Earning an online criminology degree provides a flexible, convenient way to advance your career in criminal justice. This guide lists the best programs worldwide, helping you make an informed decision by highlighting key features, accreditation, and program specifics.
Best Online Colleges for Criminology Degrees
1. Florida State University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Format: 100% online
Features: Florida State University’s online criminology program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers key areas such as criminology theory, criminal justice administration, and policy analysis.
The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system, including the latest research and trends in criminology.
Students benefit from the expertise of faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have the opportunity to engage in practical experiences that prepare them for various roles within the criminal justice sector.
2. University of California, Irvine
Accreditation: WASC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of California, Irvine’s online criminology program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from law, psychology, and sociology. This holistic view allows students to understand the complex social, psychological, and legal factors that influence criminal behavior.
The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in various areas such as law enforcement, legal studies, and social services.
3. University of Florida
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of Florida offers an online criminology program with specialized tracks in criminal justice, legal studies, and forensic psychology. This allows students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests.
The program includes courses on the criminal justice system, criminal behavior, and investigative techniques, providing a solid foundation for careers in law enforcement, forensic analysis, and legal professions. Students also have access to the university’s extensive resources and support services.
4. Arizona State University
Accreditation: HLC
Format: 100% online
Features: Arizona State University’s online criminology program places a strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address contemporary challenges in the field of criminology.
Courses cover topics such as crime prevention, law enforcement strategies, and criminal justice ethics. The program also includes opportunities for students to engage in hands-on experiences through internships and projects.
5. University of Maryland, College Park
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of Maryland, College Park’s online criminology program focuses on crime prevention, criminal behavior analysis, and criminal justice policy.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to criminal behavior and the strategies used to prevent and respond to crime.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice, and they have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships.
6. University of Cincinnati
Accreditation: HLC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of Cincinnati offers an online criminology program that includes courses in criminological theory, law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice.
The program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students can choose to specialize in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, or juvenile justice, and they have access to the university’s extensive resources and support services.
7. Boston University
Accreditation: NECHE
Format: 100% online
Features: Boston University’s online criminology program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in crime analysis, public policy, and criminal law.
The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to address contemporary challenges in the field of criminology.
Students learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have opportunities to engage in practical experiences through internships and projects. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
8. Pennsylvania State University, World Campus
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: 100% online
Features: Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus offers an online criminology program that focuses on criminal justice, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice and have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships.
9. Michigan State University
Accreditation: HLC
Format: 100% online
Features: Michigan State University’s online criminology program offers interdisciplinary courses in criminal justice, law, and public policy.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have opportunities to engage in practical experiences through internships and projects. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
10. University of Louisville
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of Louisville’s online criminology program specializes in policing, corrections, and juvenile justice. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice and have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
11. University of Oklahoma
Accreditation: HLC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of Oklahoma’s online criminology program emphasizes law enforcement, forensic science, and criminological research.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice and have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
12. Sam Houston State University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Format: 100% online
Features: Sam Houston State University is known for its strong criminal justice program, offering courses in forensic science and law enforcement.
The online criminology program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have opportunities to engage in practical experiences through internships and projects. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
13. Washington State University
Accreditation: NWCCU
Format: 100% online
Features: Washington State University’s online criminology program offers a robust curriculum with a focus on crime prevention and law enforcement.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice and have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
14. Rutgers University
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: 100% online
Features: Rutgers University’s online criminology program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes courses in criminal justice policy, crime analysis, and law.
The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields and have opportunities to engage in practical experiences through internships and projects. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
15. University of South Florida
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Format: 100% online
Features: The University of South Florida’s online criminology program focuses on criminal behavior, forensic psychology, and criminal justice administration.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and the various factors that influence criminal behavior.
Students learn from faculty members who are experts in criminology and criminal justice and have opportunities to participate in research projects and internships. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.
FAQs
1. What are the benefits of earning an online criminology degree?
Online criminology degrees offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. They provide access to diverse and comprehensive curricula from top institutions, often at a lower cost compared to on-campus programs. Additionally, online programs often use advanced technologies to enhance learning and interaction.
2. Are online criminology degrees respected by employers?
Yes, online criminology degrees from accredited and reputable institutions are respected by employers. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high academic standards. Employers value the skills, knowledge, and discipline demonstrated by graduates of these programs, particularly when they come from well-known and accredited universities.
3. What career opportunities are available with a criminology degree?
A criminology degree opens up various career opportunities, including roles in law enforcement, corrections, forensic science, legal studies, and criminal justice administration. Graduates can work as police officers, detectives, forensic analysts, probation officers, or pursue careers in federal agencies like the FBI or DEA.
Conclusion
Earning an online criminology degree from a reputable institution can significantly enhance your career prospects in the field of criminal justice.
The flexibility and comprehensive nature of these programs make them an excellent choice for those looking to advance their education while balancing other commitments.
With a wide range of options available globally, prospective students can choose programs that best align with their career goals and personal circumstances.
The highlighted programs in this guide are among the best in the world, providing quality education, practical skills, and strong support networks to ensure success in the field of criminology.
