For those pursuing careers in criminal justice administration, policing, or homeland security, an online bachelor’s in law enforcement is a smart choice. It offers steady employment prospects over the next decade. Online programs provide a flexible way for students to earn their degree while balancing other responsibilities — like a full-time job or raising a family.
Upon graduation, students will be eligible for various careers, such as police officers or criminal investigators, with a median salary of $74,910. With experience, they can advance into leadership roles like emergency management directors, earning a median salary of $83,960, or administration managers, with a median salary of $104,900.
These programs typically take three to four years to complete full-time, with an average tuition of $14,688 per year.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement Program
Choose your area of study
With a bachelor’s in law enforcement, you can pursue many different career paths, and choosing an area of study can help you tailor your education to those goals.
Options may include criminal justice administration, which is ideal for those interested in leadership roles within law enforcement agencies, and homeland security, which is suited for students focused on counterterrorism and national security. Another option is forensic science, perfect for those drawn to crime scene investigation and evidence analysis. Cybercrime is ideal for tech-savvy individuals interested in tackling online criminal activities.
Research schools and programs
With your intended specialization in mind, you can now begin researching schools and programs. Consider using the following questions to help guide your research:
- Does a recognized agency accredit the program?
- Does the program offer the specialization I’m interested in? If not, is there sufficient coursework to support my interests?
- Are internships or capstone opportunities available?
- What support services are available for online students?
Most of this information is readily available on university websites, but you’ll also benefit from attending a virtual open house or speaking to an admissions counselor.
Prepare for tests and applications
Once you have a shortlist of programs, getting organized is key. Create a timeline that aligns with each program’s application deadlines.
This will often include acquiring necessary documents like letters of recommendation and transcripts, which may take some time to collect. Draft your personal statement or essay responses early to ensure ample time for revisions. If the programs require standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, enroll in a test prep course to boost your scores.
By simply staying organized and working ahead, you can submit a competitive application while ensuring all requirements are met on time.
Select your program
The arrival of acceptance letters is always exciting, but it can become overwhelming if you receive more than one. Take some time to revisit your initial research criteria, focusing on what matters most to you — such as curriculum relevance, the faculty you’ll learn from, and support services for online learners.
This is also an ideal time to reassess the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and other expenses. Compare financial aid offers, especially scholarships and grants, to see how they impact the overall cost.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Financing your degree can be daunting, but fortunately, many financial aid resources are available to help. Start by submitting the FAFSA to see if you qualify for federal financial aid. You’ll also want to explore and apply for both institutional and external scholarships and grants, which can significantly reduce costs.
If you’re looking for part-time work, consider a work-study program, which provides on-campus or remote job opportunities while you study. If you’re currently employed, check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement as part of your benefits.
To cover any remaining financial gaps, seek out federal loans first. They usually offer lower interest rates and better repayment options than private loans.
Best 50 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement Programs
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online bachelor’s in law enforcement 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 postsecondary education.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online bachelor’s in law enforcement programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement Program?
By pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in policing, criminal justice, or security. These programs cover topics like criminal law, investigation techniques, ethics in law enforcement, and criminology. As a student, you’ll learn to analyze crime trends, understand the judicial process, and develop communication and leadership skills. Courses often include criminal procedure, constitutional law, and community policing strategies. Some programs may offer practical experience, like internships or capstone courses, which can improve real-world skills.
Most online programs are designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace. For those enrolling full-time, these programs can often be completed in three to four years, while part-time learners will take longer, usually five to six years.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in law enforcement program
- Cultural Awareness in Criminal Justice: This course explores the role of culture, race, and ethnicity in law enforcement practices and the criminal justice system. Students learn to identify and address bias, improve cultural competence, and apply fair and equitable practices in diverse communities.
- The United States Correctional System and Offender Rehabilitation: In this class, students examine the U.S. correctional system, including prisons, probation, and parole. The course focuses on rehabilitation strategies and programs designed to reduce recidivism and improve reintegration for offenders.
- Business Foundations: This course introduces students to key business concepts like management, finance, and organizational behavior. Law enforcement professionals gain valuable budgeting, leadership, and decision-making skills that are critical for managing law enforcement agencies.
- Forensic Psychology: Participants study the intersection of psychology and law, learning how psychological principles apply to criminal behavior, investigations, and the legal process. Topics include criminal profiling, mental health assessments, and the role of psychology in the courtroom.
- Socially Responsible Leadership: This course focuses on ethical leadership and decision-making within law enforcement. Learners will gain leadership skills with integrity, accountability, and social responsibility while balancing the demands of public safety and community welfare.
Online Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor's in law enforcement degree program?
While some programs may have specific application requirements, many share standard criteria – including the following:
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Minimum GPA, usually a 2.0 or higher
- Personal statement or essay responses
- Letters of recommendation
Before applying, it’s helpful to consult an admissions counselor who can guide you through specific program requirements and the application process.
How much does an online bachelor's in law enforcement degree cost?
The average annual tuition for an undergraduate degree program is $14,688. In addition to tuition, you’ll also want to be prepared for other expenses like technology fees, which cover online learning platforms, and course materials, including digital resources and software. Textbooks can also add to the overall cost, although some programs may use digital texts to help reduce expenses.
To fully understand these costs, consider seeking detailed information from a financial aid counselor.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor's in law enforcement degree?
This degree typically takes three to four years for full-time students to complete. Part-time learners often take longer, usually around five to six years. The total time it takes to graduate will depend on the course load and the number of transfer credits accepted. It’s essential to double-check the total credit requirements for each program, as these can vary and impact your timeline.