This article considers the top affordable online criminal justice degree programs for 2015.
Are you a professional within the law enforcement field, looking to advance your career into administration or other higher-up positions? Are you a recent high school graduate, looking to put the love of your community and fellow community members to good use? Are you already working and having trouble fitting these kinds of advancements into your busy life? Then look no further, because these colleges have the program for you.
According to the Spring 2012 BLS Occupational Outlook Quarterly, protective service occupations are expected to add 364,500 new jobs, which is an 11 percent growth, from 2010 to 2020. The US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor and Statistics also expects a 5 percent estimated employment increase by 2022 for correctional officers. And these two career fields are only a small portion of what a degree in criminal justice and/or criminology can provide you the opportunity to achieve. Why wait? This list includes 50 of the most affordable online colleges that will allow you to earn your degree from the comfort of your own home.
Methodology
The following list was developed using Wikipedia’s list of accredited online colleges, College Navigator, The Best Schools, The Open Education Database (OEDb), CriminalJusticeDegree.net and research of each individual school’s online programs and offered degrees. After creating a list of all major schools offering online programs in criminal justice, we sorted the list by the average net cost of undergraduate tuition, as reported by College Navigator, and chose the top 50. These schools are ranked according to the net cost, from highest to lowest. The “Unique Courses” sections list a few examples of the many courses offered within each college’s program.
Ranking the Top Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs
50. Concordia University in St. Paul, Minn.
Online B.A. in Criminal Justice
Net Price: $19,072
Overview: Concordia designed their online criminal justice degree program for professionals within the criminal justice system, who want to improve their knowledge and skills sets while maintaining the balance of their career and personal life. This program provides students with an in-depth understanding of constitutional law, as well as the administration and organizations of criminal justice. This fully-online program consists of 40 credit hours that students can earn within seven weeks.
Concordia University – St. Paul is registered as a private institution with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, and the school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Systems of Thinking in Criminal Justice, Diversity in Criminal Justice and Inside the Criminal Mind
49.Pennsylvania State University World Campus in University Park, Pa.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $18,565
Overview: Penn State’s online criminal justice degree program can provide students with the tools to lead, serve and protect local, state and national interests. This program’s academic home is at Penn State Harrisburg, and it is the first online program in the nation to be awarded certification through the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. According to the program’s webpage, “This certification underscores the high praise that the online program receives for quality criminal justice instruction.”
PSU’s World Campus made it onto the No. 1 spot on the Open Education Database’s “Top Online Criminal Justice Colleges.” This criminal justice program also ranked No. 4 on CriminalJusticeDegree.net’s top four list of best online degree programs, as well as No. 2 on The Best Schools’ list of “The 20 Best Online Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs.” Finally, U.S. News and World Report included this program within its “Best Online Programs” for bachelor’s degrees in 2015.
Unique Courses: Policing in America, Corrections in America and Border Security
48. Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $18,505
Overview: At Regent, students can obtain their degree in criminal justice on campus or fully online. This degree program is founded on the principle that criminal justice is a moral responsibility of governments that demands moral excellence on the part of its agents, diligent study and careful application. This program will prepare students to become high-level critical thinkers and excellent professionals, ready to enter the career field. Graduates of this degree program will be prepared for careers in various local, state, federal and international law enforcement agencies and organizations, as well as graduate-level education in law, government/political science, criminal justice, public administration or public policy.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associates, baccalaureate, masters and doctorate degrees.
Unique Courses: To Request More Information, visit their website or call 1.844.242.2511.
47. ECPI University in Virginia Beach, Va.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $18,454
Overview: Graduates of ECPI’s criminal justice program can work in a variety of settings, involving investigations, security, law enforcement, forensic science and technology. This program’s schedule is year-round so that students may earn their degrees within just two-and-a-half years. Career opportunities available to those with this degree include law enforcement agencies, homeland security, border protection, corrections, fraud investigation and public and private security. The curriculum at ECPI is designed to teach students to understand policies and procedures of law enforcement, legal system and court structure, security and surveillance principles and technology to investigate, solve, track and deter crime.
ECPI University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) to award the associate’s, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees and diplomas.
Unique Courses: Organized Crime, Criminal Justice Documentation and Private Security I
46. Anderson University in Anderson, S.C.
Bachelor of Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $18,205
Overview: Within the criminal justice program at AU Online, this school offers online degree program concentrations in law enforcement, homeland security/emergency preparedness, EMS – whole community, EMS – homeland security operations and administration, emergency management services and criminal justice. The online courses in this program mimic the on-campus courses and atmosphere by providing students with a collaborative and interactive learning environment with their professors and peers. Some subjects included in this curriculum are the history of correctional systems and practices; measurement, causes and characteristics of crime; and legal aspects of criminal procedure.
According to Anderson University’s website, the school has been recognized as one of the best by U.S. News and World Report and The Princeton Review. Apple also recognizes Anderson as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership and educational excellence. This university is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and masters and doctoral degrees.
Unique Courses: Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement and Social & Behavioral Sciences
45. Notre Dame College in Cleveland, Ohio
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,947
Overview: Notre Dame College’s criminal justice program is fully online, and it provides students with an overview of the justice system, homeland security and emerging law enforcement trends in criminal intelligence and cyber security. The program is widely diversified so that students have the choice to follow and explore specifics areas within the criminal justice field that truly interest them. Students can work at their own pace on these courses, which are taught by full-time expert faculty. After obtaining this degree, graduates will be able to describe and analyze the basic structure of the US criminal justice system, including police, courts, corrections and victims. Graduates will also be able to construct and evaluate research designs and methods related to agency programs.
Notre Dame College is accredited by the Highler Learning Commission North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Forensic Psychology, Organized & White Collar Crime and Victimology
44. Ohio University in Athens, Ohio
Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Online
Net Price: $17,846
Overview: OU’s criminal justice degree program is specifically designed for associate degree graduates who are looking to further their education and advance their careers. Students of this program will learn how to enforce the law using theories and research in criminal behavior, police decision-making processes, punishment and the criminal justice system in America. With a prior associate’s degree in the field, students can obtain their bachelor’s degree within two years, and they can submit assignments online anytime and from anywhere. OU’s online student-centered services provide dedicated academic advisors as well as success coaches, who are as close as a phone call or email to help direct students to the resources and help they need to succeed in the program.
Ohio University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association (NCA) of Colleges and Schools.
Unique Courses: Punishment & Society, Law and Civil Liberties
43. Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,654
Overview: Upper Iowa’s online criminal justice degree program prepares students for theimportant work of maintaining the law, preventing crime and ensuring public safety. The program offers relative coursework to help students understand the ethical principles necessary to function correctly in the US criminal justice system. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in fields including police officer, harbor police officer, detective, county sheriff, deputy bailiff, state trooper, security analyst, vice squad officer, insurance investigator and much more.
UIU made it onto U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Online Programs” for bachelor’s degrees and Military Advanced Education’s “Top Colleges & Universities” lists for 2015. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association and is approved by the Louisiana Higher Education Board, the Wisconsin Educational Approval Board, and the Iowa Department of Education.
Unique Courses: Juvenile Delinquency, Sociology of the Law and Community Oriented Policing
42. Saint Leo University in Saint Leo, Fla.
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,624
Overview: Saint Leo’s School of Education & Social Services offers a fully online degree program in criminal justice, which is taught by instructors with up-to-date, hands-on experience. This program is liberal arts-based, and it enhances the effectiveness of working professionals, provides a foundation for advancement to administration levels and prepares students for graduate study in criminal justice administration and other related fields. This program’s curriculum explores subjects like the law and legal systems, criminal procedure, ethics, police organizations and administration, criminal behavior and more. Saint Leo bases their criminal justice model on a steadfast moral consciousness that recognizes the dignity, value and gifts of all people.
According to the program’s webpage, Saint Leo University is one of the leading military colleges in the US and has been educating criminal justice professionals for over three decades. Saint Leo made it to the No. 14 spot, and the university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, one of six regional accreditors of the United States.
Unique Courses: Substantive Criminal Law, Theories of Criminal Behavior and Forensic Psychology
41. Aurora University in Aurora, Ill.
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,529
Overview: Aurora’s criminal justice online program is an adult degree designed for busy, working students who have life experience relevant to the criminal justice career field. Courses in this program are in five-to eight-week modules, and this completion program accepts transfer credits from other regionally accredited institutions. According to the program’s web page, it “provides you with a broad academic background in criminal justice that prepares you for careers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, probation, parole or private security.” Students can personalize this degree through the elective courses that they choose to take, according to their individual interests.
The Higher Learning Commission accredits Aurora University at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels.
Unique Courses: Correctional Services, Research Methods and Strategic Planning & Ethics
40. American InterContinental University in Shaumburg, Ill.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,193
Overview: At American InterContinental, students are able to specialize their online criminal justice degree program in the general career field, corrections and case management, homeland security and crisis management, forensic science or law enforcement, depending on their individual interests. This specialized curriculum, combined with classes taught by industry specialists who bring a real-world perspective to their classes, offer students a powerful education. Those with interests in areas of the courts, corrections or law enforcement are specifically targeted for this program, which will provide the skills and knowledge students need to get an edge in today’s criminal justice career field.
American InterContinental University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Forensic Science, Corrections & Case Management and Law Enforcement
39. University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Ken.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $17,097
Overview: The online criminal justice degree program from the University of the Cumberlands can help students prepare for a career in the field of corrections and criminal justice. The curriculum of this program enables students to communication and practice effectively on the job with clients and colleagues to better pursue lives of responsibility and leadership. Some goals of this program include providing each student with a core knowledge base in criminal justice in order to prepare them for a career within the field, enhancing understand of the roles of society and law enforcement in response to deviant behavior and strengthening critical thinking skills by fostering an understanding of deviance and clarifying personal values related to working with deviant populations.
The University of the Cumberlands is accredited to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
38. Colorado Technical University in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Online
Net Price: $16,852
Overview: Colorado Technical University offers a B.S. program in criminal justice online, which students can tailor to their own interests by specializing in cybercrime and security, general studies, homeland security and emergency management and human services. This program helps students acquire the industry-current knowledge and skills necessary to help prepare them for challenges and opportunities they will face in modern society. The program is designed to provide a foundation of knowledge applicable to a broad range of criminal justice roles and responsibilities.
U.S. News & World Report included Colorado Tech in their 2015 list of best online programs for bachelor’s degrees. This university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Unique Courses: Introduction to Homeland Security, Criminal Procedure and Abnormal Psychology in the Workplace
37. University of Oklahoma in Norman, Okla.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $16,780
Overview: The University of Oklahoma’s criminal justice degree program is a flexible 120-hour degree program that can be completed 100 percent online. This program introduces students to the theoretical, ethical and evolving real-world issues in the criminal justice career field. Students can establish a solid fundamental understand of the justice system and focus on evolving law enforcement issues that will help build leadership and conflict resolutions skills necessary to combat any challenge efficiently and professionally.
Oklahoma ranked No. 2 on OEDb’s list of best criminal justice programs. The University of Oklahoma has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1913, the first year that the Commission started accrediting institutions of higher learning.
Unique Courses: Drugs & Society, Deviance & Social Control and Comparative Justice Systems
36. University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wis.
Criminal Justice B.S. Online (UW-Platteville)
Net Price: $16,536
Overview: The Wisconsin Colleges Online offers a criminal justice degree program from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville that provides in-depth insight into the various facets of criminal justice, such as law, psychology, community relations, correction and investigation. To keep the program’s curriculum up to date, the university consults an advisory board of members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Justice (ATF), as well as currently serving police chiefs. This program can lead students to career opportunities in law enforcement, prosecution and defense, courts and corrections. Some graduates of this program have also gone on to work in the private sector in security or investigation, according to the program’s website.
GetEducated.com rated Wisconsin’s program as a “Best Buy” online program in criminal justice. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Police-Community Relations, Patterns of Criminal & Delinquent Behavior and Private Security Options
35. Allied American University, Laguna Hills, Calif.
Online
Net Price: $16,439
Overview: At Allied American University, the online criminal justice degree program prepares students for entry-level criminal justice positions in business, industry and non-profit organizations. It provides the foundational background for students interested in gaining knowledge from a broad base of criminal justice concepts and skills to create solutions to contemporary problems in criminal justice. Graduates of this program will have gained the skills necessary to integrate administration, laws, procedures of investigation and evidence, as well as organizational law enforcement management. The university also offers an associate of science degree in criminal justice.
Allied American University is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.
Unique Courses: Criminal Law, Kinesic Interviewing and Investigation of Terrorism
34. Washington State University in Pullman, Wash.
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $16,287
Overview: According to the school’s website, “Washington State University’s Online criminal justice program combines problem-driven research and real-world expertise to prepare students to be leaders in state, federal and private law enforcement.” The faculty in this program routinely lend their expertise to a broad range of agencies, and many graduates of this program hold top positions in law enforcement organizations. Other program graduates use their degree to prepare for law school or work in the corporate security field. WSU’s program is the second oldest continuous criminal justice program in the nation.
Out of 107 online criminal justice programs, CriminalJusticeDegree.net chose Washington State as their No. 1 program in the nation because it was the only school to score perfectly on their evaluation. WSU also made it onto OEDb’s list of “Top Online Criminal Justice Colleges” in the No. 10 spot and TBS’s list in the No. 3 spot. Washington State University has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities continuously since 1918.
Unique Courses: Crime Control Policies, Violence Toward Women and Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
33. University of the Southwest in Hobbs, N.M.
Online Bachelor’s of Criminal Justice
Net Price: $15,589
Overview: According to the program’s website, “At University of the Southwest, you’ll receive more than an education.” This program is 100 percent online criminal justice degree program is promised to enhance a student’s leadership skills by emphasizing unity, honor, duty and service toward a higher purpose. Even though students are learning online, they will be learning skills that go beyond the traditional classroom. The program’s curriculum is designed be experts in the fields of criminal behavior, forensic science, sociology and more.
University of the Southwest is an accredited member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Unique Courses: Probation and Parole, Civil Law & Legal Systems and Terrorism & Counterterrorism
32. Florida State University in Tallahassee, Fla.
B.S. in Criminology Online
Net Price: $15,511
Overview: In FSU’s criminology degree program online, expert faculty teach students to be critical, independent thinkers to be best-prepared for today’s criminal justice career field. This program allows students the flexibility to continue their current careers and personal lives while working with nationally-known professors who are leaders in the field. FSU does require students to complete the associate of arts degree prior to entering this program.
FSU’s criminology program is regionally accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. TBS rated FSU as No. 1 in their list of “The 20 Best Online Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs”, and OEDb ranked FSU No. 6 on their list.
Unique Courses: Criminal & Delinquent Behavior, Law Enforcement and Juvenile Justice
31. University of Massachusetts in Lowell, Mass.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $15,215
Overview: The online bachelor’s degree program is new at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell. Students can take this program fully online, on campus or both online and on campus. The program offers a strong concentration in professional courses while assuring students a traditional and well-rounded liberal arts education. Students typically take about 36 to 48 credits of professional courses in this program. The program also aims to encourage students to attain an intermediate proficiency in a modern foreign language or complete four statistics/information technology/data analysis-related courses.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and has been continuously since 1975.
Unique Courses: Penal Law, Police Innovations and Gender, Race, & Crime
30. University of Florida in Gainsville, Fla.
B.A. in Criminology & Law Online
Net Price: $15,157
Overview: UF’s online criminology and law degree program provides students with a broad perspective on the relationships among the legal, social, political, historical and psychological influences impacting crime, justice and legal processes. The program’s curriculum covers areas like criminal behavior, criminal justice systems and law from a multidisciplinary, liberal-arts perspective. It prepares students for careers in the criminal or juvenile systems like courts, law enforcement and corrections; it also prepares students to go on with their education to law or graduate school.
The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)* to award bachelor, master, specialist, engineer, doctoral and professional degrees.
Unique Courses: Criminological Theory, Law & Legal Process and Research Methods in Criminology
29. TUI University in Cypress, Calif.
B.S. in Leadership or Business Administration with a Concentration in Criminal Justice Administration Online
Net Price: $15,107
Overview: At Trident University International, students can obtain a B.S. in business administration with a concentration in criminal justice administration or a B.S. in leadership with a concentration in criminal justice administration. Although these programs are not fully focused on criminal justice, some students prefer a program that has a business or entrepreneurial approach while specializing in criminal justice. The criminal justice concentration is meant to teach students to apply effective communication skills in a criminal justice environment, conduct results oriented and academic research to analyze practical criminal justice administration problems and issues, assess the ethical implications of criminal justice decisions and actions, utilize data-driven analysis in making criminal administration decisions and much more.
Trident University is accredited by the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Unique Courses: Criminology & Public Policy, Criminal Justice Systems and Perspectives in Criminal Justice
28. University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla.
B.A./B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $15,033
Overview: The Department of Criminal Justice at the University of Central Florida offers both a BA and BS degree in criminal justice online. The faculty incorporates personal learning, service and inquiry into the curriculum of this program, which provides a comprehensive core course structure, combined with a rich variety of upper-division electives to provide a knowledge base in the career field. This program is designed to prepare students for positions in criminal justice in local, county, state and federal justice agencies, private security organizations and related fields. It is also meant to prepare students for graduate work or law school.
The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, specialist and doctoral levels.
Unique Courses: Crime in America, Prosecution & Adjudication and Crime & the Media
27. Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga.
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $14,738
Overview: According to the college’s website, “The Criminal Justice Department at Valdosta State University is dedicated to developing an understanding and appreciation of the structure and function of the criminal justice system as it applies to adults and juveniles, federal, state, and local criminal laws and procedures, and the relationship of these to the Constitution of the United States.” The online undergraduate degree program provides innovative research, teaching and service, and undergraduate students are able to study both the theoretical and practical aspects of the criminal justice system, crime control and the administration of justice. Graduates will be prepared for the workforce as a criminal justice practitioner.
Valdosta State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Unique Courses: Survey of Law Enforcement, Corrections and Forensic Criminology
26. Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Ariz.
B.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $14,398
Overview: Within Northern Arizona’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a fully-online criminology and criminal justice degree program. This program will provide students with the opportunity to engage in diverse coursework to increase knowledge and analytical skills necessary for various career paths within the criminal justice field. Possible career paths for graduates of this program include work in an area of the public justice system, such as police, courts, corrections, regulatory agencies and environmental protection. They also include community-based program related to crime prevention, rehabilitation and victim assistance, as well as pursuit of further education in graduate or law school.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association (NCA) accredits Northern Arizona University.
Unique Courses: Investigating Difference, Dilemmas in Justice and Global Justice
25. University of Phoenix in Phoenix, Ariz.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration Online
Net Price: $14,252
Overview: The University of Phoenix offers eight different types of online degree programs within criminal justice administration with various concentrations and certificates, including a security certificate, a management certificate, a cybercrimes certificate and more. The general criminal justice administration degree program provides a thorough overview of policing practices, juvenile justice and the court systems. It is also designed to help students developimportant
leadership and administrative skills associated with law enforcement. This degree offers a global perspective, as well as a specialty coursework in criminal justice services. The certificate options offer students the opportunity to build career skills early on in their degree programs so that they may leverage those new skills in the workplace before graduation.
leadership and administrative skills associated with law enforcement. This degree offers a global perspective, as well as a specialty coursework in criminal justice services. The certificate options offer students the opportunity to build career skills early on in their degree programs so that they may leverage those new skills in the workplace before graduation.University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission which is a member of the North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Interagency Communication, Grant Writing and Criminal Organizations
24. University of Arizona in Tucson, Ariz.
Administration of Justice B.A.S. Online
Net Price: $14,070
Overview: The University of Arizona’s online program in administration of justice is designed for students seeking careers in federal, state and local law enforcement, public safety and corrections, courtroom systems, immigration and customs enforcement and various other professions within the criminal justice career field. This degree is meant for students who already have earned an applied associates degree or those who have had real life experience in law enforcement or public safety. Some topics that this program covers include criminal justice, procedural constitutional rights, the American judicial system, multicultural approaches, terrorism, gender law, contemporary issues in law enforcement and immigration and border issues.
The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
Unique Courses: Police Management, The Crime Problem and US National Security & the Use of Covert Action
23. Granite State College in Concord, N.H.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $14,025
Overview: Granite State’s online criminal justice program will prepare students for entry or advancement in a career of law enforcement, corrections, probation and parole, administration, domestic violence prevention and other community-based programs that exist for victims, offenders and their families. Professions the graduates of this program are prepared for include law, business security, policing and law enforcement, federal service agencies, corrections, dispute resolution and victim advocacy. More specifically, graduates may become safety officers, asset protection associates, police officers, family intervention specialists and much more.
All of the online degrees at Granite are accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC).
Unique Courses: Victim Rights and Advocacy, Constitutional Law and Corrections, Probation, & Parole
22. Wilmington University in New Castle, Del.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $13,633
Overview: Wilmington’s online criminal justice program aims to prepare students to enter or advance jobs within the criminal justice career field, such as law enforcement, corrections and the courts. This school also offers a certificate program in criminal justice, and program graduates may also pursue higher education in law or criminology/sociology. Students of this program will obtain the theoretical, practical and professional knowledge necessary for be successful in today’s criminal justice environment. The curriculum is designed to provide students with instruction on the most up-to-date trends, policies and practices in the criminal justice field. The general education requirement courses in this program are required and offer undergraduates a well-rounded academic foundation.
Wilmington University is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association (MSCHE).
Unique Courses: Corrections & Rehabilitation, Community Corrections and Survey of Criminal Justice
21. University of Nebraska in Kearney, Neb.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $13,549
Overview: UNK’s online criminal justice program is a degree completion program designed for those students who have already earned an associate’s degree or have completed the majority of their general education courses before applying to this degree. UNK’s online program combines courses from the three Nebraska campuses at Kearney, Omaha and Lincoln to provide students with the best academic experience possible. The curriculum reflects the current trends in justice, and the faculty have both real-world and research experience in the field. Students are also able to complete an internship at a location convenient to them.
TBS rated UNK No. 9 on their list of top online colleges for criminal justice. UNK is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
Unique Courses: The Police Service, Criminal Evidence, Procedure, & the Courts and Victimology: Victims of Crime
20. SUNY Delhi in Delhi, N.Y.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $13,406
Overview: SUNY Delhi’s online criminal justice degree program integrates both theory and practice to prepare students for a wide variety of careers within the criminal justice field, such as policing, investigation, juvenile justice, probation and corrections. Students have the ability to focus their academic careers on the areas within criminal justice that they are most interested with this program to prepare themselves for further study or entrance into the workforce. The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, a key professional and certifying organization in the field of criminal justice studies, identified each of the six areas that students must complete coursework in through this program.
U.S. News & World Report ranked SUNY Delhi among the top online education leaders for 2015, and G.I. Jobs rated SUNY Delhi among the top military friendly schools in 2014. SUNY Delhi is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Unique Courses: History of Law Enforcement, Civil Liberties and New York State Criminal Code
19. Southern Oregon University in Ashland, Ore.
Criminology & Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Online
Net Price: $12,989
Overview: Southern Oregon has a fully-online criminology and criminal justice program, which is one of the oldest in the nation. This program provides a learning environment of education in the tradition of a small public liberal arts college. The faculty of this program consists of scholars with broad practical experience and diverse academic credentials from different disciplines who support and practice individual personal attention within every major at the school. Graduates of this program either further their education in graduate school or immediately enter the workforce in positions such as probation officers, parole officers, police officers, law enforcement personnel, juvenile workers, lawyers, private security and correctional institutions.
SOU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Unique Courses: Crime Control Theories, Comparative Criminal Justice and Crime & Violence: Britain/France
18. Baker College in Allen Park, Mich.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $12,987
Overview: At Baker College, the criminal justice bachelor degree program focuses on ethical behavior and a commitment to service while helping students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to appropriately respond to complex and dynamic situations in a criminal justice-related career. This program is designed with continual guidance and input from professionals and employers in criminal justice, and it aligns with the standards of the Michigan Corrections Officers Training Council. Students will complete both classwork and internships that will help them develop the skills, tools and methods needed to work within this career field. Students explore the concepts of crime and justice, and they develop an understanding of the relationship between police, corrections and the courts.
Baker College is an Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP) participant, and it is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Unique Courses: Client Relations, 9-1-1 Telecommunications and Cybercrime Investigations
17. Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va.
B.S. or B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $12,753
Overview: Old Dominion University offers a fully-online BA and BS program, as well as a minor, in criminal justice. According to the program’s webpage, “The Criminal Justice degree program facilitates an appreciation of the complexity of criminal justice and allows students to understand the social, legal, and technological aspects of criminal justice agencies.” A diverse group of faculty members, who specialize in criminal justice and criminology, teach students, write and lecture on a wide variety of career-related topics. The curriculum of this online program includes courses pertaining to the administration of criminal justice, as well as courses on the social and psychological causes of criminal behavior. Come careers that graduates of this program may enter include casework and counseling, corrections, victim advocacy, court reporting and more.
Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.
Unique Courses: Criminological Theory, Students Only Human Behavior and The Nature of Science
16. Portland State University in Portland, Ore.
Criminology & Criminal Justice Online Bachelor’s Degree Program
Net Price: $12,717
Overview: Portland State’s online criminal justice program consists of intensive coursework on criminal behavior, crime analysis, crime prevention, leadership in criminal justice and more. The fully online curriculum awards students the same degree as those on campus, as well as classes taught by award winning, accomplished faculty. Students in this program can also take part in interactive sessions with their fellow online students who share similar career goals within the field. Graduates of this program come out prepared for real-world challenges as well as pursuit of an advanced degree or leadership position within the profession.
The Princeton Review ranked PSU as one of “The Best 376 Colleges” in 2015. TBS also ranked PSU’s criminal justice program No. 8 on their list of “The 20 Best Online Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs.” Portland State University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Unique Courses: Policing in America, Theories of Crime and Crime Control Strategies
15. Arizona State University in Tempe, Ariz.
Criminal Justice & Criminology (BS) Online
Net Price: $12,380
Overview: The criminology and criminal justice online degree program at ASU offers students the chance to explore the impact of crime and effect approaches to reduce it at the local, state and federal levels. In this program, students will learn about the policies and practices of criminal justice, including components such as law enforcement, corrections and the courts. Students can develop the necessary research, analytical and communications skills required for working in complex criminal justice careers. The professors in the program are recognized leaders in their fields, and many are criminal justice professionals with expertise in policing, gangs, fraud, corrections and courts.
ASU criminonlogy and criminal justice degree program took the No. 5 spot on OEDb’s top online school’s for criminal justice list, the No. 2 spot on CriminalJusticeDegree.net’s list of the top four best online criminal justice programs and the No. 4 spot on TBS’s top 20 list of online criminal justice degree programs. Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Unique Courses: Substantive Criminal Law, Immigration & Justice and Imperatives of Proof
14. University of Memphis in Memphis, Tenn.
B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $12,060
Overview: Within Memphis’ College of Arts and Sciences and the Honors College, the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a fully-online criminal justice degree program, which emphasizes research, scholarship, service and community outreach. In this program, the nationally-recognized faculty provides instruction on the causes of crime, intervention strategies, program evaluation and issues of social justice. This faculty has obtained a wide range of research grants, engaged in national and international outreach and service and have won a number of teaching, research and advising awards at the university. Students in this program have the option to combine online classes with those offered on the University of Memphis campus.
The University of Memphis is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor’s, first professional, master’s, educational specialist’s and doctoral degrees.
Unique Courses: For more information, please visit the program’s website.
13. Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,978
Overview: According to WCU’s website, “WCU’s Criminal Justice Online Program gives you the convenience and flexibility to pursue your B.S. or minor from your own location as you prepare for a professional career or further graduate study.” Students in the online program will take part in instructional activities such as lectures, group interactions, reading assignments, projects, presentations and more. In addition to the traditional coursework, WCU provides students with many opportunities to get involved with the criminal justice program outside of academics, including the Student Association of Criminal Justice Affairs (SACJA), the National Criminal Justice Honor Society, a criminal justice internship and study abroad opportunities.
Western Carolina University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor’s, master’s, education specialist, and doctor’s degrees. Get Educated ranked WCU’s criminal justice online program as the No. 1 “Best Buy” in 2011.
Unique Courses: Institutional Corrections, Gender & Crime and Biosocial Criminology
12. Park University in Parkville, Mo.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration Online
Net Price: $11,859
Overview: Within the criminal justice field, Park University offers a BS, AS and minor in criminal justice administration as well as a certificate in terrorism and homeland security. The criminal justice administration program combines Park University’s liberal arts education with a modern professional curriculum focused on the criminal justice system and related professions. The program is designed with three areas of concentration that students can choose from, including law enforcement, corrections and security, depending on their personal interests.
Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Unique Courses: Introduction to Security, Criminal Procedure and Agency Administration
11. Grantham University in Kansas City, Mo.
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,773
Overview: At Grantham University, the criminal justice degree program provide students with the depth of knowledge necessary to pursue a career in corrections, law enforcement, investigations and more. This online degree program is designed to accommodate both students who require the basic knowledge of the criminal justice field, as well as those students who seek a more comprehensive understanding. Students will gain practical, real-world insight, as well as a thorough understanding of criminal justice theories, to take with them into their careers. Students have the choice to develop a greater breadth of knowledge in the part of the field that they are personally interested in by choosing one of the two concentrated areas, which are homeland security and computer science.
Grantham University has been continuously accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) since 1961.
Unique Courses: Police Systems & Practices, American Government and Community Policing
10. Columbia College in Columbia, Mo.
B.A. and B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration Online
Net Price: $11,759
Overview: Columbia College’s criminal justice administration online program is designed to allow students to continue their personal lives and pursuit of different professional career goals while integrating criminal justice and law academics with other relevant disciplines. This degree will prepare students for entry-level employment in the field, promotion and leadership roles, as well as further graduate study within the field. This program offers practicum and internships opportunities as well as a foundation for those planning to go onto graduate studies or law school.
Columbia College has been accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association since 1918.
Unique Courses: Ethics & Morality in Criminal Justice, Police in a Democratic Society and Judicial Process
9. Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas
B.A. and B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,635
Overview: According to Sam Houston’s online criminal justice BS degree program’s webpage, “The College of Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious programs in the nation.” The college offers criminal justice and victim studies degrees that host a close-knit learning environment, expert faculty in the field and the campus even has a full-service courtroom. When choosing between the BA and BS in criminal justice, students should consider the additional course hours that come along with each degree, such as the social science courses with the BS—psychology, sociology, political science, etc.—and the foreign language courses required with the BA. Organizations like INTERPOL, the FBI and local police departments participate in Sam Houston’s internship program.
Sam Houston also made it into CriminalJusticeDegree.net’s top four programs in the No. 3 spot. This school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Unique Courses: Child Abuse & Neglect, Cyber Crime and Global Terrorism
8. University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla.
B.S.A.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,335
Overview: The University of South Florida offers a BSAS in criminal justice online, which exposes students to all facets of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, detention, the judiciary, corrections, probation and parole. The program is designed to achieve a balance of these facets within the criminal justice system, and it is taught by through the perspective of criminal justice professional, the offender and society. The goal of this program is to help students develop a sound educational basis for either further graduate study or for professional training in any of the specialized areas within today’s criminal justice system. In the curriculum, students have the opportunity to cover a wide range of criminal justice subjects, from environmental law and crime to sex offenders and drugs.
The University of South Florida is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Unique Courses: Theories of Criminal Behavior, Death Penalty and Miscarriages of Justice
7. Virginia College in Birmingham, Ala.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,302
Overview: Students can prepare for or enhance their career in law enforcement through Virginia College’s online criminal justice bachelor’s degree program. According to the program’s webpage, “The new Criminal Justice Program at Virginia College is where technology meets law enforcement.” Students can partake in this program online, on campus or a combination of both, and the online school also offers a master’s degree program. Whether you are currently employed in the field, interested in pursuing a career or simply have a desire to make your community a better place to live, this program was built for you. Graduates of this program can succeed in careers such as courtroom administrator, private security officer, probation or parole officer, juvenile delinquency case manager and more.
Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) to award certificates, diplomas, associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
Unique Courses: Visit the program’s webpage for more information.
6. Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Ind.
B.S. in Criminology and criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $11,151
Overview: Indiana State University offers a bachelor degree-completion program in criminology and criminal justice, which teaches the theoretical and applied aspects of the criminal justice career field. According to the program’s webpage, “The department offers specialized symposia on current topics of interest, and requires all students to participate in internships with criminal justice agencies.” In addition to the degree in criminal justice, students receive an educational background in liberal arts, which will aid their communication skills, critical thinking abilities and the preparation necessary to be a successful criminal justice professional. The faculty in Indiana State’s Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice hold doctorates in criminal justice, jurisprudence, sociology and psychology. They also have real-world experience in professions such as police and correctional administration, criminal investigation and more.
Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
Unique Courses: Dynamics of Criminal & Delinquent Behavior, Corrections and Forensic Investigations
5. Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Ala.
B.S. Criminal Justice Administration Online
Net Price: $10,032
Overview: At Columbia Southern University, the criminal justice administration degree program is fully-online and able to prepare entry-level and seasoned professionals from diverse backgrounds in the theoretical foundations, knowledge, skills and practices of criminal justice and corrections. The education provided by this program enables students to develop rational decisions and informed responses to real-life events one may face in a career in law enforcement, courts and corrections operations. Graduates of this program will be able to evaluate the impact of criminal justice theories and practices, examine the interrelationship amongst courts, corrections and law enforcement, and much more.
Columbia Southern University is an accredited member of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
Unique Courses: Probation and Parole, Introduction to Court Security and Workplace Security
4. University of North Carolina in Pembroke, N.C.
B.A. or B.I.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $9,632
Overview: UNC Pembroke offers a BA in criminal justice and a BIS in criminal justice, completely online. Within the BIS, students can choose among the three concentrations offered to enhance specific knowledge and skills, which are applied information technology, forensics and sociology. The BIS prepares graduates for careers in traditional policing, courts, corrections jobs in the public sector and a wide variety of private sector jobs. The BA degree in criminal justice is offered through the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, in which many courses allow students to test classroom learning through experience in their communities. These majors provide students with an overall understanding of the organization and administration of the American Criminal Justice system.
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Unique Courses: Gender Studies, Substance Abuse and Community Development
3. University of Maryland University College in Adelphi, Md.
B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $9,489
Overview: UMUC offers both a major and minor for criminal justice online. This program helps students understand the nature of crime and the personnel, institutions and processes that prevent or respond to crime. This program introduces students to both theory and practice within the criminal justice system, and its curriculum covers crime, criminal behavior, law enforcement, courts, corrections, security and investigation. It will prepare students to enter into a variety of criminal justice professions or to further their study in a graduate program.
TBS featured UMUC on their top 20 lists of colleges with the best online criminal justice programs in the No. 17 spot. UMUC is also regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Unique Courses: Criminal Investigation, Crime Scene Investigation and Issues in Criminal Justice
2. Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas
B.A. or B.S. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $8,744
Overview: At Texas Woman’s University, 100 percent of the criminal justice bachelor’s degree program can be completed online. This program offers students a broad general education with an emphasis on the social sciences, as well as opportunities for real-world work experience through internships. Graduates of this program are able to enter into careers within local, state and federal government agencies, private businesses and organizations, police agencies, law practices, investigation bureaus and more.
Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.
Unique Courses: Theories of Crime & Deviance, Crime in America and Topics in Urban Sociology
1. Northwestern State University of Louisiana in Natchitoches, La.
B.A. in Criminal Justice Online
Net Price: $7,950
Overview: At Northwestern State University of Louisiana, the baccalaureate program provides a full complement of criminal justice courses in the online criminal justice degree program. Students in this program will take additional courses in subjects like sociology, psychology and political science. The current degree plan for this program consists of 120 credit hours, total.
Northwestern was awarded twice for being among the top military-friendly universities in 2015. The school is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award Associate, Baccalaureate, Master’s, and Specialist’s degrees.
Unique Courses: Adjudication Process, Analysis of Police Operations and Criminal Evidence & Procedure
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Further Reading: Top 10 Cheap Online Bachelor’s Degrees
