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Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice Programs of 2021
Today, a masters in criminal justice is a major benefit for almost any individual looking to pursue a rewarding career in the field. The growth of online education has made it easy to enroll in an online master’s program in criminal justice.
The online masters in criminal justice is ideal for professionals who have a degree, or are working on their bachelor’s degree. This highly-specialized program will give you the expertise you need to pursue careers in this growing field, and prepare you for advancement opportunities.
There are thousands of professionals working in the criminal justice field on the local, state, and federal levels. Police officers can compete for jobs with just a high school diploma and academy training. A college degree, on the other hand, can open doors far beyond the local law enforcement office.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earning a bachelor’s degree is one of the best ways to secure an entry-level position as a police officer. With this in mind, you may also want to consider online master’s in criminal justice programs.
Online Masters in Criminal Justice Programs
Top 15 Online Masters in Criminal Justice Programs
1. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando offers a fully online master’s degree in criminal justice. Students can prepare for future careers such as police detective, U.S. Marshal, and more in as little as two years of study. Agent of the FBI or a marshal.
Format
Online
Tuition
$327 per credit (in-state); $1,151 per credit (out-of-state)
Duration
2 years
Credits
36 credits
Core courses must be completed by all students for a total of 18 credits. Students also choose six restricted electives and nine general electives credits. Although the program does not require a thesis, those who wish to do so may use six of their nine general elective credits to do so. A three-credit capstone experience is required of all students.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has regionally accredited UCF.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 73%
Location: Orlando, FL
2. Florida International University
FIU, which is based in Miami, offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice. Students interested in interning in the field, preparing to teach at the college level, or pursuing a doctorate degree can all benefit from the program’s flexibility.
Format
Online
Tuition
$400 per credit
Duration
N/A
Credits
36 credits
Students take the same five core courses and then select criminal justice and general electives.
There are a lot of writing requirements in this program. A research paper or other evidence of strong writing ability is required of applicants.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has granted FIU regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.2 minimum in upper-division courses
Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 58%
Location: Miami, FL
3. Florida State University
FSU, which is based in Tallahassee, offers an online master’s degree in criminology with a focus on criminal justice studies. The program is designed for working professionals and prepares students for leadership roles in their organizations as well as teaching positions.
Format
Online
Tuition
$554 per credit (in-state); $614 per credit (out-of-state)
Duration
N/A
Credits
36 credits
Students must take five core courses, including criminological theory, computer applications in criminal justice, and research design. Students can tailor their studies to their areas of personal interest by taking elective classes like crime prevention and treatment, police and society, and victimology. Individualized directed study can be used for a portion of a student’s elective credits.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has granted FSU regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: No minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminology With a Major in Criminal Justice Studies
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 83%
Location: Tallahassee, FL
4. California State University, Long Beach
CSULB is a large public university in the Los Angeles area that offers a fully online master’s degree in criminology and criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
$575
Duration
2 years
Credits
36 credits
Crime and intelligence analysis is an optional concentration that focuses on crime mapping, intelligence and social network analysis, and geographic information science.
The program is designed for working professionals and prepares students for administrative, research, or teaching positions. The program combines theory with hands-on practical applications and provides numerous networking opportunities with other criminal justice professionals. After two semesters, all students must pass a qualifying exam and either complete a thesis or pass a comprehensive final exam.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission has regionally accredited CSULB.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum over a student’s last 60 credits
Standardized Tests: GRE or LSAT
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 69%
Location: Long Beach, CA
5. Texas A&M International University
TAMIU, which is based in Laredo, offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice. This non thesis program can be completed in as little as 12 months by full-time students.
Format
Online
Tuition
$336 per credit (in-state); $974 per credit (out-of-state)
Duration
1-2 years
Credits
36 credits
Advanced social research, criminological theory, and advanced quantitative methods are among the topics covered in this research-intensive program. The program includes five core courses as well as electives (such as cybercrime and police practices) that allow students to tailor their education to their specific interests. Every student must complete a capstone project on a topic of their choice in the modern criminal justice system.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has regionally accredited TAMIU.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.8 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 46%
Location: Laredo, TX
6. Boston University
BU, a Massachusetts-based private university, offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
$925 per credit
Duration
N/A
Credits
32 credits
The program covers a wide range of topics, such as public policy, social control theories, and organizational leadership. Strategic management, crime analysis, or cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity are all options for students.
Four core courses are required of all students. Those who do not choose a concentration can choose from a variety of electives, such as rehabilitation and reintegration, white-collar crime, trauma and crisis intervention, and more.
The New England Commission on Higher Education has granted BU regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: No minimum required
Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT optional
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Private
Graduation Rate: 88%
Location: Boston, MA
7. University of Louisiana at Monroe
ULM is a public university in northern Louisiana that offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
Sliding scale based on credits per semester, from $803 for one credit to $4,846 for 12 or more credits (in-state); $803 for one credit to $10,896 for 12 or more credits (out-of-state)
Duration
18-24 months
Credits
33-36 credits
Students have the option of writing a thesis or not writing a thesis. Six core courses are required of all students, covering topics such as theories, research methods, and minorities in the criminal justice system.
The thesis track requires students to take nine credits of criminal justice electives and six credits of thesis work. Participants on the nonthesis track, on the other hand, can choose 12 credits of criminal justice electives and six credits in a related support area. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a closely related field is required.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has regionally accredited ULM.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum
Standardized Tests: GRE (minimum score of 283 for students with a 2.2-2.74 GPA)
Program Name: Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 44%
Location: Monroe, LA
8. California State University, San Bernardino
CSUSB, a public research university about 60 miles east of Los Angeles, offers an online criminal justice master’s degree.
Format
Online
Tuition
$2,082 per credit (in-state); $2,478 per credit (out-of-state)
Duration
N/A
Credits
34 credits
The program provides a strong foundation in criminal justice for students with a variety of backgrounds, including psychology, anthropology, and sociology.
A culminating experience — either a thesis or a comprehensive capstone exam — is required of all students. Students who want to do research or continue their education usually opt for a thesis. The exam is usually chosen by those who want to pursue a career in leadership or administration.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission has granted CSUSB regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum
Standardized Tests: GRE optional
Program Name: Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 57%
Location: San Bernardino, CA
9. New Mexico State University
NMSU, which is based in Las Cruces, offers a completely online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
$412 per credit
Duration
2-3 years
Credits
33-36 credits
Current criminal justice professionals interested in moving into management roles, individuals transitioning into criminal justice work, and students interested in teaching criminal justice or a related topic are all welcome to apply.
Students can choose between a thesis and a non thesis track. Five core courses are required of all students. The thesis track students select 12 credits of general electives and six credits for their thesis. Non Thesis students can also choose 12 credits of criminal justice electives and nine credits of general electives.
The Higher Learning Commission has fully accredited New Mexico State University.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 46%
Location: Las Cruces, NM
10. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University, a public research university in Statesboro, offers a fully online master’s degree in criminal justice and criminology.
Format
Online
Tuition
$358 per credit
Duration
N/A
Credits
36 credits
Students can choose between a criminal justice or a cybercrime emphasis when studying online.
The criminal justice emphasis is primarily on current criminal justice system theory, policies, and issues. Alternatively, the cybercrime focus emphasizes the unique laws governing electronic devices and the internet, as well as cyberethics and jurisdictional issues. Both tracks of students take the same three foundational courses and one research or analysis class.
Students must complete a final capstone option, which can be a thesis, practicum, or comprehensive exam, regardless of their track. Students choose a capstone experience based on their personal interests and professional objectives.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has granted Georgia Southern regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 50%
Location: Statesboro, GA
11. University of North Florida
UNF is a public university in Jacksonville that offers an entirely online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
$494 per credit (in-state); $1,044 (out-of-state)
Duration
2 years
Credits
39 credits
The program is built on a broad interdisciplinary foundation, combining theory, research, and practice to prepare students for a wide range of careers.
Students have a lot of freedom in terms of choosing their academic path. Two prerequisite courses and four core courses are required of all students. Participants then choose from five elective courses on topics like elite crime, critical issues in community policing, and corrections history and philosophy.
There are thesis and nonthesis options available in this program. Nonthesis students take two more elective classes, while thesis students devote the final six credits of their program to a thesis.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has granted UNF regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 59%
Location: Jacksonville, FL
12. Georgia College and State University
Georgia College in Milledgeville offers an online master’s in criminal justice. The program is designed for working professionals and takes four full semesters to complete.
Format
Online
Tuition
$288 per credit
Duration
4 semesters
Credits
36 credits
The program prepares students for academic research or administrative roles in a variety of criminal justice fields, with a liberal arts foundation.
Students must take two foundational courses and six required courses that cover major topics such as criminological theory, ethics, and research design. Elective courses such as radical theorists, correctional counseling, and international terrorism help students round out their education. An internship or a capstone research project are two options available to students. At the conclusion of the program, all students must pass a comprehensive exam.
The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has granted Georgia College regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required for students with a GPA of at least 3.0; students with a 2.75-2.99 GPA need at least 290 on the GRE, 395 on the MAT 395, or 450 on the GMAT
Program Name: Master of Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 64%
Location: Milledgeville, GA
13. University of San Diego
USD is a private research university that offers a fully online master’s degree in law enforcement and public safety administration.
Format
Online
Tuition
$699 per credit
Duration
20 months
Credits
31 credits
The program, which was created in collaboration with top law enforcement organizations, focuses on the current issues that law enforcement professionals face. Students who have recently worked in law enforcement, the military, public safety, or a related field can train for command positions in a variety of agencies.
The program is completed in five semesters. Students can only take one course at a time during each semester, which is divided into two seven-week terms. Before beginning the program, students must take an orientation class and complete a one-credit integrative capstone at the end.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission has granted USD regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 2.75 minimum
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership
School Status: Private
Graduation Rate: 80%
Location: San Diego, CA
14. Michigan State University
MSU, an East Lansing-based public research university, offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Format
Online
Tuition
$774 per credit
Duration
2 years
Credits
30 credits
The two-year program combines historical knowledge, cutting-edge technology, theory, and practical skills. Students train for high-level positions in national security, emergency management, and criminal investigation, among other fields.
Students can opt for a security management specialization or mix and match four elective courses to suit their specific interests. Six core courses are required of all students, covering topics such as crime prevention, research methods, and policy analysis.
The Higher Learning Commission has fully accredited MSU.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum
Standardized Tests: GRE waived through fall 2021
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
School Status: Public
Graduation Rate: 80%
Location: East Lansing, MI
15. Averett University
Averett University, a Baptist school in Danville, Virginia, offers an online master’s degree in criminal justice administration and leadership.
Format
Online
Tuition
$655 per credit
Duration
23 months
Credits
36 credits
The interdisciplinary program, which is geared toward those already employed in public safety or law enforcement, prepares students to advance in their careers.
The program is divided into eight-week segments. Students can only take two courses at a time, allowing busy professionals to complete their degree while juggling their other responsibilities. In less than two years, full-time students can complete the program. Students can choose between a thesis and a nonthesis option.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has granted Averett regional accreditation.
Admission Requirements
GPA: 3.0 minimum over a student’s last 60 credits
Standardized Tests: Not required
Program Name: Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and Leadership
School Status: Private
Graduation Rate: 80%
Location: Danville, VA
Common Masters in Criminal Justice Degree Courses
Criminal Justice Policy
Graduate-level criminal justice policy courses usually take one of two approaches: they either focus on current issues or examine the policymaking process. The former aids students in comprehending the complexities of community policing, racial profiling, and lethal force use. The latter lays a strong foundation and prepares students for more in-depth policy research and analysis.
Criminal Justice Administration
Students will learn about organizational behavior and management theories, as well as how to apply these concepts to the criminal justice system, in this course. The challenges that criminal justice leaders face, such as employee management, resources, and the responsibility of maintaining public safety, are examined through coursework and class discussions.
Criminological Theory
This class, which is usually taught as a survey, provides students with a deeper understanding of the major schools of thought on crime causation and criminal behavior: sociological, psychological, physiological, and genetic theory. Students analyze and debate how these theoretical perspectives influence crime research and policy development.
Research Methods
This course, which is required for the majority of online master’s degrees in criminal justice, introduces students to the methods and techniques used in research and source evaluation. Analyzing archival data, surveying and data collection, measuring validity and reliability, and experimenting are all possible topics. It’s also possible to talk about ethical issues in research design.
Capstone
A master’s degree’s capstone experience requires students to synthesize and apply what they’ve learned throughout the program. The creation of a professional portfolio, the completion of a research project, or the production of a master’s thesis are all examples of capstone experiences that differ by school.
Related Masters in Criminal Justice Degree Concentrations
Crime and Intelligence Analysis
Graduates of this concentration will be able to use, analyze, and incorporate data from a variety of sources to help inform criminal justice investigations, strategies, and policy decisions. Crime mapping, social networks, spatial analysis, and other criminology-related topics may be covered in classes. The ethical and legal rules that apply are also discussed.
Criminal Justice Education
Graduates with a criminal justice education concentration are well-versed in both fundamental and contemporary criminal justice issues such as juvenile justice, diversity, terrorism, and crime control. Students learn how to effectively deliver instruction, preparing them for careers as criminal justice instructors at community and vocational colleges.
Corrections
Graduates with this concentration are better prepared for advanced corrections positions such as prison warden, chief probation officer, or director of corrections. Adult and juvenile correctional systems administration, probation and parole, and communities and crime are all topics covered in most courses. Students can apply what they’ve learned in class by completing an experiential learning project.
Homeland Security
Students with a homeland security concentration gain a better understanding of national and international threats. Terrorism, human trafficking, emergency and crisis management, and information security may all be covered in class. Graduates will be able to assist in meeting the challenges posed by a changing security landscape and various threats.
Leadership
Graduates with a leadership concentration will have the knowledge and skills to advance their careers in a variety of criminal justice fields after graduation. Organizational leadership, ethics, and strategy development are common topics in courses. Students develop their own personal leadership capabilities through assessments and self-reflection.
Online Masters in Criminal Justice Career Paths
A master’s degree in criminal justice qualifies graduates to work in a wide array of career options, including law enforcement, corrections, criminology and post-secondary education. After earning an online master’s degree in criminal justice, professionals commonly pursue careers in law enforcement or corrections, criminology, and post-secondary education.
Those who complete an online master’s degree in criminal justice are often prepared to pursue careers in fields including law enforcement, corrections, criminology or postsecondary education.
As with any career path, education is a benefit for those who want to advance their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Postgraduate credentials in criminal justice can do just that, allowing you to advance in your law enforcement or corrections career path.
Forensic psychology, federal law enforcement, and emergency management are all options for criminal justice graduate students. Certification is required in some states for emergency management directors. A Ph.D. and licensure are frequently required for positions in forensic psychology.
Online Masters in Criminal Justice Admission Requirements
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
Any master’s program requires a completed bachelor’s degree as the primary admission requirement. Applicants must submit transcripts demonstrating graduation from an accredited college or university. Admission to the program may be limited to applicants who majored in criminal justice or a closely related field, depending on the school.
MINIMUM GPA
Universities are looking for students who have a good chance of succeeding. As a result, most graduate schools require applicants to have a minimum undergraduate GPA to be considered. The exact qualifying number varies depending on the program and school. Applicants for online master’s degrees in criminal justice typically have a GPA of 2.75 to 3.0.
STANDARDIZED TEST SCORES
Standardized testing, such as the GRE, MAT, or LSAT, is another way for graduate schools to assess an applicant’s chances of success. Not every school requires test scores, and those that do may waive this requirement for individuals who meet a certain GPA or work experience requirement.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Many online master’s degrees in criminal justice look for prospective students with documented work experience in law enforcement, military service, public safety, or a closely related field, though this isn’t always stated explicitly. Some programs only accept applicants with lower GPAs who have relevant work experience.
ADDITIONAL MATERIALS
A majority of universities require the submission of additional materials in order to better assess each applicant’s academic, professional, and personal potential. Professional resumes, essays, personal statements, and letters of recommendation are among the most commonly requested documents, though requirements vary by school.
FAQs about Masters in Criminal Justice Programs
What can I do with a masters degree in criminal justice?
An online criminal justice master’s degree offers job seekers a great deal of flexibility. An individual can use this credential to advance within their current workplace or to pursue a new career path.
How long is a masters degree in criminal justice?
Most master’s programs are designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. Depending on your schedule, your online master’s in criminal justice may take longer or shorter. Completion in as little as 12 months is possible with accelerated options. If you prefer to attend classes part-time, you can expect to graduate in 2.5 to 3 years.
How much can you make with a masters in criminal justice?
Graduates of a master’s degree in criminal justice can earn a range of salaries depending on their chosen field, employer, geographic location, and years of experience. For popular career options, the BLS provides the following median salaries: $61,900 for a criminal justice teacher; $87,130 for federal law enforcement; and $82,050 for a criminologist.
Can you teach with a masters in criminal justice?
A master’s degree in criminal justice allows professionals to work as lecturers and instructors at community colleges and technical schools. Part-time and adjunct positions are frequently available. Because a Ph.D. is typically required to teach at the university level, upward mobility in this field may be limited.
What careers are in criminal justice?
Hundreds of jobs exist in the criminal justice system at the local, state, and federal levels. Security and loss prevention, law enforcement, corrections, criminal investigation, scientific research, homeland security, and higher education are all areas where jobs are available. Graduates of master’s programs can work in many of these fields at a higher level.