The Best Schools, Degrees and Resources for Colorado Students
Several state colleges, universities and technical colleges in Colorado offer comprehensive training and education programs for those interested in a criminal justice career. From working in law enforcement to legal fields, there a number of career training options available at reputable and accredited criminal justice schools in Colorado. Explore different career options, degrees available and salary information for a rewarding career in the legal or protective services fields specific to Colorado below.
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COLORADO'S BEST CRIMINAL JUSTICE SCHOOLS
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.
Students who are on a tight budget or are in the process of changing careers need time to compare different schools and find the perfect match. Whether the career focus is on forensics, law or detective work, there are several things to consider when selecting a school, including cost and graduation rates. This list of the top criminal justice schools in Colorado can help kick start the research process.
These rankings include
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Colorado Mesa University provides flexible study for learners seeking a bachelor's degree. The Grand Junction-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
As part of the program curriculum, students complete criminal justice coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $6,637.
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking flexible study should consider Colorado Christian University. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Criminal justice students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. Learners can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities.
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Enrollees can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. Learners can choose from 34 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across six programs.
The college connects students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. As part of the master's program curriculum, students complete criminal justice coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and electives in consultation with an academic advisor. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied toward educational expenses. At the college, 81% of all incoming students receive financial aid.
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Greeley, the University of Northern Colorado supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. To date, the college offers 45 in-person bachelor's programs, six of which are fully remote.
Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Learners can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The institution reports that 93% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore the University of Colorado Denver's in-person and online degree offerings. Students can enroll in one of 41 campus-based bachelor's programs or opt for remote study across 12 subject areas. 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 their field of choosing. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Learners benefit from institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. At the college, 82% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in-person or online. To date, the school offers 82 bachelor’s programs, with six online degree options.
Whether learning in person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. Criminal justice students complete relevant coursework as part of the program curriculum. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. At the college, 70% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Johnson & Wales University-Denver
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Campus
Johnson & Wales University-Denver, a private college in Colorado, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Enrollees can choose from 16 bachelor's degree programs.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the criminal justice field. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Colorado State University Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider Colorado State University Global Campus. The public institution features virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. Students connect with peers and faculty through a virtual learning platform.
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.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office.
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Aims Community College
Greeley, CO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Aims Community College's in-person and online degree offerings. Students can choose from associate programs in a variety of fields.
Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. On average, students receive $5,596 in financial aid.
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Pikes Peak Community College
Colorado Springs, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the many associate programs or two bachelor’s degrees from Pikes Peak Community College. Located in Colorado Springs, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, learners 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. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $7,478.
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Trinidad State Junior College
Trinidad, CO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider Trinidad State Junior College. Enrollees can choose from in-person associate degree programs or opt for remote study. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their program.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. On average, students receive $7,501 in financial aid.
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Red Rocks Community College
Lakewood, CO - 4 years
- Campus
Red Rocks Community College delivers a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Lakewood, Colorado. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.
Upon enrolling, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Criminal justice students follow a rigorous program curriculum. These classes equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.
Learners can 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.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 44% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Pueblo Community College
Pueblo, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students seeking a competitive education should consider one of Pueblo Community College's programs. Enrollees can choose from on-campus associate programs or opt for remote study. Enrollees across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. 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. 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 notes that 87% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Arapahoe Community College
Littleton, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus in Littleton, Arapahoe Community College supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Students can choose from two bachelor's degree programs and many associate programs. Enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Learners can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Students receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The college notes that 53% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
Colorado Northwestern Community College
Rangely, CO - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jump-start their career should consider an associate degree from Colorado Northwestern Community College. The Rangely-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree 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. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional 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 package of $5,506.
Search Criminal Justice Schools in Colorado
There are many reputable criminal justice schools in Colorado that can prepare students to work as police officers, investigators and other legal and protective service professionals. Learn more about the specialty programs offered at each college and university in Colorado with the search tool below, then compare different schools by student population, financial aid offerings, graduation rate and other key factors.
[state searches]
MOST POPULAR CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS IN COLORADO
When thinking about what kind of career in criminal justice to go to school for, it can help students to review educational requirements and salary information relevant to criminal justice careers in Colorado. Some jobs may require training at a professional academy while others require a degree from an accredited school and work experience. Use the table below to see salaries and employment levels of some of the most popular criminal justice careers in Colorado:
Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers
- Total Employed in Colorado9,380
- Median Salary in Colorado$67,330
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoAcademy Program
Correctional Officer
- Total Employed in Colorado6,860
- Median Salary in Colorado$43,190
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoVaries; up to Bachelor's
Paralegal and Legal Assistant
- Total Employed in Colorado6,030
- Median Salary in Colorado$50,070
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoAssociate
Compliance Officer
- Total Employed in Colorado4,790
- Median Salary in Colorado$66,380
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoBachelor's
Court, Municipal and License Clerks
- Total Employed in Colorado4,530
- Median Salary in Colorado$38,910
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoVaries; up to Associate
Probation Officer
- Total Employed in Colorado2,490
- Median Salary in Colorado$54,050
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoBachelor's
Detectives and Criminal Investiagors
- Total Employed in Colorado1,680
- Median Salary in Colorado$80,350
- Degree Level Required in ColoradoAssociate
SIDE BY SIDE: COLORADO COMPARED WITH CRIMINAL JUSTICE NATIONALLY
Many major colleges and universities in Colorado offer comprehensive programs that train students on how the criminal justice system works, how different agencies across the state interact and what to expect in the field of corrections, parole, probation, courts and private security. The job prospects for Colorado criminal justice school grads are also positive in comparison with the national average. Scroll over the graphs below to compare average annual salaries and job growth in Colorado to national numbers, and find Colorado's degree requirements for these positions.
Salary
| Job | National | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Paralegal | 52,390 | 53,480 |
| Court Reporter | 54,720 | 78,670 |
| Probation Officer | 54,080 | 56,540 |
| Correctional Officer | 45,320 | 46,440 |
| Administrative Law Judges | 93,140 | 106,710 |
| Bailiffs | 44,900 | 62,250 |
| Detectives, Criminal Investigators | 79,620 | 83,110 |
| Forensic Specialist | 60,090 | 61,110 |
| Police, Sheriff and Patrol Officers | 61,270 | 65,700 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015
Job Growth
| Job | National | Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Private Detective | 0.052 | 0.245 |
| Criminal Justice Professor | 0.131 | 0.167 |
| Bailiff | 0.046 | 0.193 |
| Compliance Officer | 0.033 | 0.195 |
| Fire Inspector, Investigator | 0.056 | 0.167 |
| Gaming Surveillance | -0.057 | 0.137 |
| Judges, Magistrates | 0.007 | 0.114 |
| Correctional Officer | 0.037 | 0.17 |
| Fire Inspector, Investigator | 0.056 | 0.167 |
Source: Projections Central, 2015
WHERE TO GET HIRED AFTER CRIMINAL JUSTICE SCHOOL IN COLORADO
According to data from the FBI and local law enforcement, Denver has a higher than average crime rate compared to national numbers. This implies a steady need for qualified and dedicated legal and protective service professionals in the area. Other larger cities, including Colorado Springs, Boulder and Aspen are home to numerous law enforcement agencies and legal offices. Those who have completed training at accredited criminal justice schools in Colorado can explore job opportunities at the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado State Patrol, various county sheriff's offices, courts and other organizations. The map below provides information about the largest areas of employment and annual wages for the protective and legal services industries in the state, scroll over the map to see how each area stacks up.
Protective Services
Potential Employers
Colorado County Courthouses; Colorado Department of Corrections; private detective firms; Colorado Parks and Wildlife; Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control; Colorado State University; Denver Police Department; Colorado Department of Transportation; Arvada Public Schools; Colorado State Patrol; Colorado Parks and Recreation Association; Denver International Airport
Total Number of Employees in Colorado: 54,260
Legal Occupations
Potential Employers
Private law firms; Park County Courthouse; Colorado State Judicial Branch; First Judicial District Court; Colorado Department of Transportation; Colorado Supreme Court; Colorado Office of the State Court Administrator; Colorado Department of Human Services; City and County of Denver; Colorado District Attorney; Colorado Secretary of State
Total Number of Employees in Colorado: 21,610
PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN COLORADO
BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES
Colorado Department of Transportation Compliance Forms & Resource Library
The Business Center section of the site includes information about permits, on-the-job training forms, evaluation reports and other compliance regulations businesses must adhere to. There are also details about employee recruitment.
This website includes information about business trademarks, trade names and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). Visitors can also sign up to receive email updates about relevant business news.
Colorado Small Business Development Center
Helping new and existing small businesses grow, the CSBDC website contains a collection of information from federal, state and local governments on regulations, certifications, consulting and low- and no-cost training programs for Colorado entrepreneurs and small business groups.
Colorado's State Chamber of Commerce
Promoting a healthy business climate, this organization offers membership benefits and hosts numerous events throughout the year. The website includes information about Colorado's manufacturing initiative and political program.
CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES
Colorado Association of Community Correction Boards
This non-profit organization is comprised of all community corrections boards in the state, providing training and educational opportunities as well as networking events for leaders in correctional agencies and professional groups around Colorado.
Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition
A group designed to combat the incarceration crisis in Colorado, promoting public safety reform, advocacy and funding strategies to help curb the growing prison population and improve overall health and safety in the state.
Colorado Department of Corrections
Individuals interested in a career in corrections can visit this site to learn about available job opportunities at the Department of Corrections.
Browse the latest job postings and opportunities available with the Department of Corrections via the state job opportunities board.
COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES
The Colorado Academy of Mediators & Arbitrators
A chapter of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals, this statewide association consists of Colorado's mediators and arbitrators. It is an invitation-only, membership based organization, and is a major benchmark for judges and attorneys in Colorado.
Colorado Division of Criminal Justice
An all-encompassing page covering adult and juvenile justice, community corrections, domestic violence and sex offender management and victim assistance programs, the DCJ is a helpful resource for those interested in learning more about different facets of criminal justice in Colorado.
As an evaluation and accountability organization for Colorado's judicial system, the CJI hosts research projects and examines the effectiveness of courts, judges and judicial department staffers and provides continuing education opportunities, dispute resolution and general court improvement projects.
A site for the latest judicial news in Colorado, Gavel Gab is an extension of the national Justice at Stake Campaign.
State of Colorado Judicial Branch
Provides resources for finding a court, obtaining legal forms and career opportunities for judges, interns and other opportunities within Colorado's legal system.
LEGAL RESOURCES
American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado
Serving as the state of Colorado's oldest and largest civil rights organization, the ACLU has its own legal department and legal advocacy team. Their website includes information about available jobs.
Colorado Attorney General Employment & Internships
The Colorado Department of Law and Attorney General's office provides this online listing for criminal justice students and grads, with posting for open attorney positions, staff positions, fellowships and internship opportunities.
Colorado Bureau of Investigation Department of Public Safety
Responsible for the oversight of all law enforcement entities throughout the state, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation website includes information about its different divisions, executive team and their overall mission.
Designed for low-income Coloradans who need legal assistance or legal advocates, Colorado Legal Services provides information on how criminal justice professionals can get involved and give back to the community.
Colorado Supreme Court Library
This comprehensive website features a wealth of research resources for legal professionals, a listing of upcoming events and a learning center. The library itself is located inside the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center.
LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES
Colorado Fraternal Order of Police
The official union website for law enforcement in Colorado, those interested in learning more about the behind-the-scenes issues and services available to police and protective service workers can find a variety of information here.
The Colorado Legislative Council provides a collection of information about criminal law and how it relates to law enforcement in Colorado. Topics include firearms, controlled substances and other criminal infractions, as well as information on courts and corrections in the state.
Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training
This website includes information about job announcements, upcoming training sessions and resource guides for aspiring and current law enforcement professionals.
Colorado Police Protective Association
A non-profit group of law enforcement officers working to improve work environments and fight for legislative rights for police officers in Colorado. The PPA offers special events, benefit and insurance information, scholarships and job postings to its members.
An advocacy group for sheriff's in the state of Colorado, providing training, scholarships, conferences and other special events to members. County-specific office information can also be found here.
WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
Colorado Parks & Wildlife Law Enforcement
Takes the lead on enforcing rules, licensing requirements and permits to preserve and protect the wildlife and natural territories in Colorado, the Parks and Wildlife Law Enforcement website also includes a careers section for aspiring wardens and wildlife officials.
U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management Colorado
The Colorado Bureau of Land management manages 8.3 million acres of public land in Colorado and works to protect the state's natural resources. This website allows visitors to report a crime occurring on Colorado land and also includes career opportunities.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife Commission
This citizen-board organization is appointed by the Governor or Colorado and is responsible for setting the regulations and policies for Colorado's state parks and wildlife programs. Information about policies and resolutions can be found on this page.