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Compare Criminal Justice Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Criminal Justice Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

A criminal justice degree prepares students for impactful careers in law enforcement, courts, and corrections. They will gain a thorough understanding of criminal behavior, punishments, and legal procedures. Graduates work as police officers, private investigators, forensic psychologists, and crime prevention specialists in social services, government agencies, nonprofits, and research.

The need for public safety creates a steady demand for police officers and detectives, with around 64,500 job openings projected annually. Their median annual income is $74,910, nearly $10,000 more than other law enforcement positions. However, wages vary depending on the position, industry, and location. Those employed in government positions have a median annual salary of $75,710, while those in educational services have a median wage of $62,590.

Most criminal justice degrees require the completion of between 120 and 134 credits, which takes four years of full-time study. Part-time and accelerated programs are also available for those who wish to complete the degree at a flexible pace. The average annual tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree is $16,618, depending on the school, program, and student living expenses.

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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.

  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Criminal Justice degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 41 Accredited Criminal Justice Degree Programs

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#1
College Park, MD | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Maryland

Intelligent Score: 99.51
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $8,824

Out-of-state: $34,936

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,158

Out-of-state: $13,158

Test scores

SAT: 1270-1480

ACT: 30-34

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
51%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
87%
Students enrolled
41,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$50k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $412

Non-Resident: $1,613

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 301-405-4699

#2
New Brunswick, NJ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Rutgers University - Newark

Intelligent Score: 99.09
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $12,230

Out-of-state: $29,012

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $17,736

Out-of-state: $17,736

Test scores

SAT: 1180-1410

ACT: 25-32

Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
67%
On-campus students
67%
Graduation Rate
84%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $441

Non-Resident: $1,054

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 973 353-3292

#3
East Lansing, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Michigan State University

Intelligent Score: 98.52
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,555

Out-of-state: $40,384

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $18,858

Out-of-state: $18,858

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1300

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
76%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
81%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $521 - $600 Non Resident: $1,434 - $1,478

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 517-355-8332

#4
Tempe, AZ | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Arizona State University

Intelligent Score: 97.83
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,710

Out-of-state: $28,800

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,720

Out-of-state: $11,720

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1320

ACT: 21-28

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
88%
On-campus students
15%
Graduation Rate
66%
Students enrolled
75,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $77

Non-Resident: $1,357

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 602-496-1658

#5
Bloomington, IN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Indiana University-Bloomington

Intelligent Score: 97.73
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,815

Out-of-state: $36,194

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,786

Out-of-state: $9,786

Test scores

SAT: 1120-1350

ACT: 24-31

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
80%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
80%
Students enrolled
43,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $294

Non-Resident: $1,012

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 812-855-9325

#6
Tallahassee, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Florida State University

Intelligent Score: 97.35
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,640

Out-of-state: $19,084

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,684

Out-of-state: $9,684

Test scores

SAT: 1220-1350

ACT: 27-31

Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
32%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
84%
Students enrolled
44,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $215

Out-of-State: $721

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 850-644-4050

#7
Boston, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Northeastern University

Intelligent Score: 96.85
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $54,360

Out-of-state: $54,360

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $25,264

Out-of-state: $25,264

Test scores

SAT: 1410-1540

ACT: 33-35

Retention Rate
97%
Admission Rate
20%
On-campus students
52%
Graduation Rate
90%
Students enrolled
23,000
Student to faculty ratio
14:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,938

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone:

#8
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Intelligent Score: 95.82
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $6,930

Out-of-state: $14,880

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,090

Out-of-state: $11,090

Test scores

SAT: 1170-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
40%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
56%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$12k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $305

Non-Resident: $620

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-237-8869

#9
Pullman, WA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Washington State University

Intelligent Score: 95.34
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $10,202

Out-of-state: $25,145

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,781

Out-of-state: $11,781

Test scores

SAT: 1020-1210

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
80%
On-campus students
72%
Graduation Rate
59%
Students enrolled
31,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $548

Out-of-State: $1,352

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 509-335-8611

#10
Huntsville, TX | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Sam Houston State University

Intelligent Score: 95.21
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $5,856

Out-of-state: $15,672

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $5,765

Out-of-state: $5,765

Test scores

SAT: 970-1120

ACT: 18-23

Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
92%
On-campus students
40%
Graduation Rate
58%
Students enrolled
22,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$39k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $365

Non-Resident: $773

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 936-294-1828

#11
West Chester, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Intelligent Score: 93.28
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,716

Out-of-state: $19,290

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,288

Out-of-state: $9,288

Test scores

SAT: 1010-1180

ACT: 20-26

Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
86%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
75%
Students enrolled
18,000
Student to faculty ratio
20:01
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $322

Out-of-State: $805

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 610-436-2647

#12
Newark, DE | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Delaware

Intelligent Score: 93.26
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $12,730

Out-of-state: $34,160

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $34,164

Out-of-state: $34,164

Test scores

SAT: 1150-1330

ACT: 25-30

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
66%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
82%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $585

Non-Resident: $1,570

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

124

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 302-831-2581

#13
Lynchburg, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Liberty University

Intelligent Score: 91.87
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,791

Out-of-state: $14,791

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,935

Out-of-state: $7,935

Test scores

SAT: 1040-1250

ACT: 21-29

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
54%
Students enrolled
93,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$36k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$815

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 434-592-3691

#14
Washington, DC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

George Washington University

Intelligent Score: 90.68
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $55,961

Out-of-state: $55,961

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $31,770

Out-of-state: $31,770

Test scores

SAT: 1270-1450

ACT: 30-33

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
43%
On-campus students
75%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
27,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$59k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,872 - $2,809

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 202-994-6345

#15
Philadelphia, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Temple University

Intelligent Score: 89.33
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $16,080

Out-of-state: $28,992

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $16,956

Out-of-state: $16,956

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
71%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
75%
Students enrolled
37,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $499

Non-Resident: $899

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

123

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 215-204-7200

#16
Cincinnati, OH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Cincinnati

Intelligent Score: 88.81
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,723

Out-of-state: $25,057

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,224

Out-of-state: $13,224

Test scores

SAT: 1120-1330

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
76%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
41,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$22k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $274 - $566

Non-Resident: $575 - $1,205

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 513-556-6308

#17
Parkville, MO | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Park University

Intelligent Score: 88.58
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $8,251

Out-of-state: $8,251

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,224

Out-of-state: $6,224

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
N/A
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
28%
Students enrolled
10,000
Student to faculty ratio
15:01
Average Salary
$42k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$458 - $687

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 816-741-2000

#18
Poughkeepsie, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Marist College

Intelligent Score: 88
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $39,925

Out-of-state: $39,925

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $15,300

Out-of-state: $15,300

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
55%
On-campus students
41%
Graduation Rate
85%
Students enrolled
7,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$48k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$825

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected].

Phone: 800-436-5483

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How to Choose a Criminal Justice Program

Choose your area of study

The three types of criminal justice degrees available are associate, bachelor’s, and master’s. These degree levels differ in their curriculum, length, and career outlook.

An associate degree in criminal justice prepares students for entry-level jobs, such as a police officer, paralegal, or crime scene technician. It typically requires two years of full-time study and provides a foundational knowledge of the criminal justice system.

A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice requires four years of full-time study and involves a more in-depth curriculum. Students can choose a major to specialize in, and many undergraduate programs also include an internship.

A master’s degree in criminal justice requires two to three years of full-time study and prepares students for leadership roles in the field. Programs often offer concentration areas, including crime analysis, cybersecurity, homeland security, and terrorism studies.

Research schools and programs

When researching criminal justice programs, look for institutions that have received accreditation from a recognized agency. Notable accrediting agencies include the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the New England Commission on Higher Education.

Accreditation ensures that the school meets a set quality standard and adequately prepares students for their future careers. Attending an accredited institution will help you receive government aid, get hired after graduation, and transfer credits.

There are several ways to learn more about prospective schools and programs, including:

  • Visiting them in-person
  • Browsing their website
  • Attending open houses
  • Following them on social media

You can also speak with an admissions advisor or program representative to gain more insight into the curriculum, admissions, and school culture.

Prepare for tests and applications

The admission requirements for a criminal justice degree vary by institution, but most require you to submit the following:

  • High school transcripts
  • Letter(s) of recommendation
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • A personal statement or essay

Speak with an admissions advisor before submitting your application to review the process, deadline, and requirements.

Select your program

If you receive admission to more than one criminal justice program, narrow down your options by reviewing your academic and logistical needs. Determine if the program is in person or online, full-time or part-time, and asynchronous or synchronous. Also, consider the program length, cost, location, and housing requirements.

For additional guidance, speak with an academic advisor. They’ll review your options and help you make the choice that will best set you up for future success.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Create an annual budget to determine whether you’ll pay for the degree yourself or require financial aid. Include academic costs such as tuition, fees, and supplies, along with living expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and extracurriculars.

Visit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website and submit an application to determine the amount of financial aid you’re eligible for, including scholarships, work-study funds, grants, and loans. If you’re currently employed, ask your employer if they offer tuition assistance benefits.

What Can You Expect From a Criminal Justice Program?

A degree in criminal justice provides students with an understanding of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, the court system, and criminal behavior. Programs consist of core courses that cover foundational knowledge and electives tailored to a chosen specialization. Course topics include criminal law, corrections, the judicial process, criminal motivation, and victimology.

Students use various learning methods, including coursework, exams, lectures, and hands-on experience, to develop the analytical, communication, problem-solving, and research skills needed to succeed in the field. Many programs also include internships where students gain real-world experience that prepares them for their future careers.

Potential courses you’ll take in a criminal justice program

  • Issues in Criminal Justice. This course provides an overview of the processes and problems within the criminal justice system. Students will study the causes of crime, issues that criminologists face, and the role of courts and legal constraints.
  • Sociology of Crime. Students analyze the origins of deviant, delinquent, and criminal behavior. They also study the impact of crime on society, focusing on the connection between social problems and illegal activities.
  • Drugs, Crime, and the Criminal Justice System. This course focuses on the complex relationship between drugs and crime and the effects of drug legislation on the criminal justice system.
  • Deviant Behavior. Students examine various deviant subcultures, such as drugs, sexual behavior, and gangs. They delve into how deviance is defined, sustained, tolerated, controlled, and responded to within these subcultures.
  • Law, Evidence, and Ethics. This course analyzes the role and rules of evidence in criminal investigations, trials, and proceedings, focusing on the ethical obligations of government agencies in gathering evidence.

Criminal Justice Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a criminal justice degree program?

To apply for a criminal justice degree, visit the program website and review the requirements, deadlines, and fees. The application materials vary by institution but often include your high school transcripts, an essay, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Speak with an admissions counselor to ensure you submit the correct materials and meet the requirements.

How much does a criminal justice degree cost?

The average annual tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is $16,618, but the total cost varies depending on the school and program. Students should also consider additional expenses such as housing, supplies, transportation, and extracurriculars that may increase the amount. Those in part-time or online studies may see lower costs due to reduced overhead and fewer credits per semester.

How long does earning a criminal justice degree take?

Most undergraduate degrees in criminal justice consist of 120 to 134 credits and require four years of full-time study. Online, part-time, and asynchronous options are available for those who desire flexible scheduling. Students can also enter accelerated programs that require two years of intensive studies.