Our Top Colleges for Online Criminal Justice Degrees in 2024

We built this website with one mission: to connect students with the right criminal justice degree programs from the best colleges for their needs. We strive to help people from all walks of life -- from single parents, to new high-school graduates, to those looking to change careers -- save time and get on the path to earning more.

That is why we have done some of the legwork for you and assembled this list of the Top 5 Colleges for Criminal Justice Degree Programs. Many offer classes that are 100% online, with flexible schedules, making it easier to fit achieving your goals into your busy life. We also focus on those with relatively more affordable tuition, highlighting those universities offering financial assistance to those who qualify. Whether you need a certificate, or an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree, we hope that this guide starts you on your path to success.

Qualifications and career paths will vary greatly by specific occupation. That said, those who have earned a criminal justice degree will often work within one of the three branches of the legal system: 1. law enforcement, 2. the court system, or 3. the corrections system. The three branches all work together to make communities safer by decreasing crime, ensuring equal justice, and to punish and rehabilitate those who break the law.

As you compare degree programs, it is important to know which occupations within these three branches interest you the most, that way you can align your studies with your career goals. Similarly, it is also important to secure an entry-level position that aligns with these career goals after graduating, especially if you are new to the field. As you progress and gain more experience, the learning does not stop. On-the-job training, continuing education, or both often best position you for career advancement. Those who excel in a certain specialty, possess an advanced license, certification, or graduate degree, or those who have experience managing others can increase their earnings well above median earning levels.

Below are the three branches of the legal system, along with some leading occupations for criminal justice graduates. Where noted, the educational requirements, the career outlook, and the median earnings are included for the role.

Law Enforcement:

The first branch of the legal system is law enforcement. Those who are driven to fight crime and keep people safe tend to pursue a career in this branch. Though there are a broad range of occupations and requirements, many with a career in law enforcement hold a criminal justice degree, among other qualifications.

In general, those in law enforcement are employed by either a local, state, or federal government agency. Duties will vary by agency, primarily driven by different jurisdictions calling for different needs when it comes to enforcing the law. That said, from the patrol officers and the dispatchers who support them, to the detectives and the crime scene investigators who track down suspects, to the federal agents working in the field to stop organizational crimes and national threats -- a career in law enforcement can be both exciting and rewarding.

Here are some of the leading occupations:

1. Becoming a Federal Special Agent: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Federal special agents work to protect Americans from either domestic or foreign threats. The responsibilities of a special agent greatly depend on their employer. Some of the notable federal agencies that employ special agents include the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. State Department, the Secret Service, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). So, for instance, a special agent working for the FBI could focus on tracking down fugitives on the “most wanted” list, while an agent at Homeland Security could be working on a terrorism case.
   
   Commonly, special agents can spend their days conducting surveillance, analyzing data, executing warrants, working undercover, interviewing suspects, or gathering evidence. For those in the field, hours can be erratic, while those working more on the analysis side of things in an office setting typically have more predictable hours.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Since agencies can be selective, most will require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Additionally, special agents tend to possess previous hours in local or state law enforcement, or military experience, though a graduate degree can usually be substituted for hours. Various agencies will have other training requirements.
   
   Career outlook: Federal special agent occupations are estimated to grow by 3% from 2021 to 2031, which is about average⁽³⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $93,970⁽³⁾

2. Becoming a Law Enforcement Detective: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Detectives play an important role in the legal system. They are the frontline investigators who track down those who are suspected of committing (often serious) crimes. When building cases against suspects, detectives are relied upon by the district attorneys who work in the court system to provide accurate and compelling evidence. Without evidence secured by detectives, it would not be possible to prosecute and convict a suspect.
   
   A typical day for a detective can vary. Time can be spent writing reports, conducting interviews of suspects and witnesses, determining motives for crimes, and documenting evidence. Fieldwork is common and can usually revolve around the investigation of crime scenes.
   
   Education and additional requirements: The minimum requirements to be a detective typically include graduating from police academy training, completing a certain number of hours as an officer, and having at least a high school diploma. However, more and more departments are now requiring a college degree, typically an associate or bachelor’s, or even a master’s, in criminal justice or a related field. Depending on the state and agency, having an undergraduate or graduate level of education can reduce the number of required police officer hours.
   
   Career outlook: Law enforcement detective occupations are expected to grow 3% between 2021 and 2031, which is about average⁽³⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $83,640⁽³⁾

3. Becoming a Law Enforcement Officer: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Law enforcement officers have jurisdictions that will vary depending on their employer. Police officers will have authority in the city of their employer, while sheriff’s officers in their county, and state troopers in their state. Within these levels are various roles and ranks -- from deputy to captain or even above.
   
   No matter the type of officer, all have the common goal of keeping their jurisdiction safe, which involves fighting crime and keeping citizens safe. From issuing tickets and citations during traffic stops, to apprehending criminals, to gathering evidence, being an officer can be a demanding job. For these reasons, being physically fit and having the mental ability to show restraint and diffuse tense situations are critical. Being an officer can also prove to be very rewarding, as those who strive to not only protect but to serve their communities can enjoy a great deal of fulfillment, knowing they made a positive difference. Many officers also enjoy great medical and retirement benefits.
   
   Education and additional requirements: The minimum requirements for officers are a high school diploma and often successful completion of academy training. Those who have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, particularly criminal justice, tend to advance higher in the ranks and earn much more than the median.
   
   Career outlook: Police and sheriff’s patrol officer occupations are projected to grow by 3% between 2021 and 2031, which is about average⁽³⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $64,610⁽³⁾

4. Becoming a Crime Scene Investigator: Criminal Justice Degrees

   A crime scene investigator (CSI) uses science and special methods to secure and examine evidence. It would not be possible to prosecute many crimes, especially serious ones, without the work of CSIs.
   
   To be successful, a CSI will need to be meticulous, precise, and analytical. A typical day could involve the collection of fingerprints, footprints, DNA (from bodily fluids or hair), and any other physical evidence that can be preserved so that the crime can be documented. Hours can be erratic for CSIs, who need to travel to a crime scene at a moments notice.
   
   When not on the crime scene, CSIs can be found in the lab, consulting with crime lab analysts and forensic science technicians, which are other closely related occupations. And when not in the lab, CSIs are often called to testify in court, especially for higher-profile cases.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Crime scene investigators will often have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, along with some relevant science coursework and certifications. Note that forensic science technicians, a closely related occupation, will have degrees in forensic science but can also hold a second degree in criminal justice.
   
   Career outlook: Forensic science occupations are forecasted to grow by 11% between 2021 and 2031, which is much faster than average⁽⁷⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $61,930⁽⁷⁾
   
   

5. Becoming a Private Investigator: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Though typically employed by private individuals and companies, private investigators often make crucial contributions to the public legal system and law enforcement. Victims of crimes tend to hire private investigators to help research, gather evidence, locate witnesses, or conduct surveillance on those suspected of causing them harm. Families lean on private investigators to search for missing persons.
   
   Private investigators are often utilized to aid in recovering stolen assets on behalf of individuals or companies. Their expertise in finding a paper trail and running background checks helps to prevent and prove fraud, especially on behalf of various organizations.
   
   A typical day for a private investigator can greatly vary and is dependent on the case being investigated. From setting up surveillance that proves a suspect is engaging in insurance fraud, to tracking down credit card fraud on their computer by searching various databases, or to interviewing witnesses that may have eluded law enforcement, private investigators make use of a wide range of skills to get results.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Private investigator jobs typically require at least a high school education, with most preferring an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Having previous law enforcement experience is also highly preferred. Many states require a license to be a private investigator.
   
   Career outlook: Private investigator jobs are forecasted to grow by 6% between 2021 and 2031, which is about average⁽⁶⁾.
   
   Average annual salary: $59,380⁽⁶⁾

6. Becoming a Dispatcher: Criminal Justice Associate Degrees

   Dispatchers are often the first to be contacted in the event of an emergency. Also known as 911 operators, dispatchers need to quickly and effectively assess the type of emergency, provide immediate instructions to the caller (at times, life-saving ones), decide which police, fire, and ambulance resources need to dispatched -- all while coordinating the overall emergency response.
   
   Dispatchers can work regular hours, either day or night shifts, with overtime occasionally being necessary. Successful dispatchers tend to be good at balancing multiple tasks at the same time. They remain calm under pressure and are excellent at communicating important information in a clear yet urgent manner. Dispatchers must also have great listening skills and easily decipher the needs of people, including during emergency situations.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Dispatchers are typically required to have a high school diploma, though more and more hiring managers prefer candidates with an associate degree in a relevant field, such as criminal justice.
   
   Career outlook: Dispatcher positions are projected to grow by 4% between 2021 to 2031, which is about average⁽⁹⁾.
   
   Average annual salary: $46,670⁽⁹⁾

The Court System:

The court system is the backbone of civil society, one that ensures equal application of the law and measured justice instead of revenge. It is in the courts where guilt of a crime is proven beyond a reasonable doubt or where those wrongfully accused are vindicated. Without the courts, there would be no justice for the victims of crimes.

Those passionate about law, justice, and equality gravitate towards a career in the courts. Occupations in the court system are broad, with responsibilities varying by the type of court.

First, there are two types of courts: criminal and civil. Criminal courts can result in sentencing someone to prison, while civil ones handle all non-criminal cases, such as lawsuits between people and companies. Like law enforcement, there are local, state, and federal courts. The local and state courts are for cases pertaining to citizens who reside in a given city or state, while federal courts are for cases involving citizens across states or those dealing with certain federal laws.

That said, courts commonly have administrators, lawyers, judges, and those protecting the courts. These types of roles can be found in criminal courts, and those with a criminal justice background can be found working as clerks, attorneys, paralegals, bailiffs, and many other roles.

Below are some of the leading occupations in the criminal court system:

1. Becoming a Lawyer: Criminal Justice and Law Degrees

   Lawyers can be found working for corporations, government agencies, or in civil or criminal courts. In the criminal courts, lawyers can include prosecutors, or those who are employed by the government to prove a suspect’s guilt of a crime. On the other side of the coin are defense attorneys, or those who work to prove the innocence or to minimize the punishment of the accused. Defense attorneys can be employed by a company, or they can be public defenders. Public defenders are employed by the government and are provided free of charge to those who cannot afford legal counsel.
   
   Successful lawyers will have a deep knowledge of the law, a strong grasp of precedents established by past cases, the ability to think critically, while also having the capacity to communicate facts in a persuasive way, both verbally and in writing. Many lawyers in the criminal system will work fulltime, spending their days presenting in court, meeting with their clients, or analyzing documents in their office.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Lawyers will need to have a master’s in law or a juris doctorate degree and must pass the licensing examinations as mandated by their state’s bar association in order to actively practice. That said, many lawyers started their education by first earning an associate or bachelor’s in criminal justice.
   
   Career outlook: Lawyer jobs are forecasted to grow by 10% from 2021 to 2031, which is higher than average⁽²⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $127,990⁽²⁾

2. Becoming a Paralegal: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Paralegals provide crucial support and assistance to attorneys and law offices. Without paralegals, it would be nearly impossible for lawyers to get results for their clients, especially on complex cases.
   
   Paralegals have a wide range of responsibilities. Though they do not hold the same authority as lawyers who have passed the bar exam and are licensed to practice, paralegals will know a lot about legal processes and various laws. Using this knowledge, paralegals help attorneys build or defend cases.
   
   Successful paralegals tend to be very detail orientated. A typical day can involve interviewing clients or witnesses, investigating facts, and researching case precedent. Since a lot of legal procedures rely on paperwork, paralegals can also spend a good amount of time drafting and filing legal documents (including electronically). Having such documents organized in an accurate and accessible manner helps ensure that cases remain manageable and streamlined for the entire legal team. Having a great team of paralegals can truly make the difference.
   
   Paralegals who work in criminal law will often do so for a private law firm, one that specializes in defending clients. Such law firms, and depending on their size and success, can provide greater opportunities for paralegals, including supervisory roles.
   
   Criminal law paralegals can also be employed by the government. These paralegals mainly work for the offices of prosecutors or assisting public defenders. Criminal law paralegals can often be found arranging bail, working on plea bargains, filing appeals, interviewing police or probation officers, or gathering statements from witnesses.
   
   Most paralegals end up working regular business hours, with some overtime on occasion. Along with the predictable schedule, many paralegals find their line of work to be rewarding. By keeping law firms operational and by helping clients, paralegals are often some of the most valued members of the legal team.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Employers often require criminal law paralegals to have an associate degree in paralegal studies, or an associate degree in criminal justice, plus, in certain states, a paralegal certification. More employers are now preferring candidates with a bachelor’s degree.
   
   Career outlook: Paralegal jobs are forecasted to grow by 14% between 2021 and 2031, which is much faster than average⁽⁵⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $56,230⁽⁵⁾

3. Becoming a Bailiff: Criminal Justice Associate Degrees

   Bailiffs typically enjoy fulfilling careers. Their primary role is to ensure the safety and the security of the courtroom. As peace officers of the court, bailiffs not only protect the judge, the jury, the witnesses, the defendants, and other people and members of the court, they also safeguard critical documents and evidence from being tampered with during trials and hearings. Bailiffs also screen those entering the courtroom and in criminal cases escort defendants between the courthouse and the detention facility.
   
   In addition to security, bailiffs are also responsible for communicating important information to the court. They call court into order, have the honor of announcing the judge, read out various court rules, call witnesses, and can relay messages from jurors to others. In the event jurors are sequestered, or kept from being exposed to outside information, bailiffs are the ones who make sure they are not improperly influenced.
   
   Depending on the court and its jurisdiction, bailiffs can also serve an important role outside the courtroom. Some of their duties could include fulfilling forfeiture court orders, such as seizing property and other assets or garnishments. Similarly, bailiffs can be sent to serve eviction orders and make sure that a property is vacated.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Most local courts require bailiffs to have at least a high school diploma. Certain courts also require bailiffs to be policy academy graduates, as well as possessing some law enforcement experience. That said, courts will often prefer those with an associate or bachelor’s degree, especially in a related field like criminal justice, especially state and federal courts.
   
   Career outlook: Bailiff jobs are projected to decrease by 4% between 2021 and 2031⁽⁸⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $47,920⁽⁸⁾

4. Becoming a Court Clerk: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Court clerks are responsible for the administrative, record-keeping, and financial functions of the courts. They are the ones who help keep the courts running. Through recordkeeping, bookkeeping, and budgeting, the duties of a court clerk are vital.
   
   Courts depend on clerks for a wide range of administrative functions. Included are the issuing of various certificates, licenses, and permits -- such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, beverage licenses, catering permits, etc. Court clerks also contribute to various case matters. They can conduct research for judges, draft regulations for municipal laws, administer oaths, and oversee the choosing of jurors.
   
   In addition to administrative and legal matters, court clerks can also manage the finances of the court. They can keep track of expenses, collect fees, produce and analyze financial reports, and perform all other necessary accounting duties.
   
   As a career path, some clerks will start in a municipal court, and after gaining some experience, they will set their sights on a state or federal court. Compensation is generally much higher than the median amount in state and especially in federal court.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Some courts, usually smaller ones, require only a high school diploma, while many others require an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Certain state and federal courts will often require a master’s or law degree. Note that some jurisdictions require court clerks to be elected, while others require them to be appointed by judges.
   
   Career outlook: Court clerk jobs are projected to grow by 2% from 2021 to 2031, which is slightly below average⁽¹⁰⁾.
   
   Average annual salary: $44,610⁽¹⁰⁾
   
   

Corrections System

The last branch of the legal system is corrections. The corrections system delivers justice by punishing those convicted of crimes, often serious ones, through various losses of freedoms, including being incarcerated and separated from the rest of society. In other words, the corrections system provides retribution to victims of crimes and restores balance to communities.

The corrections system is not defined by punishment alone, as rehabilitation is also a central goal. Various programs aimed at rehabilitation and preventing convicted felons from returning to a life of crime are part of the corrections system. These include drug counseling, mental health, and education services.

Many people choose corrections as a career because they want to make a positive difference. Those that are incarcerated are often at the lowest points of their lives. Correctional professionals can feel a great deal of satisfaction helping such people improve their behavior, and subsequently seeing them turn their lives around and transition from inmates to productive members of society.

There are a range of occupations within corrections, and not all jobs are based in jail and prison facilities. Parole and probation roles in particular are conducted from government offices. Additionally, many corrections professionally can enjoy stable schedules along with great medical and retirement benefits.

Here are some of the leading occupations in the corrections system:

1. Becoming a Community Corrections Officer (Probation or Parole): Criminal Justice Degrees

   Community corrections officers play a vital role in fostering the rehabilitation of law offenders.
   
   At times, in exchange of prison time, judges can place those who committed a crime on probation. During probation, offenders are allowed to remain part of their communities, including living at home and going to work, provided they follow the rules set by the court. Community corrections officers, who can be referred to as probation officers, make sure that offenders are following their court orders.
   
   Similarly, community corrections officers can also be referred to as parole officers. Parole differs from probation in that offenders are released early from their current prison sentence, but also provided they agree to follow certain rules set forth by the court. Parole officers also ensure that these offenders, or parolees, follow their court orders.
   
   Community corrections officers, whether working for probation or parole, can truly impact people’s lives for the better. Their work helps keep people out of prison, transitioning them to becoming productive members of their community. Through supervision, guidance, and regular check-ins, community corrections officers make sure that past offenders stay on track.
   
   Community corrections officers will primarily work out of an office but will also need to travel to see offenders at their homes or places of work. They will also travel and spend time speaking with the people in an offender’s community, such as their friends, family, significant others, coworkers, as well as any therapists or other specialists involved in their rehabilitation. Community corrections offers can also administer drug tests as needed.
   
   In addition to finding their work rewarding, community corrections officers can enjoy mostly regular hours, although some off-hour work is to be expected. Many can receive great medical and retirement benefits.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Community corrections officers will typically need to have a bachelor’s in criminal justice or a related field.
   
   Career outlook: Community correction officer job rates are not expected to change between 2021 to 2031⁽⁴⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $60,250⁽⁴⁾

2. Becoming a Correctional Counselor: Criminal Justice Degrees

   Correctional counselors help determine if an offender should be released early on parole. They employ various processes, including the administering of questionnaires and psychological tests, to evaluate potential parolees. Correctional counselors can then analyze the results, interview corrections officers and other relevant people, and review any pertinent information to determine how likely an offender will commit any crimes again upon release. Finally, their reports are given to the parole boards, or those who make the final recommendation to grant parole to inmates.
   
   Once an offender is granted parole, correctional counselors utilize their other primary specialty. During this time, correctional counselors create a personalized treatment plan for those about to be released from prison. The plan can include determining and setting up counseling, mental health therapy, addiction treatment, job placement, and housing needs.
   
   Correctional counselors will meet regularly with parole officers, checking-in and documenting their parolees’ progress. If parolees are having difficulty transitioning back into their communities, or if they are failing to meet court orders, correctional counselors will intervene and work with parole officers to determine the best course of action.
   
   Successful correctional counselors are often driven to help people improve their lives. With such an important role in the corrections system, many find their work to be truly fulfilling.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Correctional counselors typically need to have a bachelor’s in criminal justice or a related field, though many hiring managers now require a master’s degree.
   
   Career outlook: Correctional counselor positions are expected to grow by 3% between 2021 and 2031, which is slightly below average⁽⁴⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $48,400⁽⁴⁾

3. Becoming a Correctional Officer: Criminal Justice Associate Degrees

   Correctional officers are key to the corrections system. Working directly with incarcerated inmates, they are truly on the frontlines. The main responsibilities of correctional officers involve enforcing the rules and procedures that are designed to keep the prison, staff, and inmates safe, secure, and in order.
   
   A typical day for a correctional officer often revolves around inmate activities. These can include supervising their interactions, searching their cells for contraband, and reporting on their conduct. Corrections officers can also oversee transporting inmates to and from other facilities, including courthouses, attorney’s offices, and other prisons.
   
   Corrections officers are not limited to just enforcement duties. Many will also actively assist in rehabilitation of inmates. They often work with judges, along with parole and probation staff, and communicate how they think inmates can best be approached, motivated, and set up to succeed outside of prison.
   
   Education and additional requirements: Correctional officers must have at least a high school diploma. However, hiring managers typically prefer those with an associate degree, especially in criminal justice or a related field. Compensation is usually higher at federal prisons, but so are the requirements. Most federal prisons require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, along with a few years of prior relevant experience.
   
   Career outlook: Jobs for correctional officers are projected to decrease by 10% from 2021 to 2031⁽⁸⁾.
   
   Median annual salary: $45,180⁽⁸⁾

Now that you have an idea of what people with criminal justice degrees do after they graduate, hopefully you are better equipped to explore your education and career options. Begin exploring criminal justice degree programs now.