Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

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Updated October 10, 2023

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Criminal justice degrees prepare students for diverse careers in areas like social work, security, and law enforcement.

Earning an associate in criminal justice provides the experience and academic credentials needed for entry-level roles in a variety of fields. Although many graduates pursue careers in law enforcement, a criminal justice associate degree also prepares students for careers in other areas, like paralegal work, security, and management.

Graduates enjoy strong job prospects. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth for private detectives and investigators, paralegals and legal assistants, and police and detectives between 2018 and 2028.

Recent events regarding police reform may impact this degree and career paths associated with it. The movement of some municipalities and states to divert funding away from police departments and invest in other public service areas may contribute to some uncertainty for the field of policing. However, it may also contribute to more job openings in adjacent public service areas, such as social work and mental health counseling, as professionals in these areas begin to work more closely with police departments.

This guide ranks the best online associate in criminal justice programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.

Featured Online Schools

The Best Online Criminal Justice Associate Programs

#1 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

North Central Missouri College

  • Trenton, MO
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in criminal justice should consider North Central Missouri College. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees seeking to advance in their studies can apply credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. They can also access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The school awards an average of $5,895 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. Typically, 95% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 21% receiving loans.

North Central Missouri College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Trenton, Missouri

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,440

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,370

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,440
Out-of-state
$5,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,746
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Trinity Valley Community College

  • Athens, TX
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Trinity Valley Community College supports 12 online associate degree programs from its main campus in Athens, Texas, including an AAS in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.

During their studies, enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Students seeking to defray the costs of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,818 in financial aid awards. The college notes that 82% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 20% receiving loans.

Trinity Valley Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Athens, Texas

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,170

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,170
Out-of-state
$4,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,233
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Pensacola State College

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in criminal justice should consider Pensacola State College. Enrollees in the AS in criminal justice technology program benefit from a robust course curriculum, preparing them for the demands of the criminal justice field. Learners looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.

Throughout the program, students can access career services and academic advising. Additional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $5,565 in financial aid. The college notes that 75% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 7% taking out loans.

Pensacola State College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Pensacola, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,887

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,547

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,887
Out-of-state
$7,547
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,713
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Northeast Community College

  • Norfolk, NE
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Norfolk, Nebraska, Northeast Community College provides online education across 13 associate degree programs, including its AAS in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.

Criminal justice degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Distance learners can qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $4,456. The college reports that 90% of students are awarded financial aid, with 21% receiving student loans.

Northeast Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Norfolk, Nebraska

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,170

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$4,170
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,258
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Daytona State College

  • Daytona Beach, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Daytona State College supports 10 online associate programs from its main campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. Criminal justice students benefit from a rigorous core curriculum, industry-relevant coursework, and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates of the AS in criminal justice technology program can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and apply their college credits toward a four year institution.

A leader in student success, the college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other resources. Learners can also access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average student is awarded $4,945 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. The college notes that 71% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 22% taking out loans.

Daytona State College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Daytona Beach, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,072

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,960

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,072
Out-of-state
$11,960
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,430
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Spartanburg Methodist College

  • Spartanburg, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Spartanburg Methodist College supports an online criminal justice associate degree program from its main campus in South Carolina. Criminal justice students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. Other institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The institution reports that 99% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 68% receive student loans.

Spartanburg Methodist College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina

Admission Rate: 61%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,750

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,750

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,750
Out-of-state
$15,750
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
61%
Students Enrolled
933
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Ulster County Community College

  • Stone Ridge, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice program should consider Ulster County Community College. Criminal justice students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.

While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.

The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $6,567. The college notes that 81% of all students receive financial aid, with 11% taking out loans.

Ulster County Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Stone Ridge, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,680

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,360

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,680
Out-of-state
$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,550
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Southeastern Community College

  • Whiteville, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Southeastern Community College, a public, two-year college, offers two online associate degree programs to distance learners worldwide. Students in the criminal justice program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of a criminal justice career. Graduates can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.

The college prioritizes student success through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.

Criminal justice students can expect to receive an average of $5,788 in financial aid. Learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and loans to assist with educational expenses.

Southeastern Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Whiteville, North Carolina

Student-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,432

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,576

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,524
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

San Antonio College

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners seeking flexible study in criminal justice should consider San Antonio College's online associate in criminal justice and law enforcement. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year college.

While enrolled, criminal justice students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.

Online learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, receiving an average of $5,601 in aid. The college reports that 78% of students are awarded financial aid, with 6% taking out student loans.

San Antonio College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: San Antonio, Texas

Student-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,450

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,980

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,450
Out-of-state
$13,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,499
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Lincoln Land Community College

  • Springfield, IL
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Lincoln Land Community College hosts four online associate programs, including an AAS in criminal justice program. The associate in criminal justice prepares students for the criminal justice field through comprehensive coursework. Students seeking further education can apply their criminal justice credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,377. According to the school, 74% of enrollees receive some form of funding.

Lincoln Land Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Springfield, Illinois

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,312

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,468

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,312
Out-of-state
$9,468
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,446
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Fox Valley Technical College

  • Appleton, WI
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice program should consider Fox Valley Technical College. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Online students can access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Students seeking to defray the costs of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $4,669 in financial aid. The college reports that 69% of students are awarded financial aid, with 15% receiving student loans.

Fox Valley Technical College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Appleton, Wisconsin

Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,095
Out-of-state
$6,143
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,239
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Ashland University

  • Ashland, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Ashland University, located in Ohio, boasts two online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked associate in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.

Students can access numerous college resources, such as career services and academic advising. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 61% opting for student loans.

Ashland University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Ashland, Ohio

Admission Rate: 71%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $20,950

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,950

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,950
Out-of-state
$20,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$6,540
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
5,091
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Keiser University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a flexible online AA in criminal justice should consider Keiser University. Students in the criminal justice program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of a criminal justice career. Graduates seeking to advance their studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, criminal justice students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Students benefit from financial aid, with 89% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.

Keiser University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808

Transfer Credit Accepted: Accepted

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,162
Out-of-state
$27,162
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Finger Lakes Community College

  • Canandaigua, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Canandaigua, Finger Lakes Community College boasts a highly-ranked online AAS in criminal justice, one of 20 online associate degree programs. The program builds foundational knowledge in criminal justice, preparing graduates for entry-level careers in the field. Criminal justice students can apply their course credits toward future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, criminal justice students can access college resources geared towards student success. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $5,990. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 82% receive financial aid and 25% take out loans.

Finger Lakes Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Canandaigua, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,722

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,083

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,722
Out-of-state
$7,083
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,649
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Herkimer County Community College

  • Herkimer, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Herkimer County Community College's AAS in criminal justice is one of 16 associate degree programs offered remotely. Students in the criminal justice program prepare for the demands of the criminal justice field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Learners can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and transfer their college credits to a four year institution.

The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and other academic tutoring.

The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $6,877. Students benefit from financial aid, with 83% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.

Herkimer County Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Herkimer, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,870

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,870
Out-of-state
$7,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,396
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#16 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

University of Maine at Fort Kent

  • Fort Kent, ME
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Maine at Fort Kent, a public, four-year college, supports three online associate programs available to distance learners worldwide. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources. The college supports its online learning community through online-specific resources, such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Distance learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $6,573. According to the school, 94% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid and 31% opt for student loans.

University of Maine at Fort Kent at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Fort Kent, Maine

Admission Rate: 99%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,170

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,460

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,170
Out-of-state
$11,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
99%
Students Enrolled
1,589
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#17 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Ocean County College

  • Toms River, NJ
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Ocean County College supports nine online associate degree programs, including its AS in criminal justice. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Learners seeking to advance their studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career services. Distance learners can access other resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,503. Approximately 59% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 16% receiving student loans.

Ocean County College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Toms River, New Jersey

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,170

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,750

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,170
Out-of-state
$6,750
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,171
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#18 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

Shoreline Community College

  • Shoreline, WA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a flexible associate degree program in criminal justice? Consider Shoreline Community College's online AAAS in criminal justice. Criminal justice students benefit from a rigorous core curriculum, industry-relevant coursework, and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources. Distance learners benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $5,555 in financial aid. Typically, 58% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 8% taking out loans.

Shoreline Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Shoreline, Washington

Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,588

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,351

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,588
Out-of-state
$6,351
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,884
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#19 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

St. Petersburg College

  • Clearwater, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice should consider St. Petersburg College. The criminal justice technology program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a criminal justice-specific career. Students can transfer their course credits to a four-year college, in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Support services available for distance learners include academic tutoring and virtual library resources.

The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $8,559. Of the school's enrollees, 73% receive financial aid and 25% use loans.

St. Petersburg College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Clearwater, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,943
Out-of-state
$7,774
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
28,853
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice

SUNY Canton

  • Canton, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

SUNY Canton, a public, four-year college, supports six online associate degree programs available to distance learners worldwide. The criminal justice program prepares students for the demands of the field through foundational and advanced coursework. After graduation, students can apply their college credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

While enrolled, criminal justice students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Other resources available for distance learners include academic tutoring and virtual library services.

The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $9,262 in financial aid. About 95% of incoming students receive financial aid awards, and about 72% take out student loans.

SUNY Canton at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Canton, New York

Admission Rate: 85%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,070

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,534

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$13,534
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
3,223
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Best Online Programs

Online Associate's in Criminal Justice Programs Ranking Guidelines

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What Is an Online Associate in Criminal Justice Degree?

Online associate in criminal justice programs typically comprise around 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. General education requirements often constitute the majority of courses in an associate degree program. In addition to general education courses in areas like writing, mathematics, and the humanities, criminal justice students may take major courses in areas like criminal law, government, and psychology.

Students interested in pursuing entry-level careers in law enforcement or a related four-year degree benefit from earning a criminal justice associate degree online.

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Choosing an Online Program

When choosing an online associate in criminal justice program, learners should consider factors like their goals, their current lifestyle and personal obligations, and their budget. Learn more about how to choose an online degree through the link below.

What Else Can I Expect From an Associate in Criminal Justice Program?

Online criminal justice associate programs often include courses in the fundamentals of law and ethics, the criminal justice system, and government. Some programs also include courses in psychology and public speaking.

Associate in Criminal Justice Curriculum

Criminology

This course outlines the definitions for various criminal acts and examines the psychological, social, and moral influences on criminal behavior. Learners study various responses to criminal behavior, including public policy, law, and criminal justice scholarship.

Criminal Justice Ethics

This course provides an overview of the various codes of ethics used within the criminal justice system. Students explore ethics in law enforcement, policing, corrections, and court systems. They gain skills in ethical mediation and learn how to navigate ethical dilemmas in the criminal justice system.

Police Studies

Courses in police studies provide foundational knowledge of the policing system in the U.S., covering topics like police history, crime patterns and response, and the development of police procedure. Students may take more than one course in police studies, especially if they plan to work in the field.

Where Can an Associate in Criminal Justice Degree Take Me?

A criminal justice associate degree prepares graduates for a variety of careers in diverse areas. The following list outlines several common career paths for graduates.

Criminal Justice Careers

An associate in criminal justice provides a strong foundation for a variety of jobs, both within and outside of law enforcement. Courses in criminal justice programs emphasize skills like critical thinking, leadership, ethics, and communication, preparing students for success in diverse roles. This section outlines several common careers for graduates.

Paralegals

Paralegals work alongside lawyers, providing assistance and support for law firms. They perform administrative tasks, manage files, and conduct legal research. An associate degree serves as the minimum education requirement for this position, and although optional, some paralegals may choose to earn certification.

Paralegals excel in organization and time management. They possess a working knowledge of the law, and apply that knowledge to their research and case work. Paralegal training prepares students to enter the field and pursue further education.

Median Annual Salary

$51,740

Projected Growth Rate

12%

Social and Human Service Assistants

Social and human service assistants work in a variety of environments, including individual and family services, nursing care facilities, hospitals, and rehabilitation clinics. An associate degree provides the necessary basic education for these positions; however, some employers may require a bachelor's degree.

Social and human service assistants need strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. They may work for nonprofit organizations or serve in roles within government services. Generally, no formal licensure is required.

Median Annual Salary

$35,060

Projected Growth Rate

13%

Police and Detectives

Police officers and detectives serve local communities by protecting citizens and upholding local, state, and federal laws. Police officers work in emergency services, responding to emergency calls and providing assistance when crimes occur or when citizens are in distress. Detectives investigate crimes, following up on leads and tips from the community, and seek justice for victims of crimes under the law.

Recent shifts in attitudes toward policing may contribute to a change in roles for police officers, with some job duties shifting toward human service professionals, like mental health and social workers.

Median Annual Salary

$65,170

Projected Growth Rate

5%

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete an associate in criminal justice program?

Associate degree programs typically take two years of full-time study to complete, though some schools offer accelerated programs.

What can I do with an associate in criminal justice?

Many graduates pursue jobs in policing and corrections. However, they can also pursue careers as firefighters, private detectives and investigators, and social and community service workers.

Is criminal justice an AA or AS degree?

Typically, criminal justice associate degrees are AA degrees, but some schools offer AS in criminal justice programs.

Is an associate in criminal justice difficult?

Pursuing a postsecondary degree requires hard work, focus, organization, and drive. Online criminal justice programs also require students to possess strong time management skills and self-discipline.

Is it hard to find a job with a criminal justice degree?

Many potential jobs for associate in criminal justice graduates are projected to grow between 2018 and 2028, so students enjoy strong job prospects.

What is the difference between law enforcement and policing?

Law enforcement encompasses a wider range of roles and careers than policing. Policing refers directly to the work of police officers; law enforcement includes all different areas of the criminal justice system.

How can I help society with a criminal justice degree?

A criminal justice degree prepares students to pursue roles in a variety of human and community service fields. Many graduates pursue roles in helping industries, like social work and public health.

How do social workers and law enforcement work together?

Social workers often work to foster a more positive relationship between law enforcement and civilians. Today's shifting ideas about police work may also lead to social workers stepping in to assist law enforcement more often.

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