Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

portrait of Staff Writers
by

Updated May 10, 2023

Criminal justice schools in Massachusetts can prepare graduates for careers in law enforcement, security, corrections, or the juvenile justice system.

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Storefronts in cottages along a street Credit: Maremagnum / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images

Massachusetts has a large criminal justice system that employs more than 100,000 individuals across the judicial system, correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies and legal industries. With multiple growing and well-paying career paths, attending a criminal justice school in Massachusetts can position students for future career successes, especially if they pursue a career in-state. Learn about different criminal justice occupational paths, use search tools to review and compare the best criminal justice schools in Massachusetts and access a variety of state-specific criminal justice-related resources on the page below

The Best Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Read About Our Methodology Here

Criminal justice is a broad field with a diverse array of academic programs at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree level. To identify the top criminal justice schools in the state of Massachusetts, we analyzed a list of factors most important to students, such as tuition and graduation rate, to determine where each educational institution ranks. Learn more about the best criminal justice schools in Massachusetts below

#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Anna Maria College

  • Paxton, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Anna Maria College provides premier programs suitable for undergraduate students. Enrollees can choose from one of 39 bachelor's degrees, including two online bachelor's programs. Enrollees pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice gain access to a supportive learning environment.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Learners receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Interested applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. 

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

#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Suffolk University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Suffolk University, a private college in Boston, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The college supports 80 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in sociology and criminal justice. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge suitable for the field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can customize their program by declaring a double major, minor, or concentration. Throughout their program, learners can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.

Enrollees can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The institution reports that 95% of all students receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,814
Out-of-state
$39,814
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$39,267
Out-of-state
$39,267
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
7,169
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Boston University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. The Boston-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Throughout their studies, enrollees in the bachelor of science in criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework. They can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.

Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their program. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.

Interested applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,720
Out-of-state
$54,720
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
33,720
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Western New England University

  • Springfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Springfield, Western New England University supports numerous hybrid degrees for undergraduate students. The college supports 62 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. 

Students pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their studies. Enrollees can customize their degree by declaring a double major, minor, or concentration. Learners benefit from 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. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,454
Out-of-state
$35,454
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,056
Out-of-state
$25,056
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
3,801
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Endicott College

  • Beverly, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Endicott College. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote programs. Learners enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice program connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff.

Degree candidates complete criminal justice-specific coursework as part of the curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.

Enrollees can modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their program.

Eligible students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 95% of all degree candidates receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$33,304
Out-of-state
$33,304
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,555
Out-of-state
$12,555
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
4,741
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

American International College

  • Springfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at American International College. The Springfield-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.

As part of the bachelor of science in criminal justice curriculum, students complete foundational and advanced coursework. Learners can modify their schedule and choose electives.

A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Degree-seekers can explore a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. According to the college, 100% of all enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,930
Out-of-state
$36,930
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,579
Out-of-state
$11,579
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
2,891
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Curry College

  • Milton, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Curry College. The Milton-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degrees. Enrollees pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge suitable for the field through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Degree candidates may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,950
Out-of-state
$38,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,430
Out-of-state
$16,430
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
2,519
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

College of Our Lady of the Elms

  • Chicopee, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at College of Our Lady of the Elms. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. 

Upon enrolling in the bachelor's in criminal justice program, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Degree candidates build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

An academic advisor can help degree-seekers customize their program. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities. According to the college, 100% of all enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,270
Out-of-state
$35,270
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,814
Out-of-state
$14,814
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,495
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Eastern Nazarene College

  • Quincy, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Eastern Nazarene College provides premier degrees suitable for undergraduate students. To date, the college offers 43 in-person bachelor's programs. Students in the bachelor's in crime, law, and justice program 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. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or concentration. Degree candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their program.

Interested applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college notes that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,322
Out-of-state
$29,322
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,100
Out-of-state
$10,100
Retention Rate
62%
Admission Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
772
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Westfield State University

  • Westfield, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Westfield State University, a public college in Westfield, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Degree-seekers can choose from 44 in-person bachelor's programs and seven remote programs. One option includes a bachelor's in criminal justice.

Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Learners receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. Of all enrollees, 86% receive financial aid of some type.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$970
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,890
Out-of-state
$1,890
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
5,795
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Bridgewater State University

  • Bridgewater, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Bridgewater State University. Learners can study in person or online. The college campus and online learning environment enable students pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice to connect with peers, faculty, and staff.

Degree candidates complete general and advanced coursework as part of the program curriculum. Students can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their education.

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.

The financial aid office can connect degree-seekers with funding opportunities. The average student receives $6,094 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$910
Out-of-state
$7,050
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$1,675
Out-of-state
$1,675
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
10,881
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Becker College

  • Worcester, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Becker College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Learners can choose from a variety of degrees, either in person or online. According to the college, undergraduates can access 34 bachelor's programs on campus or pursue remote study across five degree tracks.

Whether in-person or online, students pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. As part of the program curriculum, students complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Degree candidates can also pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Degree-seekers can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare concentrations and minors. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Enrollees can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding options. According to the college, 100% of its enrollees get some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,300
Out-of-state
$36,300
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,142
Out-of-state
$19,142
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
1,698
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Northeastern University provides premier degrees suitable for undergraduate students. The Boston-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's programs. Students pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.

Degree candidates gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, becoming better prepared for their future careers. Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals by working with an academic advisor. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.

Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities. Learners can also explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The college reports that 78% of all enrollees get some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,420
Out-of-state
$52,420
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,793
Out-of-state
$24,793
Retention Rate
99%
Admission Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
22,207
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking competitive study should consider one of Northeastern University Lifelong Learning Network's degrees. One option includes an online master's in criminology and criminal justice. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Students can modify their degree depending on their career goals by working with an academic advisor. Throughout their program, degree-seekers can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.

Interested applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,298
Out-of-state
$29,298
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,933
Out-of-state
$24,933
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,857
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

Boston College

  • Chestnut Hill, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Boston College provides premier degrees suitable for undergraduate students. The college supports 14 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of arts in criminal and social justice. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Degree-seekers complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the criminal justice field. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Degree candidates can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.

Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college notes that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,660
Out-of-state
$30,660
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,100
Out-of-state
$13,100
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
364
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

Criminal Justice Careers
Criminal Justice Degree Guide
Criminal Justice Student Resources
Criminal Justice Financial Aid and Scholarships

Side by Side: Massachusetts Compared to Criminal Justice Nationally

Before enrolling in a criminal justice school in Massachusetts, students should have an idea of where they want to head professionally-both in terms of study specialization and in terms of location after graduation. Looking and how Massachusetts compares to the national average for criminal justice job growth and salaries can help students determine whether or not the state provides the right opportunities. Scroll over the bars on the graphs below for details on how Massachusetts stacks up compared to the rest of the nation in criminal justice.

Salary
JobNationalMassachusetts
Lawyer136,260152,990
Paralegal52,39052,790
Correctional Officer45,32066,880
Police, Sheriff, Patrol Officer61,27064,250
Arbitrators, Mediators, Conciliators64,25069,060
Compliance Officer69,18082,020
Fire Inspector, Investigator59,80071,670
Private Detectives47,62052,840
Job Growth
JobNationalMassachusetts
Title Examiner-0.0040.086
Law Professors0.0610.218
Arbitrators, Mediators, Conciliators0.0380.095
Paralegal0.0650.076
Lawyer0.0450.056
Compliance Officer0.0260.033
Emergency Management Director0.0170.067
Supervisor: Wildlife, Forestry Officer-0.0810.076

Source: Projections Central, 2015

Where to Get Hired After Criminal Justice School in Massachusetts

Criminal justice school can lead to any number of career paths in Massachusetts, so graduates may ask: "Where can I work?" The map below highlights potential employers, along with the metropolitan areas with the greatest number of criminal justice employees in protective services and legal occupations.

Protective Services Potential Employers

  • John Adams Courthouse
  • North Central Corrections Institute
  • Massachusetts State Police
  • Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game
  • Cambridge Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department
  • Springfield Police Department
  • Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
  • Boston's Animal Care and Control
  • Carlisle School District
  • Boston Logan Airport Total Number of Employees in Massachusetts: 79,640

Legal Occupations Potential Employers

  • Private practice law firms
  • Massachusetts Appeals Court
  • Division of Administrative Law Appeals
  • Massachusetts Board of Appeal
  • Massachusetts Dispute Resolution Services
  • Massachusetts Family Mediation
  • Boston Municipal Court Total Number of Employees in Massachusetts: 27,920

Largest areas of employment in descending order

Protective service

  1. Boston, Cambridge, Newton
  2. Springfield
  3. Worcester
  4. Lowell, Billerica, Chelmsford
  5. Framingham

Legal service

  1. Boston, Cambridge, Newton
  2. Springfield
  3. Worcester
  4. Framingham
  5. Lowell, Billerica, Chelmsford

Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Massachusetts

Business Compliance Resources

The Massachusetts chapter of the ACC, a professional organization for in-house legal business counsel working in the northeast U.S. The state's office that manages business initiatives, economic development, regulations and tax incentives. The state's resource for businesses seeking to expand locations or relocate to the state, the Office offers information into economic development incentive programs as well as business regulations and licensing. The secretary of state website offers business regulation information, trademark and other corporate service information for the state of Massachusetts.

Correctional Resources

A professional organization with 400 members that provides professional development programs to individuals employed in the field of corrections. The agency tasked with managing the Massachusetts' correctional facilities. This site offers information on a range of career opportunities throughout the state correctional system. Open to college students interested in working in the field of corrections of Massachusetts, this site gives information on the program application requirements and deadlines. The state department that oversees juvenile justice in Massachusetts and offers resources on recidivism and youth education, as well as the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative.

Court and Judicial Resources

A formal association of 170 judicial interpreters that advocates for the profession, offers membership, networking events and other resources in Massachusetts. The hub for the Massachusetts Court System online, with information on job opportunities, case and legal resources and jury information. An association for court reporters in Massachusetts that offers professional certification and resources for students. An association that works to bring together legal practitioners and youth clients that are involved in abuse, delinquency and other offender cases.

Legal Resources

The state branch of a private nonprofit organization that defends and advocates for the rights of individuals living in Massachusetts. A hub for all legal resources in the state, the Massachusetts Bar also offers a membership program for many different groups of legal professionals. An online poverty law resource that supports Massachusetts residents that need legal advice or representation. A non-profit legal services organization that provides legal assistance in civil cases to individuals incarcerated in Massachusetts state prisons.

Law Enforcement Resources

The professional association for active and retired police chiefs that offers memberships, professional newsletter, hosts events and legislative action. The state's largest law enforcement union, the Massachusetts Coalition of Police represents more than 4,250 law enforcement officials across 157 cities in the state. For more information on training standards for Massachusetts law enforcement, including commonwealth officers, University Police and Environmental Police, visit this MPTC site. A non-profit, membership-based organization of Massachusetts law enforcement officials that advocates for police professionals through legislative policies and lobbying.

Wildlife and Environmental Resources

A division of the state office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, the Environmental Police include the following bureaus: Coastal; Inland; Boat, OHV and Snowmobile Registration; Boat and Recreation Vehicle Safety; Environmental Crimes; Marine Theft. A public safety agency of the state of Massachusetts, the DFS provides information on the Massachusetts Fire Academy, fire investigation and emergency response. The stage agency tasked with natural resource conservation, protection, restoration and management of wildlife and fish. A non-profit affiliate of the National Environmental Health Association that provides educational and training programs for individuals working in public and environmental health. A non-profit organization founded in 1992 that promotes conservation education and information on the field of wildlife rehabilitation.

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

See All Posts

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Shape your future with an online degree

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.