and private security. The program requires 120 credit hours, including 40 within the major, and courses are delivered in 8-week sessions. Courses cover key areas like criminal law, criminology, and research methods, with an optional internship to gain hands-on experience. Students can transfer up to 90 credits and complete the degree in 2-4 years.

Online degree: Bachelor of Applied Studies in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Median earnings for UWO's criminal justice graduates places the program in the top 8% for earnings potential when compared to other institutions. Students have also given the overall school a high recommendation rate of 80%, indicating satisfaction and confidence among alumni. This accelerated online degree is tailored for those looking to advance or start a career in law enforcement, corrections, policing, or criminology. The program emphasizes flexibility with 100% online delivery and accelerated seven-week sessions, allowing enrollment at multiple points throughout the year. The program covers core areas such as criminological theory, research methodologies, and law, preparing students for both advanced studies and immediate workforce entry.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: With median earnings of $58,064, TU is positioned among the top 8% of institutions in terms of graduate salary potential. This bachelor's program is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, focusing on constitutional, procedural, and organizational knowledge. You can earn up to 40 credit hours for prior basic law enforcement training or up to 27 hours for corrections officer training. The curriculum includes core criminal justice courses such as Criminology, Policing in America, and Community Policing, totaling 120 credit hours.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Bowie State University earns its place among top institutions with an impressive median earnings of $57,571 for graduates, positioning it in the top 9% of schools for this metric. Additionally, the school boasts a student-faculty ratio of 15:1, which is conducive to personalized learning experiences. The program offers broad educational opportunities focusing on law, forensic science, social justice, and community advocacy. It takes a multidimensional approach to crime analysis, covering its causes, offenders, victims, and the legal frameworks governing crime control. Practical methodologies are emphasized through applied sociological research, fostering pragmatic understanding of the field.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: The median earnings for Anna Maria's criminal justice graduates are reported at $57,424, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Complementing this, the college provides substantial financial assistance, ranking in the top 5% with an average financial aid package of $33,503, making attending the college even more accessible. The program, accredited by the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee, integrates liberal arts education with critical career preparation. It allows for the transfer of up to 75 previously earned credits, reducing the overall completion time. Unique opportunities include participation in the Washington Center Internship and partnerships with various agencies such as Homeland Security and INTERPOL. The program also boasts specific certifications like Dispatch 911 training, providing practical, industry-relevant skills.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: California Baptist University excels with a commendable median earnings figure of $57,399 for its graduates, situating it in the top 10% of institutions in terms of salary outcomes. Coupling this with an average financial aid offering that ranks in the top 17%, you are afforded significant economic support, with 98% of registered students benefiting from such assistance. This program requires 45 to 48 units for completion, typically within 16 months under a full-time study load. All courses are asynchronous and fully online, allowing maximum schedule flexibility. The program is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission. Learners engage in courses such as Methods of Research for Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, and Ethics for Law Enforcement, giving you the theoretical and practical prowess needed for a career in various criminal justice positions.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration

Why we like them: WIU has an impressive overall recommendation rate of 89% across all programs reviewed on our website. Additionally, an average financial aid package that ranks in the top 25% of schools ensures broad accessibility to its programs, making WIU a financially attractive option for many prospective students. WIU offers a bachelor of science emphasizing practical real-world applications in criminal justice and public safety. It boasts partnerships with over 1,400 agencies for internships, allowing you to gain valuable experience in various law enforcement settings. Additionally, WIU provides both university-wide and departmental scholarships to support your educational journey.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Utah Valley University (UVU) distinguishes itself with an impressive online enrollment size of 7,219, placing it among the top 3% of institutions with the most substantial online presence. Moreover, UVU excels with a median earnings outcome of approximately $56,791, positioning graduates in the top 11% in terms of post-graduation salary potential. The bachelor's degree is designed to equip you with critical analytical and problem-solving skills, preparing you for various roles within the criminal justice system. The program encompasses key areas such as criminal law and procedure, victimization, and police-community relations. Additionally, UVU offers a flat tuition rate for out-of-state online learners, and a comprehensive financial aid program with over 250 scholarships, ensuring education remains within reach for a diverse range of students.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Dominican ranks at the 21st position due to its earnings potential, with a median salary of $56,685 placing it in the top 11% of schools. This financial advantage is complemented by a robust average financial aid package of $22,666, positioning the school within the top 17% for financial support, thus making higher education more accessible for you. The program consists of 120 credits, covering core courses like Introduction to Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice, and a Capstone Seminar. A 100-hour internship is part of the curriculum, providing practical exposure. This program offers flexibility to tailor courses to personal career goals and includes opportunities for joining Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society.

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: FPU's program graduates report median earnings of $56,648, placing it among the top 11% of online programs in terms of alumni salary. Furthermore, the institution ensures that 100% of its students benefit from financial aid, reflecting its commitment to making higher education accessible. This program can be completed in as little as 18 months. You may earn up to 45 transfer credits for professional certifications and on-the-job training. The curriculum covers various aspects, including law enforcement, policy analysis, and social service roles, equipping you with the technical and leadership skills necessary for career advancement in the criminal justice field. Optional minors such as Intelligence and Security Studies may complement this degree.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: UML's median earnings of $56,155 puts the program in the top 13% nationwide compared to similar criminal justice programs. This achievement is further bolstered by their high graduation and retention rates, both in the top 15% of institutions, reflecting UML's quality and student satisfaction. This program focuses on law enforcement, corrections, and the court system. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program enables you to transfer up to 90 credits, complete your degree in 12 to 36 months, and study entirely online or on-campus. The curriculum includes critical courses such as criminal law, corrections, emergency management, and emerging topics like terrorism and criminal profiling.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: Sacramento State's criminal justice graduates report median earnings of $56,016, placing it in the top 13% compared to other programs. The university also reports an online enrollment of 2,262 students, situating it in the top 24% for accessibility and popularity among online programs. With 60 credits required, including 48 major-specific units, this degree provides flexibility through asynchronous learning. Courses span eight weeks for fall and spring semesters and six weeks for summer, allowing efficiency in degree completion. Managed through the Canvas platform, students benefit from a curriculum delivered by experienced faculty.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration

Why we like them: With median earnings reported at $55,598, NU's program graduates are earning in the top 14% nationwide compared to similar programs. In addition, NU's robust online presence further positions it as a leader in accessibility, with an online enrollment that places it in the top 7% of institutions. This degree covers diverse topics such as forensic science, juvenile justice, and corrections, culminating in a significant senior project under faculty guidance. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, this program requires completion of 180 quarter units, including 76.5 upper-division units. Students can engage in specialized courses, including the study of gang behavior, terrorism, and forensic sciences, which enhance their understanding and marketability in various criminal justice careers.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Practice and Policy

Why we like them: Saint Joseph's University in New York distinguishes itself with a median earnings figure of $55,499, placing it in the top 14% of institutions nationally for graduates' earnings. We also value the school's high retention rate of 82%, reflecting a strong commitment to ensuring learners succeed in their studies. This multidisciplinary program weaves together sociology, political science, psychology, philosophy, forensic bioscience, and criminal justice. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practices, policy analysis, and quantitative applications, making it ideal for those aiming to enhance their practical and analytical skills.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: RWU graduates report median earnings of approximately $55,490, placing the program in the top 15% for salary potential compared to other schools. Additionally, with an average financial aid package exceeding $20,000, we appreciate RWU's commitment to helping students afford their degree. This program explores a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. criminal justice system, with an emphasis on adult and juvenile crime, causation theories, and criminal and civil procedures. This 120-credit program is structured with 40 courses, including required courses in criminal justice, core courses, and electives. You have the opportunity to earn certificates in areas such as Community Policing and Homeland Security without extra coursework.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: With median earnings of $55,376, University of Baltimore's program is among the top 15% of institutions in this regard. Furthermore, the student-faculty ratio stands out, with a commendable 10:1 ratio, placing it in the top 17% for this factor—a clear indicator of the personalized attention one might expect in their program. This degree designed to prepare you for a career in law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, or investigative forensics. The curriculum includes coursework in criminal law, crime scene investigation, and ethics.

Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Why we like them: John Jay stands in the top 15% of schools with criminal justice graduates earning a median salary of $55,358. Additionally, with a robust online enrollment catering to 3,521 students, the institution is among the top 18% of schools with substantial online student bodies, indicating both a high demand and satisfaction for its programs. Utilizing the Blackboard Learning Management System, courses are asynchronous, except for a mandatory transfer seminar held weekly via Zoom. During the fall and spring semesters, you will complete 12 credits spread over four classes, while taking 6 credits or two classes over the summer. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of the American criminal justice system, including institutions such as police, courts, and corrections.