Academic Programs and Career Trajectories for Students
Despite being ranked by Law Street Media as one of the most dangerous states in the country in 2015, the law enforcement community has made great strides to reduce crime—thanks in part to the work of graduates from criminal justice schools in Tennessee. According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, violent offenses in the state dropped 2.1 percent between 2014 and 2015.
Making a difference in the community is why many people pursue criminal justice careers. And whether they want to walk the beat or sit behind the bench, professionals can get a solid foundation for their careers by completing a degree program at one of Tennessee's colleges. Read this page to find out information about criminal justice schools in Tennessee, as well as the jobs that graduates can obtain and the salaries they earn.
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Tennessee's Best Criminal Justice Programs
All students want to enroll in the best programs—but they may need help finding them first. To help with this, we've analyzed and ranked schools across the state based on factors such as teacher-student ratio, and acceptance and enrollment rates. Use the list below to find the highest ranking criminal justice schools in Tennessee.
These rankings include
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Bethel University
McKenzie, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
McKenzie-based Bethel University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Learners can pursue degrees on campus or online. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.
Enrollees pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice studies complete general and major-specific coursework. Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
Degree candidates can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their program.
Eligible degree-seekers can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from East Tennessee State University. The college supports 53 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. Enrollees pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice and criminology connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Learners complete foundational and advanced coursework and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. By working with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Eligible degree-seekers can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The institution reports that 95% of all students receive some form of financial aid.
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Middle Tennessee State University. Located in Murfreesboro, the public institution offers competitive, flexible programs that learners can complete in person or online. Degree-seekers enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice program connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Enrollees follow a rigorous program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
By working with an academic advisor, degree candidates can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue concentrations. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
The financial aid office can connect degree candidates with funding opportunities to make the costs of college manageable. Students can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $8,456.
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Memphis provides flexible study for bachelor's degree-seekers. The college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Memphis. Students pursuing the bachelor's in criminology and criminal justice gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Degree candidates build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Students can also pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
By working with an academic advisor, learners can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue concentrations to suit their career goals. Enrollees seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
When preparing for the costs of education, applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 97% receive some form of financial aid.
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Tennessee State University. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Nashville-based campus. Degree-seekers can choose from one of 37 bachelor's degrees or opt for remote study across six programs.
Enrollees pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Students can supplement their education through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
By working with an academic advisor, degree candidates can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue concentrations and minors. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding options. Enrollees can expect to receive an average financial aid package of $10,231.
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Cumberland University
Lebanon, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cumberland University, a private college in Lebanon, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The college supports 36 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. Learners pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.
Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework as well as industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Interested applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid.
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Freed-Hardeman University
Henderson, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Freed-Hardeman University provides flexible study for bachelor's degree-seekers. The private institution offers hybrid programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the school offers 38 bachelor’s degrees, including a bachelor's in criminal justice.
Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community throughout their studies. Students complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Participants take foundational and advanced coursework with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.
Degree candidates can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their program. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.
The financial aid office can connect degree-seekers with funding opportunities.
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Lincoln Memorial University. Whether degree-seekers study on campus or online, they can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
As part of the bachelor's in criminology and criminal justice curriculum, students complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as research projects and internships.
Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Students can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.
Eligible students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The school reports that 94% of all enrollees get some form of aid.
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga supports a variety of undergraduate-level degrees. The Chattanooga-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. At present, the college provides 44 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in criminal justice.
Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Throughout their studies, degree-seekers complete major-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum.
Degree candidates 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 supportive resources.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution boasts that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
The University of Tennessee-Martin
Martin, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Martin, The University of Tennessee-Martin provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Students can choose from a variety of programs, either in person or online. Enrollees in the bachelor of science in criminal justice program gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Degree candidates 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 education.
Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Throughout their studies, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.
Degree-seekers can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding options. The institution reports that 98% of all students receive some form of financial aid.
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
King University
Bristol, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from King University. The private college offers 38 bachelor's programs, 14 of which are fully remote. Enrollees pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework. Degree-seekers can modify their program depending on their career goals by working with an academic advisor. Enrollees can take advantage of resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college notes that 92% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Austin Peay State University
Clarksville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Austin Peay State University. Degree-seekers can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Clarksville. To date, the school offers 39 bachelor’s programs, with 17 online degree options.
Once enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice program, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. Enrollees complete major-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. Degree candidates can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities.
The program lets students customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.
The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities. At the college, 99% of all incoming degree-seekers receive financial aid.
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Bryan College-Dayton
Dayton, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bachelor's degree-seekers looking for flexibility should consider Bryan College-Dayton. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs. Both modalities support rigorous study and connect enrollees with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.
Degree-seekers pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
Eligible students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding toward their educational expenses. Of all enrollees, 83% receive financial aid.
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Remington College-Nashville Campus
Nashville, TN - 2 years
- Campus
Remington College-Nashville Campus provides premier degrees suitable for undergraduate students. The Nashville-based college supports both in-person and remote bachelor's programs. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Degree candidates enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice degree-completion program benefit from foundational and advanced coursework as well as industry-specific lectures. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration. Learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Prospective applicants can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities. Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. According to the institution, 82% of all enrollees receive financial aid.
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Tennessee
Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Trevecca Nazarene University supports a variety of undergraduate-level degrees. Located in Nashville, the private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that learners can complete in person or online. Students pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice studies gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes and can modify their course load to suit career goals.
Degree candidates can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their program. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.
To manage the costs of education, learners can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding options through the financial aid office. The institution reports that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
Tennessee's Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers
How many criminal justice professionals work in Tennessee? What do these workers earn each year? These questions are normal for anyone interested in attending criminal justice schools in Tennessee to ask. The table below provides that information, as well as the minimum education required for state-specific positions in the field.
Police, Sheriff
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 12,450
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $43,810
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Academy Program
Correctional Officer
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 8,990
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $31,770
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Certification
Compliance Officers
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 5,010
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $60,450
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Bachelor's
Paralegal
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 3,830
- Median Salary in Tennessee $49,500
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Varies; up to Bachelor's
Detectives, Criminal Investigators
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 1,360
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $69,500
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Varies; up to Bachelor's
Probation Officer
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 1,800
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $38,960
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee Bachelor's
Judicial Clerk
- Total Employed in Tennessee: 140
- Median Salary in Tennessee: $47,610
- Degree Level Required in Tennessee: Varies; up to Bachelor's
Career Averages for Criminal Justice Occupations in Tennessee
Students who graduate from criminal justice schools in Tennessee want to be confident in their chosen field's average salaries and job growth rates. This section provides information on the earnings of specific careers in the criminal justice field, as well as projected job growth in the state compared with the national average.
Job | National | Tennessee |
---|---|---|
Private Detectives and Investigators | $50,430 | $53,530 |
Lawyers | $127,700 | $139,880 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $69,500 | $81,490 |
Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers | $93,140 | $100,250 |
Bailiffs | $32,260 | $45,740 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $49,500 | $53,180 |
Fish and Game Wardens | $54,760 | $60,670 |
Court Reporters | $56,940 | $63,050 |
Correctional Officers and Jailers | $31,770 | $46,750 |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $38,960 | $54,080 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015
Job | National | Tennessee |
---|---|---|
Animal Control Workers | 0.058 | 0.116 |
Bailiffs | 0.047 | 0.106 |
Compliance Officers | 0.033 | 0.12 |
Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | 0.045 | 0.116 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators | -0.012 | 0.041 |
Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates | 0.006 | 0.083 |
Lawyers | 0.056 | 0.088 |
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | 0.036 | 0.048 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 0.076 | 0.2 |
Source: Projections Central, 2015
Tennessee Employment Opportunities with a Criminal Justice Degree
Criminal justice professionals around the state can make a difference in their communities, but some locations in Tennessee have more opportunities to do that than others. This chart provides information on the areas of the states that have the most employment opportunities and the average wages workers earn in these locations.
Protective Services
Potential Employers: Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts; Tennessee Department of Correction; Nashville Investigative Services Bureau; Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency; City of Kingsport Tennessee Police Department; Metropolitan Government of Nashville; City of Memphis ; Williamson County Animal Center; Montgomery County Animal Control; Nashville Metro Animal Care and Control; King & King Detective Agency; Tennessee Private Investigation and Polygraph Commission; Christian Brothers University; G4S; Dynamic Security, Inc.; Murray Guard; Nashville Metro Police School Crossing Guard Section; AquaMobile Swim School; YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga; Lifetime Fitness
Total Number of Employees in Tennessee: 66,000
Legal Occupations
Potential Employers: Private practice law firms; Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts; Tennessee Supreme Court; Tennessee Court of Appeals; Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals; Tennessee Appellate Court Clerk's Office; Tennessee General Sessions Court; Tennessee Court Juvenile & Family Courts; Tennessee Chancery Courts; Tennessee Circuit Courts; Tennessee Municipal Courts