Top 10 Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs of 2024
Law enforcement careers span many areas of the field, including investigating crime, protecting against cyberattacks, and coordinating disaster response strategies for local police departments. Earning a master’s in criminal justice online can help you pursue law enforcement jobs with high salaries and leadership potential.
Our guide to criminal justice degrees includes information on coursework, career options, and average salary levels. You’ll also find our list of the top criminal justice master’s programs, which combine expert career training with convenience and affordability.
10 Best Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $431
Out-of-State | $877
Credits to Graduate: 33
The University of South Florida's online MA in criminal justice explores current issues in the criminal justice management field. The curriculum includes classes like minorities and crime, terrorism and homeland security, and research methods in criminology.
The program offers opportunities to work on research with faculty members in addition to networking and professional development opportunities. To apply, prospective students submit two letters of recommendation and a one- to two-page statement of purpose.
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled49,708
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $327
Out-of-State | $1,152
Credits to Graduate: 36
The University of Central Florida's online criminal justice MS helps prepare learners for leadership roles in the criminal justice system. The curriculum explores management, statistics, and criminal justice theory. Students take courses like the nature of crime, criminal justice organization, and policy analysis in criminal justice.
The school offers three annual application deadlines and does not require GRE scores. Enrollees can also pursue a 51-credit program that grants both an MS in criminal justice and master of public administration degree.
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled70,310
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,244
Out-of-State | $2,244
Credits to Graduate: 24
The University of Southern California's online MS in criminal justice takes 1-2 years. The curriculum focuses on the foundations of criminology and criminal justice. Required classes include applied statistics and data analysis in criminal justice, organizational change in criminal justice, and criminal investigations.
The program offers multiple start dates each year, and does not require the GRE. Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. In addition to a $90 application fee, prospective students submit a resume, a statement of purpose, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
- In-State$60,446
- Out-of-state$60,446
- In-State$60,446
- Out-of-state$60,446
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate13%
- Students Enrolled49,318
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Semester:
In-State | $4,371
Out-of-State | $9,285
Credits to Graduate: 36
Florida International University's master of science in criminal justice prepares graduates for advanced roles in research and analysis. Students can pursue a for-credit internship to develop professional skills during the program. The school also offers a graduate teaching certificate program for learners intending to pursue academic careers.
Core requirements include criminological theory, criminal justice policy analysis, transnational crime and national security, and geospatial analysis in criminal justice. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.2 GPA in upper-division coursework, and at least a B in an undergraduate research methods class.
- In-State$4,721
- Out-of-state$16,529
- In-State$8,912
- Out-of-state$21,393
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled56,664
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $637
Out-of-State | $637
Credits to Graduate: 36
Southern New Hampshire University's master's in criminal justice online degree takes as few as 15 months to complete. The program accepts up to 12 graduate-level transfer credits. Classes do not meet at set times, allowing enrollees to complete coursework on more flexible timelines.
In addition to a general track, learners can specialize their degrees with concentrations in public safety administration or advanced counterterrorism and homeland security. Students learn leadership strategies, research skills, and criminological theory to start or advance a career in public policy, law enforcement, or in federal government agencies.
- In-State$15,000
- Out-of-state$15,000
- In-State$18,900
- Out-of-state$18,900
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled145,533
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment96%
- AccreditationYes
Michigan State University
- East Lansing, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $832
Out-of-State | $832
Credits to Graduate: 30
Michigan State University's online master of arts in criminal justice takes two years. The degree helps qualify learners for criminal justice careers in sectors such as corrections, law enforcement, and courts. Students who want to pursue jobs in private security or government can pursue the program's security management specialization.
The curriculum requires 10 courses and explores topics like counterterrorism, crime control strategies, and law enforcement intelligence. The program also offers internships so enrollees can accrue professional experience. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation.
- In-State$15,966
- Out-of-state$41,290
- In-State$19,714
- Out-of-state$38,638
- Retention Rate92%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled49,659
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Boston University
- Boston, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $535-$955
Out-of-State | $535-$955
Credits to Graduate: 32
Boston University's online MS in criminal justice explores the challenges of working in the judiciary system, corrections, and law enforcement. The degree takes 8-16 months and offers part- and full-time enrollment options. The program does not require applicants to take the GRE or GMAT.
Students can pursue concentrations in cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity, crime analysis, or strategic management. The school also allows learners to pursue a dual specialization that combines the cybercrime and crime analysis concentrations by completing 40 credits total.
- In-State$58,560
- Out-of-state$58,560
- In-State$58,560
- Out-of-state$58,560
- Retention Rate94%
- Acceptance Rate19%
- Students Enrolled36,104
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- New York, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $470
Out-of-State | $565
Credits to Graduate: 36
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice's online criminal justice MA program offers asynchronous coursework that does not require students to attend class at set times. The degree's accelerated courses each last eight weeks.
The curriculum explores quantitative research methods, criminology theory, and judicial studies. Learners can pursue specializations in criminal law and procedure, policing, criminology and deviance, and terrorism studies. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a grade of B or higher in an undergraduate statistics course.
- In-State$6,930
- Out-of-state$14,880
- In-State$11,090
- Out-of-state$20,520
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled15,210
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment90%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A & M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $367
Out-of-State | $367
Credits to Graduate: 36
Texas A&M International University's master of science in criminal justice online degree takes as few as 12 months to complete. Designed for working professionals, the program features seven-week courses and six annual start dates. The degree does not require a thesis.
The curriculum explores comparative criminal justice systems, cybercrime, ethics, and criminological theory. Students finish the program with a pass/fail capstone where they propose solutions to issues relevant to the American criminal justice system.
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,610
- In-State$3,350
- Out-of-state$10,694
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled8,455
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment62%
- AccreditationYes
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $420
Out-of-State | $420
Credits to Graduate: 55
Purdue Global's online master's in criminal justice requires 11 courses and takes students an average 1.5 years to complete. Designed for working professionals, the degree can prepare graduates for advanced criminal justice roles.
The curriculum explores state and federal law relevant to criminal justice, criminal behavior, research methods, and criminal justice organization management. Courses include critical issues in criminal justice, socially responsible leadership in public safety, and criminological theory.
- In-State$10,080
- Out-of-state$13,356
- In-State$8,730
- Out-of-state$9,700
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled43,458
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment100%
- AccreditationYes
Should I Get a Master’s in Criminal Justice?
A criminal justice master’s program builds advanced knowledge of law enforcement theories and practices. You’ll gain specialized criminology, criminal justice administration, and law enforcement leadership skills.
Your training can qualify you for potentially rewarding and in-demand positions, such as the various supervisory roles within law enforcement. These upper-level careers typically often come with a significant pay bump and may allow you to make a bigger difference in your community.
Earning your master’s in criminal justice online provides more flexibility than a traditional degree. You can further your education while continuing your career. An online format also lets you attend a top program without relocating.
Did You Know…
- A 2017 survey found that over 32% of the nation’s police chiefs and sheriffs hold at least a master’s degree.
- There were 686,665 full-time law enforcement officials in the United States as of 2018.
- Digital forensics careers are in high demand: the FBI logged more than 847,000 complaints of cybercrime in 2021, with potential losses of over $6.9 billion.
Graduate Coursework in Criminal Justice
In a criminal justice master’s program, you can build a broad knowledge of the justice system, including policing practices and the U.S. court system. Coursework also explores general topics such as law, criminal justice management, and theories of crime.
Many online programs in this field offer concentrations such as cybersecurity, criminology, and homeland security. This section describes four common courses in master’s in criminal justice online programs.
This general course introduces theoretical and analytical frameworks for criminal justice studies. Classwork covers the history of the criminal justice system, along with major theories and approaches to law enforcement. You can examine the social, cultural, and political role of criminal justice and policing practices.
Analysis of Criminal Justice Systems
Research forms a major component of many criminal justice master’s programs. This class uses research and data to create and evaluate criminal justice policies and practices. You can gain a broad understanding of research tools and methodologies in the criminal justice field and learn to conduct and evaluate research.Criminal Justice Research Methods
This class introduces criminology and the various factors that influence criminal behavior. You may explore the major theories and sociological and psychological approaches to criminology. This class also examines the role criminology plays in determining criminal justice policy and practices.Survey of Criminology
Master’s in criminal justice online programs often require a final capstone course. A capstone project draws on your overall program learning and applies it to criminal justice practice. In many instances, you’ll examine a specific criminal justice issue or propose a solution to a contemporary problem in criminal justice.Capstone
How Much Does a Criminal Justice Master’s Degree Cost?
Average Annual Cost of an Online Master’s in Protective Services*
$22,690
*Includes law enforcement, security, firefighting, and related protective services programs
Many factors influence the cost of your criminal justice master’s program, including school type, delivery format, and program length. 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. Fortunately, some online schools charge flat-rate tuition, allowing all learners to pay 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.
Even if you’re pursuing a criminal justice master’s degree online, you may need to complete some in-person components. These requirements may lead to additional travel and lodging expenses.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Criminal Justice?
An online master’s degree in criminal justice can prepare 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.
If you are transitioning to law enforcement, know that most careers require a training program before becoming an officer. Other protective and public service roles, such as emergency management, may require certification.
Read on to learn more about potential careers for criminal justice graduates.
Detective or Criminal Investigator
These law enforcement specialists conduct investigations of serious crimes at the local, state, and federal levels. Detectives and investigators collect evidence, interview suspects, and examine records to solve crimes. They may work for local or state police departments or national agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF.
Emergency Management Director
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 Officer or Correctional Treatment Specialist
Probation officers rehabilitate criminal offenders, helping them reintegrate into society after incarceration and avoid re-imprisonment. 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 to develop rehabilitation plans for clients.
Criminologist
Criminologists take a psychological and sociological approach to criminal justice, working to understand the mental factors that influence crime. They work alongside other law enforcement officials to profile criminals and examine criminal behavior. Criminologists may work with police departments or national law enforcement agencies like the FBI.
| Job | Median Salary (2023) | Projected Job Outlook (2022-32) |
|---|---|---|
| Police and sheriff’s patrol officers | $72,280 | +3% |
| Detectives and criminal investigators | $91,100 | +1% |
| Fish and game wardens | $60,380 | -6% |
| Transit and railroad police | $72,250 | +3% |
| Sociologists (including criminologists) | $101,770 | +5% |
| Emergency management directors | $83,960 | +3% |
| Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists | $61,800 | +3% |
| Correctional officers and jailers | $53,300 | -8% |
| Bailiffs | $53,040 | -2% |
| Private investigators | $49,540 | +6% |
Continuing Education for Criminal Justice Grads
After completing your criminal justice master’s degree, you can consider several advanced education options. You might continue in your field with a Ph.D. in criminal justice or a doctor of criminal justice (DCJ). While the Ph.D. typically leads to a postsecondary teaching career, the DCJ tends to lead to more advanced or leadership roles within law enforcement.
You could also pair your criminal justice master’s degree with related programs, such as a juris doctor degree if you wish to practice criminal law. If you want to effect change in communities or policies, you can consider a master’s in public administration or doctorate in public administration.
The interdisciplinary nature of criminal justice allows you to take your education in many directions, depending on your strengths and interests.
Accreditation of Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs
Before enrolling in any program, you must check the school’s accreditation status. Institutional accreditation can affect your eligibility for financial aid, credit transfer, and licensure/employment opportunities. Institutional accreditation comes from organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (ED).
Regarding programmatic accreditation, there are currently no CHEA- or ED-recognized accreditors for criminal justice programs. However, the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences certifies programs that meet its academic standards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees
Is a master’s in criminal justice worth it?
Many people find great value in criminal justice master’s programs. These advanced degrees can allow you to pursue leadership roles, boost your earning power, and qualify you for specialist positions in federal agencies. To answer this question for yourself, you need to weigh the benefits against the time, money, and energy it takes to earn a master’s degree.
What master’s degrees go well with a master’s in criminal justice?
Graduate degrees that may complement a master’s in criminal justice online include public administration, forensic science, and cybersecurity. These fields can benefit criminal justice professionals through their focus on administration, forensics, or information technology. A master’s in social work or psychology can also be useful if you’re interested in criminal rehabilitation.
What is the highest-paid job in criminal justice?
According to the BLS, the highest-paid job in criminal justice is criminologist. Sociologists of all types (which includes criminologists) earned an annual median salary of $101,770 as of May 2023. Other high-paying criminal justice jobs include detectives/criminal investigators and emergency management directors.
Does the FBI prefer a master’s degree?
The FBI does not require agents to hold master’s degrees. However, a master’s in criminal justice builds specialized skills and knowledge that can help you advance faster in your career. A master’s degree can also make you more competitive for highly selective jobs, such as those with the FBI and other elite law enforcement organizations.
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 sociological and 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.
