Programs & Criminal Justice Resources for Maryland Students
Criminal justice schools in Maryland can provide a variety of degrees, certificates and professional training to pave the way to careers across law enforcement, corrections, law and legal support and the justice system. With large cities like Baltimore ranked highly on the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, the need for qualified criminal justice professionals is ever present in Maryland. For prospective students, finding the right criminal justice school means choosing a particular area of study in the industry. Use the following guide to explore criminal justice schools in Maryland, compare the best programs and degree options and learn about the employment outlook for different careers in legal and protective services in the state.
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The Best Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland
Methodology
Criminal justice is a popular academic field of study that can be found at nearly every institution of higher education. Community colleges, technical training centers and public, four-year universities may all offer forms of criminal justice degree program, but which criminal justice schools in Maryland are the best? This list ranks the top programs using a culmination of many factors and criteria, including tuition and graduations rates, to give students a better picture of Maryland's best criminal justice schools.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Coppin State University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Coppin State University provides flexible study for learners seeking a bachelor's-level education. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. At present, the college provides 37 bachelor's degree programs, with two programs supporting remote study.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Criminal justice students complete field-specific coursework as part of the curriculum. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study, and they gain practical knowledge.
Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $8,524.
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
University of Baltimore
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Baltimore offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Of its 27 bachelor's degree programs, one is offered online. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students receive guidance throughout their program through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college reports an average financial aid package of $6,421.
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD - 4 years
- Online
From its main campus in Adelphi, the University of Maryland Global Campus supports numerous online degree options for undergraduate students. The school offers 31 online bachelor’s degrees.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Throughout their program, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. Of all enrollees, 46% receive financial aid awards.
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Stevenson University
Stevenson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Stevenson University. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. To date, the private college supports 30 bachelor's programs, four of which are online.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Criminal justice students complete undergraduate coursework as part of the program curriculum. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. At the college, 99% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Princess Anne, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. Students can enroll in one of 35 campus-based bachelor's programs or opt for remote study. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, and they attend industry-specific lectures. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities, and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The institution reports that 89% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Towson University
Towson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Towson University. Of its 63 bachelor's degree programs, one is offered online. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree program.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $8,822.
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Bowie State University
Bowie, MD - 4 years
- Campus
Bowie State University is a public college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. To date, the public college offers 28 bachelor's programs, including a criminal justice degree.
Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether they are learning in person or online. Students complete criminal justice coursework as part of the bachelor's program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Learners can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. The average enrollee receives $8,092 in financial aid.
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Frostburg State University
Frostburg, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Frostburg State University. The college supports 54 bachelor's programs, with three enabling fully remote study. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the criminal justice field. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can select elective courses. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. Of all enrollees, 92% receive financial aid.
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Prince George's Community College
Largo, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the degrees from Prince George's Community College. Learners can choose from in-person and online degree programs. Both modalities support rigorous study and connect students with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their program. Learners receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. Of all enrollees, 73% receive financial aid awards.
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Cecil College
North East, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cecil College provides flexible study for learners seeking an associate degree. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff.
Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors and pursue other academic modifications. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $2,858.
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Chesapeake College
Wye Mills, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Wye Mills, Maryland, Chesapeake College provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through on-campus and online learning environments.
Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. The institution reports that 73% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Wor-Wic Community College
Salisbury, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible associate degree program should consider Wor-Wic Community College. The public college offers online and on-campus programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals, in consultation with an academic advisor. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college notes that 79% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Anne Arundel Community College
Arnold, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Anne Arundel Community College. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level.
Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Throughout their program, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $4,709.
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
College of Southern Maryland
La Plata, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
The College of Southern Maryland offers numerous associate degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Students can choose from in-person and remote programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for the criminal justice field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals, in consultation with an academic advisor. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout their degree program.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 47% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $4,167.
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Hagerstown Community College provides flexible study for learners seeking an associate degree. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.
After enrolling, students join a supportive learning community, whether studying in person or online. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes and can modify their course load to suit their career goals.
In consultation with an academic advisor, students can choose electives and pursue degree concentrations and minors. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all enrollees, 77% receive some form of financial aid.
#16 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Baltimore City Community College
Baltimore, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Baltimore City Community College is a public college offering hybrid education in Maryland. Students can enroll in campus-based associate programs or opt for remote study. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of the criminal justice field. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students receive guidance throughout their program through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $5,117.
#17 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Carroll Community College
Westminster, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Carroll Community College provides flexible study for learners pursuing an associate degree. Located in Westminster, Maryland, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online.
After enrolling, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance in their future career.
Learners can customize their curriculum in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Learners receive an average financial aid package of $4,324.
#18 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Frederick Community College
Frederick, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Frederick Community College offers numerous associate degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. The college supports both in-person and remote degree programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their curriculum, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students receive guidance throughout their program through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. According to the institution, 53% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $4,400.
#19 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Howard Community College
Columbia, MD - 2 years
- Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider an associate degree from Howard Community College. The Columbia-based college supports both in-person and remote degree programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the criminal justice field. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals, in consultation with an academic advisor. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. According to the institution, 58% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $4,423.
#20 Criminal Justice Schools in Maryland [2022 Guide]
Montgomery College
Rockville, MD - 2 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Rockville, Montgomery College supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Of its associate degree programs, several are offered online. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the criminal justice field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 66% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
Side by Side: Maryland Compared to Criminal Justice Nationally
As noted above, Maryland has a robust criminal justice system with employment opportunities at the local, municipal, county and state level at government organizations or with non-profits and private businesses. Students interested in attending criminal justice school in Maryland can get a better picture of the overall state of the industry by looking at the graphs below, showing which criminal justice occupations pay more or have higher growth projections than the national average in Maryland. Scroll over each bar to see the numbers, and what type of degree each job requires in the state.
Salary
| Job | National | Maryland |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Law Judge | 93,140 | 96,770 |
| Paralegal | 52,390 | 52,880 |
| Bailiff | 44,900 | 45,260 |
| Police, Sheriff & Patrol Officer | 61,270 | 61,610 |
| Correctional Officer | 45,320 | 45,520 |
| Judicial Law Clerk | 59,910 | 65,200 |
| Private Detective | 52,540 | 52,840 |
| Compliance Officer | 69,180 | 75,920 |
Job Growth
| Job | National | Maryland |
|---|---|---|
| Compliance Officer | 0.033 | 0.161 |
| Lawyer | 0.056 | 0.144 |
| Paralegal | 0.076 | 0.191 |
| Private Detective | 0.052 | 0.229 |
| Police, Sheriff & Patrol Officers | 0.05 | 0.057 |
| Court Reporters | 0.014 | 0.031 |
| Forensic Science Technician | 0.118 | 0.264 |
| Criminal Justice Professor | 0.213 | 0.314 |
Source: Projections Central, 2015
Where to Get Hired After Criminal Justice School in Maryland
For criminal justice students in Maryland, deciding where to go after graduation can be as challenging as deciding where and what to study. The career options are diverse across Maryland-from large metropolitan areas like Baltimore to smaller communities like Cumberland. The map below helps students at criminal justice schools in Maryland understand more about the demographics of the industry across different areas of the state. Scroll over the markers to learn about the differences in wages and employment numbers for these top.
- Protective Services Potential Employers Howard County District Court; Montgomery County Correctional; Maryland State Police; Maryland Department of Natural Resources; College Park Parking Enforcement; Hyattsville Police Department; Maryland Transportation Authority; Anne Arundel County Animal Control; Harford County Public Schools; Montgomery County Government; Baltimore-Washington International Airport Total Number of Employees in Maryland: 71,850
- Legal Occupations Potential Employers Private law firms; Court of Appeals of Maryland; Office of Disability Adjudication and Review; Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; Maryland Judiciary's Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office; Queen Anne's Circuit Court; District Court of Maryland Total Number of Employees in Maryland: 24,180
Largest areas of employment in descending order
Protective service
- Baltimore, Columbia, Towson
- Silver Spring, Frederick, Rockville
- Salisbury
- Hagerstown, Martinsburg
- Cumberland
Legal service
- Baltimore, Columbia, Towson
- Silver Spring, Frederick, Rockville
- Salisbury
- Hagerstown, Martinsburg
- California, Lexington Park
Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Maryland
Business Compliance Resources
Association of Corporate Counsel, Baltimore
A professional group for in-house business law counsel professionals in the Baltimore area, providing social, networking and educational events.
Maryland Department of Commerce
A state agency that promotes business development in Maryland, including resources into statewide compliance rules, regulations and procedures.
Maryland Office of Small Business Resources
An office of the Maryland Department of Commerce that helps small business owners and entrepreneurs navigate local, state and federal government processes and regulations.
Correctional Resources
Maryland Correctional Administrators Association
An association of correctional professionals that offers membership and advocates for public policy and legislative changes that support the field of corrections, awards scholarships to students and offers professional development opportunities.
Maryland Correctional Enterprises
The prison industrial arm of the Maryland Department of Corrections that trains and employs offenders in state prisons and conducts community outreach programs.
Maryland Department of Public Safety & Correctional Services
The state department that manages 27 correctional institutions in the Maryland and 45 parole and probation offices, has 12,000 employees and operates a variety of programs to protect public safety.
Court & Judicial Resources
Maryland Court Appointed Special Advocates
Founded in 1997, a nonprofit organization that supports Maryland's Court Appointed Special Advocate programs to find placements for neglected and abused children in Maryland.
Maryland Court Reporters Association
The official association for court reporters in the state that offers networking events, hosts conventions and supports professional development activities in the field.
Maryland Teen Court Association
Founded in 1001, the Maryland Teen Court Association offers programs to reduce juvenile crime and develop new teen court programs in the state.
Legal Resources
Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney's Association
A membership-based organization for attorneys and associated legal professionals that promotes judicial study and serve as a forum for professional concerns in the field.
Maryland State Bar Association
A membership organization that represents more than 25,000 judges and lawyers in Maryland and offers career support, legal resources and professional networking opportunities.
Women's Bar Association of Maryland
A specialty association that supports equal rights and professional development for women in the legal profession.
Law Enforcement Resources
Maryland Chiefs of Police Association
Founded in 1961, the association has membership across public and private law enforcement agencies that holds an annual seminar and provides professional development programs.
Maryland Fraternal Order of Police
An organization with more than 20,000 active and retired law enforcement officials that has local lodges and advocates on behalf of its members.
Maryland Law Enforcement Officers, Inc.
A professional, non-profit organization of 600 members across 84 different criminal justice agencies throughout the state of Maryland.
Wildlife & Environmental Resources
Maryland Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education
A non-profit organization founded in 1985 that operates a series of environmental training programs, conferences and networking events.
Maryland Department of the Environment
The state department for managing environmental, conservation, rehabilitation and public health projects throughout Maryland.
Maryland Environmental Laboratory Association
Found in 1990, the association is a non-profit organization that has members among local, state, federal, industry and commercial environmental industries.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police
The enforcement arm of the Department of Natural Resources, these officers cover everything from boating laws to homeland security, search and rescue and emergency medical services.