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Best Colleges with Criminal Justice Degrees in the U.S.
These days getting a degree in criminal justice is becoming more widely popular. This is because a criminal justice degree is a good launching pad for other career paths, and because more law enforcement agencies are requiring some college credit in order to qualify for specific positions. A criminal justice program will teach individuals research methods, statistics, corrections, criminal law, and give students a background knowledge on how the institutions function.
Jobs an individual with a criminal justice degree may obtain include but aren’t limited to probation officer, forensic science technician, police officer, corrections officer, detective, warden, security guard, crime scene investigator, and state trooper. If you’re interested in any of these rewarding careers, get started on your criminal justice degree!
The Best Criminal Justice Colleges of 2017
| Rank | School Name | Location | Description | Rating | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kaplan University-Davenport Campus | Davenport, IA |
Kaplan University-Davenport Campus offers 4 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large private university in a small city. In 2015, 1,069 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 388 Bachelor's degrees, 368 Associate's degrees, 310 Master's degrees, and 3 Certificates degrees. | Based on 40 Reviews |
Read more: Kaplan University-Davenport Campus Reviews
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| 2 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
Liberty University offers 5 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large private university in a small city. In 2015, 678 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 479 Bachelor's degrees, 91 Master's degrees, 81 Associate's degrees, and 27 Certificates degrees. | Based on 44 Reviews |
Read more: Liberty University Reviews
| |
| 3 | Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, TX |
Sam Houston State University offers 4 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a far away town. In 2015, 675 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 649 Bachelor's degrees, 15 Master's degrees, and 11 Doctoral degrees. | Based on 24 Reviews |
Read more: Sam Houston State University Reviews
| |
| 4 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL |
Florida State University offers 4 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a mid sized city. In 2015, 625 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 552 Bachelor's degrees, 67 Master's degrees, and 6 Doctoral degrees. | Based on 48 Reviews |
Read more: Florida State University Reviews
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| 5 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL |
University of Central Florida offers 3 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a large suburb. In 2015, 532 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 451 Bachelor's degrees, and 81 Master's degrees. | Based on 68 Reviews |
Read more: University of Central Florida Reviews
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| 6 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
Florida International University offers 3 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a large suburb. In 2015, 549 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 508 Bachelor's degrees, and 41 Master's degrees. | Based on 32 Reviews |
Read more: Florida International University Reviews
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| 7 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati, OH |
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus offers 4 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a large city. In 2015, 519 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 283 Master's degrees, 229 Bachelor's degrees, and 7 Doctoral degrees. | Based on 32 Reviews |
Read more: University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Reviews
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| 8 | Ivy Tech Community College | Indianapolis, IN |
Ivy Tech Community College offers 2 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a very large public college in a large city. In 2015, 785 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 427 Associate's degrees, and 358 Certificates degrees. | Based on 8 Reviews |
Read more: Ivy Tech Community College Reviews
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| 9 | American Public University System | Charles Town, WV |
American Public University System offers 3 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large private university in a outlying town. In 2015, 685 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 450 Bachelor's degrees, 170 Master's degrees, and 65 Associate's degrees. | Based on 28 Reviews |
Read more: American Public University System Reviews
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| 10 | San Diego State University | San Diego, CA |
San Diego State University offers 2 Criminal Justice Degree programs. It's a large public university in a large city. In 2015, 398 students graduated in the study area of Criminal Justice with students earning 398 Bachelor's degrees. | Based on 44 Reviews |
Read more: San Diego State University Reviews
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List of Criminal Justice Schools in the U.S.
| School Logo | School Name | Average tuition | Student Teacher Ratio | Enrolled Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Kaplan University-Davenport Campus Davenport, IA |
3/5
|
43 : 1 | 45,355 |
|
|
Liberty University Lynchburg, VA |
4/5
|
39 : 1 | 80,494 |
|
|
Sam Houston State University Huntsville, TX |
2/5
|
26 : 1 | 20,031 |
|
|
Florida State University Tallahassee, FL |
2/5
|
25 : 1 | 40,830 |
|
University of Central Florida Orlando, FL |
2/5
|
41 : 1 | 62,953 |
|
Florida International University Miami, FL |
2/5
|
34 : 1 | 49,782 |
|
|
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati, OH |
3/5
|
17 : 1 | 36,042 |
|
|
Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis, IN |
2/5
|
32 : 1 | 81,668 |
|
|
American Public University System Charles Town, WV |
2/5
|
51 : 1 | 52,361 |
|
|
San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
2/5
|
31 : 1 | 34,254 |
|
California State University-Sacramento Sacramento, CA |
2/5
|
31 : 1 | 30,284 |
|
Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton, FL |
2/5
|
33 : 1 | 30,380 |
|
Boston University Boston, MA |
5/5
|
11 : 1 | 32,158 |
|
Troy University Troy, AL |
2/5
|
24 : 1 | 17,765 |
|
California State University-Fullerton Fullerton, CA |
2/5
|
30 : 1 | 38,948 |
|
Temple University Philadelphia, PA |
4/5
|
15 : 1 | 38,007 |
|
University of North Carolina at Charlotte Charlotte, NC |
2/5
|
25 : 1 | 27,983 |
|
Saint Leo University Saint Leo, FL |
4/5
|
32 : 1 | 15,800 |
|
University of North Texas Denton, TX |
3/5
|
31 : 1 | 37,299 |
|
Northeastern University Boston, MA |
5/5
|
15 : 1 | 19,940 |
|
Columbus State University Columbus, GA |
2/5
|
23 : 1 | 8,440 |
|
Bethel University McKenzie, TN |
4/5
|
21 : 1 | 5,951 |
|
Grambling State University Grambling, LA |
2/5
|
25 : 1 | 4,541 |
|
The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL |
3/5
|
25 : 1 | 37,098 |
|
Lewis University Romeoville, IL |
5/5
|
19 : 1 | 6,679 |
Find Local Colleges Offering Criminal Justice Degrees
Getting a Criminal Justice Degree Online
Schools offering online Criminal Justice degrees
Online Criminal Justice degrees are available at a variety of different schools with as many as 1,069 degrees earned at the most popular school. Read more below about all schools that have offered online Criminal Justice degrees. If you are interested learning more about getting a degree online, check out our page dedicated to online degree information.
| School Name | Certificate | Associate's | Bachelor's | Master's | Doctoral |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Houston State University | 0 | 0 | 649 | 15 | 0 |
| Florida International University | 0 | 0 | 495 | 0 | 0 |
| American Public University System | 0 | 65 | 450 | 170 | 0 |
| University of Central Florida | 0 | 0 | 448 | 81 | 0 |
| Ivy Tech Community College | 358 | 427 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
- 77 Certificates
- 112 Associate's
- 118 Bachelor's
- 66 Master's
What degrees do people get in Criminal Justice?
| Degree Level | Program Length | Colleges | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate's | 2-year Length | 542 Colleges | 9,827 Graduates |
| Bachelor's | 4-year Length | 570 Colleges | 32,685 Graduates |
| Certificates | < 1 year Length | 192 Colleges | 4,113 Graduates |
| Doctoral | 1-2 year Length | 20 Colleges | 105 Graduates |
| Master's | 1+ years Length | 155 Colleges | 3,035 Graduates |
Criminal Justice Degree Overview
When going for a Criminal Justice degree, know that there are many possibilities for a traditional degree as well as higher education options. The most typical path for those earning a degree in Criminal Justice can surmise a standard two to four years to earn a degree. The most typical Criminal Justice degree earned was a bachelor's degree and it also has the widest range of school possibilities as well. The second most popular Criminal Justice degree that people get is an associate's degree. While a bachelor's degree is the likely degree choice, receiving an associate's degree degree isn't out of the question. Although a doctoral degree is offered at some schools, getting an advanced degree is not very common. Finding the right Criminal Justice degree for you not only requires the flexibility of your time and schedule but also a look into the schools the offer the degree as well as what options are available to you once you earn your degree.
Average cost of college for a Criminal Justice degree
Average Tuition and Fees for a 2 year Degree
| Average Tuition and Fees | School Control | Student Residence |
|---|---|---|
| $3,294 | Public | In-State |
| $12,111 | Private | In-State |
| $6,855 | Public | Out-of-State |
| $12,111 | Private | Out-of-State |
Average Tuition and Fees for a 4 year Degree
| Average Tuition and Fees | School Control | Student Residence |
|---|---|---|
| $7,565 | Public | In-State |
| $19,982 | Private | In-State |
| $16,812 | Public | Out-of-State |
| $19,982 | Private | Out-of-State |
Search Criminal Justice Program Courses
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Program Descriptions
- AA: Paralegal Studies
- BS: Criminal Justice: Forensics
- BS: Criminal Justice: Homeland Security
- BS: Criminal Justice: Public Administration
- BS: Criminal Justice: Youth Corrections
- BS: Paralegal Studies
- CERT: Criminal Justice
- CERT: Paralegal Studies
- CERT: Public Policy
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice - Command College
- MA Public Policy: Campaigns and Elections
- MA Public Policy: International Affairs
- MA Public Policy: Middle East Affairs
- MA Public Policy: Public Administration
- MA: Human Services: Criminal Justice
- MA: Public Policy
- Master of Busi Admn: Criminal Justice
- MS: Criminal Justice: Public Administration
AA: Paralegal StudiesLooking to pursue a career in the field of law? Liberty’s Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies will prepare you for the legal career you have always wanted through a 60-credit-hour program. Courses are designed and taught by practicing lawyers and will equip you to succeed in the expanding field of law. Through this program you will develop strong professional skills, a firm foundation in ethics, and competency in the foundations of law, contemporary worldviews, rhetoric and real estate. Potential Career Options: Administration, Casework, Corrections, Counseling, Juvenile Justice, Probation and Parole, Social Services, Victim AdvocacyBS: Criminal Justice: ForensicsLiberty University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Crime Scene Investigation program provides a solid foundation of both knowledge and skills to equip you for a career in the criminal investigative field. Through Liberty’s forensic program, you will develop a foundational understanding of law enforcement, the internal workings of the criminal justice system, and its response to different types of crime. While earning your degree, you will develop skills in scientific and analytical practices of forensics and law. Knowledge and experience gained through courses will prepare you to serve effectively as an expert in the field of forensics.BS: Criminal Justice: Homeland SecurityLiberty University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security program provides a solid foundation of the knowledge and skills necessary to serve and protect your community and country. Focus your understanding on an exciting challenge, learning what it takes to serve in areas such as security, transportation disaster response, anti-terrorism, and intelligence. Gain an understanding of the internal workings of the criminal justice system to serve at the local, state, or federal level. While earning your degree, you will develop professional skills in research and development, ensuring the most relevant and comprehensive information to succeed in your career. Knowledge and experience gained through courses will prepare you to serve effectively as an expert in the field.BS: Criminal Justice: Public AdministrationLiberty University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Public Administration program prepares you for an effective career as a public servant in a growing field. Through Liberty’s program, you will gain foundational knowledge and skills regarding the management and structure of the criminal justice system as it relates to controversial issues and the general public. Courses will strengthen your leadership and public management skills as you learn to develop responses and solutions to difficult situations, emphasizing the importance of applying ethics to practices and integrating faith with learning in a professional atmosphere.BS: Criminal Justice: Youth CorrectionsLiberty University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Youth Corrections program provides you with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for a rewarding career working with youth in the local, state, or federal juvenile justice system. Through Liberty’s youth corrections program, you will gain an understanding of the internal workings of the criminal justice system and its response to youth in the criminal system. While earning your degree, you will develop professional skills in correctional procedures, as well as cultural and sociological diversity, ensuring the most relevant and comprehensive information needed to impact the lives of today’s youth. Knowledge and experience gained through courses will prepare you to serve effectively as an expert in the field of youth corrections.BS: Paralegal StudiesLiberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies will offer you the opportunity to excel in a growing career field. This 120-credit-hour program is designed and taught by practicing lawyers who know what it takes to succeed in the field of law. This challenging profession demands strong professional skills, a firm foundation in ethics and a foundational knowledge of law. This program develops your competency in the foundations of law, contemporary worldviews, rhetoric and real estate. Course topics and assignments will train you in practical skills, such as writing and filing a deposition and performing a title search. Going beyond the basics, you will learn to analyze and handle ethical dilemmas from a biblical perspective and utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Potential Career Options: Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Law Clerk, Claims Adjuster, Title Examiner or ResearcherCERT: Criminal JusticeThe Certificate in Criminal Justice teaches the skills necessary for a wide variety of careers within the criminal justice system. This program emphasizes oral and written communication skills as well as leadership and management abilities.CERT: Paralegal StudiesA Certificate in Paralegal Studies develops the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this growing career field. Students will develop competency in various areas of the law including the foundations of law, contemporary worldviews, rhetoric, and real estate. Credits earned in this program can also be put toward a bachelor`s degree.CERT: Public PolicyThe Certificate in Public Policy develops skills necessary for careers in public administration, government, and politics. This program strengthens critical thinking skills and improves the student`s comprehension of the issues facing today’s society. Course credit earned in this program can be directly applied to a Master of Arts in Public Policy.Master of Science in Criminal Justice - Command CollegeThe Master of Science in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare students for a career in the criminal justice system as a leader and decision-maker. Ethical criminal justice leadership is critical to the integrity, effectiveness and public trust of the criminal justice system nationwide. The goal of the Helms School of Government’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice program is to train present and future leaders in the field of criminal justice who will bring a solid Christian worldview to the development and execution of criminal justice policy, and the leadership and management of criminal justice organizations. Combining strong master’s level foundational courses, ethics, and leadership education, students will prepare to take on the challenges of the criminal justice system.MA Public Policy: Campaigns and ElectionsLiberty University Online’s Master of Arts in Public Policy — Campaigns and Elections program prepares you for an exciting career in many fields, including campaign outreach, public administration, state and local campaign policy, government, and more. Courses will equip you to serve effectively as an expert in the field of public policy with a specific emphasis on the processes of running a campaign and participating in electoral events. The program emphasizes the importance of applying ethics to business practices and integrates faith with learning in a professional atmosphere. Through the M.A. in Public Policy, you will strengthen your critical thinking skills and stretch your comprehension of electoral processes and campaign strategies.MA Public Policy: International AffairsLiberty University Online’s Master of Arts in Public Policy — International Affairs program prepares you for an exciting career with a global reach. Courses will equip you to serve effectively as an expert in the field of international public policy with a specific emphasis in foreign policy, governmental and non-governmental agencies, strategic intelligence, and more. The program focuses on applying ethics to management practices and integrates faith with learning in a professional atmosphere. Through the M.A. in Public Policy, you will strengthen your critical thinking skills and stretch your comprehension of international processes and policy.MA Public Policy: Middle East AffairsLiberty University Online’s Master of Arts in Public Policy — Middle East Affairs program prepares you for a professional career with a focus on international interests and Middle Eastern culture. Courses will equip you with specific knowledge regarding the political, cultural, and social history of the Middle East in relation to the field of public policy. The M.A. in Public Policy focuses on integrating ethics and faith with a versatile skill set to prepare you for the professional settings in government and international policy.MA Public Policy: Public AdministrationLiberty University Online’s Master of Arts in Public Policy — Public Administration program prepares you for an exciting career within government and public service. Courses will equip you to serve as an expert in the field of public administration with emphasis on the professional and administrative issues related to policy in government. This program will strengthen your critical thinking skills and broaden your understanding of social issues. The M.A. in Public Policy focuses on integrating ethics and faith with learning in the professional field at both the national and international levels.MA: Human Services: Criminal JusticeThe Master of Arts in Human Services – Criminal Justice program is designed to prepare students for a career in the criminal justice system or administrative-related work. Combining Christian perspective with accredited academics, students will explore contemporary issues and challenges pertinent to the field of criminal justice. This program will help you gain valuable experience as well as establish a firm understanding of management principles, administration, and topics and trends within criminal justice, equipping you with the skills needed to achieve your goals and succeed in your career.MA: Public PolicyLiberty University Online’s Master of Arts in Public Policy — Public Administration program prepares you for an exciting career within government and public service. Courses will equip you to serve as an expert in the field of public administration with emphasis on the professional and administrative issues related to policy in government. This program will strengthen your critical thinking skills and broaden your understanding of social issues. The M.A. in Public Policy focuses on integrating ethics and faith with learning in the professional field at both the national and international levels.Master of Busi Admn: Criminal JusticeLiberty University’s Master of Business Administration in Criminal Justice program will advance your proficiency in business skills relevant to leadership positions in the field of criminal justice both domestically and internationally. You will be equipped to serve successfully as an expert in the modern business world, while sharpening your knowledge of effective research methods, organizational administration, and criminal law. Gain knowledge on how to develop collaborative skills pertinent to current business practices and topics and trends related to the justice system. Courses will emphasize the importance of applying ethics to criminal justice practices and integrating faith with learning in a professional atmosphere. Potential Career Options: Administration, Casework, Corrections, Counseling, Juvenile Justice, Probation and Parole, Social ServicesMS: Criminal Justice: Public AdministrationThe Master of Science in Criminal Justice – Public Administration program is designed to prepare students for a career in the criminal justice system or in the administration of governmental functions. Combining Christian values with accredited academics, students will explore contemporary issues and challenges pertinent to the field of criminal justice. This program will help you gain valuable experience as well as establish a firm understanding of active policing skills, management and administration principles, and topics and trends within criminal justice, equipping you with the skills needed to achieve your goals and succeed in your career.