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If you're looking to build a career in criminal justice, a master's degree can help you move into advanced roles in law enforcement, the court system, or probation supervision. These roles usually offer increased responsibilities, greater leadership potential, and higher pay.
An online master's degree in criminal justice can give you the flexibility to further your education without leaving your current job. Our guide to the best online master's in criminal justice programs offers an overview of common course topics, career options after graduation, and answers to common questions about the criminal justice field.
Top Online Master's Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Best Online Master's Degree Programs in Criminal Justice
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $808
Out-of-State | $808
Credits to Graduate: 30
MSU, with an 80-year tradition of educating criminal justice students, features a two-year master's in criminal justice degree that prepares you for executive-level careers. You make career connections through internships, career fairs, and MSU's alumni network. Grads can find employment opportunities at the Michigan Department of Corrections and the Drug Enforcement Agency.
You'll complete 10 online courses on subjects like crime causation and prevention, behavior and ethics, and policy analysis. MSU accepts applicants with a bachelor's degree and at least a 3.0 GPA.
#2 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $367
Out-of-State | $1,030
Credits to Graduate: 36
TAMIU's online master's in criminal justice degree teaches you use advanced research skills to delve into corrections, ethics, and legal studies. You also take seminars on corrections and police practices and electives on white-collar crime and cybercrime.
This non-thesis degree requires a capstone project in which you explore a solution to a problem in criminal justice. Plus, you'll graduate in as few as 12 months.
You can get into this program with a bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.8 GPA or three years of criminal justice work experience.
#3 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Averett University
Danville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Total Cost:
In-State | $12,904
Out-of-State | $12,904
Credits to Graduate: 36
Averett's master's in criminal justice degree offers two concentrations in disaster management and administration and leadership. You'll graduate in about 23 months, taking two classes each eight-week semester.
The subject areas cover theories of crime and criminology, research methods, and policy analysis. The program culminates with a comprehensive exam or thesis. Chat rooms, forums, and video conferences allow you to interact with classmates and instructors.
You earn preferred admission with an undergraduate degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
#4 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $355
Out-of-State | $355
Credits to Graduate: 31
UC's online master's in justice administration degree allows you to pursue two specializations. You can graduate in 12-24 months with a specialization in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, juvenile justice, investigations, addiction studies, cyber security, and/or digital forensics.
Courses blend criminological theories, research, design and analysis, and leadership fundamentals. And you complete your education with a capstone project. After graduating, you can get admitted into the Ph.D. program in leadership with a concentration in criminal justice.
Admissions criteria include a bachelor's degree from an accredited college and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
#5 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $775
Out-of-State | $775
Credits to Graduate: 36
UofL's online master's in criminal justice degree emphasizes ethics, responsibility and social dynamics. The curriculum consists of five core courses, six electives, and one research paper that you can complete in three semesters.
You have the opportunity to complete internships with the Metro Louisville Government, Jefferson County Public Schools, Kentucky Derby Festival, or Louisville Metro Police Department.
This program offers five start dates. You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The GRE or GMAT are not required for admission.
#6 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
University of Mississippi
University, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Total Cost:
In-State | $14,346
Out-of-State | $14,346
Credits to Graduate: 30
Ole Miss offers a one-year online master's in criminal justice degree with concentrations in criminal justice leadership and homeland security and emergency management.
Regardless of your concentration, you study criminal justice administration, statistics, research methods, and theories of criminal behavior. Your degree culminates with a two-course capstone project in which you research an issue in criminal justice, emergency management, or homeland security policy.
To be eligible for the program, you need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
#7 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, RI - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $842
Out-of-State | $842
Credits to Graduate: 30
Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales features an online master's of science in criminal justice degree that you'll complete in two years. Courses blend criminological and organizational theory, policy, and practice.
You'll study juvenile justice issues and criminal justice research methods at your own pace without having to visit the Providence, Rhode Island campus. Johnson & Wales also offers a master of public administration with a concentration in criminal justice.
Admission into this program requires a bachelor's in criminal justice and a minimum GPA of 2.85.
#8 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Lincoln Memorial University
Harrogate, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $550
Out-of-State | $550
Credits to Graduate: 30
LMU offers an online master's in criminal justice degree that you can customize through tracks in administration, applied professional, or research.
You complete weekly assignments on your own time. The curriculum prepares you for an advanced leadership role in criminal justice or doctoral studies. LMU also offers dual degrees with the Duncan School of Law and the master of public administration program.
You need undergraduate transcripts that show you completed a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA.
#9 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Arizona State University
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $718-$719
Out-of-State | $718-$719
Credits to Graduate: 33
ASU's online master's in criminal justice degree allows you to simultaneously earn certificates in corrections management, law enforcement administration, or homeland security. The program consists of 11 seven-and-a-half-week courses. The electives offer practical experience through seminars in corrections, policing, and homeland security with an optional internship.
You must meet admissions requirements for the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. New students need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
#10 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Keiser University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $28,640
Out-of-State | $28,640
Credits to Graduate: 33
You can graduate from Keiser with a master's in criminal justice degree in 12-18 months. The program prepares you for careers in law enforcement or the court system. Seminars on law enforcement, criminal justice, and correctional systems build your foundation for your final capstone project. You set the pace of your education by taking 1-2 courses at a time.
To be considered for the program, you need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college.
Why Get a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice?
An online master's degree in criminal justice builds advanced knowledge of law enforcement theories and practices. You'll gain specialized skills in criminology, criminal justice administration, and law enforcement leadership.
A graduate degree can help you increase your earning potential as a criminal justice professional. The top 10% of detectives and criminal investigators earn a median salary of $150,570 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Police and detectives who work for the federal government earn a median salary of $93,970.
Earning a master's in criminal justice online provides you with more flexibility than a traditional degree program. You can further your education while continuing your career. An online format also lets you attend a top program without having to relocate.
How Much Does a Criminal Justice Degree Cost?
Master's degrees cost an average of $62,650, according to EducationData.org. Many factors influence cost, including school type and program length. Most master's programs last about 1.5-2 years, but it may take longer if you enroll part time.
Average Cost of a Master's Degree
$62,650
You can save money by attending an in-state public school. You may spend more on your education if you pursue an online master's degree in criminal justice from a private or out-of-state school. Some schools charge online students the same rate, regardless of residency status.
As an online learner, you may save money on commuting and other education-related expenses; however, you should plan for extra costs like graduation and technology fees. You must also buy textbooks and other school supplies. You can save money by buying used or digital books.
If you're pursuing an online master's degree in criminal justice, you may need to complete some in-person components. This may lead to additional travel and lodging expenses.
How Much Do Criminal Justice Majors Make?
Many criminal justice graduates pursue careers in law enforcement. Many degree-holders work as police and detectives. These professionals earn a median salary of $83,640 annually, according to the BLS. The top 10% of detectives earn more than $105,540 annually.
Median Annual Salary for Police & Detectives
$83,640
Median Annual Salary for Emergency Managers
$76,730
You may also work in related fields, such as emergency management. The BLS reports that emergency managers earn a median salary of $76,730. The top 10% of emergency management directors earn more than $133,580 annually.
A master's degree can help you pursue many advanced careers with higher salary potential. Graduates may also earn a doctorate in criminal justice, which prepares them to teach at the college level.
What Courses Are Taught in Criminal Justice?
In an online master's degree in criminal justice, you'll build a broad knowledge of the criminal justice system. You'll study policing practices and the U.S. court system. You'll also explore general topics such as law, criminal justice management, and theories of crime.
Many online criminal justice master's degrees offer concentrations. Common options include criminology, cybersecurity, and homeland security. Below are descriptions of three common classes in master's in criminal justice online programs.
Analysis of Criminal Justice Systems
This general course introduces theoretical and analytical frameworks for criminal justice studies. This class covers the history of the criminal justice system and major theories and approaches to law enforcement. You'll examine the social, cultural, and political role of criminal justice and policing practices.
Criminal Justice Research Methods
Research forms a major component of many online criminal justice master's degrees. This class explores the use of research and data in creating and evaluating criminal justice policies and practices. You'll gain a broad understanding of research tools and methodologies in the criminal justice field and learn how to conduct and evaluate research.
Survey of Criminology
This class introduces criminology and the various factors that influence criminal behavior. You may explore the major theories and sociology and psychological approaches to criminology. This class also examines the role criminology plays in determining criminal justice policy and practices.
What Is the Career and Salary Outlook for Criminal Justice?
An online master's degree in criminal justice prepares you for many advanced careers in law enforcement and related fields. Most criminal justice careers do not require a master's degree. That said, the degree can make you more competitive for top positions.
See below for three common careers for criminal justice graduates. Read on to learn about typical duties, annual salaries, and projected job growth.
Detectives
These professionals investigate crimes and gather evidence related to criminal investigations. They may specialize in one type of crime, such as homicide or narcotics. Detectives typically interview witnesses and collect evidence to identify criminal suspects. They may also supervise and direct other police officers.
Emergency Management Directors
These directors oversee preparations for emergency scenarios, such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks. They work with government agencies, public safety officials, and other professionals to plan for and respond to disasters. Emergency management directors commonly assess disaster risk factors. They also design safety protocols and lead disaster-response teams.
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Probation officers rehabilitate criminal offenders, helping them stay out of jail or reintegrate into society after being in jail. With a master's degree in criminal justice, you can pursue more administrative roles in this field, directing overall probation practices and policies. Graduates may also work as treatment specialists, developing rehabilitation plans for their clients.
| Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2021) | Projected Growth Rate (2021-2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Detectives | $66,020 | 3% |
| Emergency Management Directors | $76,730 | 3% |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $60,250 | 0% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's Degrees in Criminal Justice
What can I do with a master's in criminal justice?
The best criminal justice master's programs can prepare you for careers such as police detective, probation officer, and emergency management director. You can also continue your studies in a Ph.D. program in criminal justice or criminology.
What is the highest-paying job in criminal justice?
Some of the highest-paying jobs in criminal justice include police detective and emergency management director. According to the BLS, the top 10% of emergency management directors make a median annual salary of $133,580, while the top 10% of police detectives make a median annual salary of $105,540.
Emergency management directors employed in professional, scientific, and technical services typically earn the highest salaries.
Is a master's in criminal justice the same as criminology?
While closely related, criminal justice and criminology are different fields of study. Criminology takes a social science approach to crime, studying the psychological roots of criminal behavior. Criminal justice applies the principles of criminology to real-world law enforcement practices and the justice system.
Criminology generally takes a more theoretical approach, while criminal justice takes a more practical approach.