Most Popular Criminal Justice Online Master's Degrees
Our list of the most popular criminal justice online master’s degree programs features only accredited schools, ranked by the number of students graduating with this degree.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Lamar University leads with 424 graduates from its MS in Criminal Justice program, reflecting strong student interest and established credibility.
- In terms of popularity overall, Liberty University has the most students enrolled online (over 48,000 at the graduate level alone).
- Florida State University reports the best overall review rating (4.11/5) from students.
Read our methodology for details on rankings, data sources, and inclusion criteria. We interviewed Chris Walsh, an award-winning criminal defense attorney and founder of Walsh Law, to share his expert perspective on the value and career impact of earning an online master’s degree in criminal justice.
Most Popular Criminal Justice Online Master's Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar University | 424 | $10,260 | $58,203 | 83% | |
| Liberty University | 408 | $10,170 | $63,800 | 75% | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 261 | $18,345 | $63,343 | 69% | |
| American Public University System | 153 | $6,825 | $78,388 | 79% | |
| Saint Leo University Online | 140 | $12,510 | $64,893 | 62% | |
| Florida State University | 132 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $18,087 | $68,153 | 95% | |
| University of Phoenix | 131 | $12,913 | $58,188 | 80% | |
| Boston University | 122 | $66,670 | $67,534 | 90% | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 103 | $18,654 | $67,190 | 93% | |
| Regent University Online | 96 | $9,225 | N/A | 83% | |
| University of Cincinnati | 85 | $13,524 | $66,456 | 86% | |
| Texas A&M International University | 59 | $30,900 | N/A | 95% | |
| Columbia Southern University | 57 | $6,282 | $62,524 | 79% | |
| Northeastern University | 51 | $33,472 | $87,357 | 92% | |
| Purdue Global | 43 | $11,582 | $50,237 | 74% |
Most Popular Criminal Justice Online Master's Degrees - Program Details
- Graduates: 424
- Annual Tuition: $10,260
- Median Salary: $58,203
- Recommendation: 83%
Why we like them: Lamar ranks #1, with 424 graduates in its online MS in Criminal Justice, which signals a proven, scalable program and a wide alumni network you can leverage for mentorship, insights, and career mobility. Courses are delivered entirely online with 24/7 access, appealing to active police, corrections, or homeland security personnel.
- Graduates: 408
- Annual Tuition: $10,170
- Median Salary: $63,800
- Recommendation: 75%
Why we like them: At Liberty, there are nine potential pathways, including Corrections Management, Cybercrime Investigation, Forensic Psychology, Homeland Security, Law Enforcement Leadership, Legal Studies, Public Administration, Restorative Justice, and a flexible track that lets you mix electives. There's also an integration of Christian ethics across leadership and policing coursework.
- Graduates: 261
- Annual Tuition: $18,345
- Median Salary: $63,343
- Recommendation: 69%
Why we like them: SNHU's criminal justice master's program online has two concentration options, including an Advanced Counterterrorism track or a Homeland Security track. We also like that the program embeds field-authentic learning — videos, simulations, national data, and role-playing — and culminates in a capstone that pairs you with agencies on real research projects.
A Deeper Analysis of The Most Popular Online Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees
More than 1,800 graduates completed these 15 online criminal justice master’s programs in the most recent year, which demonstrates that advanced CJ credentials are surging right now. Popularity serves as a practical signal of a program's maturity, employer recognition, and alumni reach. The median program graduates ~103 students with a criminal justice master's degree online, while Lamar University leads with 424 students.
Some of the outcomes data and insight we share reinforce the trustworthiness of these options. Median earnings hover around $67,000, with a high of $87,357 at Northeastern, and recommendation rates — based on 90,000+ verified student surveys — cluster in the 80-90% range. Furthermore, retention is strong across the set (with several schools exceeding 85%), a reliable indicator that these programs are built for working adults who need flexible pacing, applied learning, and steady support to finish.
Below, we dive even further into the details to give you the most realistic picture about what you can expect in the long run so you can make the best decision now.
Student Endorsement Leaders in Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs
Recommendation rates across these 15 institutions span a wide range, from the mid-60s at Saint Leo University (62%) to an exceptional 95% at Florida State University and Texas A&M International University. These are drawn from our database of student surveys, making them one of the strongest indicators of overall student satisfaction at these schools.
Higher rates at schools like Florida State, Arizona State University Online, Northeastern, and Texas A&M often correlate with structured online ecosystems and strong student retention metrics because it's these features that help students finish what they started. These universities tend to invest heavily in advising access, flexible scheduling, and career-aligned content.
On the other end, lower recommendation rates on our list, typically in the 70% range, aren't actually low at all. They don’t signal poor quality but may reflect the diversity of student goals and expectations at very large online institutions like SNHU or University of Phoenix, where experiences can vary widely depending on program type and faculty interaction.
For master’s students in criminal justice, these institutional satisfaction metrics can be helpful to consider because they may reveal how responsive faculty are, how stable the online platform feels, and how supported students feel overall. Graduate students in this field often balance unpredictable schedules, field work, or shift duties, so studying within a well-reviewed ecosystem can mean fewer administrative barriers and more consistent engagement.
How Criminal Justice Degree Titles Reflect Focus and Identity
Although every school on this list falls under the broader umbrella of criminal justice graduate education, the degree titles themselves reveal just how varied the field has become. Most universities offer the classic Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice, but a few outliers signal distinct academic or professional priorities.
For example, Regent University’s M.A. in Human Services with a Criminal Justice & Ministry concentration blends behavioral science and theology, framing justice work through a faith-integrated, service-oriented lens rather than a law enforcement focus. Similarly, Texas A&M awards an MBA in Criminal Justice, positioning its graduates for executive or compliance roles that intersect with business operations, strategy, and administration.
These differences are really important to consider before you enroll.
An MS in criminal justice typically emphasizes research, data analysis, and policy design, ideal for students pursuing investigative or analytical roles. However, a specialized MA (like Regent’s) leans toward social or human services, aligning with careers in rehabilitation, ministry, or advocacy.
An MBA in Criminal Justice (or even hybrid degrees like University of Phoenix’s MS in Administration of Justice and Security) emphasizes management, budgeting, and organizational leadership. This can be a natural fit for supervisors, command staff, or agency directors.
For prospective students, the title alone often signals the program’s intentions and whether it's analytical, human-centered, or administrative in nature.
Earnings in Context: How The Type of Master's Degree Shapes Career Pathways in Criminal Justice
The data shows that earnings often track closely with a program’s orientation.
Traditional research- and policy-driven degrees like Northeastern’s online MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice or Florida State’s online MS in Criminal Justice Studies report median earnings of $87,357 and $68,153, respectively. These outcomes align with the advanced analytical and policy positions such graduates often pursue, such as intelligence analyst, policy advisor, or criminal justice researcher.
By contrast, programs housed in business or human services frameworks may lead to different pay structures based on role type. The online MBA in Criminal Justice at Texas A&M prepares graduates for management and compliance positions, where salaries can vary widely but tend to scale with organizational size and private-sector engagement. Meanwhile, Regent’s online M.A. in Human Services - Criminal Justice & Ministry leads toward nonprofit or ministry-based advocacy, where compensation often reflects mission-driven, service-sector norms rather than federal pay bands.
Overall, median earnings across the list cluster near $67,000, but the variation shows that the master's degree design influences both job trajectory and earning potential. An MS might open doors to analytical or federal roles tied to data and policy, while an MBA can boost advancement in administrative or compliance-heavy environments.
Expert Insight: Chris Walsh, Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal Defense Attorney & Former Chief Assistant District Attorney, Partner at Walsh Law
How do online criminal justice programs at the master's level provide exposure to legal systems, ethics, and criminal procedures effectively?
"Reputable online programs incorporate simulations, real-world case studies, and interactive coursework that mirrors courtroom or law enforcement situations. Many also include interviews with professionals or virtual ride-a longs, giving students ethical and procedural context."
Are there any specialized tracks students should consider in your opinion?
"If a student is interested in defense work or forensic investigation, tracks in Criminal Law, Criminology, or Forensic Psychology are useful. Corrections and Juvenile Justice tracks also provide focused opportunities aligned with common career paths."
How do employers view online degrees, especially at the master's level?
"Credibility depends on the institution. If the program is accredited and includes practical components, most employers are receptive — especially when paired with internships or real-world experience."
EXPERT TIP
"Empathy, critical thinking, and communication are key. In defense law especially, the ability to understand both sides of a case, remain calm under pressure, and advocate persuasively is of utmost importance."
FAQs About Master's in Criminal Justice Programs
How Much Can You Make With a Master's in Criminal Justice?
There's a wide range of possible salaries among criminal justice career paths. A master's degree might qualify you to be a , a career with a median yearly salary of $64,600. But corporate earn median yearly pay of $97,930. It all depends on what type of criminal justice you practice and for which employer.
How Much Does a Master's in Criminal Justice Cost?
We can't give an exact number because each school charges a different amount for master's degrees. But the National Center for Education Statistics calculated as the average cost of tuition and fees for graduate degrees in the 2020-2021 school year. This amount is general and not specific to criminal justice programs.
Keep in mind that public schools in your state of residence will often offer the most affordable online criminal justice master's degrees.
How Long Does a Master's in Criminal Justice Take?
Administrators design most master's in criminal justice degrees to last two years for students who take a full-time course load while working. You might be able to finish some programs in as little as a year. Many schools also offer part-time options designed to take three years.
What Are Some Professional Industry Associations for Criminal Justice?
Criminal justice professionals can choose from many associations that offer networking and career development opportunities. Some of these groups are more general while others focus more narrowly on specific professions. Examples of generalist associations include the , the , and the . The Bureau of Justice Assistance provides a wide-ranging .
Should I Get a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice?
There's no absolute answer to this question, but you should consider a criminal justice master's degree if your career goals involve leading teams and projects in one of the three branches of the justice system. People with advanced degrees money on average and experience less unemployment over the course of their careers. Talk to experienced employees in the line of work you want to pursue to find out their education and experience and whether a master's degree is necessary.
What Is a Master's in Criminal Justice Degree?
Pursuing a criminal justice online master's degree offers you an opportunity to analyze topics such as criminology, policy analysis, and ethics, enhancing your ability to address complex issues in law enforcement, corrections, and criminal investigation.
Administrators design criminal justice master's degree programs for students who want to hold leadership positions in law enforcement, the courts, or corrections. The curriculum focuses on skills and knowledge that can be valuable to criminal justice administrators and supervisors, such as behavioral motivation, project management, policy analysis, and criminology research methods. Many graduate programs let students choose a focus area or concentration so they can specialize in the job market.
Online criminal justice degrees usually feature asynchronous coursework without regular meeting times. Instead, you sign in to a learning management system at your convenience to watch lecture recordings, chat with colleagues over messaging apps, download readings, and submit assignments. Online programs are popular because they may help learners balance work and personal lives with graduate school.
There's no recognized accrediting agency for criminal justice degree programs. But it's important to only consider enrollment in institutionally accredited colleges when choosing a master's program. We've only included accredited programs on our list of the best online schools for master's in criminal justice degrees.
Master's degrees in criminal justice usually feature advanced general criminal justice courses mixed with electives on leadership and a specialty concentration. Professors typically teach how to analyze criminal justice policies and apply ethical theory frameworks to professional practice.
OnlineU's college planning resources might be able to help you decide what and how you want to study if you're still exploring options. Once you've decided on a path, read through our Guide to Starting Your Online Education.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Master’s in Criminal Justice?
Applying to an online master's program requires a bachelor's degree in any discipline, though admissions officers may prefer previous education in the criminal justice field. You'll need to complete 30-36 credit hours of coursework to graduate, which often takes two years at a full-time pace. Your required credits may include a final capstone project, master's thesis, or internship.
What Courses Do Students Take in an Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Program?
Criminal justice has a good deal of variety as an academic major. For example, some master's programs might emphasize law enforcement knowledge over courts and the legal system. There is also a wide range of available specializations in this discipline that include criminal behavior, corrections administration, criminological theory, and homeland security.
We've selected a few common general courses to detail below. There's a good chance you'll encounter these in most criminal justice master's programs regardless of your chosen specialty.
- Criminal Justice Organizations: This class covers the history and design of criminal justice institutions, such as law enforcement agencies and different levels of criminal courts. Professors might emphasize the role of leaders in these organizations and how they're shaped by political considerations.
- Ethics in Criminal Justice: Criminal justice leaders can have immense influence over individuals' lives, so every master's program includes this course to help students understand the responsibility they can hold. Professors might discuss civil liberties, capital punishment, public policy, surveillance, and frameworks for ethical decision-making.
- Topics in Leadership: Students survey issues in criminal justice administration in this class, especially those concerning managers and policy makers. They often examine criminal justice through the lens of organization theory and discuss the effect that individual leaders can have in the broader system.
- Trends in Criminal Procedure: Faculty members for this course describe hot topics in all three arms of the criminal justice system. They might discuss new precedents in case law, defendant rights, and restorative justice models. Students typically get to analyze real-life cases and defend their viewpoints in writing.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Criminal Justice?
Earning a master's degree in criminal justice online might qualify you for a new range of jobs. You might also continue your education and pick up more academic credentials.
We give options for both paths below:
Criminal Justice Careers
You can earn entry-level jobs in most criminal justice careers with a bachelor's degree. But a master's degree might make you more competitive for higher-level positions in public safety that have leadership responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), possible roles include security manager for a corporation or government agency, homeland security intelligence analyst, correctional facility warden, and federal law enforcement officer.
Further Education
There are two main types of education to pursue in criminal justice once you've earned a master's diploma:
Graduate certificates are designed to teach a narrow topic or skill to experienced practitioners who already have college degrees. Many schools offer certificate programs in subjects such as cybersecurity, forensic science, juvenile justice, criminal investigation, and intelligence analysis.
A doctoral degree is most useful if you want to teach college and do academic research. There's typically not much reason to spend several more years in school if your goal is to manage a criminal justice organization; a master's degree is usually enough qualification. However, you do need a juris doctor (JD) degree from a law school if you decide to become a lawyer.
Student Reviews of Online Criminal Justice Programs
2008 I marched into Keiser University seeking a new direction for my life. Unfortunately, life as I knew it flipped upside down and inside out.That did not stop me from pursuing my destiny. The professors were genuinely interested in my success. Yes, there was one professor I did not in particularly care for, but by that time I was at home in the learning environment and everyone celebrated me every step of the way. It was a far cry from the hole I was in were folks tolerated my presence.I felt like... Read More
Review Date: 12/27/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My experience at the University of Phoenix has been nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I enrolled, I have been met with kindness, professionalism, and a genuine desire to help students succeed. Every individual I’ve interacted with—whether faculty, advisors, or support staff—has been incredibly helpful, approachable, and encouraging. Their dedication to student success is evident in the way they provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure that I feel confident in my academic journey.... Read More
Review Date: 5/14/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
University of Phoenix has all the right resources to help every student succeed in their career and life. Also the faculty is very helpful and will go out of their way to making sure every student is successful in each of their classes and to help them prepare for their future.
Review Date: 4/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The Masters in Criminal Justice program with a specialization in Cybercrime Investigations was truly outstanding. This program is unique and one of the few of its kind in the country. The coursework and training provided in this program were comprehensive and in-depth, covering all aspects of cybercrime investigations, from the basics of digital forensics to the latest techniques in cybercrime prevention and detection. The faculty members were experts in the field and provided valuable insights and... Read More
Review Date: 2/2/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As with any endeavor in life, the more you invest, the more significant benefit of the outcome. I completed the online MSCJ program in one year due to the construction of the program. Semesters are divided into 8-week segments, allowing intense work on a specific subject. Books are insanely expensive (as usual), but I recommend you get the electronic versions. The quizzes are an open book, and you can query the online version to find specific subjects or keywords to complete the quizzes. Always do... Read More
Review Date: 11/15/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I earned my B.Sc. in Criminal Justice from Lamar (Brick and Mortar) and am currently enrolled in their online MBA-Criminal Justice Management degree. Pros: The dorms are fantastic--very private and spacious. Facilities are overall in good condition and clean. Student life and sporting events are available if you want them, but they are not as in-your-face as A&M or UT. Prices are extremely competitive, especially for their online programs. The class sizes are small, so most professors really care... Read More
Review Date: 5/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The class that impacted my learning the most was the first two classes and the last two. I learned about time management and planning, and it also helped me in my current position at work to be more proactive and not reactive. There was one professor that I had that could have been a little more patient when it came to responding to emails. But overall great program. Thank you to all the professors who take their time out to read and examine the hard work put into writing.
Review Date: 12/28/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Outstanding instructors that used great class materials including text books and other reading resources. Professors were very knowledgeable and helpful in seminars. An excessive amount of reading and writing (compared to land campus), but a rewarding experience. The school falls significantly short in providing financial resources such as scholarships and grants.
Review Date: 3/25/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love the layout for the classes compared to other online programs. They have one hour seminars which gives you direct professor access. This is huge in a graduate degree. The professors are very helpful with getting your assignments done and realize you are working adults and most likely have families as well. I finished my bachelor's online and will have my masters done in march. I recommend this place to anyone who works full time as this really is the way school is moving to for graduate levels... Read More
Review Date: 12/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This institution is very well able to adapt and provides value education to both Active, and veterans of the armed forces as well as those not in the military. The professors are extremely well rounded and have the guidance and direction to allow each student to get from the course what they put in. The institution is not one that can be just done on the side. A person must focus and be willing to dedicate their time to achieving educational greatness as this is what is expected.
Review Date: 3/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
It was important that I attend an on-line school for my Masters Degree due to my work schedule, but I was both skeptical of the quality of an on-line education and a bit deterred as I graduated with my BA several decades ago, and I'm not particularly computer literate. I did have some adjustment issues with the on-line format, but I found many resources were available to assist me. My first teacher was amazing, very accessible, eager to help and supportive. He also was understanding when life issues... Read More
Review Date: 4/14/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have now completed both a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree with Purdue Global. The courses prepare you with a base line of knowledge in the criminal justice field. The courses at the Master's Level are definitely more focused on conducting applied research. I am active duty military and tuition assistance covered every penny of my Bachelor's degree. The Master's degree was a different story with TA covering $850 a class and me covering the other $850. All books for the Bachelors were digital and... Read More
Review Date: 7/30/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
One thing for sure is acknowledging it was not easy. However, it was indeed a challenging experience. I worked towards my master's degree and holding a full-time job while pregnant came with its obstacles. Moreover, I did not allow those obstacles to affect the goal and purpose of retrieving my master's degree. After my son was born at the beginning of January, finishing up the quarter and preparing for my capstone course was necessary. My professors were understanding and patient with me as well.... Read More
Review Date: 5/11/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
This degree opens the door to many possibilities for my family and I. With this degree I can secure a position that will help me support my family as well as provide everything that they need. My husband is a disabled veteran, so this will help as well, e will now be able to stop hurting himself everyday to support our family by himself.
Review Date: 2/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I gave the campus life categories one star due to the fact that I am a non-resident living in California. I am enrolled in the Masters of Arts in Criminal Justice Online degree program. My experience while enrolled in this school has been excellent and I find the ease of the online program very beneficial to my lifestyle. I work full-time in my field of study and ASU allows me to do my school work on my own time. All in all, great school for graduate studies!
Review Date: 2/26/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
My college program of Social Work has been the best online experience that I believe a student can truly ask for. My time spent in this program has been filled with caring and engaged instructors, class participation both inside and outside of class and flexibility from the program department. Working fulltime, the professors and staff in this program has made learning a very important but adaptable experience. Class participation is highly encouraged and I have honestly felt closer to my classmates... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Currently taking graduate courses online and I am in love with this option opposed to the regular classroom option. The flexibility is exactly what I need considering I work a full and part time job and I am a a single mother. It allows me to advance my education which will open up more opportunities that will enable me to provide for myself and my child without struggle. The availability of my instructors online are immediate opposed to waiting on seeing them during their office hours. Online courses... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I enjoyed attending UOP online because it is convenient. I have 2 young children and work full time so at night I do my school work. University of Phoenix has made it possible to get my Master's degree without leaving my family. The current program I am in gives great detail of the special education system and how to be prepared for the job.
Review Date: 6/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I obtained my Master's of Professional Studies-Criminal Justice from Fort Hays State University in 2018 in just a bit over two years. The courses kept me busy but were well organized and supported by the instructors...it was not a free ride and required a lot of work but was manageable. The costs associated with my degree were very affordable. My purpose for obtaining my graduate degree was to enable me to teach college level CJ courses as I move toward retirement from law enforcement and in less... Read More
Review Date: 11/13/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The graduate program at Northeastern University (College of Professional Studies) for a Criminal Justice Science Master's Degree in Leadership is well designed for law enforcement officials who are already in the field! It allows you to be competitive amongst your peers at work, and expand your field of study. Not only in criminal justice but also develop your leadership capabilities for a law enforcement executive position. Most of the instructors provide first hand insight, and experience about... Read More
Review Date: 8/29/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No