Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on May 12, 2025
Do you want to enter the criminal justice field, law enforcement, or corrections in Kentucky and save more on tuition? Find top-ranked schools here.

Programs, Resources and Careers for Kentucky Students

The FBI ranks Kentucky’s largest city, Louisville, 33rd in the nation when it comes to violent crime, but the Kentucky State Police report 50% of all violent crimes and 26% of property crimes reported were successfully solved in 2014. These stats show there is an ever-present need for criminal justice workers in the state. With law enforcement agencies and legal services spread throughout 120 counties, there are a number of different opportunities for those interested in attending criminal justice school in Kentucky. Whether students are interested in representing legal cases as a lawyer, teaching students as a police academy professor or researching evidence as an investigator, this page explores different educational paths and degree requirements for criminal justice in Kentucky.

Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site

Best Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Location-markerRichmond, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Learners seeking flexible study should consider Eastern Kentucky University. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.

Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community throughout their studies. After enrolling, students complete criminal justice coursework as part of the program curriculum. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study, and they gain practical knowledge.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. At the college, 98% of all incoming students receive financial aid.

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 Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate94%
  • Students Enrolled14,980
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Campbellsville University

  • Location-markerCampbellsville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Campbellsville University supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Undergraduate learners can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.

After enrollment, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. Criminal justice students complete field-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their program.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$24,900
  • Out-of-state$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$12,240
  • Out-of-state$12,240
  • Retention Rate68%
  • Acceptance Rate70%
  • Students Enrolled12,381
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment77%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

University of Louisville

  • Location-markerLouisville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Learners seeking flexible study should consider the University of Louisville. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, in person and online. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes, and can modify their course load to suit career goals.

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

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. Of all enrollees, 98% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,732
  • Out-of-state$27,758
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$13,000
  • Out-of-state$27,114
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate69%
  • Students Enrolled21,670
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment12%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Northern Kentucky University

  • Location-markerHighland Heights, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Northern Kentucky University. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Highland Heights. According to the college, undergraduates can access 69 bachelor's degree programs on campus or pursue remote study across 16 degree tracks.

Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,912
  • Out-of-state$19,872
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,034
  • Out-of-state$16,974
  • Retention Rate72%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled15,664
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment32%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Thomas More College of Liberal Arts

  • Location-markerMerrimack, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus

Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Thomas More College of Liberal Arts. Enrollees can choose from online and on-campus bachelor's programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Learners complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field of choosing. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. The college reports that 96% of all learners receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$21,600
  • Out-of-state$21,600
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate96%
  • Acceptance Rate94%
  • Students Enrolled88
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

University of the Cumberlands

  • Location-markerWilliamsburg, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, the University of the Cumberlands provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus. Learners can choose from one of 37 bachelor's degree programs, or opt for remote study across 10 programs.

Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Throughout their studies, learners in the criminal justice program complete relevant coursework as part of the program curriculum. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. To date, 99% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,875
  • Out-of-state$9,875
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$5,670
  • Out-of-state$5,670
  • Retention Rate69%
  • Acceptance Rate80%
  • Students Enrolled16,966
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment91%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Murray State University

  • Location-markerMurray, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Murray State University. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in person or online. Learners can choose from 66 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across two programs.

Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Students can declare minors, choose degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. To date, 99% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,974
  • Out-of-state$23,592
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,214
  • Out-of-state$13,500
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate82%
  • Students Enrolled9,556
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment40%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

University of Pikeville

  • Location-markerPikeville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at the University of Pikeville. Learners can study from the comfort of their home or on the college's campus. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

After enrolling, students complete criminal justice coursework as part of the 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. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous 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 school, 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$21,400
  • Out-of-state$21,400
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,100
  • Out-of-state$8,100
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,261
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment18%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Kentucky State University

  • Location-markerFrankfort, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Kentucky State University provides flexible study for learners seeking a bachelor's degree. Located in Frankfort, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Students take foundational and advanced classes, gaining a well-rounded education.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution reports that 92% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,700
  • Out-of-state$11,550
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,560
  • Out-of-state$11,550
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance Rate81%
  • Students Enrolled2,171
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Bellarmine University

  • Location-markerLouisville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Learners seeking flexible study should consider Bellarmine University. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff.

The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their curriculum in consultation with an academic advisor. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. The institution boasts that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$40,880
  • Out-of-state$40,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,734
  • Out-of-state$11,734
  • Retention Rate80%
  • Acceptance Rate66%
  • Students Enrolled3,331
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment12%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Lindsey Wilson College

  • Location-markerColumbia, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Lindsey Wilson College offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. The Columbia-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Learners 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. The college reports that 100% of all learners receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$25,080
  • Out-of-state$25,080
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,735
  • Out-of-state$8,735
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,591
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Kentucky Wesleyan College

  • Location-markerOwensboro, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Owensboro, Kentucky Wesleyan College provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. The institution boasts that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$26,270
  • Out-of-state$26,270
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate69%
  • Acceptance Rate62%
  • Students Enrolled863
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment24%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Union College

  • Location-markerBarbourville, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Union College is a private college offering hybrid education in Barbourville, Kentucky. The college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout their degree program.

Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$26,330
  • Out-of-state$26,330
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,600
  • Out-of-state$9,600
  • Retention Rate63%
  • Acceptance Rate55%
  • Students Enrolled1,140
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment71%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerLexington, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Bluegrass Community and Technical College, a public college in Lexington, Kentucky, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their program. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $4,752.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled10,143
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Maysville Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerMaysville, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Maysville Community and Technical College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Learners can study from the comfort of their home or on the college's campus.

Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their education.

Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Throughout their studies, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.

When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. At the college, 98% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,889
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Madisonville Community College

  • Location-markerMadisonville, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the bachelor’s degrees from Madisonville Community College. Located in Kentucky, 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 across modalities connect with peers and faculty.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and 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 may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $5,741, with 97% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,737
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment43%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Hazard Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerHazard, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Hazard Community and Technical College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Students can select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors and pursue other academic modifications. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 99% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate58%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,245
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment48%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerPaducah, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Learners seeking flexible study should consider West Kentucky Community and Technical College. The Paducah-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through on-campus and online learning environments.

Learners studying in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. The college provides enrollees with a competitive education through intensive study. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their program, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Students can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. To date, 96% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate69%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,327
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Owensboro Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerOwensboro, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Students seeking a flexible education can explore Owensboro Community and Technical College's in-person and online degree offerings. The college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled, and they can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. Of all enrollees, 99% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled4,004
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Criminal Justice Schools in Kentucky

Ashland Community and Technical College

  • Location-markerAshland, KY
  • 2 year
  • Campus + Online

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Ashland Community and Technical College. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

After enrolling, students complete criminal justice coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

Students can declare minors and degree concentrations. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.

When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. To date, 98% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,176
  • Out-of-state$14,616
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,598
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes

Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers in Kentucky

In 2015, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there were around 45,000 people working in protective and legal service occupations in the state of Kentucky, including police officers, correctional officers, detectives and many more. Students interested in exploring different specialties before enrolling in criminal justice school in Kentucky can take a look at some of the state’s most popular criminal justice careers below. Click the corner of each box to find out how many people are employed in each sector in Kentucky, their average salary and the degree level they need to work.

Side by Side: Kentucky Compared with Criminal Justice Nationally

A career upholding the law and providing peace and justice can be very rewarding for students planning to attend criminal justice school in Kentucky. With a higher-than-average job growth potential in several criminal justice careers, grads have the chance for major successes in the state of Kentucky. There are many careers that can emerge from a criminal justice degree; here are a few career options, with information on where Kentucky bests the national stats in growth and salary. Scroll over the bars on this graph for details on which type of degree each of these careers requires.

Salary

JobNationalKentucky
Private Detective65,90079,620
Correctional Officers32,42045,320
Police, Sheriff & Patrol Officers42,03061,270
Court Clerks32,17038,230
Lawyers93,560136,260
Security Guards23,95028,460
Court Reporters32,75054,720
Title Examiners, Abstractors39,79049,840
Judges, Magistrates116,100125,320
Paralegals, Legal Assistants46,43052,390
Fire Inspectors, Investigators47,33059,800

Job Growth

JobNationalKentucky
Private Detective0.0520.083
Criminal Justice Professor0.2130.352
Paralegals0.0760.138
Bailiff0.0460.132
First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers0.0320.159
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers0.050.215
Crossing Guards0.0630.114
Police, Fire and Ambulance Dispatchers-0.0290.05
Lawyer0.0560.121
Transportation Security Screeners-0.090.089
Judges and Magistrates0.0070.144

Source: Projections Central, 2015

Where to Get Hired After Criminal Justice School in Kentucky

Whether pursuing a career in protective or legal services after criminal justice school in Kentucky, there are many job opportunities for each. The map below is a reflection of locations in Kentucky where these careers can be put to work, the employment numbers in these areas, and the annual wage students can aim for in each after getting their degree.

Largest areas of employment in descending order

Protective service

  1. Louisville
  2. Lexington, Fayette
  3. Central Kentucky Non-Metro Area
  4. South Central Kentucky Non-Metro Area
  5. West Kentucky Non-Metro Area

Legal service

  1. Louisville
  2. Lexington, Fayette
  3. Central Kentucky Non-Metro Area
  4. West Kentucky Non-Metro Area
  5. South Central Kentucky Non-Metro Area

Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Kentucky

Business Compliance Resources

Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

Through partnerships and networking, the KCC seeks to support Kentucky businesses through community advocacy. They assess business policy to create beneficial resources for businesses and also offer events and training.

Louisville Community Development

This organization provides community resources for residents of the state, information for visitors, government programs and initiatives, and business and economic development information among many other services.

Kentucky Secretary of State

For a list of business services, election services, and business forms head to this page. It offers information on tax filing, business lookups and registering to vote.

Kentucky Small Business Development Center

The KSBDC acts as a resource for aspiring and active small business local entrepreneurs by providing consulting, training and other information for success. Check here for information from experienced professionals.

Correctional Resources

Kentucky Department of Corrections

The Department of Corrections employs individuals who will help uphold community protection standards. This site can also provide resources for individuals to find institutions and programs for community assistance. To learn more visit here.

Louisville Metro Department of Corrections

For those interested in learning more about joining the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections, this page will offer information on career opportunities, job descriptions and other resources.

Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex

Located in Morgan County, this complex acts as a secure space for the growing need for correctional housing. Visit this website for more information on possible careers and opportunities.

Court & Judicial Resources

Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association

This association represents a front for all of Kentucky’s Fiscal Courts. They advocate for effective legislation by promoting education and programming.

Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet

This site provides information about state law enforcement and corrections as well as information about those serving on the cabinet.

Kentucky County Judge Executive Association

This association works primarily to serve and represent county judges and executives. They have served all 120 county judges since 1982.

Legal Resources

American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky

Kentucky’s branch of the ACLU advocates for fair community and individual legal practices. Learn more about ACLU events, resources, information and ways to volunteer here.

Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training

This department offers legal training, leadership opportunities and other career opportunities. If interested in the criminal justice system, check out this website.

Kentucky Bar Association

Students looking to practice law in Kentucky will want to visit this website for all the information they need to become practicing lawyers in the state.

Law Enforcement Resources

Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police

This is a resource for all Chiefs of police and offers testing materials, job opportunities, legislative updates, information on accreditation and membership.

Kentucky Peace Officers Association

This is a site that offers information on current events for law enforcement officers. They promote ethical behavior and work towards crime prevention.

Kentucky State Police

This site offers many resources for students interested in crime prevention in Kentucky. Go to this website to see updates on crime and traffic data, view the sex offender registry and look for career opportunities.

Wildlife & Environmental Resources

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

Visit here to learn about the enforcement and education of fish and wildlife resources. Learn about the duties of game wardens and county officers.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation

This charitable organization seeks to empower and educate Kentucky youth on ways to preserve fish and wildlife habitats through camps and community engagement. Use this link to learn more about their mission, resources and how to get involved with youth programs.

Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection

DEP works educate and involve businesses with environmental preservation. Check out this site to learn more about environmental regulations and emergencies, potential careers, and public notices and hearings.