Are you intrigued by crime-solving and fascinated by the workings of the justice system? Look no further! We’ll explore the top online bachelor’s degree programs in criminology. These programs provide a convenient way to learn about crime, law enforcement, and the legal system from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re interested in understanding criminal behavior or pursuing a career in law enforcement, these online programs offer accessible and comprehensive education.
Last Updated: October 14, 2024
What is Criminology?
Criminology is the study of crime, criminals, and the factors that contribute to criminal behavior. This area of study focuses on:
- understanding why crimes are committed
- how they can be prevented
- how society responds to crime
Criminologists analyze various aspects such as the psychological, sociological, and environmental factors that influence criminal behavior.
What are the Best Criminology Degree Programs?
At CollegeRank, we start with data and evaluation informed by experience. Our trusted team of professional researchers, writers, and editors develop each ranking and resource with future learners in mind. We are invested in highlighting degree programs and options that are known for quality, affordability, accessibility, and return on investment. Our rankings and resources are continually updated with the most recent available data and information on trends in higher education. Our unique and proven ranking methodology sets us apart because our ranking system is based on the following three aspects:
Other factors considered to rank the following programs included:
- Admission Rate: To provide insights into the program’s prestige and demand, as well as the potential difficulty of gaining entry.
- Curriculum Quality: The relevance of the criminology curriculum, including current research, practical applications, and hands-on learning opportunities.
- Faculty Credentials: Programs with faculty who have notable academic backgrounds, research experience, and professional involvement in criminology are prioritized.
- Student Support Services: The availability and quality of resources such as academic advising, career counseling, and internship opportunities.
At CollegeRank, we strive to do our best to guide you and your family toward a fruitful academic career. The pursuit of knowledge is a noble one, and we want to help you reach your goals. Please feel free to visit our dedicated methodology page for a step-by-step breakdown. For questions, comments, badge downloads, or data corrections, please feel free to reach out to us at editor@www.collegerank.net.
Related (Bachelor’s):
- Top Schools for Online Degrees in Social Science
- Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Forensic Psychology Online
- Top Degrees for a Career in Forensic Psychology
Related (Master’s):
- Best Master’s Degrees in Forensic Psychology and Criminology
- Top Online Master’s Degrees in Behavioral Psychology
Per Credit Hour Tuition and Average Net Tuition Disclaimer: The tuition amounts given are estimates and subject to change.
University of Florida
The University of Florida is one of the largest public universities in the United States. They offer an online bachelor’s in criminology, one of the most popular majors in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The criminology major helps students understand crime and how society relates to it. They also explore the interrelationships between law and society. In addition to general education requirements, criminology students will take:
- Four core courses
- One law-driven course
- Six criminology and law elective courses
These elective courses allow students to tailor the program to their individual interests. Options could include courses like Juvenile Justice or Intro to Law Enforcement.
Graduates are prepared to pursue law school or advanced professional training. Students planning to go right into the workforce will find that the program has prepared them for a variety of opportunities including criminal investigator and probation officer.
Florida State University
The College of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Florida State University features an online bachelor’s in criminology with no on-campus residency requirements. The program is designed for non-traditional students, allowing them to balance school with a busy schedule.
The criminology program is a part-time program. Courses are taught by professors with experience in criminology. Online students must choose a minor or complete a full-time internship. Course offerings include:
- Crime Victimization and the Media
- The Individual and Society
- Punishment and Punitiveness
Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles including child welfare caseworker and victim advocate. They also have the foundational knowledge needed to pursue law school or a graduate degree.
University of North Carolina Wilmington
The University of North Carolina Wilmington features a criminology BA degree focused on:
- lawmaking
- lawbreaking
- social responses to crime
Students will gain the skills needed to better understand sociological and criminological issues. They’ll also be able to analyze these issues while demonstrating critical thinking skills. Students can choose from three concentration areas to customize their degree including:
- criminology
- criminal justice
- public criminology
The online program shares the same faculty as the traditional on-campus students. Online courses will generally have a mix of both types of students. Students are encouraged to complete a practicum in a criminal justice agency to gain professional experience.
The outcomes for UNCW criminology graduates are positive. 95% of grads are either employed or enrolled in grad school within six months of completing their degree. Many graduates who choose to go into the workforce to into corrections or police services.
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
SUNY Canton is part of the State University of New York. They offer one of the most unique programs in our ranking, a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Criminology. This innovative program includes courses in criminology and forensic sciences.
The program is presented 100% online and there are no on-campus residency requirements. Courses are instructor-led although students can log in any time to attend classes. In addition to courses, students can participate in internships and service-learning opportunities to gain professional experience. Students also have access to a tutor if they need assistance with any of their courses.
Graduates have the skillset needed to investigate the relationship between criminological research and evidence-based practice. They can begin professional work in the field of criminal justice or continue their studies in graduate school.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Maryville University is a joint program focusing on both criminal justice and criminology. Students can choose from program tracks in either policy academy training or a project-based learning experience.
Maryville offers an interdisciplinary curriculum taught by industry-experienced faculty. Students who opt into the police academy track may be able to earn credit from qualifying academies. Non-police academy track students will complete a social science research sequence and an internship. Core courses include:
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Criminal Behavior
- Corrections in Society
Courses are offered 100% online. There are no campus visits required. Applicants don’t need to submit entrance exams and there are no application fees. New students are admitted for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Interested in a master’s degree? Students in the Early Access program can earn up to 12 credit hours toward their master’s degree while working on their bachelor’s. The best part is that these credits are charged at the undergraduate tuition rate, so you’ll save both time and money!
Arkansas State University
The 100% online bachelor’s in criminology from the Arkansas State University goes beyond the study of crime. Students will learn the root causes of crime and explore the correlation between social justice and crime. They’ll also gain insights about how inequalities in society contribute to crime.
The 120-credit hour curriculum includes core courses and electives. Core requirements include:
- Criminal Justice Systems
- Criminal Evidence and Procedure
- Social Justice
Students can choose to double major, pairing their criminology major with another complementary area like sociology or political science.
Tuition costs are affordable. All online students pay the same low “pay by the course” tuition rate of $846. There are no hidden fees, making it easy for students to budget their education.
Carlow University
Carlow University’s online Bachelor’s in Criminology program offers a dynamic curriculum with a focus on psychology and social justice. The program prepares students for diverse careers within the criminal justice system. With internship opportunities available, students gain hands-on experience and practical skills in real-world settings.
The program boasts supportive and expert faculty who provide personalized guidance and mentorship throughout the academic journey. Both full and part-time students are admitted to the program. Students can pursue an accelerated graduate track option, allowing them to fast-track their education and seamlessly transition into advanced studies. With the convenience of 100% online coursework, students can balance their studies with other commitments while accessing high-quality education from anywhere in the world.
Applicants need to have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.0 and submit official transcripts for review. Carlow offers a tuition rate of just $495/credit hour for adult learners. Students can transfer in up to 90 credits from an approved institution, saving time and money.
University of Missouri Kansas City
The Criminal Justice and Criminology Department at the University of Missouri Kansas City features a BA in Criminal Justice and Criminology. Students have the chance to examine and understand how social control systems operate within the criminal justice system and society at large. This major helps students develop:
- critical thinking
- communication
- research skills
Courses are offered 100% online and there are no required campus visits. Course offerings cover areas like:
- theories of crime and deviance
- trauma, crisis intervention, and advocacy
- structure and functioning of the criminal justice system
The program emphasizes creating inclusive learning environments where students become culturally competent individuals. Through community engagement and service, students are prepared for future jobs and leadership roles that involve interacting with diverse communities and making positive changes.
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
The criminology and criminal justice program at Southern Illinois University is one of the largest programs at the university. Their Bachelor of Arts degree is aimed at preparing students for various careers in law enforcement or other law related occupations. The program boasts a diverse student body and experienced instructors.
This degree provides flexibility for students to tailor their education to their career goals and prepares them for success in the field of criminology and criminal justice. Core requirements include:
- Crime, Justice and Social Diversity
- Introduction to Criminological Theory
- Introduction to Criminal Justice Statistics
Students can also choose to complete a 42-credit hour certificate in conservation law enforcement.
Planning to pursue a master’s degree? The Accelerated Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice lets students begin working on graduate coursework their senior year. SIU also offers a joint Criminology and Criminal Justice BA/School of Law JD that allows students to complete both degrees in just six years.
Missouri State University
At Missouri State University, the online Bachelor’s in Criminology program offers a customizable learning experience tailored to your interests and career aspirations. With a diverse range of classes to choose from, you can select courses that align with your personal interests and professional goals.
Students also have the opportunity to earn specialized certificates in areas such as:
- Criminal Investigation
- Criminal Courts
- Victim Advocacy
- Family and Juvenile Support Services
- Conservation Law Enforcement
A certificate can help boost a resume and demonstrate commitment to the field.
For those looking to accelerate their academic journey, the program offers an accelerated option where classes can count towards both undergraduate and graduate requirements. The accelerated program puts you on the fast track towards a master’s degree. Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning, the structure of traditional classrooms, or a combination of both, the program offers convenience to fit your lifestyle. With dedicated faculty support and a comprehensive curriculum, you can pursue your passion for criminology while balancing your education with your other commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions
With a degree in criminology, you can have a lucrative career. You could dive into law enforcement as a police officer or detective. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median pay for these roles to be $74,910/year. Or maybe you’re more interested in the legal side of things, where you could pursue roles like paralegal or legal assistant, supporting lawyers in the courtroom. These roles have a median pay of $60,970/year.
That depends! If you’re into dissecting criminal behavior and analyzing data, you might find it more fascinating than difficult. There are tough concepts and heavy reading, but if you’re passionate and focused, criminology is not difficult. Most schools have plenty of resources and support available if you find yourself struggling.
Typically, a bachelor’s in criminology takes four years to complete. Of course, there are factors like course load and any breaks you might take along the way that can affect the timeline. Part-time students can earn their criminology degree in about six years.
The answer depends on where your interests lie. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) might focus more on the social sciences side of things, like psychology and sociology, while a Bachelor of Science (BS) might lean towards more technical aspects, like statistics and research methods. Both can set you up for success in the field, so it’s all about choosing the one that aligns with your interests and career goals.