Brief Overview of Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs
Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs are designed to equip you with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of criminal justice. Whether you're looking to advance your career in law enforcement, corrections, or legal studies, these programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of the criminal justice system. Here's what you need to know about these programs:
Affordability: Online programs often provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional on-campus degrees. Without the need for commuting or relocating, you can save on transportation and living expenses. Many institutions also offer competitive tuition rates and financial aid options for online students.
Program Outcomes: A master's degree in criminal justice can open doors to higher-level positions and potentially increase your earning potential. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in federal agencies, private security, and the judicial system, among others.
Accessibility: One of the key advantages of online education is the ability to access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility allows you to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments.
Student Support Services: Top online programs provide robust support services to ensure student success. This includes access to academic advisors, career services, online tutoring, and technical support.
Accreditation: Accreditation is a critical factor when considering any degree program. Look for programs accredited by recognized bodies such as the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) to ensure that the education you receive meets industry standards.
Flexibility: Many online criminal justice programs offer asynchronous courses, which means you can log in to complete coursework at times that best fit your schedule. Some programs also offer accelerated tracks for faster completion.
Program Reputation: The reputation of a program can significantly impact your future career opportunities. Our proprietary algorithm takes into account alumni success, faculty expertise, and institutional recognition to rank the best online criminal justice master's degree programs.
When selecting an online master's program in criminal justice, consider how well it aligns with your career goals and lifestyle. Each program has unique features and specializations, so it's essential to research thoroughly to find the one that's right for you.
Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
#1 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Cincinnati
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $746
Out of State: $761
Contact: admissions@uc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$59,759
Why We Picked It:
UC's inter-disciplinary and comprehensive approach with a 93% retention rate, student scholarships, and the program recognized by U.S. News make it stand out for leadership preparation in criminal justice.
#2 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Sam Houston State University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$320
Contact: graduate@shsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$76,474
Why We Picked It:
SHSU's criminal justice program is known for its career advancement opportunities and combination of convenience and prestige, supported by varied enrollment periods and detailed admission information.
#3 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Boston University
Program Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$752
Contact: admissions@bu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$61,344
Why We Picked It:
BU's MSCJ program is highlighted by its quick completion time, specialized concentrations, and strong career outlook, coupled with financial assistance and leading faculty expertise.
#4 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Michigan State University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$808
Contact: admis@msu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
MSU's interdisciplinary curriculum and specialization in security management, alongside its ranking and affordable tuition, provide a solid foundation for executive-level positions in criminal justice.
#5 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Florida International University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$500
Contact: iadmiss@fiu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$59,511
Why We Picked It:
FIU's MSCJ emphasizes doctoral and academic career preparation with a comprehensive online format and detailed admission requirements, positioning graduates for advanced roles in criminal justice and applied research.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Criminal Justice in 2024
| Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Security Manager | $128,620 | $61.84 |
| ATF Agent | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Crime Prevention Specialist | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Criminal Analyst | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Customs Officer | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| DEA Agent | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Detective - Police Department | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| FBI Agent | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Homeland Security Officer | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Homicide Detective | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent | $86,280 | $41.48 |
| Police Detective - Non Homicide | $86,280 | $41.48 |
Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
#6 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Washington State University
Program Accredited By: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$636
Contact: gradschool@wsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
WSU's program offers a flexible approach to criminal justice education with thesis and non-thesis tracks, providing a solid foundation for both doctoral studies and applied criminal justice careers.
#7 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Lewis University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$600
Contact: webmaster@lewisu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$82,622
Why We Picked It:
Lewis University's strong affiliations (FBINAA, NFOPU) and focus on ethical issues in criminal justice make it a valuable program for those seeking leadership roles, supported by Veterans' benefits and comprehensive curriculum.
#8 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Norwich University
Program Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$698
Contact: learn@norwich.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Norwich's emphasis on global criminal behavior and strategies, affordable tuition for military and veterans, and dedicated program structure cater to professionals aiming for leadership in criminal justice sectors.
#9 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Columbia College
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$490
Contact: admissions@ccis.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Columbia College's focus on ethical administration and its flexible online program designed for advancement in the criminal justice field offer a solid pathway for professionals aiming for leadership roles.
#10 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Xavier University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$687
Contact: xugrad@xavier.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Xavier offers a comprehensive online MSCJ with numerous start dates and accessible admissions, preparing students for a significant impact in criminal justice with a focus on administration and ethics.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Criminal Justice
Administer systems and programs to reduce loss, maintain inventory control, or increase safety.
Advise licensees or other individuals or groups concerning licensing, permit, or passport regulations.
Apply mathematical or statistical techniques to address practical issues in finance, such as derivative valuation, securities trading, risk management, or financial market regulation.
Assess clients' cognitive abilities and physical and emotional needs to determine appropriate interventions.
Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
Check passengers' tickets to ensure that they are valid, and to determine whether passengers have designations that require special handling, such as providing photo identification.
#11 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Southeast Missouri State University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$364
Contact: southeastonline@semo.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
SEMO's partnership with Missouri Southern State University for a 100% online program, offering three capstone options and emphasizing career preparation, makes it a strong candidate for students without prior criminal justice experience.
#12 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of New Haven
Program Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,055
Contact: graduate@newhaven.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$63,841
Why We Picked It:
UNH's significant focus on career advancement, offering discounts for first responders, and no GRE/GMAT requirement, prepares students for various criminal justice roles with a comprehensive online curriculum.
#14 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Central Missouri
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$413
Contact: admit@ucmo.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$46,766
Why We Picked It:
UCM's flexibility in completing the MSCJ program, emphasis on leadership and administrative skills, and comprehensive curriculum designed for both pre-professional and experienced practitioners make it a strong choice for career advancement.
#15 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Monmouth University
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,399
Contact: admission@monmouth.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Monmouth's unique tracks like Community-Law Enforcement Relations and Homeland Security, in addition to offering internships and community outreach programs, cater to both first responders and professionals aiming for significant contributions to safety and security.
#16 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Liberty University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$565
Contact: admissions@liberty.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$56,884
Why We Picked It:
Liberty's MSCJ program, with its ethical leadership integration and flexible online learning, caters to individuals at various career stages within criminal justice, supported by knowledgeable professors and military benefits.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Criminal Justice
Analytical or scientific software
- ACT WorkKeys
- Counseling software
Business intelligence and data analysis software
- TIBCO Spotfire
- Tableau
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Talking to others
#17 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
DeSales University
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$560
Contact: admiss@desales.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$64,874
Why We Picked It:
DeSales University's focus on high ethical standards, a 20% tuition discount for criminal justice professionals, and specialized tracks in digital and investigative forensics make it an attractive option for those in criminal and correctional fields.
#18 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $470
Out of State: $855
Contact: graduateadmissions@jjay.cuny.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$69,441
Why We Picked It:
John Jay's affordable and globally recognized program, with specialization options and a strong emphasis on criminological mastery and policy analysis, offers a valuable education for those looking to advance in the criminal justice field.
#19 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Webster University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$730
Contact: admit@webster.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Webster creates a multidisciplinary approach to criminal justice with options for dual and sequential degrees, ethical decision-making, and comprehensive admissions and advancement criteria, designed to prepare students for analytical roles globally.
#20 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Central Florida
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$327
Contact: admission@ucf.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$46,518
Why We Picked It:
UCF's broad focus on leadership and criminal justice theory, along with the option for a dual degree in Public Administration, positions it well for those aiming to shape the future of the judicial system, supported by no GRE requirement and ranked #11 by U.S. News.
#21 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of North Georgia
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$303
Contact: grads@ung.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
UNG's affordable MSCJ program with a focus on international crime and justice, and open enrollment for any semester, makes it an accessible option for both current practitioners and newcomers to the criminal justice field.
#22 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Houston-Downtown
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $413
Out of State: $771
Contact: uhdadmit@uhd.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$87,862
Why We Picked It:
UHD's practical experience through the Scene Investi-Gators and flexible learning formats, combined with a strong emphasis on career preparation and hands-on training in CSI, make it a compelling choice for career-focused students.
#23 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Eastern Kentucky University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$617
Contact: onlinedegrees@eku.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$37,435
Why We Picked It:
EKU's extensive online offerings and focus on leadership in the criminal justice field, supported by career advising and free textbooks, offer a comprehensive online learning experience for professionals aiming to advance in criminal justice.
#24 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$715
Contact: admit@uwplatt.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
UW-Platteville's online MSCJ program, highlighting an average salary boost and specialized areas of study alongside financial aid opportunities, aims to prepare students for various roles in criminal justice management and federal positions.
#25 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of the Cumberlands
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$355
Contact: gradadm@ucumberlands.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
The University of the Cumberlands emphasizes leadership in rural and local agencies with a focus on flexibility and experienced faculty, making it an ideal program for both pre-professional students and those already in the field.
#26 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Texas Southern University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$100
Contact: admissions@tsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$67,686
Why We Picked It:
TSU's eMAJ program, designed for mid-career professionals and offering interactive online learning tools, emphasizes current or previous employment in relevant fields for admission, making it tailored for those looking to enhance their careers in justice administration.
#27 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Georgia Southern University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$358
Contact: gradadmissions@georgiasouthern.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Georgia Southern's specialization options in areas like Cybercrime and Criminology, combined with flexible learning formats, cater to a broad range of criminal justice careers, emphasizing analytical, research, and critical thinking skills.
#28 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Bellevue University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$649
Contact: hsadmissions@bellevue.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$65,210
Why We Picked It:
Bellevue University's MSCJ program, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach and flexible online learning, prepares students for effective management and leadership roles across the criminal justice system.
#29 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Salve Regina University
Program Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$700
Contact: admissions@salve.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$86,183
Why We Picked It:
Salve Regina's focus on cyberthreat management and comprehensive online M.S. in Criminal Justice and Cybersecurity, with concentrations aligning with career objectives, prepares students for success in the technical and global environment of criminal justice.
#30 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Florida State University
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$553
Contact: graduateadmissions@fsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$53,198
Why We Picked It:
FSU's updates on collaborative efforts and cutting-edge criminal justice research, combined with detailed admission requirements and online learning option, cater to a wide audience aspiring to advance in criminology and criminal justice fields.
#31 in Best Online Criminal Justice Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Franklin University
Program Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$670
Contact: admissions@franklin.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Franklin's MSCJ program emphasizes accessibility and real-world application, aiming at career advancement for professionals. Its fast-track option and wide availability across states stand out for those seeking an improved understanding of criminal justice challenges.