If you are dedicated to justice and safety, a degree in Criminal Justice could be the perfect fit for you. You may be passionate about helping to improve the justice system as it relates to minority groups, you may be fascinated by the justice process, or you may just want to make the world a safer place. Whatever your reason for studying criminal justice, a bachelor’s degree is your first step toward a career as a parole officer, police officer, state trooper, detective, security guard, crime scene investigator, fraud investigator, or a number of other options. 
The pay rate for these jobs is varied, but Payscale shows the average salary for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice is anywhere between $45,000 and $71,000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Police Officers and Detectives make a median pay of over $60,000. Detectives and Criminal Investigators make a mean annual pay of over $80,000, and Private Detectives make approximately $50,000 a year.
With a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Criminal Justice, your career path is open, and your choices are endless. These programs are affordable and filled with customization options. Check out our 30 Top Value Colleges for a Criminal Justice Degree, and start pursuing your dream career.
Selection Criteria
Contents
Colleges Rank publishes college degree rankings with the belief of how one’s higher education should be: both affordable and an investment of continued value for the students who pursue them. The staff of BVS collects data from reputable sources in order to calculate Net Price and the short and long-term value of every ranked degree. Collected data is simplified into weighted categories before scoring and then scaled through a BVS Score up to 100. The weighted categories are:
- Degree Investment Return (25%)
- Student & Alumni Evaluation (25%)
- Cost Value (25%)
- Matriculation (10%)
- Academic Success (15%)
No matter what degree you decide on, we hope our research and support has made the selection process easier. There are numerous resources BVS utilizes to collect information on degrees, and we encourage you to check them out for yourself!
Here are the 30 Top Value Colleges for a Criminal Justice Degree for 2020!
#30 St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Website
St. Mary’s University is a Catholic and Marianist institution that takes a holistic approach to education. Students in the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program learn the professional skills they need to succeed in the field while also building a strong foundation of liberal arts studies. Hands-on training comes through an internship experience through a variety of real-world organizations, including the San Antonio Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Students also learn practical skills through classes such as Criminal Justice Administration, Ethics in Criminal Justice, and International Justice System. Along with a set of core courses, students take five elective courses of their choice. These electives can range from criminology classes to sociology and political science. The program requires a total of 120 semester hours. In the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, students can also earn a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology or in Forensic Science.
St. Mary’s was named No. 15 in Top Criminal Justice Degrees and Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America by College Choice and Niche, respectively. A student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 allows students to form real relationships with their professors and peers. The Core Curriculum of St. Mary’s studies the self in relation to others, to social structures, to the natural world, and to God. It fosters a community that values respect, integrity, and collaboration. St. Mary’s is also home to many innovative centers and institutes such as the Center for Catholic Studies, the SABER Research Institute, and the Harvey Najim Center. St. Mary’s is also a great value school, and it’s been recognized as such by both U.S. News & World Report and Money.
Net Price: $17,806
#29 Hilbert College – Hamburg, NY
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Hilbert College requires 33 program credit hours and a total of 120 credit hours for a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. There are several scholarship opportunities for criminal justice majors. Students can gain real-world experience through internships, and interns of Hilbert College have worked at the United States Department of Defense, the Ocean City Police Department, the Virginia Beach Police Department, and other organizations at both the local and nationwide level. The Criminal Justice program is offered as a Bachelor’s degree or an Associate’s degree. The BS in Criminal Justice includes concentrations in Corrections, Family Violence, Forensic Investigation, Investigations, Juvenile Justice, Law, Police Management, and Security. Courses in the program cover a wide range of topics, including criminology, criminal law, family counseling, financial investigations, probation and parole, and more. Courses include Crime and Society, Police Management, and Research Methods in Social Sciences.
In order to enhance their coursework, students are encouraged to get involved outside of class. They can join the Criminal Justice and Forensic Science Association, a co-curricular organization. The Elite Club focuses on fitness and wellness in preparation for criminal justice-related careers. Hilbert College also offers several other student clubs and organizations. It’s considered one of the Top Criminal Justice Colleges in America by Niche, and College Choice named it No. 17 in Top Criminal Justice Degrees. It’s accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Net Price: $17,783
#28 University of Maryland, College Park – College Park, MD
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
At the University of Maryland, College Park’s Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice is a national leader in research. Topics of study include Criminological Theory Development and Testing, Criminal Justice Policy and Practice, Emergent Issues in Crime and Justice, and Statistical Methods and Data Analysis. Along with research, students in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program can get involved by joining the honors program, which involves rigorous courses taught by a tenured faculty member. Internships also offer practical experience, and students can participate in up to 12 credit hours of internships. U.S. News & World Report ranked UMD as the No. 1 Top Criminology Schools, and Niche called it No. 12 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
UMD has over 40,000 students, meaning that each student benefits from the resources offered at a big school. Students have access to the Advising Center, the Maryland Data Analysis Center, and the Center for Substance Abuse Research, to name a few. They’re also able to participate in one of many clubs and organizations, including the Criminal Justice Student Association and the Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society. They complete core courses such as Criminal Law in Action, Criminological and Criminal Justice Research Methods, and Statistics for Criminology and Criminal Justice. These requirements are supplemented by plenty of electives, so each student can direct their own education. After graduation, the alumni network of over 300,000 provides professional connections and career help. The program has also been recognized for its affordability. It’s ranked among the Top 50 by Forbes in America’s Top Value Colleges 2019 and by Money in Top Colleges for Your Money 2019.
Net Price: $17,241
#27 University of Louisville – Louisville, KY
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Students at the University of Louisville have access to important connections in the local and national Criminal Justice field. Faculty of the Criminal Justice program are actively involved in research and service across critical issues in criminal justice and public safety. The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice can be completed in a traditional classroom setting or online. The program requires a minimum of 121 credit hours, including 54 major requirements and 23 elective requirements. The U of L also offers an accelerated BS to MS degree program. The BS in Criminal Justice requires courses including “Crime and Justice in the United States,” “Criminal Behavior,” and “Juvenile Justice.” Electives are varied, and include classes like “Crime and the Media,” “Crime Victims and Victimization,” and “International Terrorism.”
The traditional coursework at the U of L is supplemented with internships, volunteer opportunities, and community. Internships should be viewed as the student’s capstone project and can be completed with local and nationwide criminal justice organizations. Criminal Justice majors have access to the Honors Program Alpha Phi Sigma, and the U of L is currently forming a chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association. The U of L is also home to the Southern Police Institute, an advanced training institute for law enforcement practitioners. The U of L is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It’s ranked at No. 87 in Top Colleges in the South by Forbes and at No. 2 in Top Colleges in Kentucky by Niche. U.S. News & World Report ranked it No. 30 in Top Criminology Schools.
Net Price: $17,008
#26 Michigan State University – East Lansing, MI
Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice
Website
Michigan State University encourages its students to get engaged. A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice involves the foundational courses Criminal Procedure, Criminology, Introduction to Criminal Justice, and Methods of Criminal Justice Research. These can be supplemented with a minor in either Security Management or Law, Justice, and Public Policy. This coursework is supported by experiential learning through internships, research, study abroad, entrepreneurship experiences, volunteering, professional associations, service learning, and more. Students can participate in undergraduate interdisciplinary research on topics related to crime, justice, law, and victimization. There are many opportunities for students to get involved in research and research-based training.
Throughout their time at MSU, students are supported through a variety of centers, offices, and resources. Each student works with an advisor to create a Student Planning Guide to help them through their four-year curriculum. From there, they can receive career advising, resume help, interview preparation, job placement assistance, and more. They have access to many resources through the Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement, the Collaborative Learning Center, the Criminal Justice Student Association, the Family Resource Center, the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities, the Writing Center, and more. There are over 900 student groups and organizations, and the alumni network is over 500,000 across the globe. MSU is ranked at No. 10 for Top Criminology Schools by U.S. News & World Report and No. 5 for Top Criminal Justice Degrees by College Choice. It sits at No. 59 on Money‘s Top Colleges for Your Money 2019, and Forbes ranked it at No. 23 in Top Colleges in the Midwest.
Net Price: $16,684
#25 Florida State University – Tallahassee, FL
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Florida State University strives to give its students a full experience that prepares them for careers in the criminal justice field. The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is augmented with a double major, a minor, or a 15 credit hour internship. The BS in Criminal Justice requires 36 credit hours in criminology and 120 credit hours in total. The degree is offered on-campus and entirely online for greater flexibility. Along with Criminal Justice, FSU also offers bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Cyber Criminology. The Criminal Justice degree can be specialized in Criminology or Victim Services. Some of the core classes within the program are Crimes Against Humanity, Introduction to Criminal Justice, and White Collar Crime. FSU is ranked at No. 5 in Top Criminology Schools by U.S. News & World Report and No. 4 Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America by Niche.
FSU also gives students a strong career focus. The College of Criminology works closely with the FSU Career Center to prepare students for their professional futures. Students can attend Career Panel discussions and Career Fairs, and they have access to internships at agencies like the Central Intelligence Agency, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the Office of the Public Defender. Students also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and resume building by participating in research. At FSU, research spans from topics such as gun control to biosocial criminology. Criminal Justice majors have access to Eppes Hall, with state-of-the-art classrooms and labs. They have easy access to the Center for Criminology and Public Policy Research. Students can also participate in the professional law enforcement fraternity, Lambda Alpha Epsilon or in the American Society of Criminology. Forbes named FSU No. 29 in Top Colleges in the South and Money ranked it at No. 102 in Top Colleges for Your Money 2019.
Net Price: $16,450
#24 University of Albany – Albany, NY
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Website
Students at the University of Albany can study Criminal Justice as a Bachelor of Arts, a minor, or a concentration. Courses in the program include Juvenile Justice Administration, Policing in a Free Society, and Punishment and Corrections. Classes provide technical instruction, and students gain practical experience through an internship. During the internship course, students will work directly with an off-campus organization. Students can gain further exposure by joining the honors program or the Albany Criminal Justice Association.
UAlbany was recognized as No. 2 in Top Criminology Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Its affordability was also recognized. Forbes ranked it No. 88 in America’s Top Value Colleges, and Money named it No. 85 in Top Colleges for Your Money 2019. There are more than 17,000 students at UAlbany, giving students access to the perks of a big school, such as over 300 clubs and organizations and a strong alumni network of over 200,000. Criminal Justice students also benefit from ongoing research projects: Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture, Justice and Multiculturalism in the 21st Century, Miscarriages of Justice, Police Research Group, and Violence Research Group.
Net Price: $16,100
#23 Park University – Parkville, MO
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
There are plenty of choices for students at Park University who are interested in Criminal Justice. They can complete a Bachelor of Science degree, a Bachelor of Arts degree, an Associate’s degree, a minor, or a certificate. A BS in Criminal Justice can be enhanced with a concentration in Law Enforcement, Corrections, or Security. Students can also add a minor in Homeland Security or a certificate in Terrorism and Homeland Security. The core curriculum combines a liberal arts education with fundamental knowledge of the criminal justice system. Classes offered include Agency Administration, Criminal Law, and Criminal Procedure. Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It’s ranked at No. 8 in College Choice‘s Top Criminal Justice Degrees.
The coursework in the Criminal Justice program is built upon with practical experience through internships and participation in the many clubs and organizations. Park University gives students opportunities to gain leadership training, to join honor societies, and to contribute to student-run media outlets. Among the dozens of clubs and organizations, the Criminal Justice Club is explicitly designed to create networking and professional opportunities for Criminal Justice majors. As far as internships, Park University has partnered with offices on a local and national level to offer more choices to students. The internship course is considered one of three capstone courses in the program. Students are paired with a success coach who can work alongside them throughout their academic progression. They help with curriculum development, academic help, and career success after graduation.
Net Price: $16,048
#22 University of Georgia – Athens, GA
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Website
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of Georgia is offered through the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Public and International Affairs. UGA is named the No. 1 Top College in Georgia by Niche, and it’s No. 13 in Top Public Schools according to U.S. News & World Report. It also made Money‘s list of Top Colleges for Your Money 2019. UGA is home to several research centers and institutions, as well as important resources for students such as the Richard B. Russell Building Special Collections Library, the Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, the Russell Library for Political Research and Studies, the Walter J. Brown Media Archives, and the Peabody Collection.
Students in the Criminal Justice program have access to many resources and opportunities. They can gain networking experience and build professional connections through the Criminal Justice Society and the local chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, the honor society for criminal justice students. Interested students can gain experience through a study abroad summer in Liverpool, or they can participate in a semester-long internship. They’ll also build a strong theoretical foundation through courses such as Criminal Justice Administration, Criminal Justice Practice, and Research Methods in Criminal Justice. To complement these courses, students will design and complete a research project of their choosing.
Net Price: $15,934
#21 University Of Nebraska – Lincoln, NE
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
The University of Nebraska offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that can be completed online or in a traditional classroom setting. It also offers a minor in Criminal Justice. The BS can be achieved with a second major or an unrelated minor. Courses for the Criminal Justice program include Criminal Evidence, Procedure, and the Courts; The Police Service; and Theories of Crime and Criminal Law. These courses are taught and developed by experienced faculty involved in practical research in the criminal justice field. There are over 300 full-time faculty, plus over 100 part-time faculty, over 70% of whom have earned the highest degrees possible in their areas.
UNK is ranked No. 10 in Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report and No. 2 for Top Public Universities in Nebraska by Niche. There are several student-run clubs and organizations at UNK, and students can gain leadership experience and real-world practice through these organizations. UNK hosts a chapter of the Criminal Justice Honor Society, Alpha Phi Sigma, and houses the Criminal Justice Student Club. It also hosts an annual Criminal Justice Conference, as well as career fairs. UNK is ranked in Money‘s Top Colleges for Your Money 2019. It offers several scholarships specific to Criminal Justice majors, and sworn officers can apply for a waiver of 30% of their tuition charges.
Net Price: $15,909
#20 University of Central Florida – Orlando, FL
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Website
A degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida requires a total of 120 credit hours. It can be completed entirely online or in a traditional classroom setting. Students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. For either track, students complete the following course structure: General Education Program, Core Requirements, Electives, and Capstone Requirements. It’s easy to personalize the program by adding a minor in Legal Studies, Public Administration, Psychology, or others. Plus, students can focus their education by adding a certificate in Crime Analysis and Crime Mapping; Security Management; and Victim Advocacy, among others.
The Office of Undergraduate Research and the Venture Lab foster interdisciplinary collaboration between students, faculty, and entrepreneurs. Students are encouraged to join a research team and create a real-world impact, as well as gain important practical experience. The Faculty Cluster Initiative creates more opportunities for the sharing of talent, resources, and facilities. Students also have access to important facilities like Academic Advancement Programs, Experiential Learning, the Karen L. Smith Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning, Operational Excellence and Assessment Support, Quality Enhancement Plan, and more. The Institute for Sport and Social Justice creates accessible outreach opportunities for Criminal Justice Majors. U.S. News & World Report ranked UCF at No. 10 in Most Innovative Schools and No. 26 in Top Criminology Schools. Forbes ranked it among the 50 Top Colleges in the South.
Net Price: $15,341
#19 Old Dominion University – Norfolk, VA
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice/Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Old Dominion University offers both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Either can be completed on-campus or online. There are 22 full-time, experienced faculty members in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice. The Criminal Justice program requires a total of 120 credit hours. Students can add a minor in Sociology of Children’s Rights. They must complete six foundational courses, including Criminological Theory, The Criminal Justice System, and Law and the Criminal Justice System. On top of these foundational courses, students choose a stratification course such as Sociology of Women or Sociology of Minority Families. They also add an upper-level law component and complete an internship. The internship is guaranteed through the University’s Career Advantage Program.
Along with this coursework, students have opportunities to further their education. They can earn departmental honors or can apply to work independently with faculty in the department. There are several research centers and institutes at ODU, so students have plenty of chances to get involved. Plus, ODU has over 300 student clubs, organizations, and associations. It’s ranked at No. 121 in Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report and at No. 120 in Top Colleges in the South by Forbes. It’s accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Graduates join a strong network of over 150,000 alumni across the United States and the globe.
Net Price: $15,213
#18 Suny College At Brockport – Brockport, NY
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from SUNY College at Brockport focuses on both the theory and practice of criminal justice systems. The theory comes through three components: general education non-criminal justice courses, criminal justice proficiency courses, and criminal justice electives. The five core courses are Introduction to Criminal Justice, The Police Process, The Corrections Process, Research Methods, and Criminology. To these, students can add electives such as Crime Patterns, Family Violence, and Race and Crime. The practical element comes through internships, study abroad options in Waterford and Dublin, and extracurricular activities. Brockport is home to the Criminal Justice Student Association and the Criminal Justice Honor Society Alpha Phi Sigma. It also hosts an annual Criminal Justice Conference.
Resources for students include the Academic Success Center, Career Planning, the Library, Transfer Student Resources, and more. There are over 8,000 students enrolled at Brockport and several student-led organizations and clubs. Brockport is named No. 25 in Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report. The faculty are active in research and have professional experience in their field. Students can gain valuable connections with faculty and peers, and graduates join a wide network of alumni across the world.
Net Price: $14,960
#17 Western Carolina University – Cullowhee, NC
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
A Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Western Carolina University requires a total of 120 credit hours. These hours are broken into Liberal Studies, Major Hours, and Elective Hours. The Liberal Arts foundation prepares students to be engaged citizens and addresses social, cultural, intellectual, and professional skills. The Criminal Justice curriculum teaches students important theories and methods. This theoretical knowledge is supplemented by practical experience through internships and extracurricular activities. Students can participate in independent studies and work directly with faculty members. They can join the Student Association of Criminal Justice Affairs, Alpha Phi Sigma, or the Criminal Justice Internship. Many courses can be completed either on-campus or online.
The faculty members of WCU are nationally recognized for their research and their work in the field. Most hold the highest degrees in their field, and all encourage a strong interdisciplinary community. The Millennial Initiative at WCU creates space for partnerships between private and government entities in research, collaboration, innovation, and more. Students can also get hands-on experience through community involvement. There are outreach programs through the Cherokee Center, the Mountain Heritage Center, and the Office of Professional Growth and Enrichment. WCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It’s ranked at No. 581 on Money’s Top Colleges for Your Money 2019, No. 50 in Niche‘s Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America, and No. 11 in U.S. News & World Report‘s Top Public Schools.
Net Price: $14,456
#16 University Of Mississippi – University, MS
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
The University of Mississippi is among the nation’s fastest-growing institutions. Its Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program can be personalized with an emphasis on Corrections, Homeland Security, or Law Enforcement. The program requires a total of 120 credit hours, and 24 hours of coursework are completed under the student’s selected emphasis. The five required courses for a Criminal Justice major are Criminal Justice Internship, Criminal Law, Colloquium in Criminal Justice, Ethics in Legal Studies, and Introduction to Criminal Justice. The Criminal Justice Internship course connects the theoretical knowledge taught in class with more practical field experience.
The Criminal Justice curriculum is further enhanced through the many research and community opportunities available at Ole Miss. There are numerous research centers and institutions, as well as community service initiatives and centers. Students can get involved by joining the National Honor Society Alpha Phi Sigma and the Order of the Sword and Shield. They can also choose to join one of the countless other clubs and organizations at Ole Miss. Students also benefit from resources such as the Center for Student Success and First-Year Experience, Student Disability Services, Writing Center, Honors College, and Career Center. Ole Miss also uses technology to improve students’ experience. Vital information is available online, as well as many student services and millions of library materials. Ole Miss is named among the 100 Top Colleges in the South by Forbes and is ranked No. 2 in Niche‘s Top Colleges in Mississippi.
Net Price: $14,259
#15 University of California – Irvine – Irvine, CA
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Law Clinic
Website
The University of California teaches theoretical foundations complemented by real-world experience. A Bachelor of Science in Criminology, Law, and Society comes with participation in the Criminal Justice Clinic. This clinic allows students to represent low-income individuals in court. This gives them relevant and applicable practice. Students can also participate in field study placements and internships with other local and national organizations. This experience blends well with coursework from foundational courses such as Imprisonment and Reentry, Juvenile Delinquency, and Mental Health and the Justice System. UCI is also home to the Immigrant Rights Clinic and the National Registry of Exonerations, an online database of wrongful convictions.
As well as encouraging students to participate in clinics, UCI has a variety of research opportunities for undergraduate students. There are several research centers such as the Center for Evidence-Based Corrections; the Center for Organizational Research; the Center for Psychology and Law; the Center in Law, Society, and Culture; the Irvine Laboratory for the Study of Space and Crime; the Metropolitan Futures Initiative; and the Newkirk Center for Science and Society. Research is conducted with interdisciplinary collaboration. Faculty work in research areas such as psychology and law, spatial patterns of crime, gangs and crime, and much more. UCI is the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. It’s ranked at No. 1 on Money‘s Top Colleges for Your Money 2019 and No. 3 in Forbes‘ America’s Top Value Colleges 2019. U.S. News & World Report recognized it as No. 3 in Top Criminology Schools.
Net Price: $13,944
#14 Florida A&M University – Tallahassee, FL
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Criminal Justice is among the most popular majors at Florida A&M University. The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program requires 21 semester credit hours of core courses, 18 credits toward a minor, and nine credits in a substantive area of the student’s choice. They can focus the degree in Legal Studies, Minority and Gender Studies, Juvenile Justice, or Corrections. The core curriculum includes classes like American Court System, Police and Society, and Research Methods in Criminal Justice. Students can complete an internship as part of their studies, in law enforcement, juvenile justice, or courts. There are also plenty of ways to get involved through organizations, associations, and honor societies. These organizations provide the space for students to strengthen their leadership skills and develop strong professional connections that will provide support throughout their careers. Community service projects also offer opportunities for engagement and philanthropy.
FAMU is ranked at No. 25 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America by Niche. The faculty are involved in research covering many vital topics in the criminal justice field. There are several research centers and institutes. The Center for Global Security and International Affairs at FAMU was designated an Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence. Students are supported throughout their time in the program by the Undergraduate Student Success Center and the Office of Student Activities. FAMU has over 10,000 students enrolled, and it is ranked No. 9 by U.S. News & World Report for Top Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It’s accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Net Price: $13,529
#13 College of the Ozarks – Point Lookout, MO
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
College of the Ozarks is a no-tuition school, making it an excellent option for an affordable Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. There are more than 100 campus jobs, allowing students to work while they study and reduce or even eliminate tuition costs. C of O is ranked No. 1 in Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report, and No. 2 in Colleges Rank by the same. Top Colleges named it No. 1 in Top Colleges in Missouri, and Niche named it No. 14 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America. It’s accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 allows students to form personal connections with their faculty and peers. Students benefit from resources such as the writing center and the career center.
The BS in Criminal Justice can be customized with an emphasis on either Corrections or Law Enforcement. Along with this emphasis, students are encouraged to choose an additional major or minor in Accounting, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Psychology, Sociology, Spanish, or Speech Communication. Students gain real-world experience through field trips to justice system facilities such as prisons and law enforcement agencies. Students are also able to participate in the Criminal Justice Internship program. Several clubs and organizations allow for more involvement, such as the Criminal Justice Club and Alpha Phi Sigma, the Criminal Justice Honor Society. Classes in the Criminal Justice core include titles such as Criminal and Crime Scene Investigation, Interview and Interrogation, and Verbal Communication in Criminal Justice. Courses are approached through five areas, academic, Christian, cultural, patriotic, and vocational. This holistic approach prepares graduates to step out as leaders in their field.
Net Price: $13,498
#12 East Carolina University – Greenville, NC
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Students earning their Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University have many options for hands-on involvement. ECU hosts community outreach services through the Nancy W. Darden Child Development Center, the Children’s Developmental Services Agency, the Office of Military Programs, and the Navigate Counseling Clinic. Criminal Justice majors can get involved in the National Criminal Justice Honor Society and other clubs, organizations, and associations. First-year students can join the Criminal Justice Living-Learning Community, which gives them access to specialized academic advisors, tutors, mentors, and more. There are also opportunities to study abroad, benefit from field experience or an internship, and participate in faculty-led research programs. The faculty in the Criminal Justice program have experience in law enforcement, homeland security, corrections, and more. Their research areas span from juvenile delinquency to international terrorism.
The BS in Criminal Justice can be focused with an emphasis on either Corrections or Law Enforcement. Core courses include Crime and Criminality, The Juvenile Justice System, and Race, Gender, and Special Populations in the Criminal Justice System. Criminal Justice is one of the highest enrollment programs at ECU. Among the many resources for Criminal Justice majors is an annual career fair with representatives from organizations on both the local and national level. ECU also publishes many well-respected publications and journals. It’s accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and it was ranked at No. 100 in Forbes‘ Top Colleges in the South.
Net Price: $13,327
#11 Arizona State University – Tempe, AZ
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Website
Arizona State University is ranked the No. 1 Top College in Arizona by both Top Colleges and Niche. U.S. News & World Report ranked it No. 1 in Most Innovative School and No. 5 in Top Criminology Schools. ASU offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that can be completed online, in-person, and across multiple campuses. The program includes classes like Courts and Sentencing, Criminal Justice Crime Control Policies and Practices, and Race, Ethnicity, Crime, and Criminal Justice. Students can personalize their degree with the addition of certificates in Correctional Studies, Criminal Investigations, Domestic Violence and Evidence-Based Practice, Homeland Security, Law and Human Behavior, or Security Studies. Students can also have a greater impact in their education by joining the Honors College and gaining access to study abroad programs, internships with more than 200 agencies, research projects, social and cultural events, and more.
Education doesn’t stop in the classroom, and ASU has plenty to offer in terms of extracurricular activities. There are several Academic Centers such as the Center for Correctional Solutions, the Center for Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety. ASU is also home to many clubs and organizations, including the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Student Association, the Nonprofit Leadership and Management Student Association, and Alpha Phi Sigma, the Criminal Justice Honor Society. Aside from this, students can also volunteer for service experiences that give real-world practice, and they’re encouraged to participate in research with individual faculty members.
Net Price: $12,947
#10 Indiana University–Bloomington – Bloomington, IN
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Website
Students at Indiana University–Bloomington have plenty of support when it comes to preparing for their careers. Each student works with a Criminal Justice Career Coach and the Walter Center for Career Achievement as they move through the program. Students are able to select from advanced and elective courses in topics such as Cyber Crime and Digital Evidence; White Collar Crime; and Gender, Race, and Crime. The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary degree, and students often complement their criminal justice courses with courses in English, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, and Sociology. IU Bloomington offers more than 60 languages. For a hands-on experience, students may participate in one of three types of internships: Field Experience in Criminal Justice, Research Internship, or Teaching Internship.
IU Bloomington students can work toward joining the Criminal Justice Honor Society Alpha Phi Sigma. Select students are recognized for Academic Excellence in the College of Arts and Sciences and may enter the Hutton Honors College. Students can also join the Criminal Justice Student Organization or one of over 700 student clubs and organizations. There are options for community engagement through the Community Justice and Mediation Center, the District 10 Pro Bono Project, Inc., and the Monroe County Court Appointed Advocates. Plus, students can join faculty members in diverse research projects, and they benefit from IU Bloomington’s affiliation with several organizations in criminology fields. IU Bloomington is ranked among the 100 Top College for Your Money 2019 by Money. U.S. News & World Report and College Choice named it among the top 50 for Top Criminology Schools and Top Criminal Justice Degrees. Forbes ranked it at No. 34 in Top Public Colleges.
Net Price: $12,488
#9 Monroe College – Bronx – The Bronx, NY
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
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A Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice can be customized with a minor in Emergency Management, Legal Studies, or Human Services. Courses are offered on-campus and online. The classes at Monroe College – Bronx are small, allowing students to form lasting professional connections with professors and peers. The faculty at Monroe are experienced and recognized, and they act as teachers, mentors, and motivators. Courses include Criminal Law, Fundamentals of Communication, and Victimology. The Criminal Justice program prepares graduates in three areas: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students can pursue a certificate in Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors. Monroe also offers the Police Academy Scholars program, which prepares students for careers as police officers.
Monroe is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. It’s ranked No. 88 in Colleges Rank by U.S. News & World Report and No. 16 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America by Niche. At Monroe, the Student Services Office provides advising services, academic assistance, technological tools, health services, and more. Each student works with a Student Services Counselor as they progress through the program. Monroe has over 50 clubs and organizations, including the Criminal Justice Club. It also houses an Honors Program that gives advanced students access to experiential learning activities, volunteer work, and an active professional community.
Net Price: $12,280
#8 Rutgers University-Newark – Newark, NJ
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology
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The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Rutgers School of Criminal Justice is focused and interdisciplinary. Students can tailor the degree to fit their interests by adding a concentration, a double major, a minor, or an honors college program. The program requires a total of 120 credit hours. The core curriculum covers general skills such as writing, reasoning, natural and social science, history, literature, and art. Within the Criminal Justice core, students take classes like Case Processing: The Law and the Courts, Criminology, and Police and Society. This coursework is supplemented with internship experience, field-work, and undergraduate research.
Interested students at Rutgers University-Newark can also pursue an accelerated program in which they complete their BS and MA simultaneously. Rutgers University-Newark gives students plenty of opportunities to advance their education and pursue their career goals. The Office of Academic and Student Affairs is the primary resource for students in the School of Criminal Justice. The almost 9,000 faculty members are also ready to help student progress and encourage professional success. High achieving students can join the External Honors College, which offers a host of opportunities for students across disciplines. Rutgers University-Newark was named No. 21 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America by Niche, No. 10 Top Criminology Degrees by College Choice, and No. 9 Top Criminology Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Graduates from the program join an extensive network of alumni. Over 500,000 alumni are living and working in every state and across six continents.
Net Price: $12,020
#7 Sam Houston State University – Huntsville, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
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Sam Houston State University offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. SHSU also offers a Bachelor of Science in Victim Studies. The BA in Criminal Justice can be completed on-campus or online. It requires a total of 120 credit hours. The program is offered through the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. The department houses state-of-the-art facilities, including a full-service courtroom. Students are able to learn through real-world experience, including participation in an internship with one of many organizations that partner with SHSU. Students also gain valuable information through coursework. The Criminal Justice core covers topics such as Criminal Investigation, Forensic Science, and Violent Offenders.
SHSU is ranked No. 20 in U.S. News & World Report‘s Top Criminology Schools, No. 20 in Niche‘s Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America, and No. 9 in College Choice‘s Top Criminal Justice Degrees. It’s also been recognized by Forbes among the Top Colleges in the South and by Money as one of the Top Colleges for Your Money 2019. It’s accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students at SHSU have access to resources such as Student Success Initiatives, Newton Gresham Library, Writing Center, Academic and Mentoring Center, Career Services, and Student Money Management Center. Plus, they can gain experience by joining one of the many student organizations, by collaborating with faculty research, or by participating in leadership and community service options.
Net Price: $11,742
#6 University of Nebraska Omaha – Omaha, NE
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
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The University of Nebraska Omaha offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a blend of theoretical coursework and practical, hands-on experience. The BS in Criminal Justice is provided through the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, part of the College of Public Affairs and Community Service. The program requires 120 credit hours for completion, and some courses are available online for greater flexibility. UNO teaches through Service Learning, combining coursework with service opportunities in the community. There are several clubs, organizations, and volunteer opportunities. A sample of the Criminal Justice coursework includes titles such as Applied Statistics and Data Processing in Public Sector, Juvenile Delinquency and Juvenile Justice, and Survey of Criminal Justice.
Students at UNO also have plenty of opportunities to get involved in research, learning research methods, and making a real impact in the criminal justice field. The College of Public Affairs and Community Service houses several research centers: the Center for Public Affairs Research, the Nebraska Center for Justice Research, and the NASA Space Grant Consortium. Students can also gain experience through internships, and past interns have held positions with agencies such as the U.S. Marshal’s Service, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol. The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice also offers a study abroad program in which students travel to London to study the United Kingdom’s justice system. U.S. News & World Report named UNO No. 15 in Top Criminology Schools, and Forbes ranked it No. 120 in Top Colleges in the Midwest.
Net Price: $11,727
#5 Miami University – Oxford, OH
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
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Miami University is named No. 3 in Top Undergraduate Teaching by U.S. News & World Report. The faculty are experienced in their field and are involved in groundbreaking research. There are over 17,000 undergraduate students, which means that each student has access to valuable resources and opportunities. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice have chances to challenge themselves academically through the University Honors Program, a community of motivated and intellectual students, or the University Academic Scholars Program, an opportunity for students wishing to dive deeper into their area of interest. There are several other student organizations, associations, and clubs at Miami University. Students can also pursue study abroad programs in over 90 countries around the world.
The BS in Criminal Justice is individually focused through cognate areas. Each student chooses their cognate from: Administration of Law and Justice, Corrections and Punishment, Criminal Justice Administration, and Law Enforcement. Students can further focus their education by joining a research pursuit and by choosing from many electives. Some of the core courses in the Criminal Justice program are Law and Individual Rights, Policing in America, and Writing in Criminal Justice. These courses are supplemented with a liberal arts foundation. Miami University was ranked by Forbes among the 50 Top Colleges in the Midwest.
Net Price: $10,930
#4 University of Texas at Dallas – Dallas, TX
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
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The University of Texas at Dallas encourages hands-on experience for students pursuing their Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. The program builds on core theories and knowledge of criminal justice. Classes include Class, Status, and Power; Political Economy of Terrorism; and Youth Crime and Justice. These courses are built on with internships and field experience. Students have many opportunities to join with faculty members on projects such as violence prevention in schools and preventing white-collar crime. The faculty of UTD includes scholars and leaders with real industry experience. The BA in Criminal Justice requires 120 credit hours. UTD also offers a fast-track for students who wish to pursue a graduate degree in Criminal Justice. UTD offers certificates in Local Government Management, Geospatial Intelligence, and more.
Besides classes, UTD provides options for involvement. The School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences host four research centers: the DFW Federal Statistical Research Data Center, the Institute for Urban Policy Research, the Texas Schools Project, and the UT Dallas Education Research Center. UTD also has a Pre-Law Advising and Resource Center for students who are interested in applying to law school. There are several other clubs and organizations, as well as volunteer experiences, sports, and support systems such as the Multicultural Center and the Student Wellness Center. Graduates join a network of over 100,000 alumni across the globe. They continue to have access to the Davidson-Gundy Alumni Center. UTD was ranked at No. 31 in Forbes‘ America’s Top Value Colleges and No. 271 in Money‘s Top Colleges for Your Money 2019. U.S. News & World Report ranked it No. 15 in Top Criminology Schools.
Net Price: $10,036
#3 University of Missouri-St. Louis – St. Louis, MO
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
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With over 15,000 students, the University of Missouri-St. Louis is the largest public research university in eastern Missouri. It’s ranked No. 25 in Top Colleges in the Midwest by Forbes. UMSL is home to more than 100 student organizations, clubs, and associations. Students can benefit from leadership and service opportunities and can network at the many events hosted on-campus. Select students can join the Pierre Laclede Honors College for more in-depth study and become a part of a community of scholars. There are several resources for students at UMSL, including career help, academic advising, a writing center, a math center, an online mentoring program, and research and community service centers. Some of the current research projects are the Comprehensive Safe Schools Initiative, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, and Evaluating the Law Enforcement, Prosecutor, and Court Response to Firearm-Related Crimes in St. Louis.
Students earning their Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice follow a core curriculum with courses such as Criminal Justice Policy, Research Methods in Criminology and Criminal Justice, and Theories of Crime. The degree can be personalized through many elective options, including Computers in Criminal Justice; Gender, Crime, and Justice; and Urban Law: Poverty and the Justice System. If students wish to pursue other areas of interest, they can enroll in a Directed Readings Course for an independent learning experience. UMSL is ranked No. 5 in Top Criminology Schools by U.S. News & World Report. It’s accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
Net Price: $9,150
#2 University Of Washington Tacoma – Tacoma, WA
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
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The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of Washington Tacoma is all-encompassing. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach to criminal justice, and students learn the theories of crime and justice as well as the scientific method, all of this within a broad framework of social processes. The program requires 180 total credits, and the core courses cover five topic areas: Administration of Justice, Corrections, Criminological Theory, Law Adjudication, and Research and Theoretical Methods. Students then choose their core electives from options such as Criminal Justice and the War on Drugs, Crisis and Trauma Interventions with Crime Victims, and Criminalization of Immigration. Many courses can be taken online as well as on-campus. If students wish to personalize their degree further, they can add independent study elective courses in either Advanced Readings in Criminal Justice or Independent Research in Criminal Justice.
Beyond the classroom, students can participate through the University Y Student Center, the Center for Service and Leadership, Student Publications, and the Student Engagement Admin. Past students have interned for associations like the Pierce County District Court, the Pierce County Prosecutor Attorney’s Office, TacomaProBono, and others. UW Tacoma’s campus is home to the Criminal Justice League and Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society. There are other resources available for students such as the Academic Advising Center, the UW Tacoma Library, with a guide specially designed for Criminal Justice students, and the Information Technology Helpdesk. UW Tacoma is ranked at No. 5 in Top Colleges in Washington by Top Colleges, and College Choice named it No. 16 in Top Criminal Justice Degrees.
Net Price: $8,674
#1 CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice – New York, NY
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
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CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that focuses on Institutional Theory and Practice as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice that focuses on Crime Control and Prevention. Each requires 42 credit hours in Criminal Justice, 42 in General Education, and 36 in electives, for a total of 120 credit hours. Core courses include Criminal Justice: Theory in Practice, Constitutional Law, and Research Methods and Statistics for Criminal Justice. Elective courses can be chosen in the categories of Police, Law and Courts, and Corrections. The interdisciplinary curriculum covers the humanities, natural and social sciences, and arts.
John Jay is home to many research centers: the Institute for Innovation in Prosecution, the Center for Cybercrime Studies, the Center for International Human Rights, and more. Faculty members are involved in research, and many are practitioners and leaders in their field. Besides research, students can gain practical experience through programs such as Accelerate Complete Engage, Cadet Education, Empowerment and Development for Success, the John Jay College Honors Program, and the Macaulay Honors Program. They have continual support from the Center for Career and Professional Development, Community Outreach and Service Learning, the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, the Wellness Center, the Women’s Center for Gender Justice, and more. John Jay is affordable: Only 20% of students need to borrow money for their education, and Forbes named it No. 143 in America’s Top Value Colleges. It’s ranked among the 50 Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Niche ranked it No. 1 in Top Colleges for Criminal Justice in America, and College Choice ranked it No. 1 in Top Criminal Justice Degrees.
Net Price: $4,891
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