Comparing Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in California
As home to the the nation’s largest state justice system, California offers steady job growth in criminal justice roles. If you interested in earning a criminal justice degree in California, the state offers accredited online programs with flexible formats and frequent start dates. Whether you want to study law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, or forensics, this DFG guide can help you compare costs, admission requirements, and program formats for CA’s online criminal justice degrees.
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Expertise: Mental HealthBehavioral HealthAssociate Degrees in Criminal Justice
A criminal justice associate degree gives foundational knowledge about criminal justice. Courses cover topics like crime scene investigation, ethics, and constitutional law to provide a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system. Online criminal justice associate degrees typically take 18 to 24 months and lead to careers as investigators and probation, corrections, and police officers.
California Coast University
The Online Criminal Justice Programs at California Coast University include an Associate of Science (AS) that provides a basic foundation in theories relevant to the criminal justice field. Students study history, theory, research, and best practices in areas like criminal and juvenile justice, criminal investigation, procedures in the justice system, terrorism, and forensic science. This broad program is flexible, making it perfect for current professionals wanting to make a career move. The program’s 20 courses, totaling 60 semester units, are self-paced and have open start dates. The degree includes general education, core, and elective courses.
Location: Santa Ana, CA
Mode: Online
Cost: $3,400
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Transcripts
- Resume
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A Look Into Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees
Typically taking four years of full-time study, bachelor’s programs provide in-depth exploration of criminal justice topics. Classes cover criminology, crime prevention, governmental policy, and corrections. Graduates of criminal justice bachelor’s programs often find employment as government agents in homeland security, the FBI, or drug enforcement. They also work as investigators, corrections officers, crime lab analysts, police officers, and more.
California Baptist University
California Baptist University’s online Criminal Justice, BS caters to working individuals who want to stay on the job while preparing for career advancement. The 48-unit program takes 16 months to complete with a full-time course load and prior completion of general education and elective requirements. Accelerated, asynchronous classes begin every eight weeks with three semesters offered year-round. Transfer credits are also accepted. This degree prepares students for a variety of careers, including those at law enforcement agencies and as security personnel.
Location: Riverside, CA
Mode: Online
Cost: $24,960
Admissions Requirements:
- High school or equivalent transcripts
- Minimum 2.5 GPS for those with fewer than 24 high school units
- College transcripts (if applicable)
Online Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
Criminal justice master’s programs are for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice or a related field and relevant work experience. They offer specialties in areas like cybersecurity, forensic science, and strategic management to prepare for mid- and high-level positions. Graduates pursue careers as computer forensics investigators, correctional officer supervisors, and more.
San Jose State University
The Master of Science in Criminology with a Concentration in Global Criminology from San Jose State University prepares students to meet the needs of global communities. This 30-unit program uses an international comparative curriculum to give a deep understanding of diverse local and global landscapes. Students become proficient at the tools and technologies within the field of criminology. Graduates are prepared for advanced careers in law enforcement as well as the legal, community, social services, and education fields. Courses are asynchronous, include discussions for engaging with students and faculty, and cover topics like cyber forensics, global terrorism, and human rights.
Location: San Jose, CA
Mode: Online
Cost: $21,420
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree at accredited university
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 semester units
Doctorates and Graduate Certificates in Criminal Justice
Criminal justice doctorate degrees are for those interested in research, theory, and education (PhD) or who want to focus on real-world application (doctoral). Graduate certificates focus on specialty areas. While California schools don’t offer any online doctoral-level criminal justice programs, several in-person programs are available in California, and out-of-state online doctoral programs are an option. Out-of-state programs may not meet California requirements, though, so check details before enrolling.
Liberty University
While not in California, Liberty University’s PhD in Criminal Justice may be an option for California residents. This program offers a general track with no specialization, a homeland security track, and a leadership track, all from a uniquely Christian perspective that helps Christian students excel without compromising their principles. Potential careers for graduates of this program include criminal justice writer, forensic investigator, researcher, analyst, and university administrator. Courses are eight weeks long, and the program consists of 60 total credit hours.
Location: Lynchburg, VA
Mode: Online
Cost: $35,700 (FT), $39,000 (PT)
Admissions Requirements:
- College transcripts
- Master’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
Student Support: Criminal Justice FAQs Answered
What type of financial aid is available for criminal justice students in California?
California criminal justice students have access to multiple financial aid opportunities. Federal options include Pell Grants, work-study programs, and student loans through FAFSA. State-specific programs like the Law Enforcement Personnel Dependents Grant support dependents of first responders. Professional organizations, including the California Association of Criminalists and Western Society of Criminology, offer scholarships. Individual schools also provide merit and need-based aid, while national organizations like the American Criminal Justice Association offer competitive awards. Students should work with their school’s financial aid office to explore all options.
How do I find the right online criminal justice program for me in California?
The right program is highly dependent on your individual preferences and needs. So finding the right one involves researching schools with the emphasis you want, making sure they align with your career goals, and more. Each program offers a slightly different focus. For example, the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Sacramento State opens up career opportunities in courts, corrections, law enforcement, and parole and probation systems and cultivates real-life skills for professionals already in the field. You’ll also want to consider costs and begin your search with some of the most affordable online criminal justice degrees. In the end, the right school also offers the flexibility needed for success in the program and the ability to keep up with life’s other commitments.
What can you do after you graduate with a criminal justice degree in California?
A criminal justice degree in California leads to a variety of career options, including those in law enforcement and investigation. Specific positions include as probation officers, correctional officers, police officers, private investigators, detectives, and crime scene investigators. Related occupations include paralegals, forensic scientists, technicians, and victim advocates.
Is obtaining a criminal justice degree difficult?
A program’s level of difficulty is highly subjective. Many programs include a mix of legal concepts, social science theories, and practical application. Thus, essential skills for criminal justice students include strong analytical skills and critical thinking. Being meticulous and passionate about the criminal justice field are also important.
Why are online criminal justice programs a good option for California residents?
Flexible online programs are often the perfect solution for busy working professional and part-time learners juggling multiple responsibilities. Not only do they save time, but they also save money. By studying remotely, you avoid costly commutes and enjoy the convenience of studying from the comfort of your own home. Plus, when you enroll in an accredited program, you earn the same credentials and skills as those who study on campus.
California Salary & Career Insights for Criminal Justice Graduates
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Correctional Officers and Jailers | $62,590 | $108,120 | $93,160 |
| California | Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | $43,580 | $81,050 | $59,310 |
| California | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $60,820 | $224,120 | $132,760 |
| California | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $74,130 | $162,490 | $115,090 |
| California | Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $71,360 | $143,650 | $113,460 |
| California | Private Detectives and Investigators | $37,520 | $100,370 | $56,010 |
| California | Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $64,960 | $138,220 | $104,540 |
| California | Security Guards | $35,250 | $58,630 | $39,590 |
| California | Social Workers | $41,060 | $120,870 | $63,680 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Occupation | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Correctional Officers and Jailers | 33,000 | 30,300 | -2,700 | -8.20% |
| California | Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | 13,100 | 13,500 | 400 | 3.10% |
| California | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | 1,300 | 1,300 | – | 0.00% |
| California | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | 11,300 | 11,500 | 200 | 1.80% |
| California | Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers | 64,200 | 66,400 | 2,200 | 3.40% |
| California | Private Detectives and Investigators | 5,000 | 5,500 | 500 | 10.00% |
| California | Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | 12,700 | 13,100 | 400 | 3.10% |
| California | Security Guards | 181,400 | 205,500 | 24,100 | 13.30% |
| California | Social Workers | 8,700 | 9,900 | 1,200 | 13.80% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Resources for Criminal Justice Students & Professionals in CA
From professional memberships with a slew of benefits to scholarly resources and study assistance, a variety of resources exist for criminal justice students and professionals in California. These come from nonprofit organizations, schools offering criminal justice programs, and others who collectively support and encourage those in the field.
- Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS): The ACJS is an international association that fosters professional and scholarly activities in the criminal justice field. It provides a forum for dissemination of issues in research, policy, education, and practice within criminal justice.
- California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA): The CCPOA strives to benefit criminal justice workers through the improvement of wages and benefits for workers and the enhancement of training and education for correctional officers in California.
- California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: This site offers information, laws, and guidelines for correctional facilities across California. It provides an active job board and includes guidelines for applying for a state job in criminal justice.
- California State University, Northridge University Library: The purpose of this library page is to help students and researchers study criminology. It has research tips, resource recommendations, citations, and more. The library offers limited access to nonstudents.
- Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice (CJCJ): The CJCJ helps criminal justice students and professionals keep up with the latest news and criminal justice information in the juvenile sector, find volunteer opportunities, and apply for additional training.
- The Civil Rights Project: This UCLA research institute studies civil rights issues and racial equality, especially as related to education and opportunity for racial and ethnic groups. It has many resources helpful to criminal justice students in California.
- Criminal Justice Resume Examples and Tips: This Indeed article not only offers resume examples and tips but also provides a template anyone can follow to prepare a resume for a job in the criminal justice field.
- DSST Criminal Justice Practice Test: Many criminal justice programs in California offer credit for work experience, and the DSST assesses that experience. Powerhouse Prep offers this free study guide, practice test, and study tools to help prepare for the DSST.
- Mt. San Jacinto College Open Education Resources (OER): This OER offers free online teaching and learning criminal justice materials. Content includes course modules, lectures, homework assignments, and more in addition to videos, journals, and tutorials.
- Western Society of Criminology (WSC): Located at California State University Long Beach, the WSC hosts an annual conference and offers exclusive publications for members. It also provides scholarships and has student chapters to help learners build professional networks.
Ranking California’s Online Criminal Justice Schools
Thanks to our thorough survey of the many online criminal justice programs available in California, DFG has prepared the following ranking. To be included, all schools must be accredited, have at least one subject area offered partially or fully online, and offer ample career placement and academic counseling services. Online learning metrics had the heaviest weight in determining the listings. Additional metrics include affordability, and student outcomes.