In Pennsylvania, the pursuit of a criminal justice degree through online programs has become increasingly popular, offering flexibility and accessibility to students seeking careers in law enforcement, corrections, and related fields.
With advancements in technology and the growing demand for skilled professionals in criminal justice, several universities in Pennsylvania have developed robust online degree programs tailored to meet the needs of both aspiring students and working professionals.
Online Criminal Justice Degree Pennsylvania
1. Gannon University
At Gannon University, located in Pennsylvania, the criminal justice/criminalistics programs offer students exceptional instruction and mentorship from esteemed faculty.
The faculty comprises experts ranging from forensic scientists to law enforcement professionals, including agents from the FBI, NCIS, and ATF. Students benefit from hands-on training at the university’s forensic investigation center, engaging in crime scene investigations, evidence collection, firearms training, and interrogations.
Program Offerings:
- AA in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $870/credit
- Delivery: Full-time; On-campus
- Specializations: None
- BA in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $870/credit
- Delivery: Full time; On campus
- Specializations: None
- MS in Criminalistics
- Credits: 36
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $780/credit
- Delivery: Part-time; Online
- Specializations: None
Gannon University facilitates Act 120 training alongside undergraduate and graduate degrees, easing the transition into law enforcement careers in compliance with Pennsylvania state requirements.
2. Drexel University
Drexel University, another prominent institution in Pennsylvania, offers a comprehensive array of criminal justice programs with specialized concentrations and extensive field experience opportunities.
Program Offerings:
- BS in Criminology and Justice Studies
- Credits: 178-194
- Length: Four years
- Cost: On-campus tuition: $58,293/year; online tuition: $459-$956 per credit
- Delivery: Full time; Part-time; On campus; Online
- Specializations: Criminal Justice, Justice Informatics, Justice Studies
Drexel stands out with its cooperative education (co-op) program, allowing students to gain six months of full-time work experience in criminal justice settings while pursuing their degrees.
3. Temple University
Temple University is renowned for its comprehensive criminal justice programs, offering degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Program Offerings:
- BA in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 123
- Length: Four years
- Cost: Pennsylvania resident: $17,136; out-of-state: $30,864
- Delivery: On-campus
- Specializations: None
- MA in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 30
- Length: One to three years
- Cost: Pennsylvania resident: $1,004 per credit; out-of-state: $1,381 per credit
- Delivery: Time; Part-time; On-campus
- Specializations: None
- PhD in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 48
- Length: Four to seven years
- Cost: Pennsylvania resident: $1,053 per credit; out-of-state: $1,449 per credit
- Delivery: Full time; On campus
- Specializations: None
Temple University’s programs are enriched by initiatives like the Inside Out Program, offering unique insights through courses conducted alongside incarcerated students.
4. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State World Campus)
Penn State World Campus offers a seamless pathway to earning a respected online criminal justice degree in Pennsylvania. The programs cater to students at various stages of their academic and professional journeys, providing robust educational experiences led by seasoned faculty members with extensive law enforcement expertise.
Program Offerings:
- AA in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 64
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $7,602 per semester
- Mode: Online; Part-time; Full time
- Specializations: None
- BS in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 120
- Length: Four years
- Cost: $7,602 per semester
- Mode: Online; Part-time; Full time
- Specializations: None
- Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: Two to three years
- Cost: $1,017 per credit
- Mode: Online; Part-time; Full time
- Specializations: None
Penn State’s online programs emphasize foundational knowledge in law enforcement, public policy, and behavioral sciences, preparing graduates for diverse career paths within the criminal justice field.
5. St. Joseph’s University
St. Joseph’s University offers a comprehensive online MS in Criminal Justice program designed to enhance career opportunities and expertise through flexible online education. The program distinguishes itself with small class sizes, ensuring personalized instruction and ample peer support.
Program Offerings:
- MS in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 30
- Length: One to two years
- Cost: $845 per credit
- Mode: Online; Full time; Part-time
- Specializations:
- General Track
- Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
- Forensic Behavioral Health
- Federal Law Enforcement
- Intelligence and Crime Analysis
- Homeland Security
St. Joseph’s University offers specialized tracks tailored to specific career goals, including forensic behavioral health and federal law enforcement options, preparing graduates for impactful roles in diverse criminal justice settings.
6. PennWest Global Online
PennWest Global Online, affiliated with Pennsylvania Western University, offers rigorous online master’s and doctoral programs in Criminal Justice, emphasizing practical applications and specialized concentrations.
Program Offerings:
- MA in Criminal Justice and Criminology
- Credits: 30-39
- Length: One to two years
- Cost: Pennsylvania resident: $516/credit; out-of-state: $526/credit
- Mode: Online; Full time
- Specialties:
- Behavioral Crime Analysis
- Forensic Linguistics
- Criminal Justice Studies
- DCJ in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 42
- Length: Two years
- Cost: Pennsylvania resident: $568/credit; out-of-state: $851/credit
- Mode: Online; Part-time
- Concentrations: None
PennWest Global Online offers flexible, part-time doctoral programs designed for working professionals, featuring specialized concentrations that enhance career opportunities in criminal justice.
These top-rated online criminal justice degree programs in Pennsylvania provide flexible learning formats, specialized concentrations, and practical experiences tailored to the needs of students pursuing careers in law enforcement, policy, and criminal justice administration. Each program emphasizes quality education, affordability, and career readiness, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for success in the dynamic field of criminal justice
7. Villanova University
Villanova University offers a respected online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers in law enforcement and criminal justice administration. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical skills development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various criminal justice settings.
Program Offerings:
- MS in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,295 per credit
- Mode: Online; Part-time
- Specializations: None
Villanova’s MSCJ program focuses on enhancing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership skills within the criminal justice field. The curriculum covers topics such as criminal law, policy analysis, research methods, and contemporary issues in criminal justice.
8. University of Pennsylvania (Penn)
The University of Pennsylvania offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills through its online Master of Science in Criminology program. This program is ideal for students interested in the sociological aspects of crime and its impact on society.
Program Offerings:
- MS in Criminology
- Credits: 10 courses (30 credits)
- Length: 1.5 to 2 years
- Cost: $2,540 per credit
- Mode: Online; Part-time
- Specializations: None
Penn’s MS in Criminology program equips students with advanced research skills and a deep understanding of criminal behavior, victimology, and justice systems. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, policy analysis, and advocacy within the criminal justice field.
9. La Salle University
La Salle University offers a comprehensive online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program that prepares students for leadership roles in law enforcement, corrections, and homeland security. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making, critical analysis, and evidence-based practices in criminal justice.
Program Offerings:
- MS in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $890 per credit
- Mode: Online; Part-time
- Specializations: None
La Salle’s MSCJ program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills development, offering courses in criminal law, forensic psychology, policy analysis, and more. The flexible online format accommodates the schedules of working professionals seeking career advancement in the criminal justice field.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are online criminal justice degrees in Pennsylvania respected by employers?
Employers increasingly recognize the value of online degrees, including those in criminal justice, especially from accredited institutions. It’s crucial to ensure the program you choose is accredited by recognized agencies to enhance its credibility in the job market.
2. What are the benefits of earning an online criminal justice degree in Pennsylvania?
Online programs offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. They often provide access to the same curriculum and faculty as traditional on-campus programs, with the added convenience of learning from anywhere.
3. Can online criminal justice degrees in Pennsylvania lead to the same career opportunities as traditional degrees?
Yes, online criminal justice degrees from reputable institutions can lead to similar career opportunities as traditional degrees. Employers focus more on the accreditation, skills, and knowledge gained rather than the mode of delivery.
Conclusion
The landscape of online criminal justice education in Pennsylvania is diverse and dynamic, catering to the needs of a wide range of students. Whether you’re seeking an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degree, these top picks offer quality education, flexibility, and pathways to advance your career in the criminal justice field.
By choosing an accredited program that aligns with your career goals and interests, you can embark on a rewarding journey towards making a difference in law enforcement, criminal policy, and community safety.
