Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
The best criminal justice liberal arts colleges are those with rich histories of influence, proven through the work produced by the program’s faculty and alumni. Beyond demonstrating scholarly impact in the field, the best criminal justice degree programs maximize your opportunities to interact with outstanding criminal justice faculty.
Key Takeaways
- A criminal justice degree program utilizes the principles of sociology, psychology, political science, and philosophy.
- Students seeking a criminal justice degree complete courses in Constitutional Law, judicial administration, police work, legal issues, and ethical practice.
- Criminal justice degree programs produce competent federal intelligence analysts or police officers in law enforcement and many more job occupations.
Top 10 Liberal Arts Colleges Criminal Justice Programs
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- San Francisco State University
- University of New Haven
- Suffolk University
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
- University of Baltimore
- Canisius University
- St. Mary's University, Texas
- New York Institute of Technology
- Goucher College
- San Francisco State University
- San Jose State University
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice
- Goucher College
- California State University, Long Beach
- Fairleigh Dickinson University
- New York Institute of Technology
- Suffolk University
- Loyola University Maryland
- Ashland University
- San Francisco State University 94%
- La Salle University 94%
- Southern University at New Orleans 94%
- Radford University 93%
- University of New Haven 91%
- Roger Williams University 91%
- New Jersey City University 90%
- University of Baltimore 89%
- Suffolk University 87%
- St. Mary's University, Texas 86%
- California State University, Long Beach 22 to 1
- San Jose State University 22 to 1
- San Francisco State University 19 to 1
- University of New Haven 19 to 1
- Tiffin University 17 to 1
- Adrian College 16 to 1
- Marist College 16 to 1
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice 16 to 1
- New Jersey City University 15 to 1
- University of Southern Maine 14 to 1
- Loyola University Maryland $53,430
- Goucher College $49,220
- Marist College $44,560
- University of New Haven $44,184
- Suffolk University $43,332
- New York Institute of Technology $42,000
- Anna Maria College $41,010
- Roger Williams University $40,962
- Adrian College $39,596
- St. Mary's University, Texas $35,226
- Suffolk University $39,622
- New York Institute of Technology $26,460
- La Salle University $26,400
- Fairleigh Dickinson University $21,278
- St. Mary's University, Texas $19,224
- Loyola University Maryland $18,900
- Adrian College $18,600
- Roger Williams University $18,565
- University of New Haven $18,360
- Marist College $16,020
- New Jersey City University
- Anna Maria College
- Roger Williams University
- Ashland University
- La Salle University
- Adrian College
- Governors State University
- Tiffin University
- Marist College
- University of Southern Maine
- Canisius University
- Anna Maria College
- Tiffin University
- Southern University at New Orleans
- Governors State University
- New Jersey City University
- Adrian College
- Roger Williams University
- University of Southern Maine
- Marist College
- California State University, Long Beach 40%
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice 51%
- Governors State University 57%
- Marist College 63%
- Adrian College 69%
- Anna Maria College 70%
- Ashland University 72%
- New York Institute of Technology 76%
- San Jose State University 77%
- Canisius University 78%
- Goucher College 7 to 1
- Governors State University 10 to 1
- University of Baltimore 10 to 1
- Ashland University 11 to 1
- St. Mary's University, Texas 11 to 1
- Canisius University 11 to 1
- Anna Maria College 12 to 1
- Radford University 12 to 1
- La Salle University 12 to 1
- New York Institute of Technology 13 to 1
- Southern University at New Orleans $4,483
- California State University, Long Beach $5,742
- San Francisco State University $5,742
- San Jose State University $5,742
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice $6,930
- University of Baltimore $7,296
- Governors State University $7,512
- University of Southern Maine $8,064
- Radford University $8,156
- New Jersey City University $13,384
- Southern University at New Orleans $6,024
- Governors State University $6,354
- California State University, Long Beach $7,176
- San Francisco State University $7,176
- San Jose State University $7,176
- Ashland University $7,656
- University of Southern Maine $7,776
- Radford University $9,182
- Anna Maria College $10,530
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice $11,090
Featured Programs
Studying the criminal mind and behavior is the core of a criminal justice degree. Whether you want to help people or give back to your community, pursuing a career in criminal justice is a satisfying vocation.
Criminal justice education examines the inner workings of law enforcement and correctional agencies in the government. There are also criminal justice colleges options for studying criminal law, constitutional law, and forensic science.
Becoming a law enforcement officer can be a strong prospective career from this a major in criminal justice, or it can serve as a springboard to law school. A criminal justice degree could unlock many opportunities.
For criminal justice students to determine which liberal arts college is right for them, prospective students should focus on the program academics, internships, location, and the availability of online programs.
The Criminal Justice Degree Explained
The study of criminal justice encompasses various subjects within the criminal justice field, including law enforcement and correctional facilities.
Students often get criminal justice degrees and criminology degrees confused, but these two degrees differ. In criminology, students study how people commit crimes and why they commit them, and more importantly, how they might be prevented.
Meanwhile, criminal justice degrees, many of which are online criminal justice programs, emphasizes the practical side of the law, including the types of crimes committed, how the courts and prisons operate, and the role of the police, among others.
Bottom Line: While criminal justice and criminology degrees differ, it is important to note that these two fields often overlap.
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is an excellent starting point for a career in policing, corrections, homeland security, and a host of other important roles related to crime, justice, and public safety. Students majoring in criminal justice will study three primary subject areas—law enforcement, corrections, and the courts.
Majoring in criminal justice is a good starting point if you plan to study policing, law, administration of justice, counter-terrorism, and more. You’ll study related subjects including criminal psychology, rehabilitation, and sociology.
And if you’re interested in eventually going to law school and becoming a practicing attorney, majoring in criminal justice could be a good starting point. A degree in criminal justice will give you the knowledge and qualifications to contribute to public safety, national security, social justice, and a host of other related fields.
Degree popularity: Criminal justice bachelor’s degrees are the 16th most popular undergraduate degrees across all student demographics. It is slightly more popular among men. Crimianl justice degrees rank 6th among Black men, 8th for Black women, 8th among Hispanic men, and 15th for Hispanic women, according to the number of degree earners reported by the National Center for Educational Statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees
Earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can open numerous professional doors. As noted above, the study of criminal justice is divided into three key areas: law enforcement, corrections, and the court system. Within each of these areas, there are countless avenues to a career. Whether you wish to work in a police precinct, for the Department of Homeland Security, as part of a private security firm, as a private detective, or in a specialized field like the prevention of cybercrime, majoring in criminal justice can help you get there.
Today, top influencers in Criminal Justice are working on felon disenfranchisement, place-based criminology, alternative drug policies, and much more.
Back to TopCriminal justice is a popular major because it can provide pathways into countless fields and career opportunities. If you’re looking for a well-paying and secure job, a criminal justice degree is a great place to start. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, the average median pay for police officers and detectives was $65,170. For Detectives and Criminal Investigators, that figure was $81,920 in 2018. And if you parlay your criminal justice major into a postgraduate law degree, note that lawyers, in 2019, earned a well-above-average median pay of $122,960.
Back to TopOnce you’ve declared your major in criminal justice, you will likely be required to complete a set of core courses in a number of related subject areas. While your concentration will give you a chance to choose from a wide range of highly-specialized criminal justice electives, there are a number of common courses that most Criminal justice majors will be required to take, including:
- Introduction to Criminology
- International Law
- Criminal Psychology
- Race and the State
- Comparative Criminal Law
- Big Data and Surveillance
- Transformative Justice
- Capital Punishment in America
With a degree in criminal justice, you could qualify for an array of opportunities in law enforcement, security, forensics, counter-terrorism, corrections, and much more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) identifies the following top jobs in criminal justice:
- Police and Detectives
- Probational Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
- Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
- Private Investigators and Detectives
- Security Guards and Gaming Surveillance
- Correctional Officers and Bailiffs
- Lawyers
Related: How to Major in Criminal Justice
If you think a research university may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best research universities for a bachelor’s in criminal justice.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
51%
Graduation
54%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Cost of Degree: $7,470Starting Salary: $37,790Salary after 4 years: $49,189What is John Jay College of Criminal Justice known for?
John Jay College of Criminal Justice’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Law
- Economics
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- History
- Literature
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
John Jay College of Criminal Justice Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice – Crime Control and Prevention
- BS Criminal Justice – Institutional Theory and Practice
- BA/MA Criminal Justice
- BS/MA Criminal Justice
- Criminal Justice Dual Admission Programs (CUNY Justice Academy)
- BS Criminal Justice Management
- BS/MA Criminal Justice Management
- BA Criminology
John Jay College of Criminal Justice’s Online Degrees
BS in Security Management
- Required Credits: 39
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
55%
Student body
30K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at San Francisco State University
Cost of Degree: $7,524Expenses: $21,601Starting Salary: $41,343Salary after 4 years: $53,813Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is San Francisco State University known for?
San Francisco State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Political Science
- History
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
SFSU BA Criminal Justice Emphases:
- Administration of Justice
- Crime and Delinquency
- Legal Studies
- Working with Diverse Communities
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Connecticut 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #1 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Connecticut
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Connecticut 2024
- #5 Top 5 Best Online Criminal Justice Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #5 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Connecticut 2024
Tuition + fees
$44K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
62%
Student body
9K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at University of New Haven
Cost of Degree: $44,184Expenses: $22,198Starting Salary: $44,628Salary after 4 years: $56,171Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of New Haven known for?
University of New Haven’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Business
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Law
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- History
Most Influential Alumni
New Haven College Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS Criminal Justice
- BS Fire Protection Engineering
- BS Fire Science
- BS Forensic Science
- BS Homeland Security & Emergency Management
- BA International Affairs
- BS National Security
- BA Paramedicine, with a minor in Fire Science
- BS Business Management, with a concentration in Criminal Justice
University of New Haven’s Online Degrees
BS in Homeland Security And Emergency Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Paramedicine
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
60%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1190/27
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Suffolk University
Cost of Degree: $43,332Expenses: $22,132Starting Salary: $48,960Salary after 4 years: $61,624Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Suffolk University known for?
Suffolk University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Suffolk University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice
- Accelerated Bachelor’s / MS Crime & Justice Studies
- #1 Best Small Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in New Jersey 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Colleges in New Jersey 2024
- #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in New Jersey 2024
- #5 Best Online Colleges in New Jersey 2024
- #8 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
51%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1044/21
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Fairleigh Dickinson University
Cost of Degree: $37,563Expenses: $21,986Starting Salary: $44,465Salary after 4 years: $55,966Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Fairleigh Dickinson University known for?
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Business
- History
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Nursing
Most Influential Alumni
Fairleigh Dickinson University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice
- BA Criminology
- BA Criminology MA Criminal Justice
- BA Government and Politics MA Criminal Justice: combined degree
- BA / MA Criminal Justice Accelerated
- #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Maryland 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Maryland 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maryland 2024
- #4 Best Grad Schools in Maryland 2024
- #5 Best Colleges in Maryland 2024
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Maryland 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Maryland 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Maryland
- #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #21 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #21 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
33%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at University of Baltimore
Cost of Degree: $9,506Starting Salary: $47,918Salary after 4 years: $62,372What is University of Baltimore known for?
University of Baltimore’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Social Work
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Business
- Psychology
- History
- Philosophy
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
University of Baltimore Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS in Criminal Justice
- BS in Cyber Forensics
- BS in Forensic Studies
- Certificate in Crime Scene Investigation
- Certificate in Forensic Document Analysis
University of Baltimore’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- General Business
- Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Policy, Politics And International Affairs
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$32K
Acceptance
78%
Graduation
66%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1185/25
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Canisius University
Cost of Degree: $31,800Expenses: $14,658Starting Salary: $41,767Salary after 4 years: $52,571Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Canisius University known for?
Canisius University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
Canisius College Majors in Criminal Justice:
- Law Enforcement
- Law and Justice (topics in political science)
- Corrections (social service agencies and human services)
- Environmental Justice and Regulation
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Texas 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Texas 2024 #6 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2024 #7 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$35K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
56%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at St. Mary's University, Texas
Cost of Degree: $35,226Expenses: $15,948Starting Salary: $42,503Salary after 4 years: $53,497Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is St. Mary's University, Texas known for?
St. Mary's University, Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Engineering
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Business
- History
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
St. Mary’s University Texas Majors in Criminal Justice:
- Criminal Justice
- Criminology
- Forensic Science (Criminology Option)
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
55%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1239/27
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at New York Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $42,000Expenses: $21,384Starting Salary: $55,663Salary after 4 years: $70,060Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is New York Institute of Technology known for?
New York Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Engineering
- Education
- Communications
- Chemistry
- Business
- Biology
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
New York Institute of Technology Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS in Criminal Justice
- #3 Best Small Colleges in Maryland 2024 #3 Best Private Colleges in Maryland 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maryland 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$49K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
58%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1220/29
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Goucher College
Cost of Degree: $49,220Expenses: $20,780Starting Salary: $45,037Salary after 4 years: $56,686Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Goucher College known for?
Goucher College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Physics
- Biology
- Literature
- History
- Chemistry
- Education
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
Goucher College Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BPS in Criminal Justice
- #10 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Maryland 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Maryland 2024 #2 Best Private Colleges in Maryland 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
79%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1270/29
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Loyola University Maryland
Cost of Degree: $53,430Expenses: $19,170Starting Salary: $64,000Salary after 4 years: $80,554Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Loyola University Maryland known for?
Loyola University Maryland’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- Economics
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
Loyola University Maryland Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA in Forensic Studies
- #5 Best Small Colleges in Louisiana 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Louisiana 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
17%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Southern University at New Orleans
Cost of Degree: $7,470Expenses: $15,010Starting Salary: $24,261Salary after 4 years: $31,579Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Southern University at New Orleans known for?
Southern University at New Orleans’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
SUNO Criminal Justice Concentrations:
- Incarceration
- Community-based corrections
- Treatment of offenders
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Virginia 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Virginia 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Virginia 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Virginia 2024
Other Rankings
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Health Science
- #5 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Virginia 2024
- #6 Best Online MBA Programs in Virginia
- #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs for Students
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Virginia 2024
- #15 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
54%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1060/21
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Radford University
Cost of Degree: $11,916Expenses: $15,147Starting Salary: $36,279Salary after 4 years: $47,222Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Radford University known for?
Radford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Medical
- Social Work
- Economics
- Communications
- Biology
- Earth Sciences
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Radford University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA in Criminal Justice
- BS in Criminal Justice
Major focus:
- Cultural and behavioral analysis through examining how cultural beliefs can contribute to crime
Radford University’s Online Degrees
BBA in Business
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Emergency Services
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Health
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
73%
Student body
44K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at California State University, Long Beach
Cost of Degree: $6,884Expenses: $19,298Starting Salary: $40,058Salary after 4 years: $52,140Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, Long Beach known for?
California State University, Long Beach’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Sociology
- Communications
- History
- Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Literature
- Political Science
- Biology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
CSU, Long Beach Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Available certificate: Crime Scene Investigations
- #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
68%
Student body
41K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at San Jose State University
Cost of Degree: $7,899Expenses: $22,951Starting Salary: $48,220Salary after 4 years: $62,765Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is San Jose State University known for?
San Jose State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Education
- Engineering
- Sociology
- Business
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
San Jose State University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS Justice Studies
- BS Justice Studies – Criminology Concentration
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #2 Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #5 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Maine 2024
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024
- #8 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #13 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
42%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1109/22
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at University of Southern Maine
Cost of Degree: $10,100Expenses: $14,784Starting Salary: $33,558Salary after 4 years: $43,680Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Southern Maine known for?
University of Southern Maine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Southern Maine
- BA Criminology
University of Southern Maine’s Online Degrees
BS in Applied Technical Leadership
- Required Credits: 121
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Management
- Required Credits: 121
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social And Behavioral Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Leadership And Organizational Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Integrative Professional Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #8 Best Online MBA Programs in New York #8 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024 #9 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$45K
Acceptance
63%
Graduation
81%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1289/28
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Marist College
Cost of Degree: $44,560Expenses: $20,275Starting Salary: $51,167Salary after 4 years: $64,402Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Marist College known for?
Marist College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Political Science
- Business
- Economics
- Literature
- Education
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Marist College Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS in Criminal Justice
- Double Major in Psychology and Criminal Justice
Marist College’s Online Degrees
BA in Management Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$30K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
45%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Tiffin University
Cost of Degree: $30,120Expenses: $15,970Starting Salary: $39,152Salary after 4 years: $49,279Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tiffin University known for?
Tiffin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Sociology
- History
- Psychology
- Education
- Computer Science
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
Tiffin University Criminal Justice Concentrations
- Corrections
- Criminal Behavior
- Criminalistics
- Cyber Security
- Digital Forensics
- Forensic Psychology
- Government and National Security
- Homeland Security and Terrorism
- Justice Administration
- Law Enforcement
- #10 Best Small Colleges in Illinois 2024 #10 Best Online MBA Programs in Illinois #11 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024 #16 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
21%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Governors State University
Cost of Degree: $10,468Expenses: $15,100Starting Salary: $33,255Salary after 4 years: $43,286Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Governors State University known for?
Governors State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Education
- Business
- Computer Science
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
Governors State University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice
- BA Criminal Justice – Restorative Justice Concentration
Governors State University’s Online Degrees
BA in Business And Applied Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Rn To Bsn Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Michigan 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
51%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/21
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Adrian College
Cost of Degree: $39,596Expenses: $15,902Starting Salary: $34,983Salary after 4 years: $44,032Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Adrian College known for?
Adrian College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Adrian College Criminal Justice Pre-professional Tracks
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Law and the Judiciary
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
62%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at La Salle University
Cost of Degree: $33,890Expenses: $16,550Starting Salary: $49,941Salary after 4 years: $62,859Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is La Salle University known for?
La Salle University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- History
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Business
- Communications
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
La Salle University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice
- Dual Major Sociology and Criminal Justice
- #2 Best Online Colleges for Students Who Work Part-Time #12 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #21 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Ohio 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Small Colleges in Ohio 2024
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Ohio 2024
- #6 Best Private Colleges in Ohio 2024
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
- #7 Top 20 Most Affordable Online PhD of Nursing (DNP) Programs
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online PhDs in Education Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$24K
Acceptance
72%
Graduation
60%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1161/23
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Ashland University
Cost of Degree: $24,140Expenses: $14,948Starting Salary: $35,065Salary after 4 years: $44,135Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Ashland University known for?
Ashland University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Ashland University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice
- BS Cybersecurity
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Rhode Island 2024 #3 Best Small Colleges in Rhode Island 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in Rhode Island 2024 #5 Best Colleges in Rhode Island 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Rhode Island
- #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Rhode Island 2024
- #2 Best Online Associate in Cybersecurity
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Rhode Island 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #11 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #18 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
66%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/28
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Roger Williams University
Cost of Degree: $41,398Expenses: $20,644Starting Salary: $45,773Salary after 4 years: $57,612Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Roger Williams University known for?
Roger Williams University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Engineering
- Biology
- Business
- Law
- Literature
- History
- Political Science
- Communications
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
Roger Williams University Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BA Criminal Justice
- 4+1 BA Criminal Justice / MS Criminal Justice
Roger Williams University’s Online Degrees
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity And Networking
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Applied Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #11 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024 #18 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
40%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at Anna Maria College
Cost of Degree: $41,010Expenses: $21,890Starting Salary: $39,315Salary after 4 years: $49,484Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Anna Maria College known for?
Anna Maria College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Anna Maria College Majors in Criminal Justice:
- BS Criminal Justice
Focus Areas:
- Law enforcement
- Public safety
- Forensic criminology
Anna Maria College’s Online Degrees
BS in Fire Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges New Jersey 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in New Jersey 2024 #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
39%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for Criminal Justice degree at New Jersey City University
Cost of Degree: $13,564Expenses: $21,708Starting Salary: $34,767Salary after 4 years: $45,254Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is New Jersey City University known for?
New Jersey City University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Education
- Computer Science
- Physics
- History
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
New Jersey City University Majors in Criminal Justice:
BS Criminal Justice focus areas:
- Law Enforcement
- Courts
- Probation
- Corrections
- Parole
- Juvenile Justice
- Victim Advocacy
- Government or Community
Career Outlook for Students with Criminal Justice Degree
Go to Degree Finder toolCriminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
Degree Level: Bachelor's
- Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
- Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,534
- Avg. Expenses*: $16,390
- Avg. Starting Salary*: $35,456
- Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $46,150
- Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 11 years
- Job Growth: 3.31%
- Number of Jobs: 1,382,700
- * denotes ‘annually’
- ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’
Career Salaries
Career | Job Growth | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
Managers, All Other | 3.35% | $106,040 |
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | 3.12% | $84,600 |
Transit and Railroad Police | 2.94% | $75,399 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators | 1.49% | $73,715 |
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | 2.43% | $70,208 |
Average Career Salaries
Bottom 10% | Median | Top 10% |
---|---|---|
$46,885 | $68,700 | $102,208 |
Promising Job Markets
State | Cost of Living | Avg. Salary |
---|---|---|
#2 California | 26% higher than average | $108,645 |
#3 Illinois | 7% higher than average | $78,640 |
#4 New York | 5% higher than average | $84,489 |
#5 Ohio | 14% higher than average | $67,925 |
#6 Michigan | 15% higher than average | $66,857 |
Top Industries
Industry | Avg. Salary |
---|---|
Managers, All Other | $106,040 |
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $84,600 |
Transit and Railroad Police | $75,399 |
Go to all Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice programs
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Learn More About Criminal Justice
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