Law enforcement administrators are experts in organizational management as it applies to criminal justice and public law enforcement operations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), first-line supervisors of police and detectives earn a median salary of $101,750, and over the next decade there are expected to be 409,500 openings for protective service jobs each year.
Most online master’s in law enforcement administration programs require between 31 and 36 credit hours, which takes about two years to complete for most full-time students. On average, the annual tuition for a graduate degree program is $12,596 at public schools and $28,017 at private schools.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Law Enforcement Administration Program
Choose your area of study
This degree may be offered as a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Public Administration (MPA). Furthermore, some programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as community policing, cybersecurity, or emergency management. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Also, look for answers to the following questions:
- How are courses taught, and what are the technology requirements?
- What is the course sequence?
- Are mentorship opportunities and faculty support available to online students?
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Each school has different requirements in place for admissions, but ideally, you will have a bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least a 3.0 GPA. However, some schools may make exceptions if you have fieldwork or other practical skills in your area of study.
In addition, some schools ask for standardized test scores, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT).
You may also be expected to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Are you only interested in 100% online programs, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a few in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Various factors will come into play as you determine how to pay for your degree. Your state residency can determine what financial aid programs are available and your program’s cost. In-state students often receive tuition discounts, but it’s important to note online programs might also include other fees, such as software and technology costs.
Most students begin with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which will let you know if you are eligible for affordable loans and federal assistance. Your financial aid advisor can also inform you of any payment plans, grants, or other tuition assistance programs that might be available. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Law Enforcement Administration Programs
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How We Rank Schools
To guarantee accessibility for all types of students, we focused on programs delivered entirely or primarily online. Several programs are also offered on campus. In some instances, students can earn the degree through a combination of online and in-person classes.
We only included programs offered by regionally accredited institutions. This criterion confirms that the schools and their programs meet the highest standards of quality for postsecondary education. Credits and degrees earned from regionally accredited institutions are widely recognized by other schools and employers.
After compiling our list, we reviewed each program based on its flexibility, faculty, cost, outcomes, and reputation. Then, we calculated an Intelligent Score for each program on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out our ranking methodology.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Law Enforcement Administration Program?
A master’s in law enforcement administration combines business and budgeting with protective services and criminological theory. You can expect to delve deeper into public safety while also taking administrative courses such as human resources and leadership within a law enforcement environment. The topics covered in your program may include policy development, correctional agency administration, and the roles and duties of law enforcement agencies.
Most online programs to earn a master’s in law enforcement administration require 31-36 credit hours and can be finished in about two years by full-time students. While online programs are more flexible, remember that graduate school will still command a significant time commitment as you work toward your educational goals.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s degree in law enforcement administration program
- Issues in Law Enforcement. Students examine the legal interpretation of the U.S. Constitution and how the legal system interprets the rights of government versus protecting civil liberties. Students will examine Supreme Court cases and reflect on past and current criminal justice policies.
- Law Enforcement Management and Organizational Leadership. Students examine the various challenges involved in safeguarding personal rights and enforcing laws. This course looks at the evolution of law enforcement and how professional training and management should be designed.
- Financial Resources Administration. Students consider budgeting, financial planning, and key budget formulas. This course teaches students how to make financial decisions while considering political influences and resource allocation.
- Law Enforcement Ethics. In this course, students explore ethical issues faced by law enforcement agents and organizations. Students consider ethical guidelines and how to apply them situationally.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Law Enforcement Administration?
Career outlook
The career outlook for individuals with a master’s degree in law enforcement administration is promising, with ample opportunities for growth and advancement. This growth is attributed to the continued need for law enforcement agencies to adapt to evolving challenges, such as cybersecurity threats, terrorism, and community policing initiatives.
Here are some common career paths that are open to individuals with a master’s degree in law enforcement administration:
- Emergency management director — Prepare plans and coordinate responses for emergencies and natural disasters.
- Median annual salary: $83,960
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 900 annually
- Social or community service manager — Oversee operations and secure funding for programs that support public well-being.
- Median annual salary: $77,030
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 9%
- New job openings projected: 16,000 annually
- Police officer or detective — Lead investigations, arrest suspects, and maintain detailed reports regarding law enforcement activity.
- Median annual salary: $74,910
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 64,500 annually
Online Master’s Degree in Law Enforcement Administration Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master’s degree in law enforcement administration program?
Some students may settle on one school or submit applications to several schools to keep options open. Remember to budget for application fees and contact an admissions counselor or financial aid advisor, as some schools offer fee waivers.
In the meantime, gather all the necessary documents to apply, which will likely include the following:
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
- GRE or GMAT scores
- Curriculum vitae
Some schools will ask for an essay or personal statement as well, which allows students to highlight why they are the perfect candidate for the program.
How much does an online master’s degree in law enforcement administration cost?
An online master’s in law enforcement administration will cost between $325 and $700 per credit, which brings the total tuition to between $10,000 and $25,000. However, each program’s policies are different, and the nature of the program can affect the total cost. For instance, some programs are technology-heavy, which may mean an investment in specific software or computer specifications. Some programs may also include fees for labs, library services, or out-of-class fieldwork.
It’s essential to speak with a college representative who can help you figure out the most accurate estimate of costs. Researching the school’s catalog can also help to determine what additional fees, if any, are absent from the per-credit cost of the program.
How long does it take to earn an online master’s degree in law enforcement administration?
Both full-time and part-time students will be required to complete the same number of credit hours, typically between 31 and 36. While full-time students can expect to finish within one to two years, part-time students usually need between three and five years to complete a master’s program. However, some schools offer accelerated programs and accept transfer credits from relevant undergraduate work, which can speed up completion time.
Is an online master’s in law enforcement administration worth it?
Earning an online master’s degree in law enforcement administration is undoubtedly worth it for many individuals. The degree can lead to career advancement, leadership positions, and higher salaries within law enforcement agencies.
Earning a master’s degree demonstrates your commitment to professional development and equips you with advanced skills for administrative roles. Also, many online master’s programs offer specialized courses that allow you to focus on areas of law enforcement that align with your career goals.
Online programs often provide opportunities to connect with fellow students, faculty, and professionals in the field. Networking can lead to valuable contacts, mentorship, and job opportunities. Online programs offer the flexibility to balance your studies with work and personal commitments. This flexibility is especially beneficial for current law enforcement professionals seeking to advance their careers.