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Want to work as a police officer, lawyer, detective, or corrections officer? Attending one of the best criminal justice schools in California can get you started on your career.
You'll learn about criminal law, courtroom procedures, and the legal system, or study forensic science and the psychology of crime. You can even earn a criminal justice degree online.
With a degree from a top criminal justice program in California, you'll enter an in-demand and growing field in the Golden State. We ranked the best criminal justice schools in California based on criteria like student outcomes, curricula, and affordability.
Check Out Our Featured Criminal Justice Programs
Top 10 Criminal Justice Schools in California
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $462
Out-of-State | $858
Credits to Graduate: 36
Available both online and on campus, CSULB's MS in criminology and criminal justice balances theory and practical application. You'll develop the knowledge and skills you need to be eligible for administrative positions in law enforcement, corrections, parole, probation, and courtrooms.
To graduate, you must pass a qualifying exam and complete a capstone experience. You'll take core courses such as criminological theory, advanced criminal justice research methods, and justice policy. You can also pursue a concentration in crime and intelligence analysis.
Application requirements include transcripts, a resume, a letter of intent, and two letters of recommendation.
#2 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $345
Out-of-State | $840
Credits to Graduate: 60 transfer credits + 36 major requirements
SDSU's BS in criminal justice explores the ways criminal justice systems either provide justice or fail to do so. Major requirements include electives and coursework in criminal justice and public administration. You'll take classes like law in society, investigation and report, and crime and behavior.
You must complete a minimum of 45 units (60 for transfer students) before declaring a criminal justice major. There are four prerequisites: introduction to American/Californian government and politics, introduction to sociology, introduction to social problems, and elementary social statistics.
#3 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $239
Out-of-State | $635
Credits to Graduate: 120
Cal State Fullerton's BA in criminal justice program requires 21 core credits and 15 elective credits. Major courses include crime, law, and justice; the enforcement function; and crime and delinquency. Available electives include criminal courts, juvenile justice administration, and victims and the criminal justice system.
To apply, you must submit high school transcripts and fill out an online application. SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission.
#4 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $294
Out-of-State | $690
Credits to Graduate: 120
CSUN's bachelor's in criminology and justice studies helps you gain a practical, analytical, and theoretical understanding of the criminal justice system. In this program, you'll take six credits of basic requirements, 21 credits of criminal justice foundations, three credits of applied research and field experience, and 18 credits in area studies in criminology and justice.
To apply, you'll need to create a Cal State Apply account and fill out the online application. The program will let you know if you need to submit transcripts, test scores, or any other supporting materials.
#5 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $519
Out-of-State | $915
Credits to Graduate: 33
SJSU's MS in justice studies covers criminal justice, criminology, political science, sociology, and psychology. You'll study human rights, punishment in society, forensic science, juvenile justice, and more. This degree can prepare you to work for community organizations, public institutions, and nonprofits.
To qualify for enrollment, you must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and demonstrate advanced writing skills. You must also have taken a research methods course and a statistics course.
#6 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $765
Out-of-State | $1161
Credits to Graduate: 34
CSUSB's MA in criminal justice program requires a culminating experience, which can be either a thesis or a comprehensive exam. Required courses include advanced techniques of basic and applied research in criminal justice, statistical analysis in criminal justice, and planning and evaluation in criminal justice.
Applicants must have a bachelor's degree in criminology, criminal justice, sociology, or a related field and a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also provide three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
#7 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $514
Out-of-State | $910
Credits to Graduate: 33
In Stanislaus State's master's in criminal justice program, you can choose a concentration in criminal legal studies, corrections, juvenile justice, forensics, or law enforcement. This program prepares students for careers in criminal justice administration, public service, and higher education.
To apply, go to Cal State Apply and fill out the online application. You must have a bachelor's degree and at least a 2.5 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework.
#8 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $495
Out-of-State | $891
Credits to Graduate: 30
Sacramento State's MS in criminal justice covers administration of justice, corrections, criminological theory, law adjudication, law enforcement, and research and analytic methods. In this program, you'll learn about juvenile justice, policing, corrections, and research methods.
Applicants must register at Cal State Apply. You need to write a letter outlining your goals, interests, and expectations. You must also submit three letters of recommendation and GRE scores.
#9 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit: $515
Credits to Graduate: 120
With start dates in the fall and spring, PLNU's BA in criminal justice targets working adults and can be completed in as few as 15 months. Both hybrid and online options are available. In the hybrid program, you'll meet once a week at a local community college in San Diego County and take the rest of your classes online.
PLNU's career advisors offer professional support to criminal justice students. The program also requires an 80-hour internship in the final semester.
To apply, you must submit an online application and official transcripts.
#10 10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in California
California State University-Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $294
Out-of-State | $690
Credits to Graduate: 120
CSUDH's BS in criminal justice administration prepares you to work in intelligence analysis, homeland security, juvenile justice, corrections, and local law enforcement. Required courses include foundations of public administration, criminal justice and community, and theories of crime and criminal justice policy.
First-year applicants must have a 2.5 GPA or higher if they're California residents or a 3.0 if they're from out of state. Transfer students must have at least 30 transferable semester credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Reasons to Study Criminal Justice in California
- You can learn about law enforcement, the court system, and the correctional system from experienced instructors.
- California's criminal justice field employs hundreds of thousands of people — many career paths report strong projected growth.
- Several of the highest-paying criminal justice careers report six-figure median salaries in California.
- California's public colleges offer some of the most affordable tuition rates in the country, especially for community colleges.
- You can qualify for criminal justice scholarships offered at accredited criminal justice schools in California.
- With so many options, California is a great state for college — and its strong economy makes it a great place to work.
Did You Know?
-
Comparing criminal justice schools in California? There are criminal justice programs at 145 colleges and universities across the state. -
The state's law enforcement agencies employed 121,000 people in May 2021, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. -
California pays the highest average salaries for police and detective supervisors of any state. -
More paralegals and legal assistants work in California than in any other state — and the state projects much faster-than-average growth for these roles.
How Accreditation Works for Criminal Justice Colleges in California
Accredited criminal justice schools in California meet high standards for educating students. Independent, nonprofit accrediting agencies grant accreditation to schools and programs in California and around the country.
When researching programs, make sure to check the school's accreditation status. By attending an accredited college, you can apply for federal financial aid.
You'll also qualify for more transfer credits and meet graduate school and employer requirements.
The best colleges in California will hold accreditation from one of the following agencies:
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- WASC Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
WSCUC accredits four-year institutions, whereas ACCJC accredits two-year colleges.
Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers in California
Many people study criminal justice to work in law enforcement, in corrections, or for the legal system.
Criminal justice colleges in California prepare graduates for careers as detectives, correctional officers, patrol officers, and probation officers.
Some criminal justice careers require a graduate degree. For example, after earning a bachelor's in criminal justice, you could apply to law school to become a lawyer or judge.
The following table shows the highest-paying criminal justice jobs in California, as well as their projected job growth rates and education requirements.
| Job | Median Annual CA Salary (May 2021) | CA Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $162,700 | 13% | First-professional |
| First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $161,720 | 3% | High school diploma |
| Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers | $134,870 | 0% | First-professional |
| Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $130,910 | 10% | Doctorate |
| First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | $106,500 | -4% | High school diploma |
| Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $104,060 | 2% | High school diploma |
| Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $100,330 | 5% | High school diploma |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $99,090 | 4% | Bachelor's |
| Correctional Officers and Jailers | $81,890 | -7% | High school diploma |
| Compliance Officers | $80,330 | 10% | Bachelor's |
Sources: BLS, Projections Central
Q&A With a Real Criminal Justice Professor in California
Katharine Tellis, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics at California State University, Los Angeles. She holds a Ph.D. in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Dr. Tellis also holds a master of social work and a BA in gender studies from UCLA.
Her areas of interest include race, class, gender, violence prevention, and criminal justice policy.
Q: What should students look for when researching criminal justice programs?
“Students should look for diversity in class offerings, as well as in the instructors who teach them. Courses should cover everything from law enforcement to the courts and corrections to reentry and community-based issues that often intersect with criminal justice. It is also helpful to have real-world opportunities for students, such as service-learning placements.”
Q: How can students determine the quality of criminal justice program faculty?
“Faculty should have both academic credentials (graduate degrees) and practical or research experience — all three are a plus. It is critical that faculty reflect the diversity of the student body they serve to ensure the best educational environment that will translate to professional success, especially given the social issues we face.”
Q: What are some of the most important skills you'll gain in a criminal justice program?
“The most important skills students should learn include critical thinking, professional writing, and emotional intelligence (empathy in particular), as well as other interpersonal skills to assist when interacting with the diverse populations who work within and interface with the criminal justice system.”
Q: How can these skills help students in their criminal justice careers?
“These skills translate into success in the workplace because students are then better able to identify, evaluate, and problem-solve the ethical, logistical, and technical issues that inevitably emerge as a criminal justice professional in California.”
Professional Resources for Criminal Justice Students in California
Business Compliance Resources
California Chamber of Commerce
This organization focuses on helping businesses in the state of California thrive through business compliance practices. The CalChamber tackles many issues facing companies today, from political action to worker compensation.
California Secretary of State
The Secretary of State provides tons of business-related regulatory information for the state of California, from e-file forms to tax information.
Small Business California
Dedicated solely to serving small businesses and their employees, SB Cal responds to the unique needs of small businesses. The site provides information on advocacy campaigns and allows users to submit their input so ideas can be easily shared and acted upon.
Correctional Resources
California Correctional Peace Officers Association
Geared toward those who work in California's correctional facilities, this site provides information on prison reform and culture.
California Correctional Supervisors Organization
Serving the supervisors and managers working in the California state corrections system, CCSO protects and represents members' values through legal representation and tackling labor-related issues.
California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
This government site offers services to incarcerated individuals and their families, in addition to career and general information about the California corrections and rehabilitation program.
California Probation, Parole & Correctional Association
CPPCA represents correctional personnel and those interested in how the California correctional system works. It also supports research relevant to the corrections system.
Court and Judicial Resources
California Commission on Judicial Performance
This department of the state of California is dedicated to investigating complaints of judicial misconduct and assigned to disciplining judges. Get information on pending cases and commission membership.
California Court Association
CalCourt was designed to help past and present employees of California's court system train and prepare for leadership roles, keep up with ever-changing laws, and help review and make recommendations on pending legislation.
California Judges Association
A professional group supporting judges and justices across the state of California, CJA holds educational conferences, provides publications for currently serving and retired justices. It also appoints ethics and other committees to ensure the well-being of California-based judges.
Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice
With a focus on balancing California's justice system and impacting policymaking, CJCJ offers news and educational information on juvenile justice and adult correctional reform.
State of California Department of Justice
The Department of Justice provides information on government careers in the criminal justice field, including fellowships and scholarship programs.
Legal Resources
Association for Criminal Justice Research - California
ACJRca aims to improve criminal justice practices in all sectors through discussion and research. Members have access to conferences and networking opportunities with other criminal justice professionals.
California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
This professional association's goal is to protect and promote people's rights under the Constitution. The website provides information on legislation and internship and career opportunities.
State Bar of California
Students planning to become attorneys in California should visit this website to learn how to become practicing lawyers in the state.
Western Association of Criminal Justice
This association of western states, including California, aims to improve criminal justice practices through academic research. Students are encouraged to become members.
Law Enforcement Resources
California Law Enforcement Association
A nonpolitical organization established to help offer California peace officers the best possible benefits for their service, CLEA provides information on long-term disability plans and scholarships.
California Peace Officers' Association
This site hosts a collection of information for California's police, sheriffs, and highway patrol officers. You can find details on training, community partnership opportunities, and events.
California Police Youth Charities
CPYA aims to foster a relationship between law enforcement and California's youths by providing activities for at-risk youths.
California Statewide Law Enforcement Association
This professional association comprises all types of law enforcement professionals throughout California. Members receive a variety of benefits, while non-members can access news articles, press releases, and more.
Peace Officers Research Association of California
As California's largest public safety organization, PORAC offers information on advocacy programs, training sessions, and labor relations for peace officers across the state. It even maintains a job board for peace officer prospects.
Statewide University Police Association
This site represents police officers working on college and university campuses in California. Read about current events, news, and leadership surveys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Justice in California
The best program depends on your unique needs. Many Cal State schools offer criminal justice degrees. Sacramento State, for example, has the largest criminal justice program in the state. Meanwhile, CSU San Bernardino offers the only online criminal justice degree at a Cal State school.
Be sure to compare programs to find the best fit for you.
You can study criminal justice at many UC campuses. UC Berkeley offers a top-ranked legal studies major, while UC Santa Cruz also offers a legal studies degree.
You can study criminology as part of a psychology or sociology degree at a UC school. In addition, many UCs rank among the best law schools in the country.
Lawyers earned an average annual salary of $176,610 in California in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Salaries for criminal defense lawyers vary greatly by location, experience, and specialization.
For more information on your earning potential with a law degree, contact California law schools to ask about starting salaries for recent grads.
California judges reported an average annual salary of $206,790 in May 2021, according to BLS data. In order to work as a judge, you typically need a law degree and several years of work experience as an attorney.