2025 Best Online Law Enforcement Degrees
An online law enforcement degree provides a flexible path for aspiring professionals, covering criminal justice, criminology, legal studies, and ethics. These undergraduate programs equip students with the skills needed for careers in local police departments, federal agencies, national parks, and courts of law.
Key Takeaways:
- Our affordable law enforcement degrees online have tuition costs below $12,000.
- Online colleges under our Best by Student Reviews list have a recommendation rate of 68% or higher.
- Law enforcement programs with the best Salary Scores all have median earnings above $46,000, with the top schools having earnings over $60,000.
Our selection framework deviates from conventional ranking systems, focusing instead on various key attributes such as affordability, alumni salary outcomes, and student reviews. Our methodology outlines three distinct categories: Best by Salary Score, Best by Affordability, and Highest Rated by Students, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
Featured Popular Online Colleges
Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 135,584
Southern New Hampshire University's BS in Criminal Justice - Security Management offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare you for leadership roles in protecting organizational assets and personnel. The program costs $330 per credit, spans 40 courses with 8-week terms, and allows for up to 90 transferable credits, drastically reducing cost and time to completion. Online learning is flexible and backed by 24/7 support, and the program includes hands-on learning experiences. The security management concentration emphasizes threat identification, crisis management, and business continuity, equipping you for roles like security operations manager and chief security officer.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 33,392
Purdue Global offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, emphasizing Law Enforcement among seven concentration options. You can complete this degree within four years, dedicating 15-18 hours per week. The program costs approximately $371 per credit, with potential savings through credit for law enforcement certification and prior military experience. This degree facilitates a seamless transition into a master’s pathway, potentially reducing overall educational expenses. Impressively, 91% of graduates secured employment or pursued further education within 18 months, underscoring the program's efficacy in preparing you for diverse roles in the criminal justice field.
Walden University
- Online Enrollment: 6,298
Walden University’s BS in Criminal Justice – Advanced Topics in Criminal Justice (AIM) is designed for those aiming to streamline their path to a master’s degree. You can complete the bachelor’s in as few as 48 months with tuition as low as $46,980 (with the Believe & Achieve Scholarship®). The program allows you to earn up to 20 master’s-level credits as an undergraduate, potentially reducing your MS in Criminal Justice cost and completion time. We believe the straightforward admissions process, generous transfer credit policy (up to 135 credits), and the next cohort starting May 26, 2025, make this concentration a compelling, cost-effective option for career advancement.
Best by Salary Score
Our Best by Salary Score analysis includes institutions based on alumni earnings, using College Scorecard data to assign scores that highlight schools producing top-earning graduates within four years. The top law enforcement degrees online all have median earnings above $47,815.
Southern New Hampshire University Online
Why We Like Them:
A commendable aspect about SNHU's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Police Administration & Operations is the median earnings of graduates, which stand at $62,737 annually. This high earning potential and A+ Salary Score in the field highlights the program's substantial return on investment. The program requires 40 courses over 8-week terms, focusing on crime analysis, community policing, crisis intervention, and management in criminal justice organizations. It also allows you to potentially earn up to 12 credits for completing police academy training, accelerating your path to graduation.
What Students Say:
"I love SNHU. The courses were informative and the faculty were experts in their field. Having assignments with practical applications really helped me grasp the material. The quality and delivery of the course content were excellent. The flexibility allowed me to learn at my own pace, and my academic advisor was always accessible for guidance. Completing my degree at SNHU has genuinely improved both my personal and professional life."
Georgii Mukha, Graduated 2023
Columbia Southern University
Why We Like Them:
With a median earnings figure of $60,062, CSU alumni of the online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration - Arson Investigation are in the top 5% of all U.S. institutions for this metric, underscoring the substantial return on investment you can expect from your education. CSU's specialization in Arson Investigation is meticulously designed to prepare students for technical and scientific roles in criminal justice, focusing on disciplines such as fire behavior, combustion, forensics, and evidence collection. The program requires 120 credits, offers a flexible start date, and allows students to transfer up to 90 credits.
What Students Say:
"The courses are workload-intensive and involve numerous assignments, including critiques and case studies. My writing, knowledge, and skills have significantly improved. The university offers quality education and affordable tuition."
Richie, Graduated 2023
California Baptist University
Why We Like Them:
CBU hosts an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that scores an A Salary Score, with mid-career median earnings at $57,399. Complementing this, CBU's average financial aid package is generous, averaging $22,757. The online criminal justice degree offers accelerated, asynchronous courses that start every 8 weeks, making it highly suitable for working professionals. The program requires 48 units to complete and can be fast-tracked in 16 months. It prepares you for real-world applications in law enforcement and security sectors.
What Students Say:
"I loved my experience at California Baptist University (CBU) and I couldn't imagine having completed my undergrad anywhere else...The professors in the criminal justice program were all either former or current police, judges, or lawyers which helped bring a feeling of practicality to their lectures that can only be achieved from real-life experience."
Matthew Baldwin, Graduated 2015
Western Illinois University
Why We Like Them:
WIU's online Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration is high on our list due to the median earnings of its graduates at $57,113, positioning it in the top 10% nationally. This strong earning potential is a testament to the quality and reputation of the program. The program emphasizes practical experience, collaborating with over 1,400 agencies to offer internship opportunities. This extensive network facilitates valuable real-world application and enhances employability. Furthermore, the Law Enforcement and Justice Administration program at WIU is available entirely online.
What Students Say:
"Evening classes are available as well as online classes which make it very accessible for working professionals and parents."
Elinor Velasquez, Graduated 2021
Franklin University
Why We Like Them:
With a median salary of $50,219, graduates of the online Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Management & Leadership - Law Enforcement at Franklin can expect to earn more than 65% of peers from other institutions, indicating a strong return on investment. We also like that this program allows you to transfer up to 75% of credits and complete the degree faster with 24 hours of technical transfer credit. The curriculum covers critical areas such as emergency management, security planning, and threat assessment. Classes are taught by real-world practitioners, enriching your learning experience with practical knowledge.
What Students Say:
"I really enjoyed my time at Franklin, but it was much different than I expected. Despite being an online school, there is a lot of group work and instructors will hold class online with required attendance... Overall, I had a positive experience."
Anonymous, Graduated 2016
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Why We Like Them:
UCCS hosts an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement, which produces graduates who make an annual median salary of $47,815. The program allows flexibility in elective credits, focusing on the evolution of policing, police organization, and current law enforcement challenges. Courses such as National Security, Cybercrime, and Advanced Interview Techniques provide specialized knowledge, benefiting your career development. This online learning environment is aimed at producing well-rounded law enforcement professionals.
What Students Say:
"UCCS provided me with a quality education from exceptional instructors designed to expand the critical decision-making abilities and preparedness of future business leaders. The networking opportunities were unparalleled and the knowledge gained has been invaluable in my professional growth."
Mathimaran, Graduated 2022
Middle Tennessee State University
Why We Like Them:
MTSU's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement has attractive earning potential, with a median salary among graduates of $46,241. We appreciate that MTSU places a strong emphasis on real-world applications, offering internships with over 40 criminal justice agencies, such as district attorney and public defender offices, police and sheriff departments, probation and parole offices, and various state and federal agencies. These opportunities provide invaluable hands-on experience and practical insights into the criminal justice system, crucial for professional success.
What Students Say:
"A great school for an affordable price... Professors were great and the classes were very informative."
Cody, Graduated 2022
Best by Affordability
To identify the most affordable colleges, we focus on schools offering a consistent tuition rate across most undergraduate programs. These institutions must provide fully online bachelor's degrees, and they are thoroughly researched by our staff to ensure accuracy. All of our top affordable online law enforcement degrees have tuition costs under $15,000.
Union Commonwealth University
Why We Like Them:
With a tuition of $6,750, Union KY's online Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement is advantageous if you are seeking quality education that is budget-friendly. Beyond its affordability, the program is enriched by a notable student-faculty ratio of 9:1, which can significantly enhance your online learning experience through personalized attention and mentorship. Program modules include Substantive Law for Enforcement Professionals and Homeland Security, which ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding of the field. We also like that 100% of students here receive financial aid.
What Students Say:
"For the working professional, Union College is a fantastic option. As a student, Union provides you with all of the tools necessary to succeed. While working full-time, and running a business, I was allowed to complete my bachelor's degree at a pace that accommodated my busy work schedule and lifestyle. Great staff, instructors, and financial aid options."
Phillip Davis, Graduated 2020
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Why We Like Them:
SUNY Canton's online Bachelor of Technology in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement Leadership has affordable tuition, which stands at $8,480 in the top 8% of the most affordable choices in the nation. Also, the median earnings for graduates from SUNY Canton are $48,560, situating the graduates in the 57th percentile, meaning they earn more than over half of the alumni from other institutions. This degree is specifically tailored for incoming students aiming for ranks within the police force, current law enforcement officers seeking advancement opportunities, and two-year criminal justice students looking to extend their education.
Trine University Online
Why We Like Them:
Trine's tuition is exceptionally affordable at $8,970 for its online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Indiana Law Enforcement. Coupled with the fact that 100% of students receive financial aid, Trine's commitment to making education accessible is clear. Additionally, its small student-to-faculty ratio (8:1) ensures a highly personalized learning experience. This program allows you to transfer up to 90 credit hours, and you can complete both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in four years, saving up to $8,625. Practical experience through internships and capstone projects further enhances your career readiness.
Waldorf University
Why We Like Them:
Waldorf's online Bachelor of Science Criminal Justice has an annual tuition of $9,750. Beyond cost, another compelling factor is the substantial financial aid offered. With an average financial aid package of $17,359, placing it among the top 23%, Waldorf ensures that education is accessible to a wide range of students. The program has three core areas of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Faculty includes professionals from across the justice system, such as probation and law enforcement officers, attorneys, judges, former mental health clinicians, and juvenile service workers.
What Students Say:
"Classes are tough... professors are great and the knowledge earned is invaluable. I highly recommend Waldorf... My experiences have been phenomenal!"
Mike, Graduated 2022
University of Maine at Augusta
Why We Like Them:
UMA's online Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies has an annual tuition of $9,952, placing it in the top 15% for cost-effectiveness among its peers. We appreciate that it offers a range of specializations in areas such as Paralegal Studies, Community Policing, and Forensics. The online bachelor's program also provides a joint accelerated 3+3 program with the University of Maine Law School, allowing students to fast-track their legal careers. We also like that it provides credentials in law-related fields, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, security, corrections, probation, investigations, or legal professions.
Culver-Stockton College
Why We Like Them:
Culver's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement has a competitively priced tuition at $11,850. You'll benefit from hands-on learning opportunities such as crime scene investigation and internships in law enforcement agencies, making you job-ready upon graduation. Unique specializations in Forensic Science, Forensic Accounting, and Law Enforcement provide you with targeted skills for various criminal justice careers. Moreover, 100% of students receive financial aid, illustrating the college's commitment to making higher education accessible to everyone.
Regent University Online
Why We Like Them:
Regent is on our list due to its competitive tuition of $11,850 per year for the online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement. This online degree covers 120+ credit hours, encompassing critical areas like criminal law, juvenile justice, and criminal investigation, all from a Christian perspective. The curriculum, which includes courses in Criminal Procedure and Constitutional Law, ensures a well-rounded education. Moreover, the program offers multiple scholarship opportunities, further easing financial burdens.
What Students Say:
"This is a great school! During my engineering time there, the professors were very caring and made sure you received quality instruction. My dissertation chair was very responsive and encouraging. This is a Christian University grounded in the Word of God and committed to excellence!"
N.D., Graduated 2020
Nelson University
Why We Like Them:
Nelson's online Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement boasts an economical tuition fee of $12,450. Perhaps the most unique aspect of this program is its integration of police academy certification with the bachelor's degree. You can complete both within the same timeframe. Additionally, Nelson’s program offers concentrations in Advanced Penology, Criminal Investigation, and Ethics in Criminal Justice. The requirement to attend a Texas police academy or transfer in credit hours adds a valuable layer of real-world training that sets graduates apart in the job market.
The University of Tennessee - Martin
Why We Like Them:
UTM offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement online, with a tuition of $12,480. Additionally, 99% of students receive financial aid, underscoring the university's commitment to making higher education accessible. The program focuses on preparing professionals with essential skills such as law, communication, fitness, and firearms familiarization, tailored specifically for careers in law enforcement. These elements combine to provide a well-rounded and practical education that readies students for various roles, be it as a police officer, FBI agent, or crime scene investigator.
What Students Say:
"UT Martin is a small college that has a great reputation. It is a very safe place, and there is always someone to help you. UT Martin has a small hometown feel. The classes are small and the teachers truly care."
Alexandra Lyle, Graduated 2019
UMass Global
Why We Like Them:
UMass Global's Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice stands out for its affordability, with an estimated tuition of $15,000 annually, making it a financially accessible option compared to many other programs. We also like that UMass Global faculty is comprised of professionals with substantial real-world experience in criminal justice and legal studies. The curriculum requires a comprehensive study of 120 semester units, blending general education with specific criminal justice coursework, which prepares you for a diverse range of career paths in law enforcement, court, and justice sectors.
What Students Say:
"Professors have been very knowledgeable... No complaints with Brandman University... recommend this school to everyone!"
E.A., Graduated 2017
Highest Rated by Students
Alumni reviews are a valuable measure of student satisfaction. To be included on this list, schools must have at least 20 reviews on OnlineU or GradReports and a minimum rating of 3.5 out of 5. All top-rated schools with law enforcement programs score 3.5 or higher, with recommendation rates as high as 97%.
University of Arizona
Why We Like Them:
Rated by students with an excellent review score of 4.05 out of 5, UA provides an exemplary learning experience. The online Bachelor of Science in Intelligence & Information Operations requires 120 credits, and up to 60 credits can be transferred. The curriculum includes offensive and defensive intelligence and information operations, supported by a state-of-the-art virtual learning environment. Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence by the Defense Intelligence Agency, UA’s program prepares graduates for careers in operational intelligence, information warfare, and law enforcement intelligence.
What Students Say:
"I enjoyed my time at the University of Arizona and liked the wide range of courses offered... Most of the professors were very experienced in the criminal justice and psychology classes."
Sarah Green, Graduated 2012
Thomas Jefferson University
Why We Like Them:
TJU has a high review rating of 4.03 out of 5, and it hosts an online Bachelor of Science in Law and Society that requires a total of 120 credits for completion. It's structured to accommodate both part-time and full-time students. TJU’s unique approach includes an emphasis on practical learning experiences and prepares graduates for licensure where applicable. This comprehensive educational structure, coupled with significant financial aid and high retention and graduation rates, makes TJU a top choice for pursuing a Bachelor's in Law and Society online.
What Students Say:
"Jefferson offers its students countless resources... coaching and other resources for students interested in entrepreneurship... up to each student to become informed about all of Jefferson's offerings, and take advantage of all its opportunities while still having the privilege of being a student."
Julia Anthony, Graduated 2019
Arizona State University, Online
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 3.89/5
- Number of Reviews: 725
- Recommend Rate: 90%
Why We Like Them:
ASU's student body rates the school a 3.89 out of 5. This strong rating highlights the satisfaction of learners. The online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice - Policing covers police organization, criminal procedure, and crime analysis, equipping you with a skill set needed for law enforcement roles at the local, state, and federal levels. This degree not only prepares you for immediate employment but also supports future academic ambitions through its Accelerated Master's pathway, allowing you to earn a master's degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate studies.
Park University
Why We Like Them:
Park's 3.86 out of 5 student review rating and 82% recommendation rate reflect substantial satisfaction. The school hosts an online Bachelor of Arts/Science in Criminal Justice Administration - Law Enforcement, which covers topics from criminal law to investigations and ethics, ensuring that you are well-prepared for both entry-level roles and advanced positions. On top of these academic strengths, Park's strong online presence, evidenced by its online enrollment of over 4,000 distance learners at the undergraduate level alone, means you'll be joining a substantial and vibrant online community.
What Students Say:
"After transitioning out of the Navy I was in search of a university that was both military friendly as well as (and most importantly) respected in the community, I found both at Park... I was treated with the respect that comes with being a veteran of two wars... The space is filled with 'like-minded people'... They do all the little things right..."
RMS, Graduated 2014
Purdue Global
Key Metrics:
- Overall Rating: 3.73/5
- Number of Reviews: 626
- Recommend Rate: 75%
Why We Like Them:
With an overall review rating of 3.72 out of 5, Purdue Global is an excellent choice. Its online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement offers a 3-week trial period at no cost, easing your transition into higher education. Unique features such as multiple start dates, the ability to transfer credits, and other concentration options besides Law Enforcement in diverse fields like Forensic Psychology and Homeland Security add tremendous value to your learning experience. It's also helpful to mention that there are over 33,000 online students enrolled here, so it's a popular choice for remote learning.
What Students Say:
"The professors are incredibly engaging and go above and beyond to assist students. The curriculum is well planned and challenging yet manageable, allowing a balance of work, life, and education. The support system is robust, as well as the career services. I highly recommend Purdue Global for those looking to further their education in a supportive and flexible environment."
Yuri Kalinin, Graduated 2023
Bellevue University
Why We Like Them:
Bellevue has a solid overall review rating of 3.54 out of 5. This metric is a strong indicator that students generally find the program meets their expectations, reflecting positively on the quality of education and student satisfaction. Bellevue features an online Bachelor of Science in Intelligence and Security Studies that emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches across various fields such as philosophy, psychology, and global affairs, ensuring a well-rounded and thorough understanding of intelligence studies. The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours and offers a flexible, fully online format tailored to fit your schedule.
What Students Say:
"My experience in the program has been excellent. Communication with professors was excellent. If I ever had a question, they would respond quickly. The first is the course load and working... The course load was manageable. If you have good time management skills, course load will not be an issue."
Gabrielle A., Graduated 2022
Featured Popular Online Colleges
Southern New Hampshire University Online
- Online Enrollment: 135,584
Southern New Hampshire University's BS in Criminal Justice - Security Management offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare you for leadership roles in protecting organizational assets and personnel. The program costs $330 per credit, spans 40 courses with 8-week terms, and allows for up to 90 transferable credits, drastically reducing cost and time to completion. Online learning is flexible and backed by 24/7 support, and the program includes hands-on learning experiences. The security management concentration emphasizes threat identification, crisis management, and business continuity, equipping you for roles like security operations manager and chief security officer.
Purdue Global
- Online Enrollment: 33,392
Purdue Global offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, emphasizing Law Enforcement among seven concentration options. You can complete this degree within four years, dedicating 15-18 hours per week. The program costs approximately $371 per credit, with potential savings through credit for law enforcement certification and prior military experience. This degree facilitates a seamless transition into a master’s pathway, potentially reducing overall educational expenses. Impressively, 91% of graduates secured employment or pursued further education within 18 months, underscoring the program's efficacy in preparing you for diverse roles in the criminal justice field.
Walden University
- Online Enrollment: 6,298
Walden University’s BS in Criminal Justice – Advanced Topics in Criminal Justice (AIM) is designed for those aiming to streamline their path to a master’s degree. You can complete the bachelor’s in as few as 48 months with tuition as low as $46,980 (with the Believe & Achieve Scholarship®). The program allows you to earn up to 20 master’s-level credits as an undergraduate, potentially reducing your MS in Criminal Justice cost and completion time. We believe the straightforward admissions process, generous transfer credit policy (up to 135 credits), and the next cohort starting May 26, 2025, make this concentration a compelling, cost-effective option for career advancement.
Student Reviews of Online Law Enforcement Programs
I attended the University of Phoenix and completed the Associates Degree Program. Overall, I would rate the Associates Degree program as acceptable, although it too was expensive.
Financial aid department is actually pretty good, and very helpful. I never had any trouble with obtaining financial aid.
Academic advisers are also helpful, however, I believe they call a little too often. There might be some people who need that to keep them motivated, but I was not one of them. I maintained a great GPA... Read More
Review Date: 5/2/2013
Would Recommend: No
Going to college was one of the best decisions I ever made. I learned to be independent and made friends from all over while living in the dorms. It not only helped me in my career but for success in life in general.
Review Date: 8/19/2015
Would Recommend: Yes