Jobs in the broad field of criminal justice are never far from the headlines of the news or the plot lines of TV shows and movies.
Many different things draw people to criminal justice. Some grow up watching police-centric television like NCIS, Criminal Minds, or The Wire, and find themselves drawn to the work. Others find the idea of solving crimes appealing, and some possess a strong sense of justice that naturally draws them to the work.
What kind of Master's in Criminal Justice degree should you get?
Whether you're concerned about the relationship between the police and minority communities and you want to make a difference for the better in your own city. Or you came to police work because of a long and proud family tradition, one of these degrees will help you succeed throughout your career in criminal justice.
Recommended Online Programs
How much money can you make with a Master's in Criminal Justice?
A master's degree in criminal justice can really enhance your salary potential. And, according to Payscale.com, salaries for graduates of these programs can increase significantly depending on your level of experience:
1-4 years experience: $47,740
5-9 years experience: $65,000
10-19 years experience: $80,000
20+ years experience: $108,000
Many benefits of working in criminal justice, both tangible and intangible, do not enter into salary reports. Those in criminal justice often receive generous pension packages, but for many, the idea of serving one's neighbors or contributing to a greater cause than oneself is a benefit unto itself.
What can you do with a degree in criminal justice?
Regardless of how you came to your career, if you're a serving police officer, correctional officer, sheriff's deputy, or other criminal justice professional, you may be ready to take on a leadership role within your current department. Investigating your educational options for a master's degree in criminal justice is the next step in turning your career goals into reality. Graduates from the programs below have gone on to become:
Police Officers
FBI Agents
Investigative Specialists
And more
What are the most affordable online master's in criminal justice degrees?
We've ranked the mostaffordable online master's degree programs for those who would like to prepare for a leadership role in law enforcement, corrections, human services, and related fields while keeping your current job. With these programs, you can add to your qualifications without leaving the organization you're serving now. Each one is regionally accredited – the highest level of accreditation for academic excellence.
With these programs, you can add to your qualifications without leaving the organization you're serving now. Each one is regionally accredited – the highest level of accreditation for academic excellence.
Top 10 Most Affordable Online Master's in Criminal Justice
See our rankings methodology page.
