If you’re looking to launch a career in law enforcement or corrections, an online associate in criminal justice is an excellent way to get started. This degree provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to protect the public and help rehabilitate offenders, allowing you to make a meaningful impact in your community. Many graduates pursue roles like probation officer (median salary of $61,800) or police officer ($74,910). In this guide, we have highlighted our top-rated options that will prepare you for entry-level employment and future career growth in this field.
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Criminal Justice degree 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 post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 32 Online Associate in Criminal Justice Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Trine University
Intelligent Score: 99.91In-state: $32,990
Out-of-state: $32,990
In-state: $41,457
Out-of-state: $41,457
SAT: 1010-1210
ACT: 20-27
$399
Online
Higher Learning Commission
60
Regent University
Intelligent Score: 97.21In-state: $17,220
Out-of-state: $17,220
In-state: $15,552
Out-of-state: $15,552
SAT: 940-1220
ACT: 21-29
$450
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
63
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 96.73In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$275
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
Saint Leo University
Intelligent Score: 96.04In-state: $23,990
Out-of-state: $23,990
In-state: $14,568
Out-of-state: $14,568
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$410
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
Northeast Community College
Intelligent Score: 95.9In-state: $16,023
Out-of-state: $17,313
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: 12-29
Resident: $108
Non-Resident: $151
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
64
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 94.78In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$320
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
60
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Intelligent Score: 94.3In-state: $17,008
Out-of-state: $27,928
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$182
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
61-64
Albany Technical College
Intelligent Score: 94.12In-state: $17,113
Out-of-state: $19,513
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$100
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Intelligent Score: 93.64In-state: $26,800
Out-of-state: $26,800
In-state: $24,720
Out-of-state: $24,720
SAT: 960-1140
ACT: 18-23
$585
Online, On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
60
Bismark State College
Intelligent Score: 93.19In-state: $17,473
Out-of-state: $19,557
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: 16 and 22
Resident: $174
Non-Resident: $260
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
60
Western Wyoming Community College
Intelligent Score: 92.98In-state: $16,847
Out-of-state: $21,887
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $105
Non-Resident: $360
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
60
Northampton Community College
Intelligent Score: 91.79In-state: $12,389
Out-of-state: $15,749
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: NA
ACT: NA
In-County PA Resident: $125-$193 Out-of-County PA Resident: $250
Out-of-State: $375
Online, On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
64
South Texas College
Intelligent Score: 91.03In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-District: $160 Out-of-District: $170
Non-Resident: $250
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
Central Texas College
Intelligent Score: 90.18In-state: $15,231
Out-of-state: $19,011
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 1070
ACT: 19-23
In-District: $100 Out-of-District: $124
Non-Resident: $250
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
Park University
Intelligent Score: 88.27In-state: $8,251
Out-of-state: $8,251
In-state: $6,224
Out-of-state: $6,224
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$550
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
60
Rio Salado College
Intelligent Score: 87.93In-state: $16,881
Out-of-state: $22,665
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 720 or more
ACT: 12 or more
Lower Division Courses: County Resident: $97
Out-of-State: $253
Online
Higher Learning Commission
64
St. Petersburg College
Intelligent Score: 86.95In-state: $19,485
Out-of-state: $26,089
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident: $122
Non-Resident: $425
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
62
Tyler Junior College
Intelligent Score: 86.37In-state: $20,194
Out-of-state: $20,914
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-District: $134 Out-of-District: $194
Non-Resident: $218
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College
60
What You Should Know About an Online Associate in Criminal Justice Degree
Criminal justice is just one field of study; other areas students might want to consider include police science and forensic science. While a criminal justice degree is concerned with corrections, forensic and police science degrees are focused on the science behind studying crime scenes.
Only apply to schools approved by a DOE-recognized accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). If your school isn’t accredited, you may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Once you complete your education, the job outlook is relatively good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an average rate of growth in this profession. In addition to a college education, those looking for work in this field may need to pass physical and psychological examinations.
Finding the Right Online Program
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate degrees in criminal justice:
- How long does it take to earn this online degree? Most associate degree programs, including those in criminal justice, take about two years to complete, provided students attend classes full-time. Many schools allow students to fast-track their program and graduate more quickly. Part-time learning may also be available for students with busier schedules — this can take several additional years to complete, depending on the student’s pace.
- What licensing or certifications are required? While corrections workers don’t typically require professional licensing, most do need clean criminal records and up-to-date CPR and first aid certifications.
Throughout your search for an associate degree program, consider deadlines and requirements for admission and follow them closely. This information is typically available on the program page of the school’s website. You might also want to consider financial assistance if you can’t fund your program independently. Ask your employer if they offer funding assistance and research other options such as scholarships and grants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Associate in Criminal Justice Programs
What career opportunities are available with an online associate in criminal justice degree?
Many graduates pursue careers as probation or police officers, projected to remain in steady demand over the next decade. While this degree isn’t always required for these positions, it can make you a more competitive candidate by illustrating foundational knowledge in law enforcement, corrections, and the justice system. Additionally, having an associate degree could lead to higher starting wages. It’s an excellent first step if you’re seeking to enter the criminal justice field or advance your qualifications for long-term career growth.
Are online associate in criminal justice degree programs as credible as on-campus programs?
These online programs are often just as credible as their in-person counterparts, sharing the same curriculum and faculty. Many programs use interactive platforms, live-streamed classes, and virtual discussions to bridge the gap between online and in-person learning. However, accreditation is key to credibility — regionally accredited programs meet high academic standards and are widely respected by employers and other institutions. All of our top picks are regionally accredited, so you can be confident in the quality and recognition of your degree.
How long does it take to complete an online associate in criminal justice degree program?
Most associate degree programs take about two years to complete for full-time students. Part-time students may need three to four years, depending on their pace and course load. Some programs offer accelerated tracks for those eager to finish sooner, allowing students to earn their degree in 18 months or less. It’s important to note that online learning is known for being exceptionally accommodating to students balancing their education with a full-time job or other responsibilities, making it a convenient option for those needing a more flexible timeline to graduation.
Are there specialization options within online associate in criminal justice degree programs?
Some online associate programs in criminal justice offer specialization options, but they’re not typically common. Most associate programs focus on providing a broad foundation in criminal justice principles rather than specific areas of expertise. If you’re seeking a more specialized education, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice might be a better option, as these programs often offer a wider range of specialization opportunities — including forensic science, cybersecurity, and corrections.
What is the cost of an online associate in criminal justice degree?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual tuition for a two-year degree is $3,885. However, actual costs vary widely depending on the institution type and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. Online associate programs in criminal justice often offer flexibility and affordability, but it’s important to speak with a financial aid counselor to discuss options like grants, scholarships, and payment plans.
Compare School Options
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