Programs, Paths and Resources for Alabama Students
The State of Alabama Law Enforcement Agency reported a 5 percent decrease in overall crime in 2014, however the FBI ranked five Alabama cities in their top 100 for violent crimes in 2015. These stats imply an ever-present need for legal and protective service professionals, and Alabama's colleges and universities offer many educational choices for aspiring criminal justice students. Find a list of the best programs or search general criminal justice schools to find out more about the many specialization options available in the field below. From work as a paralegal or police officer to careers as forensic specialists and fish and game wardens, students can also learn more about the opportunities after criminal justice school in Alabama right here
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Best Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
OUR METHODOLOGY +
To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria:
- Accredited at the institutional level
- Private nonprofit or public school
- Minimum of 1 bachelor's or master's degree in subject area for 4-year schools
- Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools
Schools were then scored on factors such as:
- Cost & Financial Aid
- Number and variety of program offerings
- Student-teacher ratios
- Graduation rates (4-year schools only)
- Placement and support services offered
- Academic/Career counseling services
- Employment services
- Loan default rates
These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program
With various academic and training programs to choose from, criminal justice students in Alabama have plenty of post-secondary educational options. But who is the best? This list shows the best criminal justice schools in Alabama, ranked on common essential factors, such as cost and graduation rates. Although specializations within the field and areas of study differ from program to program, these schools provide the best combination of major factors below. Prospective students can see how each stacks up to help narrow their school search.
These rankings include
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Northeastern Technical College
Cheraw, SC - 2 years
- Campus
Students advance their education in 10 associate programs and 25 certificate programs at Northeastern Technical College. Located in Cheraw, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate programs incorporate general education classes that strengthen writing, communication, and other soft skills. Certificate candidates complete courses related specifically to one area of study, with no general education courses required.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. After an associate degree, graduates apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Northeastern Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,272
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,888
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Trident Technical College
Charleston, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Trident Technical College, learners can study in 36 associate programs and 71 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Charleston campus. These flexible options help students work while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Trident Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 9
Total Online Certificate Programs: 12
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,024
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,571
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Midlands Technical College
West Columbia, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Midlands Technical College provides 32 associate programs and 52 certificate programs. Located in West Columbia, the public institution offers online and on-campus enrollment options, increasing flexibility for learners. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees train for a defined career path after graduation. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates take classes in their field of study without general education course requirements.
Professionals apply for entry-level roles in their field after completing a certificate. With an associate degree, graduates can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Midlands Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,640
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,536
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Greenville Technical College
Greenville, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Greenville Technical College, learners choose from 37 associate programs and 52 certificate programs. Enrollees select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Greenville. Learners rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the job market or apply to four-year colleges as a transfer student.
Greenville Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: 2
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,916
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,140
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Florence-Darlington Technical College
Florence, SC - 2 years
- Campus
Florence-Darlington Technical College offers vocational and academic programs, with 27 associate programs and 35 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which includes online enrollment and classes on the Florence campus. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
Many of the school's programs encourage learners to train for a particular vocation after graduation. Associate degree-seekers also complete general education courses that build broad skills such as writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates take courses in their field with no required general education courses.
Professionals apply for positions in their field with a certificate. After an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Florence-Darlington Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,870
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,742
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Technical College of the Lowcountry
Beaufort, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Technical College of the Lowcountry, students advance their education in 13 associate programs and 35 certificate programs. From its Beaufort location, the public institution welcomes learners to online and on-campus classes. Students enrolled at the school rely on the flexible options to balance classes with work.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees strengthen industry-specific knowledge and skills. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates take courses in their field of study.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. After earning an associate degree, graduates pursue employment or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Technical College of the Lowcountry at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 5
Total Online Certificate Programs: 9
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,160
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,104
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
York Technical College
Rock Hill, SC - 2 years
- Campus
At York Technical College, students advance their education in 28 associate programs and 47 certificate programs. The public institution prioritizes flexibility in its course options, which include classes offered online and on the Rock Hill campus. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
The school's career-focused programs train learners for specialized career paths. Associate programs include general education classes that strengthen soft skills like communication and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
A certificate prepares graduates for entry-level positions in their field. After an associate degree, graduates can enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
York Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,776
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,720
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Conway, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers 34 associate programs and 44 certificate programs. Learners benefit from the public institution's diverse enrollment options, which include online classes and on-campus options from the Conway location. These flexible options help students work while in school.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. In general education courses, associate degree-seekers strengthen critical thinking, communication, and writing skills. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum that does not include classes outside of their field.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. An associate degree prepares graduates for the workforce or bachelor's programs.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,088
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,352
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Central Carolina Technical College
Sumter, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Central Carolina Technical College offers 16 associate programs and 34 certificate programs. Learners select from online and on-campus courses offered by the public institution from its location in Sumter. These flexible options make it easier for students to balance school with work or other responsibilities.
In the school's career-focused programs, enrollees gain specialized skills for a defined career path or field. In associate programs, degree-seekers take general education courses that strengthen critical thinking and writing skills. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. Associate degree graduates can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Central Carolina Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,162
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,513
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Aiken Technical College
Graniteville, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students can choose from 20 associate programs and 43 certificate programs at Aiken Technical College. Located in Graniteville, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. Those in associate programs take general education courses that build transferable skills like writing and critical thinking. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates apply for entry-level positions in their field. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Aiken Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,776
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,408
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Piedmont Technical College
Greenwood, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Piedmont Technical College offers 27 associate programs and 39 certificate programs. Based in Greenwood, this public college features both online and on-campus enrollment options, creating flexibility for all types of learners. These flexible options help students work while in school.
The school's career-focused programs strengthen specialized skills that prepare graduates for the job market. General education classes in associate programs build key soft skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Rather than taking general education courses, certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum of courses in their field of study.
A certificate helps graduates advance their career or move into a new role. With an associate degree, graduates can either pursue employment or transfer into a bachelor's program.
Piedmont Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 4
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,070
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,348
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College
Orangeburg, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College provides 20 associate programs and 35 certificate programs for students. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which includes online enrollment and classes on the Orangeburg campus. These enrollment options appeal to working students and other busy learners.
Many of the school's programs strengthen career-focused skills that train learners for a particular role. Associate programs incorporate general education courses to build transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates complete a focused curriculum in their field with no general education requirements.
With a certificate, graduates can pursue entry-level positions in their field. After earning an associate degree, graduates can apply for jobs or continue their education at a four-year college.
Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 2
Total Online Certificate Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,424
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,200
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Williamsburg Technical College
Kingstree, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Williamsburg Technical College, students learn in six associate programs and 21 certificate programs. Learners benefit from flexible enrollment options at the public institution, which includes online enrollment and classes on the Kingstree campus. Working students find the flexible options fit their busy schedules.
The school's career-focused programs emphasize industry-specific knowledge and skills. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Certificate candidates take classes related to their field with no requirements outside of their major.
Professionals with a certificate qualify for entry-level roles in their field. After an associate degree, graduates can enter the workforce or apply to bachelor's programs as a transfer student.
Williamsburg Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: 1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,416
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,208
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Tri-County Technical College
Pendleton, SC - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Tri-County Technical College offers vocational and academic programs, with 23 associate programs and 33 certificate programs. Located in Pendleton, the public institution stands out for its flexible enrollment options, which include online and on-campus classes. Students can sometimes work full time while in school.
In the school's career-focused programs, learners gain industry-specific skills. In associate programs, degree-seekers strengthen transferable skills during general education classes. Certificate candidates take focused classes in their field rather than general education classes.
A certificate prepares graduates for the workforce. An associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level careers or bachelor's programs.
Tri-County Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: 1
Total Online Certificate Programs: 3
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,600
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,848
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Alabama
Denmark Technical College
Denmark, SC - 2 years
- Campus
At Denmark Technical College, learners can strengthen their skills in nine associate programs and 17 certificate programs. The public institution, located in Denmark, offers online and on-campus enrollment options which appeal to a variety of learners. Working professionals benefit from the flexibility to attend school without leaving their job.
Many of the school's programs emphasize career training and include practical skills. General education classes in associate programs strengthen transferable skills like critical thinking and writing. Instead of general education courses, certificate candidates complete classes related to their field.
Certificate recipients can move directly into the workforce in entry-level positions. With an associate degree, graduates can enter the workforce or continue their education at the bachelor's level.
Denmark Technical College at a Glance:
Admission Rate: Data not available
Total Online Associate Programs: Data not available
Total Online Certificate Programs: Data not available
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,407
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,815
Popular Criminal Justice Careers in Alabama
As students narrow down their criminal justice school options, they should also consider the specific careers that they'd like their degree to lead to, and whether or not they plan to pursue those careers in Alabama. Understanding interests within the field of criminal justice can help students determine what type of school they need to attend, and what degree level to earn. Take a look at the most popular criminal justice careers in Alabama below to better understand earning potential and educational requirements specific to the state.
Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers
- Total Employed in Alabama 10,440
- Median Salary in Alabama $40,790
- Degree Level Required in Alabama Academy Program
Correctional Officer
- Total Employed in Alabama 5,400
- Median Salary in Alabama $35,130
- Degree Level Required in Alabama High School Diploma / GED
Paralegal and Legal Assistant
- Total Employed in Alabama2,860
- Median Salary in Alabama$41,930
- Degree Level Required in AlabamaBachelor's
Court, Municipal and License Clerks
- Total Employed in Alabama 2,520
- Median Salary in Alabama $30,340
- Degree Level Required in Alabama Varies; up to Associate
Compliance Officer
- Total Employed in Alabama 1,410
- Median Salary in Alabama $62,500
- Degree Level Required in Alabama Bachelor's
Detectives and Criminal Investiagors
- Total Employed in Alabama1,200
- Median Salary in Alabama$52,740
- Degree Level Required in AlabamaAssociate
Probation Officer
- Total Employed in Alabama970
- Median Salary in Alabama$44,850
- Degree Level Required in AlabamaBachelor's
Side by Side: How Alabama Compares To Criminal Justice Nationally
In addition to seeing how potential careers might pan out in Alabama specifically, aspiring criminal justice students should also consider how their degree will serve their careers measured against the national average, both in salary and potential growth. Some careers post higher numbers in Alabama, while others show more promising options elsewhere. As students explore their criminal justice school options in the state, they can also reference this graph for Alabama-specific degree requirements by job.
Salary
| Job | National | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Private Detective | 52,840 | 65,300 |
| Administrative Law Judges | 93,140 | 127,500 |
| Fish and Game Warden | 52,780 | 54,970 |
| Transportation Screeners | 38,810 | 40,050 |
| Forensic Science Technicians | 55,650 | 60,090 |
| Mediators and Conciliators | 63,060 | 69,060 |
| Paralegals, Legal Assistants | 44,430 | 52,390 |
| Fire Inspector, Investigators | 54,780 | 59,800 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015
Job Growth
| Job | National | Alabama |
|---|---|---|
| Detective, Criminal Investigator | -0.012 | 0.023 |
| Supervisors: Police Officers | 0.043 | 0.057 |
| Judges, Magistrates | 0.007 | 0.014 |
| Court Clerks | 0.045 | 0.051 |
| Probation Officers | 0.036 | 0.04 |
| Transit Police | 0.028 | 0.055 |
| Court Reporters | 0.014 | 0.016 |
| Fish and Game Wardens | 0.016 | 0.018 |
Source: Projections Central, 2015
Where to go After Criminal Justice School in Alabama
Students graduating from criminal justice schools in Alabama have a number of in-state options as they begin to pursue careers. Potential criminal justice professionals can look at the amount of earning potential in their field of specialization, and note how many other people are in those jobs by location with the map below.
Protective Service
Potential Employers
Covington County Courthouse; Butler County Jail; City of Mobile Police; Alabama Game & Fish Division; University of Alabama; Birmingham Police Department; Alabama Transit Links; Columbus Animal Care and Control; private detectives and Investigations firms; Auburn University; Hoover City Schools; Huntsville International Airport
Total Number of Employees in Alabama: 42,380
Legal Occupations
Potential Employers
Mobile District Attorney's Office; Jefferson County Courthouse; Alabama State Supreme Court; Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution; Mobile County District Court; Madison County District Attorney's Office; Madison County Courthouse
Total Number of Employees in Alabama: 9,690
Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Alabama
Business Compliance Resources
Alabama Association of Nonprofits
A great networking system for compliance officers in the nonprofit world, this member-based organization holds high standards for the state's nonprofit sector. The benefits of this membership include increasing resources, learning leadership and fostering collaboration, among many others.
A one-stop-shop for all things related to starting a business in Alabama and maintaining standards of compliance with the state. It has a web application for taxes, sections for business and individuals and a practitioner section for pros.
Business and Legal Resources-Alabama OSHA
Complying with the Occupational Safety and Health Act is an important step for businesses to meet full operating standards. Each state's standards are a bit different, so professionals should be aware of the specific regulations for Alabama.
From the U.S. Small Business Administration, this guide includes a feature article, advice and counseling on starting up a business, and information on capital and advocacy. Compliance officers should familiarize themselves with this information as it may come in handy during their work.
Correctional Resources
Alabama Correctional Organization
This non-profit was formed with the goal of identifying and lobbying for the interests and concerns of correctional organizations in Alabama. Its second focus, listed under Section 2 in its constitution, is to provide an opportunity for active participation in professional development for those employed in the field. It is member based, and provides a network for those professionals.
Alabama Department of Corrections Employment Opportunities
Those interested in becoming corrections officers for the State of Alabama have a hub of resources here at the DOC. This site has instructions on how to apply, listing details on qualifications, requirements and career advancement.
Court & Judicial Resources
Alabama Municipal Court Clerks and Magistrates Association
A member-based organization, AMCCMA was formed in 1989 to promote education and professionalism within the municipal courts. This site provides network opportunities abound, as well as employment and continuing education information.
Administrative Office of the Courts
A quick-link resource for the judicial circuits of the state, including contact information. This page also includes information for appellate, municipal and specialty courts, as well as an online portal for assistance.
This resource has everything a young judge would want to know about the highest court in the state. Contact information is listed for each of the nine judges, as well as all appellate courts' information. Find details on rule changes and recent articles on decisions the court is making here as well.
Legal Resources
Alabama Association of Paralegals
There are more than 200 members of this organization across the state, creating a large network of professionals with similar backgrounds, challenges and goals. This non-profit serves to promote the profession through awareness and education.
Alabama Board of Pardons and Parolees
Future parole officers will take a great deal away from this site. It has a wealth of information on how prisoners are paroled, and how they are rehabilitated to return to the community.
Alabama Center for Dispute Resolution
ADR is a non-profit that was organized to manage alternative dispute resolution in the courts, neighborhoods, educational facilities and government agencies within Alabama. It operates under the supervision of the Alabama Supreme Court Commission on Dispute Resolution, as well as in conjunction with the Alabama State Bar Dispute Resolution Section.
American Civil Liberties Union Alabama
Each state has a chapter of this national group, and this page covers Alabama. Legal professionals can find and build an outstanding network of lawyers and activists, as well as find volunteer and advocacy opportunities.
Law Enforcement Resources
Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police
AACOP promotes excellence in law enforcement, and has since 1972. The organization has continuing education and scholarship information for students entering the field. Trainings and events are also available through this page.
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
This is the primary site for public use, and prospective law enforcement professionals can find a lot of information on trainings, activities, special events and communications that come from the agency here.
Alabama Peace Officers Association
The "grandfather of law enforcement agencies in the state", the APOA is a member-based organization that looks out for the interests of all in law enforcement. Police officers, corrections officers, troopers, etc., can all find benefits from an APOA membership, and find more information on pay out benefits for families of officers killed in the line of duty.
Alabama Private Investigators Association
A member-based organization, APIA focuses on continuing education for Alabama PI's through conferences, meetings and additional courses. It is open to any licensed investigator, even those from other states and countries.
Wildlife & Environmental Resources
Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officer Association
ACEOA is a member-based nonprofit founded by conservation officers. The organization represents five divisions: wildlife and freshwater fisheries, marine police, marine resources, state lands and state parks. It also offers member- and non-member scholarships.
Alabama Department of Environmental Management
A resource for all environment-related information, ADEM has certification programs, permitting authority and information on compliance. It lists all rules and regulations for the state's environment, and has special publications that it periodically releases.
Law Enforcement Section-Outdoor Alabama
This is the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, more amiably shortened to Outdoor Alabama. It includes information to fish and game wardens, as well as contact information for each district in the state.