The field of criminal justice is ever-changing and responding to continual technical advancements and our constantly moving digital culture.
In light of this arises an increasing need for criminal justice professionals who have relevant insight into the sociological, legal, and practical areas of law enforcement with the skills to critically think, problem-solve, communicate, and lead.
Criminal justice careers are truly about protecting people and public safety. It is a field that includes occupations ranging from police officers to probation officers to Homeland Security.
If you have completed a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and wish to continue your education, deepen your knowledge of criminal behavior and correctional systems, increase your chances of establishing a career in leadership in this field, or want to get involved in a research career, a graduate degree in criminal justice is worth considering.
Recommended Online Programs
Masters degrees in criminal justice will require specialization beyond the general training in your bachelor's program, and most schools will boast strengths in one or more particular areas. Criminal justice graduate students often choose to earn a degree specialization in niche areas like homeland security, behavioral science, or forensic technology.
Many online degree programs culminate in a thesis paper or capstone project, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate the new knowledge and skills they have gained.
What Are the Best Master's in Criminal Justice Degrees?
For those interested in pursuing further training for careers in this field and who are unable to attend a traditional residential program, we have provided a ranking of the top 35 online graduate programs in criminal justice.
Our rankings are based data that students have indicated is most important to them: cost and reputation. Our data is drawn from a number of public sources, including U.S. News & World Report, the National Center for Education Statistics, and PayScale.
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.
