In today’s dynamic world, the field of criminal justice continues to evolve, demanding professionals who are well-equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
With the increasing demand for flexibility and accessibility in higher education, online programs have become a popular choice for individuals pursuing degrees in criminal justice.
Choosing the right online university is crucial to ensure a quality education and a strong foundation for a successful career in this field. In this article, we will explore the top 10 picks for the best online university for criminal justice programs in 2024.
Best Online University for Criminal Justice
1. California State University, Sacramento
- Location: Sacramento, CA
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $489
- Out-of-State: $489
- Credits to Graduate: 60
California State University, Sacramento offers an innovative online criminal justice program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree. This program adopts a multidisciplinary approach, exposing students to theories, applications, and ethics related to crime and justice.
To enroll in the degree-completion program, candidates must already be students at Cal State Sacramento and have completed a 12-credit series of lower-division courses. The remaining 48 credits are taken after admission into the program. Additionally, the program offers minors in forensics investigations, certificates in law enforcement, and a Master of Science in criminal justice.
2. University of Northern Iowa
- Location: Cedar Falls, IA
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $350
- Out-of-State: $350
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Northern Iowa’s online Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice program is a four-year course of study for those interested in a more application-focused education. It aims to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Candidates interested in applying must hold an associate of science degree. The program offers part-time or full-time tracks. Graduate outcomes include careers in law enforcement, juvenile court, crime analysis and research, and public policy. Each student is provided with a designated enrollment contact and program coordinator for guidance throughout the course sequence and preparation for graduation.
3. University of Central Florida
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $179
- Out-of-State: $716
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Central Florida’s online criminal justice program offers students the choice of a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree. Both designations provide in-depth coverage of the contemporary justice system through innovative learning methods, including interactive training.
Coursework roots learners in the historical background of crime in the United States before exploring technical aspects of the modern criminal justice system. Classes also focus on policing in the context of law enforcement culture and police-public interactions. Learners additionally develop advanced, career-oriented knowledge of research methods and data analysis.
4. University of Oklahoma, Norman Campus
- Location: Norman, OK
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $500
- Out-of-State: $500
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Oklahoma’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership program enables students to quickly earn their degrees with fast-paced classes and a compact schedule. The program is divided into eight-week terms, leading to degree completion in as few as 18 months. Major requirements cover organizational leadership, conflict resolution, and specific aspects of the U.S. criminal justice and policing systems.
At OU, online programs cater specifically to learners with existing postsecondary coursework. To qualify for admission, students must be 25 or older with at least 60 transferable college credits.
5. St. Joseph’s University, New York
- Location: Brooklyn, NY
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $740
- Out-of-State: $740
- Credits to Graduate: 120
St. Joseph’s University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Practice and Policy program with a distinctive emphasis on evidence-based practices. Through this learning model, students develop advanced quantitative analysis skills and the ability to analyze policy.
Designed for working criminal justice professionals, the program’s rigorous core covers 53 required credits. It culminates in a senior capstone seminar, in which students produce an original research paper based on an analysis of important criminal justice texts and theoretical models.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $29,976
- Out-of-state: $29,976
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $20,250
- Out-of-state: $20,250
Retention Rate: 81% Acceptance Rate: 80% Students Enrolled: 4,687 Institution Type: Private Percent Online Enrollment: 55% Accreditation: Yes
6. University of Washington, Tacoma Campus
- Location: Tacoma, WA
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $517
- Out-of-State: $1,497
- Credits to Graduate: 180
The University of Washington, Tacoma Campus offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program that explores the criminal justice system through a social justice framework. Focusing on the human impacts of crime and criminality, the program emphasizes harm reduction, restorative justice, and rehabilitation.
Core coursework focuses on five interrelated pillars: justice administration, theoretical criminology, the correctional system, criminal law processes, and research methods. Multidisciplinary electives provide extensive specialization and personalization opportunities.
Students who meet the program’s minimum of 90 transfer credits can graduate in just six semesters.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $10,927
- Out-of-state: $38,757
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $16,605
- Out-of-state: $29,763
Retention Rate: 75% Acceptance Rate: 83% Students Enrolled: 5,027 Institution Type: Public Percent Online Enrollment: 43% Accreditation: Yes
7. Citadel Military College of South Carolina
- Location: Charleston, SC
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $500
- Out-of-State: $925
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The Citadel offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program through its unique “2+2” transfer structure. Students can complete their first two years at one of nine partner institutions or transfer in existing credits to achieve advanced standing.
Coursework focuses on the social causes of crime and how criminal justice institutions and government agencies respond to it. Electives offer degree customization opportunities, allowing learners to pursue interests in specific criminal justice and criminology issues.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $8,356
- Out-of-state: $30,857
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $10,740
- Out-of-state: $18,390
Retention Rate: 86% Acceptance Rate: 86% Students Enrolled: 3,693 Institution Type: Public Percent Online Enrollment: 32% Accreditation: Yes
8. Florida International University
- Location: Miami, FL
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $153
- Out-of-State: $567
- Credits to Graduate: 120
Florida International University (FIU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program centered on the interactive relationship between policing, criminal justice, and the correctional system. Tailored for students with at least 60 transferable credits, the degree’s 18-credit core delves into criminal justice theory, research methods, and professional development.
The program culminates in a capstone experience and offers optional but recommended internship opportunities. Students with a focused interest in forensics can alternatively pursue FIU’s online Bachelor of Science in Crime Science program.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $4,721
- Out-of-state: $16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $8,912
- Out-of-state: $21,393
Retention Rate: 90% Acceptance Rate: 64% Students Enrolled: 56,664 Institution Type: Public Percent Online Enrollment: 65% Accreditation: Yes
9. University of Massachusetts, Lowell
- Location: Lowell, MA
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $380
- Out-of-State: $380
- Credits to Graduate: 120
The University of Massachusetts, Lowell offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program exploring interactions between policing, the court system, and corrections from systemic viewpoints. Students complete coursework in criminology theory and criminal law, preparing for a culminating capstone seminar.
With a generous transfer credit policy, learners with existing coursework can graduate in as few as 12 months. Up to 90 credits can be transferred, and students benefit from the flexibility of an asynchronous delivery model.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $15,078
- Out-of-state: $33,004
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $14,590
- Out-of-state: $26,370
Retention Rate: 82% Acceptance Rate: 85% Students Enrolled: 17,597 Institution Type: Public Percent Online Enrollment: 38% Accreditation: Yes
10. San Diego State University
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Duration: 4 years
- Format: Online + Campus
- Cost per Credit:
- In-State: $278
- Out-of-State: $396
- Credits to Graduate: 120
San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice focusing on the intersections of criminal law, the justice system, and social justice. Utilizing a 100% online format with asynchronous scheduling, learners can complete the program in as few as 15 months.
Primarily designed for transfer students seeking degree completion, the program provides deep coverage of topics including criminal law, justice administration, and crime in contemporary urban settings. Learners can also pursue a minor in public administration, suitable for those interested in government.
Average Undergrad Tuition
- In-state: $5,742
- Out-of-state: $17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
- In-state: $7,176
- Out-of-state: $16,680
Retention Rate: 90% Acceptance Rate: 38% Students Enrolled: 36,484 Institution Type: Public Percent Online Enrollment: 64% Accreditation: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What factors should I consider when choosing an online university for criminal justice?
When selecting an online university for criminal justice, several factors should be considered, including accreditation, faculty expertise, program curriculum, flexibility of course delivery, tuition costs, and student support services. It’s essential to choose a reputable institution that offers a well-rounded education tailored to your career goals and interests.
2. Are online criminal justice degrees as valuable as traditional on-campus degrees?
Yes, online criminal justice degrees from accredited institutions are just as valuable as traditional on-campus degrees. Employers typically focus on the accreditation status of the institution and the quality of the program rather than the mode of delivery. Online degrees offer flexibility and convenience, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other commitments while still receiving a high-quality education.
3. Can I pursue a career in criminal justice with an online degree?
Yes, earning an online degree in criminal justice can open up various career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, juvenile justice, private security, and other related fields. Employers value the skills and knowledge gained through accredited online programs, making graduates competitive candidates for entry-level and advanced positions in the criminal justice sector.
Conclusion
Choosing the best online university for a criminal justice degree is a significant decision that can shape your future career prospects. By considering factors such as accreditation, program quality, and overall fit with your academic and professional goals, you can make an informed choice that sets you on the path to success in the dynamic and rewarding field of criminal justice.
Whether you’re looking to advance your current career or pursue a new opportunity, the top picks outlined in this article offer excellent options for achieving your educational aspirations.