Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025

Badge for CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN CRIMINOLOGY
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

If you’re looking for a career boost in the field of criminal justice, we rank the most affordable doctorate degree programs in criminology.

Key Takeaways

  • Criminology is a type of criminal justice degree with a focus on the sociological dimensions of criminal behavior.

  • Several factors surround the cost of earning an online doctorate in criminology, including state residency and technology fees.

  • While an online doctorate in criminology and criminal justice can be pricey, scholarships and financial aid can significantly reduce your schooling expenses.

Top 10 Affordable Online PhD in Criminology Degree Programs in 2025

  1. University of Pennsylvania
  2. University of Arizona
    +6
  3. Florida State University
    +3
  4. University of Louisville
    +1
  5. Washington State University
    +5
  6. Florida International University
    –2
  7. Liberty University
    +10
  8. Georgia Southern University
    +1
  9. Walden University
    –7
  10. Jacksonville State University
    +2

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten affordable online criminology doctorate programs saw a fair amount of movement. Liberty University gained the most ranking positions as the university expanded research opportunities in criminal justice reform, cybersecurity, and forensic science. The university has also enhanced its criminology curriculum with new interdisciplinary courses that integrate psychology, law, and data analysis to better equip students for complex criminological research. Liberty has strengthened its partnerships with law enforcement agencies and criminal justice organizations, providing PhD students with more opportunities for applied research, internships, and real-world case studies. These developments are aimed at preparing students for leadership roles in both academia and the criminal justice field.

Featured Programs

The 20 Most Affordable Online Criminology Doctorates

  1. #1

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    What is University of Pennsylvania known for?

    University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Pennsylvania is a private university in Philadelphia. UPenn is the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the US and one of the most prestigious in the world. The university has four undergraduate schools and twelve graduate and professional schools.

    UPenn offers a top-ranked Ph.D. in Criminology. This highly interdisciplinary program prepares students to create theoretically informed policies related to crime and justice issues. The tuition is $19,919 per year, however, most doctoral degree students will receive a comprehensive scholarship.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Pennsylvania

    All Ph.D. students at UPenn are guaranteed full scholarships for their first eight semesters of study and receive a stipend and student health insurance, which makes the PhD in online criminal justice cost next to nothing.

    UPenn is great for students who:

    Can balance social and academic life. This Ivy League school is called “The Social Ivy” as it has the liveliest campus while remaining academically elite.

    UPenn might not be a great fit for students who:

    Cannot keep up with rigorous coursework. UPenn is an Ivy League school, which means the academic expectations are quite high.

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  2. #2

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    What is University of Arizona known for?

    University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Arizona is a public land-grant research university located in Tucson, Arizona. It is a member of the Association of American Universities and the Universities Research Association, and offers an extremely wide selection of academic programs, many of which are among the country’s best. Students can choose from any of its more than 300 undergraduate and graduate programs through 23 schools and 20 colleges across four campuses.

    The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a PhD that emphasizes emphasizes criminal justice theory, research, and policy. This program produces highly skilled criminology and criminal justice faculty and agency researchers and administrators. The graduate program has a base tuition of $12,014.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: 3-5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Arizona

    The University of Arizona offers an enormous amount of courses and degree programs to students at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

    The University of Arizona is great for students who:

    Enjoy a large, highly social school with tons of activities and recreational opportunities.

    The University of Arizona might not be a good fit for students who:

    Struggle to balance their school work and social life. Because there are so many opportunities for fun at Arizona, it’s important for you to remain on top of your studies.

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  3. #3

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/28

    What is Florida State University known for?

    Florida State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida State University, a Tallahassee-based public research university, is a State University System of Florida senior member. The school offers baccalaureate degrees in 103 programs, master’s degrees in 107 programs, advanced master’s/specialist degrees in 6 programs, doctorates in 63 programs, and four professional degrees.

    FSU offers a Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice. PhD students are trained to conduct original research that generates new insights in the areas of law enforcement, rehabilitation, and public policy. This program offers professionals the flexibility to remain employed while advancing their education. The tuition is $554 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: no fixed number of credit hours
    • Completion Time: 5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Florida State University

    FSU is known for its helpful teachers and engaged teacher assistants. Students can easily access their professors, even in some of the biggest classes.

    Florida State University is great for students who are:

    Looking for a university with lots of fun traditions and a very friendly student population.

    Florida State University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot practice time management skills. Students must dedicate ample time to their studies, especially during the first year.

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  4. #4

    University of Louisville

    Louisville , KY
    #2 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Kentucky 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1170/23

    What is University of Louisville known for?

    University of Louisville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Louisville, a public research university in Louisville, Kentucky, forms part of the Kentucky state university system. It has 12 schools and colleges and more than 200 programs, allowing students to explore a multitude of educational paths and career options.

    The University of Louisville offers a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice. The program prepares graduates for careers in academics, as well as in public sector organizations. Students can choose between full- and part-time study options. Standard tuition for students in a fully online program is $775 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Louisville

    University of Louisville is home to numerous Fulbright Scholars. The Fulbright Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships you can earn.

    The University of Louisville is great for students who:

    Are big sports fans. The University of Louisville has a robust athletics tradition.

    The University of Louisville might not be a good fit for students who:

    Can’t balance academics and extracurricular activities. Students juggle multiple academic and non-academic obligations at the university. Extra effort is required to excel in both.

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  6. #5

    Washington State University

    Pullman , WA
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Washington 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Washington 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Washington 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Washington 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    33K

    What is Washington State University known for?

    Washington State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Washington State University is a highly-rated public university located in Pullman, Washington. It offers 95 majors, 86 minors, and more than 100 in-major specializations.

    The Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice & Criminology at Washington State University is designed to advance the development of criminal justice and criminology research and theory. This doctoral degree is designed to train graduate students on how best to understand and properly conduct theoretically based research involving crime and the criminal justice system. The resident tuition cost is $9,953 per semester.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Washington State University

    Students earning their Ph.D. from Washington State University enjoy a remarkable 100% job placement rate before graduation.

    Washington State University is great for students who:

    Are interested in a school that takes inclusivity seriously.

    Washington State University might not be a great fit for students who:

    Aren’t prepared to excel in a rigorous and competitive academic environment.

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  7. #6

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    72K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/23

    What is Florida International University known for?

    Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida International University, a public research school in Miami-Dade County, is the fifth-largest public university in the United States (by enrollment) and the third-largest school in Florida. The school has 106 master’s, 33 doctoral, and more than 50 certificate and specialist programs across 10 different colleges and schools.

    FIU offers a Ph.D. in International Crime and Justice and focuses on global areas of study within the criminology and criminal justice fields. It is the only university in Florida and one of only 40 universities in the world to hold the distinction of being a full member of the prestigious Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA). The tuition is $4,101 per semester.

    • Required Credits: 75
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Florida International University

    FIU programs are among the best in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report.

    Florida International University is great for students who:

    are looking for a diverse and dynamic campus community.

    Florida International University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Struggle with independent time management.

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  8. #7

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg , VA
    #6 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #9 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #11 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $23K

    Acceptance

    99%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    131K

    What is Liberty University known for?

    Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Liberty University is a private Baptist university located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through residential and online programs. Students can choose from the school’s more than 700 programs of study.

    The online Ph.D. in Criminal Justice program at Liberty University is designed to provide students with a wide variety of concentration-specific opportunities. The degree in criminal justice curriculum is from a uniquely Christian perspective. Students will pay a tuition fee of $595 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Liberty University

    Service members enrolled in Liberty University pay only $300 per credit hour for specific doctorate pathways.

    Liberty University is great for students who:

    Are interested in faith-based learning experiences.

    Liberty University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are seeking a secular, residential education experience.

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    9. Criminology professional in a library
  10. #8

    Georgia Southern University

    Statesboro , GA
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Georgia 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    31K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1065/20

    What is Georgia Southern University known for?

    Georgia Southern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Georgia Southern University has a flagship campus in Statesboro with additional campuses in Hinesville and Savannah, Georgia. The public research university offers more than 140 undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across its three campuses as well as its online school.

    Georgia Southern offers an online Ph.D. in Criminology with an emphasis on cybercrime. PhD candidates will concentrate on training and understanding laws related to electronic devices and the internet, crimes committed using computers, jurisdiction at state and federal levels, and issues relating to the Fourth Amendment. Graduate students enrolled in the Criminal Justice program will pay a tuition fee of $358 per credit hour.

    • Required Credit: 36
    • Completion Time: 1-2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Georgia Southern University

    Georgia Southern University has a warm and inviting campus culture.

    Georgia Southern University is great for students who:

    Prefer a large school with a small feel.

    Georgia Southern University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are challenged when it comes to keeping their priorities straight. With a very beautiful campus, GSU lives up to its reputation of being a party school.

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  11. #9

    Walden University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #4 Accelerated Online Business Administration PhD Programs (Doctorates) 2025 #5 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #5 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Student body

    74K

    What is Walden University known for?

    Walden University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Walden University is a private online for-profit university located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The university consists of seven colleges and one school. Walden University pioneered distance learning after two teachers wanted to make better opportunities for adult learners who wish to pursue advanced degrees.

    Walden’s online Ph.D. in Criminal Justice allows students to explore contemporary practices and theories as well as international and national issues in the administration of Criminal Justice. Students are given a chance to integrate scholarly research and practical career goals. The overall tuition for a PhD in criminology from Walden is $60,103.

    • Required Credits: 77
    • Completion Time: 2.5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Walden University

    Since it was established, the school has been known for supporting working professionals pursuing further education.

    Walden University is great for students who:

    Are hoping to earn a graduate degree through an experienced distance learning program.

    Walden University might not be a great fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable with self-directed learning. Programs are 90% delivered online. Thus, commitment is of paramount importance.

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  12. #10

    Jacksonville State University

    Jacksonville , AL
    #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Alabama 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Alabama 2024 #10 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1070/19

    What is Jacksonville State University known for?

    Jacksonville State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Jacksonville State University is a public university located in Jacksonville, Alabama. It offers programs of study at the bachelor’s, master’s, education specialist, and doctorate levels across six academic schools. Jacksonville also offers an array of continuing education opportunities and certificate programs.

    The Doctor of Science in Emergency Management focuses on administrative policies, practices, and research methods with statistics, and directly overlaps with the field of criminology. This is a particularly suitable pathway for those with an interest in both criminal justice and areas like counter-terrorism and homeland security. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in emergency management or a related field before enrollment. The tuition fee is $30,000.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: must be completed in ten years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Jacksonville State University

    Jacksonville State is noted for its friendly and welcoming campus atmosphere.

    Jacksonville State is great for students who:

    Are seeking personally engaged instructors and one-on-one attention from their professors.

    Jacksonville State might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are seeking a lively atmosphere. Both the small campus and small town make for a quiet educational experience.

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    13. Female student with a pen smiling at a laptop
  14. #11

    Saint Leo University

    Saint Leo , FL
    #18 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #5 Best Christian Colleges in Florida 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Florida 2025 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1085/23

    What is Saint Leo University known for?

    Saint Leo University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Saint Leo University is a private Catholic liberal arts university in St. Leo, Florida. The school offers 49 distinct undergraduate degrees, concentrated into 40 majors across 18 broad fields of study.

    Saint Leo University offers a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice with a Homeland Security specialization. This program provides an advanced study for those who are interested in advancing their criminal justice careers into areas such as agency leadership, policy consultation, or post-secondary education. Students will pay a tuition fee of $850 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Saint Leo University

    Online and on campus students receive identical education and degrees at Saint Leo. No distinctions are made between those earn their degree online or in person.

    Saint Leo University is great for students who:

    Are working adults and are returning to school after a long break. Saint Leo helps lapsed students pursue degree completion.

    Saint Leo University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Prefer a large university with a wider variety of academic offerings.

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  15. #12

    New Jersey City University

    Jersey City , NJ
    #10 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2025 #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    39%

    Student body

    8K

    What is New Jersey City University known for?

    New Jersey City University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    New Jersey City University is a public school in Jersey City. It is organized into four colleges offering 41 undergraduate studies and 27 graduate degree programs. The school is the only teacher-training college with a three-year degree in the country.

    New Jersey City University offers criminal justice and criminology students a focused Doctor of Science in Civil Security Leadership, Management, and Policy. The program helps students develop and improve best practices in civil security with a focus on topics like national security, cyber security and defense, emergency management, homeland security, criminal justice, and strategic planning. Students will pay a tuitiion fee of $60,813 for the full degree program.

    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about New Jersey City University

    The campus is beautifully structured, and the school has a very diverse student body.

    New Jersey City University is great for students who:

    Are focused on their education. New Jersey City University is a very studious environment.

    New Jersey City University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Don’t prefer to attend college in an urban environment. Jersey City is the second most populous city in the state of New Jersey.

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  16. #13

    American Public University System

    Charles Town , WV
    #2 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in West Virginia 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in West Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    94K

    What is American Public University System known for?

    American Public University System’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    American Public University System, a private, for-profit online university system in Charles Town, West Virginia, operates through the American Public University and the American Military University. American Public offers more than 200 degree and certificate programs.

    The online university’s Doctor of Global Security program allows students to explore the complicated environment of global security. This advanced degree is designed for those who are working in government agencies, NGOs, private security firms, and international security agencies. Tuition for this doctoral degree totals $50,054.

    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion Time: 3.5 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the American Public University System

    American Public University is committed to providing high-quality higher education with an emphasis on educating the country’s military and public services communities.

    American Public is great for students who:

    Are looking for great internship opportunities. American Public has direct partnerships with a number of hiring agencies and organizations.

    American Public might not be a good fit for students who:

    Students who aren’t prepared to be challenged by courses, curricula, and professors.

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    17. Happy female student studying
  18. #14

    University of the Cumberlands

    Williamsburg , KY
    #5 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2025 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Kentucky 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Kentucky 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in Kentucky 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    83%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1060/19

    What is University of the Cumberlands known for?

    University of the Cumberlands’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of the Cumberlands is a private Christian university in Williamsburg, Kentucky. The school is divided into four colleges and offers 45 major undergraduate programs and a variety of minor programs.

    UC’s online Doctorate in Criminal Justice is technically a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with a concentration in Criminal Justice. This program focuses on the theory and practices of organizational leadership. Students get to explore strategic leadership and learn how to guide, manage, and improve law enforcement organizations. The graduate tuition is $4,282 per semester.

    • Required Credits: 27
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about University of the Cumberlands

    This school has provided students with a world-class education for over 130 years. Academic excellence shines through in its outstanding programs, both online and on campus.

    University of the Cumberlands is great for students who:

    Are willing to work hard in an academically rigorous environment.

    University of the Cumberlands might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are looking for Greek life. There are no fraternities or sororities at Cumberlands.

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  19. #15

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    50K

    What is Colorado Technical University known for?

    Colorado Technical University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Colorado Technical University is a private for-profit university owned by Perdoceo Education Corporation. Colorado Technical University offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. Popular programs include its degrees in nursing, tech, business, and accounting.

    Colorado Tech also offers a doctorate in homeland security. This online program is designed for those who are seeking leadership roles in national security. Students will develop expertise in strategic analysis as it applies to homeland security. Students will pay $540 per credit hour.

    • Required Credits: 100
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Colorado Technical University

    CTU is an excellent school with great professors and resources if students need extra help.

    Colorado Technical University is great for students who:

    Are working full-time. Its extensive online degree offerings make Colorado Tech a good option for working adults who must balance professional and educational priorities.

    Colorado Technical University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Do not thrive as independent learners. Many programs include self-paced learning components, which means you must be proficient at managing your time.

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  20. #16

    Texas A&M International University

    Laredo , TX
    #9 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates) #9 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs 2025 #12 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice PhDs (Doctorates) 2025

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/18

    What is Texas A&M International University known for?

    Texas A&M International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Texas A&M International University is a public, land-grant, research university located in Laredo, Texas. The school has 133 undergraduate programs, 175 master’s degree programs, 92 doctoral degree programs, and 5 professional degrees.

    Texas A&M International University offers a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice. The course is designed to produce graduates that have the research experience, practical skills, and theoretical knowledge to assume high-level leadership roles in different areas of the criminal justice system. The per-semester tuition for Texas A&M’s graduate school is $4,489 for resident students.

    • Required Credits: 52
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Cohort-based hybrid

    What we love about Texas A&M International University

    Texas A&M International is noted for its welcoming community and the accessibility of professors and support personnel.

    Texas A&M International University is great for students who:

    Are looking for a great education at a low price.

    Texas A&M International University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot handle a demanding course load. The academic standard is very high and there is a zero-tolerance policy for cheating.

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  21. #17

    Saint John's University

    What is Saint John's University known for?

    Saint John's University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    St. John’s University is a private Roman Catholic university located in the Queens borough of New York City. The university consists of six colleges and schools offering over 100 bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs as well as an array of professional certificates.

    St. John’s University offers a doctorate in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security. Compliant with criminal law and affiliated with criminal justice organizations, the criminal justice online program prepares students for executive leadership positions within law enforcement, academia, public or private security firms, and government agencies. Students will pay a tuition fee of $1,400 per credit.

    • Required Credit: 78
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about St. John’s University

    St. John’s University is a great school to attend because of its supportive Vincentian community. Though St. John’s is a Catholic-affiliated school, students note that the campus is welcoming of students from all backgrounds.

    St. John’s University is great for students who are:

    Self-motivated and passionate. Because of its location in NYC, St. John’s is also an ideal school for those who are looking for great networking opportunities.

    St. John’s University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Have financial constraints. The cost of the school itself and the cost of living more generally in New York City make the residential experience at Saint John’s somewhat costly.

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Career Outlook for Students with Criminology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Criminology

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other5.75%$133,560
Psychologists, All Other4.95%$117,750
Sociologists9.09%$101,770
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary3.11%$69,030
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other5.88%$58,350

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other$133,560
Psychologists, All Other$117,750
Sociologists$101,770
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree program in criminology deals with crime from a sociological standpoint. In many graduate schools, criminology is a concentration within the criminal justice program.

As a PhD degree holder in criminology, you collect, analyze, and study crime data for research purposes. Criminology PhDs often work in areas like public policy consultation and law enforcement organizational leadership.

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What does an online Doctor of Criminology or PhD in Criminal Justice degree holder do?

A criminologist studies the sociological factors that may lead to criminal behavior. Students who earn a PhD in criminology will study factors impacting criminal behavior such as economic imbalance, geographic distribution, and racial inequality.

Criminology PhDs will conduct research and share findings in critical areas of law enforcement such as juvenile justice reform, crime prevention strategies, and improved internal functioning of government agencies and federal agencies.

Criminal justice professionals who earn this online criminal justice degree will also qualify for leadership opportunities in the field of criminal justice administration. This is because doctoral level criminal justice degrees prepare students to oversee criminal justice policy reform as well as oversight of police officers, crime scene investigators, and those charged with ongoing criminal investigation.

Many students who complete a PhD in online criminal justice degree program also go on to teach criminal justice at the post-secondary level. Simply stated, online PhD programs in criminal justice and criminology can lead to a wide range of professional opportunities in various criminal justice systems.

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Criminology vs. Criminal Justice Program: The Differences

Criminology is a specific area of focus within the broader field of criminal justice. Both PhD degrees can lead to careers in law enforcement. Moreover, your course of study will begin with an exploration of criminal justice theory and criminal justice ethics. There are, however, a few key differences between criminal justice, and the criminology concentration.

  • Criminal justice focuses on the law enforcement system and operations, while criminology studies criminals’ psychological and sociological behaviors to assess why they commit crimes.
  • In addition to basic criminal justice theory, criminology students will study topics like behavioral science, risk assessment, labor statistics, patterns of domestic violence, and more.
  • Graduates of criminal justice programs usually pursue careers in law enforcement. On the other hand, criminologists can land jobs as analysts, investigators, and researchers within the criminal justice system.
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The Cost of a Doctorate Degree in Criminology

The cost of getting your criminal justice degree online will largely depend on several factors. For example, state residency is critical since most public colleges and universities charge more for out-of-state students.

Nonetheless, some schools charge flat tuition for online criminal justice majors regardless of state residency. Online students will also pay an additional technology fee that on campus students do not pay.

The usual per-credit cost for an online doctorate in criminology ranges from $550 to $1,100. Students should expect to spend between $22,000 and $66,000 in total tuition.

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How Ph.D. Criminal Justice Students Can Pay for College

Prospective students considering accredited online criminal justice programs may also qualify for federal financial aid. In addition, many PhD programs offer full tuition coverage as well as funding for housing, research, and even a cost-of-living stipend to qualifying students.

Moreover, there are many different PhD scholarships for students in the criminal justice field, including doctoral students in criminology and criminal justice. Nonprofit, governmental, or professional organizations usually award scholarships to students who demonstrate a combination of academic merit, financial need, leadership, and group membership.

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