[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you’re interested in these careers, you 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following guide explores college application requirements, concentration options, and potential jobs for criminal justice majors. Keep reading to discover the best online schools for criminal justice that can help prepare you to protect and serve your community.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]10 Best Online Schools for Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How We Chose These Schools”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At TheBestSchools, we use trusted data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools without bias. Our ranking methodology helps prospective students from various backgrounds find the best fit. We consider key factors like academic quality, online offerings, and affordability so every type of student can find the best fit for them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This ranking is from 2023. Learn more about how our formula works on [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]our ranking methodology page[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Criminal Justice Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/criminal-justice-degree/”]criminal justice programs[/hen-ui-link] ground you in a liberal arts foundation, enabling you to pursue public and private sector careers in all levels of government.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The curriculum emphasizes the complexities of the American criminal justice system, covering law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. Using criminological theories, you explore crime and deviant behavior from a sociological perspective. Programs may also offer criminal justice internships at local and state government agencies and nonprofits.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”3″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”strokeSecondary” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-xl md:text-2xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]Total Credits[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-3xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]120 credits[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”strokeSecondary” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-xl md:text-2xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]Length[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-3xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]4 years (full time)[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”strokeSecondary” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-xl md:text-2xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]Average Tuition and Fees[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”font-heading text-heading text-3xl” style=”letter-spacing: 0.01rem;”]$8,504 per year*[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Criminal Justice Degree Concentrations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As a criminal justice major, you can enjoy greater career relevance when you pursue concentrations within the field. Much like a minor, specializations allow you to explore subjects that fall within or intersect with criminal justice. Common concentrations include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Homeland Security: This specialization focuses on protecting the nation from threats like terrorism through border security, emergency management, and intelligence analysis.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Criminology: Enrollees examine the causes, effects, and prevention of crime by studying the social, psychological, and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cybersecurity: This focus covers safeguarding digital systems, networks, and data from cyberthreats and attacks. Assignments cover methods of preventing, detecting, and responding to cyberincidents.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Online?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Data from the [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_311.15.asp” target=”_blank”]National Center for Education Statistics[/hen-ui-link] (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. [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/”]Online programs[/hen-ui-link] offer the same quality and education as on-campus programs with added benefits, such as:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Potentially lower tuition, even if you live out of state[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Flexible learning format[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/resources/synchronous-vs-asynchronous-programs-courses/”]Self-paced options[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No commutes to campus[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Greater diversity in classrooms[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Better work-life balance, especially for parents and caregivers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]More college options[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Get an Online Criminal Justice Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Each online criminal justice program has its own requirements and preferences when reviewing candidates. 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 [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/applying-to-college/how-to-apply-for-college/”]college applications[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-icon icon=”check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /]High School Transcripts[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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 you do not meet GPA minimums, some schools consider standardized test scores or placement exams.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-icon icon=”check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /]Extracurriculars[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]No matter your academic background, colleges may prefer criminal justice majors 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 your commitment to your community.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-icon icon=”check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /]Essay[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many schools require you to submit a self-reflective essay about your experiences. Consider discussing your interest in criminal justice as a major and career path to help the admissions committee understand what drives you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-icon icon=”check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /]Letters of Recommendation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Undergraduate degree-seekers may need recommendation letters from educators, mentors, and other nonfamily professionals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″][hen-ui-icon icon=”check” color=”primary” aria-hidden=”true” /]ACT/SAT Scores[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many institutions have made ACT and SAT scores optional, while others request scores only if your GPA does not meet required minimums. Generally, schools look for scores totaling at least 20 for the ACT or 1030 for the SAT. If you have earned these scores — or higher — you can submit them to boost your applications, even if not required.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, you can pursue work in many different settings, such as police departments, law offices, and correctional facilities. Popular [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/criminal-justice/”]criminal justice jobs[/hen-ui-link] include police officer, probation officer, and corrections officer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The list below includes a few career paths for criminal justice degree-holders.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Patrol Officer[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Median Annual Wage (2024): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]$77,270[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job Growth (2023-33): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm#tab-6″ target=”_blank”]4%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Across the country, there are 796,800 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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Probation Officer[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Median Annual Wage (2024): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]$64,520[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job Growth (2023-33): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]4%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]FBI Special Agent[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Salary Range: [hen-ui-link href=”https://fbijobs.gov/special-agents” target=”_blank”]$81,000-$129,000[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job Growth (2023-33): N/A[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Crime Scene Technician[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Median Annual Wage (2024): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm” target=”_blank”]$67,440[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job Growth (2023-33): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm” target=”_blank”]14%[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A criminal justice degree with a specialization in [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-bachelors-crime-scene-investigation-csi/”]crime scene investigation[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Digital Forensics Analyst[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Average Annual Wage (2025): [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Digital_Forensic_Investigator/Salary” target=”_blank”]$70,430[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job Growth (2023-33): N/A[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]FAQ About the Best Schools for Criminal Justice[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What college has the best criminal justice program?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice take?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Completing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice as a full-time student typically takes four years. Part-time students take longer, depending on their credit load each semester.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much does an online bachelor’s in criminal justice cost?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The average annual tuition cost of an online bachelor’s degree in protective services is $8,504 as of 2020, [hen-ui-link href=”https://nces.ed.gov/datalab/powerstats/table/qodxhu” target=”_blank”]according to NCES data[/hen-ui-link]. Across four years, this figure totals $34,016. Factors that impact how much you pay for your degree include scholarships, grants, and state residency status at public institutions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a criminal justice degree worth it?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A criminal justice degree can be worth it if you’re interested in building your knowledge of the field while qualifying yourself for advanced, higher-paying roles. For example, bachelor’s graduates can pursue careers in law enforcement, social work, and even the court system. In these sectors, a relevant degree is often required.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Upon completing a criminal justice bachelor’s degree, you can also pursue advanced studies. With a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-masters-social-work/”]master’s in social work[/hen-ui-link], 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Law school is another option after completing a criminal justice undergraduate program. Law students with a juris doctor degree can specialize in criminal law or other subfields like intellectual property, corporate, health, or tax law.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is criminal justice a hard major?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The difficulty of a criminal justice major varies depending on individual strengths and interests. It involves studying law, criminology, ethics, and other aspects of the criminal justice system. While it can be challenging, students who are passionate about the field and willing to put in the effort can succeed.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”1540,1317,1298″][/hen-ui-article-row]