Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degree

A criminal justice degree can lead to new and exciting career opportunities. Here, we list the top online criminal justice degrees.
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Updated September 15, 2023

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Learners with a high school or GED diploma can pursue an online criminal justice degree. Applicants may need to submit standardized test scores and recommendation letters. Coursework covers criminology theories, communication skills, and challenges criminal justice professionals face.

Popular criminal justice jobs include police officer, private investigator, and criminal profiler. Some careers require a bachelor's degree and professional experience. The following guide to online criminal justice degrees answers frequently asked questions, highlights typical courses, and explores career paths. Before applying to criminal justice schools, learners should contact an admissions advisor about program requirements and outcomes.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Justice

What kind of jobs can I get with a criminal justice degree?

Criminal justice careers include counterterrorism investigator, paralegal, and public policy analyst. Bachelor's degree-seekers prepare for careers through specialization or elective courses.

What are the highest-paying criminal justice jobs?

Some of the highest-paying criminal justice jobs include lawyer, forensic analyst, and private investigator. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), lawyers earn a median salary of $126,930 per year.

What skills does criminal justice require?

Criminal justice professionals need transferable skills in written and oral communication, time management, and critical thinking. Students earning an online criminal justice degree develop these skills in major and general election classes.

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Why Get a Degree in Criminal Justice?

According to the BLS, police officers and detectives earn a median annual salary of $67,290, approximately $25,000 more than median salary for all occupations. Other criminal justice professionals, such as emergency management directors, earn higher median salaries. The BLS projects employment for police officers and emergency management directors to increase about as fast as average from 2020-2030.

Online criminal justice degrees offer flexibility and accessibility. Distance learning allows more learners to access criminal justice careers. Asynchronous learning allows degree-seekers to schedule their education around work and family responsibilities. Additionally, online students can enroll in out-of-state programs without relocating.

How Much Does a Criminal Justice Cost?

Although tuition varies by school, many online degrees offer a tuition rate much lower than what on-campus degree-seekers pay. Students find affordable online criminal justice degrees by exploring in-state public schools. Most public schools charge the lowest tuition to residents. Typical full-time students earn a bachelor's degree in four years. Accelerated degree-seekers may need only three years. Part-time learners may need five years.

Online criminal justice degrees may charge fees, such as a technology fee. Other expenses include textbooks and a graduation fee. Learners should also budget for technology, as they must meet their school's technology requirements. Students may need to purchase a new computer or a faster internet connection.

How Much Do Criminal Justice Majors Make?

Salary potential depends on many factors, such as location. Police and patrol officers living in California, New Jersey, and Alaska earn the highest median salaries, according to BLS data. Washington state and Hawaii also offer high salaries. However, these states' costs of living exceed the national average. Students interested in high-paying criminal justice careers can consider fire inspector and forensic science technician.

Graduates of criminal justice schools often qualify for more career opportunities. The FBI requires all special agents to hold a bachelor's degree. Some specialized law enforcement agents need an academic background in criminal justice and another subject.

Courses in Criminal Justice

Online criminal justice degrees require major courses, general education classes, and electives. Major coursework prepares learners to identify why crime happens and determine appropriate consequences. Students learn how various agencies make communities safer. Many programs feature concentrations aligning with certain careers.

The following sample curriculum highlights three courses that many affordable online criminal justice degrees require. Curricula and student experiences vary by school. Program websites typically provide information about academic requirements and graduates' employers. Prospective students can also explore their school's career center website.

  • Essentials of Psychology

    This introductory course covers the relationship between biology and psychology, the human nervous system, and development over the lifespan. Students learn to analyze case studies and draw conclusions about criminals' motivations. The course does not typically require prerequisites.
  • Police Studies

    Regardless of their career goals, students take this class to understand officers' roles in law enforcement. Coursework explores law enforcement theories, procedures, and types of violence. Learners also examine police corruption's impact on public safety. Degree-seekers analyze a community's law enforcement needs and draft a community policing policy.
  • Legal Research and Writing

    Paralegals, lawyers, and judges need advanced research and writing skills. Students in this course improve their information literacy, use research aids, and write memoranda. Learners complete research projects on criminal justice topics such as parental custody. Prerequisites may include a first-year English or writing course.

Career and Salary Outlook for Criminal Justice

The criminal justice field has dozens of career tracks. Many feature high median annual salaries and strong projected growth rates. Graduates of criminal justice schools qualify for a variety of fulfilling job opportunities.

The following descriptions highlight popular career's responsibilities. Job duties vary by state and employer. Some jobs require professional experience in addition to a criminal justice degree. Career advisors can help students understand specific job requirements.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Criminal Justice Degrees By State

Alabama Criminal Justice Degrees Alaska Criminal Justice Degrees Arizona Criminal Justice Degrees Arkansas Criminal Justice Degrees California Criminal Justice Degrees Colorado Criminal Justice Degrees Connecticut Criminal Justice Degrees Delaware Criminal Justice Degrees Florida Criminal Justice Degrees Georgia Criminal Justice Degrees Hawaii Criminal Justice Degrees Idaho Criminal Justice Degrees Illinois Criminal Justice Degrees Indiana Criminal Justice Degrees Iowa Criminal Justice Degrees Kanasas Criminal Justice Degrees Kentucky Criminal Justice Degrees Louisiana Criminal Justice Degrees Maine Criminal Justice Degrees Maryland Criminal Justice Degrees Massachusetts Criminal Justice Degrees Michigan Criminal Justice Degrees Minnesota Criminal Justice Degrees Mississippi Criminal Justice Degrees Missouri Criminal Justice Degrees Montana Criminal Justice Degrees Nebraska Criminal Justice Degrees New Hampshire Criminal Justice Degrees Nevada Criminal Justice Degrees New Jersey Criminal Justice Degrees New Mexico Criminal Justice Degrees New York Criminal Justice Degrees North Carolina Criminal Justice Degrees North Dakota Criminal Justice Degrees Ohio Criminal Justice Degrees Oklahoma Criminal Justice Degrees Oregon Criminal Justice Degrees Pennsylvania Criminal Justice Degrees Rhode Island Criminal Justice Degrees South Carolina Criminal Justice Degrees South Dakota Criminal Justice Degrees Tennessee Criminal Justice Degrees Texas Criminal Justice Degrees Utah Criminal Justice Degrees Vermont Criminal Justice Degrees Virginia Criminal Justice Degrees Washington Criminal Justice Degrees West Virginia Criminal Justice Degrees Wisconsin Criminal Justice Degrees Wyoming Criminal Justice Degrees

Top Criminal Justice Programs

#1 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Saint Leo University

  • Saint Leo, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Saint Leo University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. Learners can choose from one of 46 bachelor's degree programs and opt for remote study across 22 programs.

To earn a bachelor's of criminal justice degree, whether in-person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. Criminal justice students complete relevant coursework to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to begin a career in public safety. 

Learners can also customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to help offset educational expenses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,100
Out-of-state
$23,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,296
Out-of-state
$7,296
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
10,912
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Located in New York, New York, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling remote students to benefit from top-ranked classes, world-class faculty, and a supportive learning community. 

Students pursuing a criminal justice bachelor of science will participate in classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities to prepare them for a career in criminal justice. Along with studying institutional theory and practice, degree-seekers can also modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors to personalize their eduction. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.

Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The institution reports that 85% of all degree seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,930
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,090
Out-of-state
$20,520
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
15,880
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Tiffin University

  • Tiffin, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree-seekers who prefer flexible educational options should consider one of the 55 bachelor’s degrees from Tiffin University. Of its 55 bachelor's degree programs, 18 are offered online. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.

Through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities, criminal justice students can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in criminal justice. While earning a bachelor of criminal justice, degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.

Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,710
Out-of-state
$25,710
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,600
Out-of-state
$12,600
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
2,926
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

University of New Haven

  • West Haven, CT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible education can explore the University of New Haven's in-person and online degree offerings. The West Haven-based college supports both learning platforms, and students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.

Enrollees seeking a bachelor of science in criminal justice take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of the field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes and choose degree concentrations, such as correctional rehabilitation, crime analysis, and police science. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,000
Out-of-state
$39,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,920
Out-of-state
$16,920
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
6,793
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Richmond, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Eastern Kentucky University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The public college offers 89 bachelor's degree programs, 17 of which are fully remote. One of these remote programs is the online bachelor’s degree in police studies. 

Criminal justice students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as lectures covering conflict resolution and critical thinking skills. Students can also work with an academic advisor to customize their degrees by choosing a minor degree and elective classes. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $8,121.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
14,980
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Lake Superior State University

  • Sault Ste Marie, MI
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Lake Superior State University's 51 bachelor's programs. Students considering a career in law enforcement or a related career should consider a bachelor of science in criminal justice.

While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to professional communication, personal responsibility, and evidence analysis. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Enrollees can also access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program duration.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 96% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
1,984
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Utica College

  • Utica, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Utica College. The Utica-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities with in-person and online programs. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.

Criminal justice students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community through the online bachelor of science (BS) in criminal justice program. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with criminal justice. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future careers.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,560
Out-of-state
$21,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,480
Out-of-state
$21,480
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
4,947
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Madonna University

  • Livonia, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking flexible study should consider Madonna University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. At present, the college provides 84 bachelor's degree programs, with 12 programs supporting remote study.

To earn a career in criminal justice, students can earn their bachelor of science in criminal justice degree. Students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Learners also have the option to pursue a minor or associate's degree in criminal justice.

Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Students can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution boasts that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,100
Out-of-state
$23,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,930
Out-of-state
$15,930
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,992
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Students can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

To earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice, 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.

Students can also declare minors and degree concentrations to personalize their learning experience. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

To help offset the cost of tuition, students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Anna Maria College

  • Paxton, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anna Maria College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Located in Paxton, Massachusetts, the private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.

Students seeking to earn a bachelor of science in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning community. As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend relevant lectures given by educators in criminal justice and law enforcement. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future careers in the field.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can also benefit by utilizing institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. At the college, 100% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,190
Out-of-state
$36,190
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,530
Out-of-state
$10,530
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
1,441
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#11 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Drexel University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The college supports 101 bachelor's programs, with eight degrees available fully online While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.

While earning a bachelor of science in criminology and justice studies, students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework to prepare for their future careers. Students can work with their academic advisors to customize their degrees and study trajectory. The college also connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.

Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,146
Out-of-state
$52,146
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$35,181
Out-of-state
$35,181
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
24,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#12 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Sam Houston State University

  • Huntsville, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible education can explore Sam Houston State University's in-person and online degree offerings. To date, the college offers 65 in-person bachelor's programs, eight of which are fully remote. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.

The university offers two types of criminal justice degrees. Students can choose to pursue a bachelor of science (BS) degree or a bachelor of arts (BA) degree. Both degree tracks are available online. Enrollees gain skills and knowledge through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students also receive guidance throughout their studies 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. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $9,014, with 86% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,856
Out-of-state
$15,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,765
Out-of-state
$13,361
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
21,558
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Saint Ambrose University

  • Davenport, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of Saint Ambrose University's 95 bachelor's programs. At the university, enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment and a world-class faculty, whether learning online or in person. 

Students pursuing a bachelor of science in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled. The university also offers a criminal justice minor and specialized track for students planning to earn an advanced degree. In addition, students can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can also access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.

Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,532
Out-of-state
$31,532
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,460
Out-of-state
$17,460
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
2,968
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#14 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

University of Central Oklahoma

  • Edmond, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of the University of Central Oklahoma's 108 bachelor's programs. Of these bachelor's degrees, the school offers four online degrees entirely online. 

Students seeking to earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice gain skills and knowledge through fundamental and advanced coursework to prepare for a career in law enforcement or a related area. Students can work with their academic advisors to customize their degrees and study trajectory. Students also receive guidance throughout their studies 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. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $7,755.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,686
Out-of-state
$17,573
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,000
Out-of-state
$17,008
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
14,821
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Lewis University

  • Romeoville, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking flexible study should consider Lewis University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. To date, the school offers 79 bachelor’s programs, with eight online degree options.

Students benefit from a supportive learning community, whether they choose to learn online or in person. While enrolled in the bachelor of arts in criminal justice degree, students complete general and public safety administration-specific coursework. Students gain skills and knowledge necessary for relevant careers through their engagement with general and advanced classes.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. A leader in student success, the college also connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

To manage the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all enrollees, 100% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,270
Out-of-state
$33,270
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
6,359
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#16 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Chaminade University of Honolulu

  • Honolulu, HI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Chaminade University of Honolulu, a private college in Honolulu, Hawaii, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. To date, the college offers 26 bachelor's programs, ten of which are fully remote. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies with a top-notch faculty and motivated peers.

To earn a bachelor of science (BS) in criminology and criminal justice, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to law enforcement, public safety, and other related fields. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,020
Out-of-state
$26,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,000
Out-of-state
$24,000
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
2,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#17 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Washburn University

  • Topeka, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Washburn University. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. To date, the public college supports 61 bachelor's programs, nine of which are online.

Students seeking to earn a bachelor's in criminal justice (BCJ)  join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. After enrolling, students complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule.

Students can also choose electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors to personalize their learning experience. Throughout their studies, students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. According to the college, 92% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average student awarded $5,912 in aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,594
Out-of-state
$19,346
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,306
Out-of-state
$18,788
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,285
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#18 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Cedar Crest College

  • Allentown, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cedar Crest College, a private college in Allentown, Pennsylvania, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. To date, the college offers 52 in-person bachelor's programs, four of which are fully remote. Online and in-person learners connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through on-campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Students pursuing a bachelor's of criminal justice can gain the skills and knowledge necessary for their career field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, which includes ethical leadership, juvenile studies, and criminal behavior. Throughout their program, students can also access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.

Students are eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 100% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,774
Out-of-state
$39,774
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,287
Out-of-state
$14,287
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
1,526
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#19 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Adrian College

  • Adrian, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adrian College is a private college offering hybrid education in Adrian, Michigan. Students can choose from 77 bachelor's degree programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.

To earn a bachelor of arts in criminal justice degree, students complete foundational and advanced coursework to prepare for a career in criminal justice or an advanced degree. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, and degree concentration. Throughout their studies, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,834
Out-of-state
$36,834
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,600
Out-of-state
$18,600
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
1,828
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
3% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Earning an Online Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree

Ashland University

  • Ashland, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students interested in a flexible education should consider one of the 78 bachelor’s degrees from Ashland University. To date, the college offers 78 in-person bachelor's programs, five of which are fully remote. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Online students seeking a bachelor of science in criminal justice degree complete foundational and advanced coursework, as well as attend online lectures. Remote degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.

Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,950
Out-of-state
$20,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$6,540
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
5,091
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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