Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Looking for criminal justice schools in Virginia? Find programs based on degree levels, tuition cost, and student population.
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Updated May 10, 2023

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Schools, Career Options and Resources for Students in Virginia

The criminal justice field is made up of many rewarding jobs—some of which students can begin training for by obtaining a degree from criminal justice schools in Virginia. From police patrolmen to state Supreme Court justices and everyone in between, each professional plays a role in making the system work, and criminal justice programs can lay the founded students need to fulfill that role. Continue reading this page to find out which careers are popular among graduates, as well as their earning potential and projected job growth.

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.

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VIRGINIA'S TOP-RANKING CRIMINAL JUSTICE SCHOOLS

OUR METHODOLOGY +

To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria: Accredited at the institutional level Private nonprofit or public school Minimum of 1 bachelor's or master's degree in subject area for 4-year schools Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools Schools were then scored on factors such as: Cost & Financial Aid Number and variety of program offerings Student-teacher ratios Graduation rates (4-year schools only) Placement and support services offered Academic/Career counseling services Employment services Loan default rates These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program.

Wondering which criminal justice schools in Virginia are among the best? Use the ranking tool below to find out. This resource allows users to find the most reputable programs based on tuition rates, teacher-student ratios, and enrollment numbers. Explore the top criminal justice schools in the state for 2017 below.

#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

George Mason University

  • Fairfax, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

George Mason 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 Fairfax, Virginia. Undergraduate students connect with peers, faculty, and staff.

After enrollment, criminal justice students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive coursework. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes and can modify their course load to suit their career goals.

Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Students seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.

Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The average student receives approximately $6,524 in financial aid, with 74% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,060
Out-of-state
$32,520
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,144
Out-of-state
$33,456
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
37,863
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Marymount University

  • Arlington, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Marymount University. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes, or on the college's Arlington-based campus. To date, the school offers 27 bachelor’s programs, including a BA in criminal justice.

After enrollment, students join a supportive learning community, connecting with peers, faculty, and staff in person and online. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their education.

Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, 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.

When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 98% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,100
Out-of-state
$32,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,900
Out-of-state
$18,900
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
3,363
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

#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Virginia State University

  • Petersburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Virginia State University provides flexible study for learners seeking a bachelor's-level education. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in person or online. To date, the school offers 30 bachelor’s programs, including a sociology and criminal justice program.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with foundational and advanced classes.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

The college connects students with a variety of funding opportunities to defray educational costs. The average enrollee receives $5,205 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,540
Out-of-state
$16,542
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,375
Out-of-state
$18,627
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
4,365
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Radford University

  • Radford, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Virginia, Radford University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the public college supports 48 bachelor's programs, five of which are online.

Learners across modalities benefit from a robust criminal justice program curriculum. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The average enrollee receives $8,884 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,922
Out-of-state
$19,557
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,915
Out-of-state
$17,441
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
11,870
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

#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Virginia Commonwealth University

  • Richmond, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Virginia Commonwealth University offers flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. The school supports hybrid study from its main campus in Richmond. At present, the college provides 61 bachelor's degree programs, with six programs supporting remote study.

Whether learning in-person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. Throughout their studies, enrollees in the criminal justice program complete field-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their career.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Students can receive guidance through career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $10,295.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,177
Out-of-state
$32,825
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,701
Out-of-state
$26,039
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
29,757
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Averett University

  • Danville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Averett University is a private college offering hybrid education in Danville, Virginia. Students can choose from 52 in-person bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.

Students in the sociology and criminal justice program complete foundational and advanced classes. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Students can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid in consultation with the financial aid office. The college notes that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,450
Out-of-state
$35,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
894
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider Liberty University. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, the private institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community.

Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, and become better prepared for their future careers. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration and 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
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Roanoke College

  • Salem, VA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Roanoke College is a private college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Located in Salem, Virginia, the private institution offers competitive, flexible programs that can be completed in person or online. To date, the school offers 36 bachelor’s programs.

Upon enrollment, criminal justice students connect with a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the criminal justice program.

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 100% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,818
Out-of-state
$43,818
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
2,003
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Longwood University

  • Farmville, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking flexible study should consider Longwood University. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Farmville-based campus. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community. While enrolled, students complete general and criminal justice-specific coursework. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their future career.

Students have the option to modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding. According to the college, 90% of all enrollees receive financial aid, with the average student awarded $7,453 in aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,940
Out-of-state
$23,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,480
Out-of-state
$17,910
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
4,468
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Virginia

Virginia Wesleyan University

  • Virginia Beach, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking flexible study should consider Virginia Wesleyan University. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. To date, the school offers 35 bachelor’s programs, with five online degree options.

Learners attending the criminal justice program in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community. Throughout their studies, learners in the criminal justice program complete field-specific coursework. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

Depending on their eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. According to the school, 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$36,010
Out-of-state
$36,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$8,982
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
1,487
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

POPULAR CRIMINAL JUSTICE JOBS IN VIRGINIA

Salaries and job opportunities are huge considerations for students earning degrees from criminal justice schools in Virginia. The table below provides that information by outlining how many people are employed in specific criminal justice jobs and the average median salaries for these positions. Also, there is information on the level of education required to obtain employment in different careers.

Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers

  • Total Employed in Virginia17,920
  • Median Salary in Virginia$49,860
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaAcademy Program

Correctional Officer

  • Total Employed in Virginia13,780
  • Median Salary in Virginia$35,030
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaCertification

Paralegal and Legal Assistant

Compliance Officer

  • Total Employed in Virginia7,070
  • Median Salary in Virginia$67,990
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaBachelor's

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

  • Total Employed in Virginia3,380
  • Median Salary in Virginia$86,720
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaVaries; up to Bachelor's

Probation Officer

  • Total Employed in Virginia2,930
  • Median Salary in Virginia$42,560
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaBachelor's

Court, Municipal and License Clerks

  • Total Employed in Virginia1,970
  • Median Salary in Virginia$34,000
  • Degree Level Required in VirginiaVaries; up to Bachelor's

VIRGINIA VERSUS NATIONAL AVERAGES: CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREER STATISTICS

Students attending criminal justice schools in Virginia need to have confidence that they'll get a return on their tuition investment. The good news is, some of the most popular careers command salaries that rival national averages and have stronger growth potential. Review the tables below for more information on national and state-specific salary statistics and job growth projections.

[chart block]

EMPLOYERS IN VIRGINIA LOOKING TO HIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATES

Wondering where the jobs are? Want to know which areas of Virginia pay the highest wages? The table below provides that information. Find out which locations have the most employees and the highest salaries for protective service and legal positions. In addition, there is a list of some organizations where criminal justice graduates may be able to find employment.

  • Protective Services
    Potential Employers

    Hanover County Sheriff's Office; Western Virginia Regional Jail; Commonwealth of Virginia; City of Virginia Beach Detective Bureau; Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries; Arlington County Police Department Parking Enforcement Unit; City of Virginia Beach Parking Enforcement; Prince William County Sheriff's Office; City of Portsmouth Police Department; Fairfax County Animal Control; Fairfax County Animal Shelter; Virginia Beach Animal Control Unit; International Counterintelligence Services, Inc.; Blueline Security Services, LLC; Universal Protection Service; Top Guard Security, Inc; Arlington County; City of Norfolk; American Pool Enterprises Inc.; Community Pool Service; Signature Pool Management

    Total Number of Employees in Virginia: 102,940
  • Legal Occupations
    Potential Employers

    Private practice law firms; Supreme Court of Virginia; Court of Appeals of Virginia; Alexandria Circuit Court; Bristol Circuit Court; Virginia Sixteenth Judicial District; Virginia First Judicial District; Eastern District Court of Virginia

    Total Number of Employees in Virginia: 36,160

LARGEST AREAS OF EMPLOYMENT IN DESCENDING ORDER

Protective service

Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News

Richmond

Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area

Roanoke

Southside Virginia nonmetropolitan area

Legal service

Richmond

Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News

Roanoke

Charlottesville

Southwest Virginia nonmetropolitan area

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN VIRGINIA

BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES

How to Form an LLC in Virginia

This page has step-by-step information on starting an LLC in the state.

Starting a Business in Virginia

Budding entrepreneurs can find information on how to apply for a business license, choose a company structure, and register a business name on this page.

Virginia 2016 Small Business Resource

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides information to help people begin and operate their companies.

National Capital Region, Association of Corporate Counsel

This chapter of the ACC services the commonwealth of Virginia, suburban Maryland and Washington D.C. to provide information and resources to corporate legal professionals.

Virginia Chamber of Commerce

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based entity that provides resources for businesses and advocates for business interests in Virginia government.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

This organization offers support for new and existing businesses that want to start in or come to Virginia.

Virginia Business Entity Search

This page on the Commonwealth of Virginia's State Corporation Commission helps citizens locate registered business entities.

CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES

Correctional Resources
Career Opportunities Virginians who want to pursue a corrections career can find job postings from the Department of Corrections on this page.
Virginia Correctional Association Members of the Virginia Correctional Association (VCA) can participate in the organization's training programs, conferences, and committees. In addition, the VCA has numerous publications to keep correctional professionals abreast of developments in the field.
Virginia Department of Corrections Includes information on correctional facilities, victim services, and the accomplishments of the agency.
Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice The DJJ serves the community by offering information and resources about Virginia's juvenile justice system, including correctional centers and programs. Virginia Reentry Programs and Assistance This directory provides information about programs that help ex-offenders reenter into the community.

COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES

Virginia Court Clerks Association

Serves the needs of court clerks in the state.

Virginia Court Reporters Association

The VCRA has been helping court reporters in Virginia enhance their skills since 1967.

Virginia's Judicial System

The website for the Virginia judiciary contains information on the different types of courts in the system. In addition, users can find out about the programs run by the judiciary, including mediation, parent education, and drug-treatment courts.

Virginia Association for Community Conflict Resolution

VACCR is a collection of nine non-profit conflict resolution centers that work to help Virginians resolve conflict constructively in their community.

Virginia CASA

The Virginia chapter of the Court Appointed Special Advocates provides assistance and advocacy for abused and neglected children.

Virginia Organizing

This nonpartisan grassroots organization aims to promote an equal justice system for all communities in Virginia.

LEGAL RESOURCES

Virginia Law

This state website allows users to search laws in the Code of Virginia, the Administrative Code, and the State Constitution.

Virginia Legal Aid Society

Low-income Virginia residents can receive pro bono representation for civil matters through the VLAS.

Virginia State Bar

Members of the Bar have access to numerous invaluable resources, such as continuing legal education courses, free dispute resolution services, and help with ethical dilemmas they may face during the course of their careers.

Virginia Alliance of Paralegal Associations

This statewide organization connects paralegal networks from around Virginia to share resources, provide information and attend conferences.

Nonprofit Legal Assistance Organizations in Virginia

This directory provides links to organizations that provide legal assistance to low-income members of the community.

Virginia Attorney General

The AG provides legal counsel and representation to state entities and employees. The AG also works to ensure consumer protections are in place throughout Virginia.

LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES

Private Investigators Association of Virginia

Promotes high standards among Virginia's private investigators and provides professional development to ensure that they meet these principles.

The Division of Capitol Police Commonwealth of Virginia

Agency provides police staff for state employees and elected officials.

Virginia State Police

This site has information on the work of the Virginia State Police.

Virginia Sheriffs' Association

The VSA provides information, news, networking opportunities and resources to Virginia's sheriffs.

Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy

The NVCJA website has information about training opportunities for Virginia's law enforcement professionals.

WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

Employment Opportunities

Jobs from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries are listed on this page.

The Wildlife Center of Virginia

When wild animals need medical care, The Wildlife Center of Virginia provides treatment. Since it opened its doors in 1982, the organization has helped 70,000 animals.

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

DGIF manages wildlife, recreational boating, and inland fisheries around the state.

Careers in Virginia State Parks

Information about law enforcement career opportunities in Virginia State Parks can be found on this webpage.

Virginia Conservation Police

Conservation police officers enforce the laws that are in place to protect wildlife.

Popular Resources

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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.

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