Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice online is an excellent option for those interested in a career in law enforcement, corrections, or various other fields within the criminal justice system.
Online programs offer the flexibility needed to balance education with work and personal responsibilities. As the demand for qualified professionals in the criminal justice sector continues to grow, numerous universities have developed robust online programs tailored to meet this need.
This article highlights the top 10 online schools for obtaining a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, detailing the unique features, tuition costs, and program specifics of each institution.
Online Schools for Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
1. 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 offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that emphasizes the intersections of criminal law, the justice system, and social justice.
The program delivered 100% online with asynchronous scheduling, can be completed in as few as 15 months. Designed primarily for transfer students, it covers topics such as criminal law, justice administration, and urban crime. Students can also pursue a minor in public administration.
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
2. 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
UMass Lowell offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that explores policing, the court system, and corrections. Students complete coursework in criminology theory and criminal law, preparing them for a capstone seminar. The program allows for generous transfer credits, enabling students to graduate in as few as 12 months.
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
3. 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’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice focuses on the interaction between policing, criminal justice, and the correctional system.
It includes an 18-credit core and culminates in a capstone experience. Students interested in forensics can opt for the online Bachelor of Science in Crime Science.
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
4. 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 through a “2+2” transfer structure, allowing students to transfer credits from partner institutions.
Coursework focuses on the social causes of crime and the responses of criminal justice institutions and government agencies. Electives enable degree customization.
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
5. 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
UW Tacoma’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice emphasizes social justice, harm reduction, restorative justice, and rehabilitation. Core coursework covers justice administration, theoretical criminology, correctional systems, criminal law processes, and research methods. Students with at least 90 transfer credits can graduate in 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
6. 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 BS in Criminal Justice Practice and Policy emphasizes evidence-based practices, quantitative analysis skills, and policy analysis. Designed for working professionals, it includes a 53-credit core and culminates in a senior capstone seminar.
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
7. 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
OU’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership offers fast-paced classes in eight-week terms, allowing for degree completion in as few as 18 months.
The program is aimed at learners with existing college credits and covers organizational leadership, conflict resolution, and U.S. criminal justice systems.
Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $4,920
- Out-of-State: $20,724
Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $8,034
- Out-of-State: $23,096
Retention Rate: 89%
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Students Enrolled: 28,042
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 57%
Accreditation: Yes
8. 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
UCF’s online program offers a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. It covers the historical and technical aspects of the U.S. criminal justice system and includes courses on law enforcement culture and police-public interactions. Students develop advanced research methods and data analysis skills.
Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $4,478
- Out-of-State: $19,810
Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $6,916
- Out-of-State: $25,759
Retention Rate: 92%
Acceptance Rate: 36%
Students Enrolled: 70,310
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 9%
Accreditation: Yes
9. 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
UNI’s online Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice focuses on application-based education, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
It offers part-time and full-time tracks, requiring an associate of science degree for admission. Graduates pursue careers in law enforcement, juvenile court, crime analysis, and public policy.
Average Undergrad Tuition:
- In-State: $7,780
- Out-of-State: $18,480
Average Graduate Tuition:
- In-State: $9,296
- Out-of-State: $19,928
Retention Rate: 81%
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Students Enrolled: 9,217
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 54%
Accreditation: Yes
10. 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
Cal State Sacramento’s online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice offers a multidisciplinary approach to crime and justice. The degree-completion program requires 12 lower-division credits for admission, followed by 48 credits within the program. Additional offerings include a minor in forensics investigations, a certificate in law enforcement, and a master’s degree in criminal justice.
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: 81%
Acceptance Rate: 94%
Students Enrolled: 32,498
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 94%
Accreditation: Yes
FAQs
1. What are the advantages of earning a criminal justice degree online?
Earning a criminal justice degree online offers several advantages, including flexibility in scheduling, the ability to study from any location, and often a lower overall cost compared to traditional on-campus programs. Online programs are particularly beneficial for working professionals who need to balance their studies with job responsibilities.
2. How do online criminal justice programs ensure quality education?
Online criminal justice programs ensure quality education through a combination of accredited curricula, experienced faculty, and interactive learning platforms. Many programs also incorporate real-world case studies, virtual simulations, and opportunities for internships to provide practical experience.
3. Can I transfer previous college credits to an online criminal justice program?
Yes, most online criminal justice programs accept transfer credits from accredited institutions. Policies vary by school, but many programs allow students to transfer a significant number of credits, which can accelerate the completion of the degree. Prospective students should check with individual schools to understand their specific transfer credit policies.
Conclusion
Choosing the right online school for a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is crucial for your future career in the field. The top 10 schools highlighted in this article offer diverse and comprehensive programs designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Whether you’re a working professional looking to advance your career or a recent high school graduate starting your educational journey, these programs provide the flexibility and quality education needed to succeed.
By considering factors such as tuition costs, program length, and course offerings, you can find the program that best fits your needs and aspirations.