Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on May 10, 2023

Oklahoma’s Best Criminal Justice Schools

Oklahoma has a wide variety of unique opportunities for students looking to graduate from a criminal justice school. Work toward environmental conservation and stop poaching as a game warden in one of the many beautiful start parks; become a legal aid and provide support services for the economically strained; provide crisis management for wildfires and other severe weather conditions as a fire fighter. Wherever your interests lie, there is a criminal justice program in the Sooner state to fit your needs.

Oklahoma’s Top Criminal Justice Schools

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 Oklahoma

Oklahoma City University

  • Location-markerOklahoma City, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Oklahoma City University, a private college, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The private college offers 77 bachelor's degree programs, including a bachelor's in criminal justice. The school supports rigorous study and connects students with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.

Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their program. Students can customize their curriculum by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can also choose elective classes. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, for the duration of their degree program.

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

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$28,094
  • Out-of-state$28,094
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,620
  • Out-of-state$10,620
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate75%
  • Students Enrolled2,687
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment11%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Northeastern State University

  • Location-markerTahlequah, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Northeastern State University is a public college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Enrollees can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

After enrollment, criminal justice 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. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.

Students have the option to select electives, degree concentrations, and minors, and they can pursue other academic modifications. Throughout their studies, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.

To manage the cost of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. At the college, 93% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,913
  • Out-of-state$14,313
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,500
  • Out-of-state$9,999
  • Retention Rate60%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled7,517
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment66%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma

  • Location-markerNorman, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Looking for a premier education to jump-start your career? Consider one of the 105 bachelor’s degrees from the University of Oklahoma. To date, the college offers 105 in-person bachelor's programs, five of which are fully remote. Both modalities support rigorous study and connect students with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Criminal justice students can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $7,158.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,788
  • Out-of-state$20,169
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,583
  • Out-of-state$21,242
  • Retention Rate88%
  • Acceptance Rate80%
  • Students Enrolled28,079
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment33%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

University of Central Oklahoma

  • Location-markerEdmond, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Central Oklahoma offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Located in Edmond, 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.

While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the criminal justice field. Learners can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.

Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $7,755.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,686
  • Out-of-state$17,573
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,000
  • Out-of-state$17,008
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate84%
  • Students Enrolled14,821
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment38%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

  • Location-markerDurant, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students seeking a flexible education can explore Southeastern Oklahoma State University's in-person and online degree offerings. Students can choose from 41 in-person bachelor's degree programs and 13 remote programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.

While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the criminal justice field. Students can customize their program by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration and can also choose elective classes. Enrollees can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.

Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The college notes that 95% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,240
  • Out-of-state$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,716
  • Out-of-state$10,872
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled5,049
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment80%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Oklahoma Christian University

  • Location-markerEdmond, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students looking to jump-start their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Oklahoma Christian University. Students can enroll in one of 70 campus-based bachelor's programs or opt for remote learning. Both modalities support rigorous study and connect students with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.

While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to the criminal justice field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout the criminal justice program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, including scholarships and federal financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$23,450
  • Out-of-state$23,450
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,250
  • Out-of-state$11,250
  • Retention Rate71%
  • Acceptance Rate67%
  • Students Enrolled2,064
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment30%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Cameron University

  • Location-markerLawton, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Cameron University supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Located in Lawton, Oklahoma, the public institution offers competitive programs that can be completed in person or online. Students gain access to a supportive learning community, regardless of their location.

Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff. Criminal justice students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Learners can pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their learning.

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

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Students receive an average financial aid package of $7,371.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,740
  • Out-of-state$14,160
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,564
  • Out-of-state$10,278
  • Retention Rate67%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled4,142
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment49%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Northwestern Oklahoma State University

  • Location-markerAlva, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Undergraduate learners seeking competitive study should consider one of Northwestern Oklahoma State University's 33 bachelor's programs. The Alva-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's degree programs. To date, the school offers three online bachelor’s degrees.

Students in the criminal justice program complete foundational and advanced classes. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Throughout the program, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The institution reports that 95% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,593
  • Out-of-state$13,710
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,775
  • Out-of-state$9,635
  • Retention Rate57%
  • Acceptance Rate63%
  • Students Enrolled1,970
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment62%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

Southern Nazarene University

  • Location-markerBethany, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Southern Nazarene University supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. The private institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the private college supports 74 bachelor's programs, nine of which are available online.

The college connects students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. 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 learning.

Students have the option to modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. 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. According to the college, 72% of all enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$24,570
  • Out-of-state$24,570
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$20,772
  • Out-of-state$20,772
  • Retention Rate73%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled2,239
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment22%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Oklahoma

East Central University

  • Location-markerAda, OK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

East Central University offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. To date, the college offers 31 in-person bachelor's programs, six of which are fully remote. Students benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.

Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout the criminal justice program. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Learners benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. On average, students receive $6,752 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,648
  • Out-of-state$15,008
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,298
  • Out-of-state$10,726
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate59%
  • Students Enrolled3,613
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment65%
  • AccreditationYes
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OKLAHOMA’S MOST POPULAR CAREERS IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE FIELD

Make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a criminal justice career in Oklahoma. Get the most out of your investment by comparing popular careers, associated wages and education requirements. Get a sense of how competitive the job market is for different prospects in the criminal justice field by comparing numbers around the state. For students focused on a specific career, knowing the degree requirements will help determine which program is the best fit.

OKLAHOMA CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS VS. THE NATIONAL AVERAGE

Despite reporting slightly lower than average income, Oklahoma is a great place for people looking to start a criminal justice career. With a lower cost of living than many places and a booming job market, Oklahoma has a lot of opportunities for students looking to take the first steps into a great career.

Salary

JobNationalOklahoma
Private Detective52,93053,530
Lawyers123,510139,880
Firefighters42,49050,520
Fish and Game Warden49,87054,760
Fire Inspectors and Investigators61,66065,340
Police, Sheriff’s Patrol Officers44,65062,760
Correctional Officers and Jailers33,95046,750

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015

Job Growth

JobNationalOklahoma
Private Detectives and Investigators0.0520.102
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary0.1780.214
Lawyers0.0560.086
Detectives and Criminal Investigator-0.0120.096
Judges0.0070.046
Court, Municipal, and License Clerk0.0450.126
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers0.050.146
Crossing Guards0.0640.07
Paralegals and Legal Assistants0.0860.102

Source: Projections Central, 2015

OKLAHOMA EMPLOYERS LOOKING TO HIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATES

In Oklahoma, a criminal justice degree can be the start to a wide variety of careers. Work as a legal professional specializing in reservation law, and aid tribes facing legal issues. Perhaps you are looking for the dynamic world of private investigation, or want to make a difference in the lives of others as a corrections officer. No matter what your interests, a criminal justice degree in Oklahoma can be the start of unique opportunities.

Protective Services

Potential Employers

Tulsa County District Court; Dick Conner Correctional Center;Red Rock Canyon State Park; Oklahoma City Police Department; Oklahoma Highway Patrol; Tulsa Police Department; Oklahoma City Animal Welfare; Sulivant & Sulivant Investigations; Harmon Security Group; Tulsa International Airport

Total Number of Employees in Oklahoma: 36,440

Legal Occupations

Potential Employers

Lindsey Law Firm; Oklahoma Supreme Court; Office of Disability Adjudication and Review; Oklahoma Mediation Arbitration; U.S. Justice Department; Attorney General Oklahoma; Oklahoma City VA Health Care System; Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc.

Total Number of Employees in Oklahoma: 12,480

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN OKLAHOMA

BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES

Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce

Focused on community development and trade, the chamber of commerce offers internships, news, events and other resources meant to facilitate the growth of Oklahoma’s state economy.

Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce Executives

Dedicated to training and elevating the work of chamber professionals, the Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce Executives offer education, training, news and events for its members.

Oklahoma Bankers Association

The Oklahoma Bankers Association provides legal resources for banking professionals looking to comply with state and federal law.

Oklahoma Chapter, Association of Corporate Counsel

The ACC is a nationwide membership-based organization that connects corporate law professionals and provides job listings and information.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

This site is a place for entrepreneurs to find information about starting and growing their businesses in the state of Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Secretary of State

The Oklahoma Secretary of State provides business services to entities including certificate filing, forms and fees and additional resources.

Oklahoma District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration

The SBA offers information about starting and managing a business as well as connections to business financing for qualified applicants.

CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES

Oklahoma Corrections Professionals

The Oklahoma Corrections Professionals (OCP) provides its members with a network of corrections professionals from around the state. Explore news and resources that affect professionals working in the field.

Oklahoma Department of Corrections

Search for jobs, resources, training opportunities, current events and information about the corrections department in Oklahoma.

The National PREA Resource Center

The National Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) is promoted by this organization, which provides training and support for working professionals trying to prevent sexual abuse in the prison system. They provide webinars, training seminars, and a network for the many organizations and working professionals involved in the corrections process.

Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs

The OJA provides programs for youth who are in need of supervision, providing justice services including residential treatment centers.

Oklahoma CURE (Citizens United for Rehabilitation of Errants)

OK CURE, the local chapter of a national non-profit, seeks to end mass incarceration and advocate for correctional reform in the state of Oklahoma.

COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES

Oklahoma State Court Network

Welcome to the state court system! Their website offers valuable tools for legal research, news, and links to other court and judicial resources.

Oklahoma State Legislature

The Oklahoma state legislature website is a great resource for keeping up to date on state legislation, a valuable resource for any legal professional looking to stay at the top of the field.

The United States Department of Justice in Oklahoma

Browse through links to the federal and local courts and glean information about the justice department. Keep up-to-date with news, and explore the different resources the justice department has to offer.

Oklahoma Court Reporters Association

The OCRA is a membership-based organization that connects court reporters with professional resources, networking and career opportunities.

Oklahoma Municipal Judges Association

The OMJA offers workshops that help municipal judges maintain their continuing legal education requirements as well as find jobs and networking opportunities.

Oklahoma CASA Association

The Oklahoma chapter of the national organization CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) provides court advocacy for children who have been abused or neglected. Their ultimate mission is to secure children in safe, permanent homes.

Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform

This organization seeks to make Oklahoma’s justice system more effective, reduce the prison population, save money and make communities safer.

LEGAL RESOURCES

Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma

Based on the belief that everyone deserves good legal representation, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma is a non-profit that offers legal help to low-income residents. Search for jobs, news or other resources available for lawyers.

Oklahoma Bar Association

Before you pass the bar, check out the Oklahoma Bar Association. They provide resources for lawyers, as well as news, information and training to keep professionals at the top of their field.

Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc.

For legal professionals interested in serving the many federally recognized tribes in the state of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. (OILS) provides information dedicated to education and advocacy such as legal resources, and sheds light on issues concerning reservations.

Oklahoma Paralegal Association

Affiliated with the National Association of Legal Assistants, the Oklahoma Paralegal Association is a membership-based group that connects paralegals with continuing education, information about professional standards and networking opportunities.

Oklahoma Board of Bar Examiners

This site provides information about the Oklahoma Bar exam, including frequently asked questions.

Oklahoma Attorney General

Part of the Oklahoma state government, the OAG office provides legal help and representation for state agencies, employees and consumers.

LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES

Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police

The Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) is dedicated to raising the professional standards for state and local law enforcement by providing training and other resources that improve the techniques of crime prevention and the practices of law enforcement.

Oklahoma Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association

The Oklahoma Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (OSPA) prides itself on being Oklahoma’s oldest law enforcement organization, offering training, literature, scholarships, and many other resources for law enforcement in the Sooner state.

Oklahoma Private Investigators Association

Oklahoma Private Investigators Association (OPIA) is an organization that provides private investigators working in Oklahoma with a network of investigative professionals, training seminars, newsletter and other resources. Dedicated to education and the raising of professional standards of the field, the OPIA is an invaluable resource for those seeking to be a competitive investigator working in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma County Sheriffs Department

Search for careers and other opportunities with the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Department (OCSD). OCSD provides law enforcement, resources, information and news for law enforcement as well as the community.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol

This site serves as a recruiting portal for future Oklahoma troopers as well as a place for information and communication with the public.

Oklahoma City Police Department Academy

Information about what’s covered at the academy as well as recruiting contact information can be found here.

WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

Oklahoma City Parks and Recreations

Put your criminal justice degree to work in the capital working for the Parks and Recreation Department! Search for jobs, news and information about the capital city and its nature reserves.

Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

Search for careers, internship opportunities, education and training with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. Stay updated on news and information that affects game wardens and the wildlife reserves around the state.

National Parks Service

The National Parks Service oversees many of the parks in Oklahoma, offering training, education, employment opportunities and other resources for those interested in working for the parks service.

Oklahoma Forestry Services

Public communications, contact information and job opportunities for the Oklahoma Forestry Services can be found on this site, which services to protect and enforce forest preservation.