Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

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Updated May 10, 2023

The Ray Harrington Criminal Justice Club provides interested students with an opportunity to meet criminal justice professionals and participate in demonstrations and mock scenarios.

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North Carolina Education Options, Employment Possibilities and Resources for Students

Although the violent crime rate in North Carolina is five percent below the national average, a large selection of local employment opportunities are available for students who earn a degree in criminal justice. A criminal justice degree is applicable to several fields of state-funded employment, including local policing, wildlife protection services, and corrections. In addition, students may also go on to achieve private employment in security or as a detective. Continue reading below to learn about available schools and academic programs that will be best fitted for students interested in pursuing a criminal justice-based career in North Carolina.

Best Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina for 2017

Read About Our Methodology Here

A quality program in criminal justice will teach students the field-specific information while providing hands-on experience. Comparing North Carolina's best criminal justice schools allows students to develop a sense of what qualities are desirable in a criminal justice program. In the ranking list below, students will be able to find institutions with reasonable tuition costs, low student-teacher ratios, and high graduation rates, helping them to find the program that best fits their needs. Explore North Caorlina's top criminal justice schools and programs for 2017 below.

#1 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Pfeiffer University

  • Misenheimer, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Misenheimer, North Carolina, Pfeiffer University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Individuals can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus. According to the school, undergraduates can access 34 bachelor's degree programs on campus or pursue remote study across five degree tracks.

Upon enrollment, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare degree concentrations and minors. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. The school reports that 99% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,800
Out-of-state
$29,800
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,600
Out-of-state
$12,600
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
1,277
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

East Carolina University

  • Greenville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider East Carolina University. The college supports 80 bachelor's programs, with 18 enabling fully remote study. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.

Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future career. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.

Based on their eligibility, learners can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 79% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
28,651
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

North Carolina Central University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible education should consider North Carolina Central University. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Durham, North Carolina. To date, the public college offers 33 bachelor's programs, nine of which are online.

Upon enrolling, students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.

When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. To date, 93% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,728
Out-of-state
$16,435
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,740
Out-of-state
$17,694
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
8,011
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Fayetteville State University

  • Fayetteville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Fayetteville State University delivers flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through on-campus and virtual learning environments.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. As part of the curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. 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. The average enrollee receives $10,377 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,982
Out-of-state
$14,590
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,438
Out-of-state
$14,503
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
6,551
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Greensboro College

  • Greensboro, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus, Greensboro College supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Enrollees can choose from 49 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across three degree programs.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their program.

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,500
Out-of-state
$18,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,220
Out-of-state
$5,220
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
1,021
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Western Carolina University

  • Cullowhee, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking flexible study should consider Western Carolina University. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.

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.

Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career 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 students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. Of all enrollees, 85% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,000
Out-of-state
$5,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,435
Out-of-state
$14,842
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
12,167
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Methodist University

  • Fayetteville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider Methodist University. The school delivers 57 bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Learners can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their program, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The college boasts that 99% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$34,148
Out-of-state
$34,148
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$38,370
Out-of-state
$38,370
Retention Rate
58%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
1,968
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Saint Augustine's University

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Saint Augustine's University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. Students can enroll in one of 25 campus-based bachelor's programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future career. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can select elective courses. 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 toward their educational expenses. Of all enrollees, 99% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,890
Out-of-state
$12,890
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
899
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

North Carolina Wesleyan College

  • Rocky Mount, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the 29 bachelor’s degrees from North Carolina Wesleyan College. To date, the college offers 29 in-person bachelor's programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.

Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. 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.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,500
Out-of-state
$31,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,820
Out-of-state
$17,820
Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,886
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Campbell University

  • Buies Creek, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Campbell University provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The Buies Creek-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.

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
$32,380
Out-of-state
$32,380
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,330
Out-of-state
$13,330
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
6,185
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Rockingham Community College

  • Wentworth, NC
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the associate degrees from Rockingham Community College. The Wentworth-based college supports both in-person and remote degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The institution reports that 63% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,013
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Coastal Carolina Community College

  • Jacksonville, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Coastal Carolina Community College provides flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Jacksonville, North Carolina. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their program.

Once enrolled, students benefit from a supportive learning community. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their classroom education.

Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. Of all enrollees, 65% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
62%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,797
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Wayne Community College

  • Goldsboro, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Wayne Community College. Learners can study from the comfort of their home or on the college's Goldsboro-based campus. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Learners studying in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. As part of the criminal justice program curriculum, students complete field-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.

Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors and pursue other academic modifications. Throughout their studies, learners can work with 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. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $4,873.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,948
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Forsyth Technical Community College

  • Winston-Salem, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

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

The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Learners 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. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. The institution reports that 72% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
7,695
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Southwestern Community College

  • Sylva, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Sylva, North Carolina, Southwestern Community College provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning.

After enrolling, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. 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. Students can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The average student receives approximately $6,389 in financial aid, with 77% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,128
Out-of-state
$7,504
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,324
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#16 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Guilford Technical Community College

  • Jamestown, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Guilford Technical Community College, a public college in Jamestown, North Carolina, provides flexible options for undergraduate students near and far. Learners can choose from in-person and online bachelor's degree programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.

Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. 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.

Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards. The college notes that 75% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,128
Out-of-state
$7,504
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,070
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Catawba Valley Community College

  • Hickory, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Catawba Valley Community College is a public college offering premier educational opportunities to students worldwide. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning formats, with the option to study in person or online. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Criminal justice students complete field-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

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.

To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. The institution boasts that 70% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,128
Out-of-state
$7,504
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,693
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Durham Technical Community College

  • Durham, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate learners seeking competitive study should consider one of Durham Technical Community College's associate programs. Students can enroll in campus-based  programs or opt for remote study. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counseling, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. According to the institution, 85% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average award amounting to $4,010.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,094
Out-of-state
$7,570
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,665
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Pitt Community College

  • Winterville, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible associate degree can learn at their own pace at Pitt Community College. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Winterville, North Carolina. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Throughout their studies, learners in the associate program complete criminal justice coursework as part of the curriculum. Learners take foundational and advanced courses, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,237
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Isothermal Community College

  • Spindale, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Isothermal Community College supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. The college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Spindale, North Carolina. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.

Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors, and pursue other academic modifications. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied toward educational expenses. The average student receives approximately $7,024 in financial aid, with 95% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,824
Out-of-state
$6,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
62%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,086
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Criminal Justice Careers
Criminal Justice Degree Guide
Criminal Justice Student Resources
Criminal Justice Financial Aid and Scholarships

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Careers in Criminal Justice Available in North Carolina

Whether students are interested in becoming a patrol officer or a forensic scientist, North Carolina's criminal justice programs may help students to achieve their career goals. The table below lays out a selection of career paths typically available to students who graduate with a criminal justice degree. This table will also allow students to compare employment rates and average salaries of criminal justice employees in North Carolina.

Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 20,400
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $45,280
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Academy Program

Correctional Officer

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 15,850
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $34,310
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Certification

Compliance Officer

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 6,390
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $68,400
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Bachelor's

Paralegal and Legal Assistant

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 8,920
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $47,910
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Varies; up to Bachelor's

Court, Municipal and License Clerks

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 2,440
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $32,290
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Varies, up to Bachelor's

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 2,830
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $57,900
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Varies, up to Bachelor's

Probation Officer

  • Total Employed in North Carolina: 2,890
  • Median Salary in North Carolina: $40,240
  • Degree Level Required in North Carolina: Bachelor's

Expert Advice on Criminal Justice in North Carolina: Michael G. Turner, Ph.D

Michael G. Turner, PhD is Chair and Professor of the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at UNC Charlotte. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati. His research is centered on understanding the causes of delinquency and crime over the life course.

Q. What should prospective criminal justice students look for in a school?

Students should seek out a school where they feel comfortable. There is not much difference between curricula from school to school. So, find a school where they are comfortable with the environment.

I think what makes any program unique is what the faculty bring to the table in terms of their research expertise. Our faculty have expertise in delinquency, theory, law enforcement, courts, corrections, etc. In addition, our curriculum has a specialty concentration area in Crime Analytics, which is basically using data to answer researchable questions in criminal justice and criminology.

Q. How can criminal justice programs prepare students specifically to work in North Carolina?

I don't think schools prepare student to specifically work in North Carolina. Rather, schools prepare students to work wherever they may live.

Q. If there are readers who are not sure whether or not criminal justice is the right degree for them, what would you tell them?

I would tell them to take a course or two and identify if they enjoy the material and can foresee working in the criminal justice system.

Q. What makes someone a good candidate for a criminal justice career?

Good candidates are those individuals who want to work with people and to make a difference in the lives of those people.

Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in North Carolina

Business Compliance Resources

This division of the state department of labor conducts business inspections and ensures that businesses comply with state regulations. Information for businesses and corporations about North Carolina regulations and taxes, as well as scheme alerts and forms. There is also information about online services that the state provides. Links to tax forms for individuals and businesses in North Carolina, along with online service information. This chapter of the ACC services 450+ members in eastern North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and surrounding areas. The North Carolina Chamber provides business advocacy services for business owners on issues that include education, talent supply, infrastructure, growth leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. The SBA provides resources and connections to financing for small business owners in the U.S. This page provides North Carolina-specific information. The EDPNC offers free small business support to business owners and entrepreneurs in North Carolina.

Correctional Resources

Information on staff employment, development, and training for correctional facilities in North Carolina. North Carolina has one of 122 federal security prisons nation-wide. The Federal Bureau of Prisons seeks to provide more progressive and humane care for federal inmates, professionalize correctional facility employees, and ensure consistent and centralized prison administration. This North Carolina branch of the national nonprofit works with criminals reentering society as well as people with mental illnesses who are involved in the justice system. They work to reduce spending in correctional facilities, investing instead in strategies that decrease crime and strengthen communities. The NCPPA is a membership-based group that connects officers from around the state to network and share knowledge and training. The organization advocates for such issues as ending the death penalty, raising the juvenile age and reducing the use of prisons and jails.

Court and Judicial Resources

Information on North Carolina's courts and potential careers in this field. There is also a link to current judicial branch employment needs within the state. A links page to information on North Carolina's court system, including various courts and facilities and a portal to employment opportunities. Links to appellate and bankruptcy courts; North Carolina's district, state, and local courts; laws and regulations; lawyer resources; state agencies; and various departments that may assist with legal education opportunities or other judicial system information within Idaho. Provides continuing education resources to court reporters throughout the state of North Carolina. A nonpartisan organization of legal professionals who aim to protect individual rights in North Carolina. Learn more about how to become a Guardian ad Litem advocate for abused and neglected children. A statewide alliance of advocacy groups and individuals who aim to help people with criminal records reintegrate into life after incarceration.

Legal Resources

The North Carolina branch of the ACLU provides news and blogs on current events and local issues as well as information on how to get involved with local civil liberties cases. A statewide organization dedicated to providing free legal help to low-income citizens. This society has information on military legal assistance and military-specific legal programs, pro bono work, and lawyer referral programs in North Carolina. An organization for lawyers and legal professionals. It has information on publications, events, and further education as well as leadership and advocacy opportunities in North Carolina. A membership-based, not-for-profit organization that connects paralegals to provide continuing education and help with professional networking. This committee provides resources to minorities who serve in the legal profession in North Carolina. The NCDOJ serves the state by assisting with fighting crime in North Carolina and prosecuting cases. It also provides training and standards to law enforcement, enacts consumer protection standards and provides legal representation to state agencies.

Law Enforcement Resources

With information on the state highway patrol, capitol police, and bureau of investigations, this site has plenty of resources on the various law enforcement careers in North Carolina. This law enforcement and criminal justice training organization offers online as well as on-site trainings that range from basic training to specialized classes in areas such as narcoterrorism. A membership organization of law enforcement officers. They organize conferences and work to ensure North Carolina officers are well-trained and well-educated in criminal justice. This association's mission is to strengthen the professional law enforcement services that North Carolina sheriffs provide. This group's mission to support the betterment of criminal justice and provide advocacy for law enforcement officers in North Carolina. They also connect members and provide communication about legislation that affects officers in the state. An organization that connects and provides continuing education and ethics standards to private investigators in North Carolina.

Wildlife and Environmental Resources

Information on how to pursue a career as a wildlife enforcement officer in North Carolina. This page provides resources on how to get in touch with the appropriate officials for different county wildlife offices. Protecting New England's environment, the CLF uses law and science to market initiatives that protect Vermont's natural resources. Learn more about how the CLF makes an impact and how to take action on this site. This local branch national organization hires employees to help protect North Carolina's natural resources. The National Park Service employs rangers and other people interested in conserving national parks, and there are employment opportunities in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains.

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