Discover top schools, explore coursework, and get all your questions answered about online criminology master’s programs in this comprehensive guide.
Author: Quinn Dannies, MA
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningStudent SuccessEditor: Kari Scare
Expertise: EditorialGraduate Ed.Online Learning- School Spotlights
A Closer Look into Three Criminology Online Master’s
Read more - Curriculum
What You’ll Learn in an Online Criminology Graduate Program
Read more - Admissions
Common Admission Requirements for Criminology Master’s Programs
Read more - Financial Aid
Tuition and Financial Aid for Criminology Programs
Read more - Careers
Popular Criminology Careers
Read more - FAQs
Online Criminology Master’s FAQs
Read more - Top Schools
Best Online Master's in Criminology Programs
Read more
Earning an online master’s in criminology is a flexible, often affordable, path into the rapidly expanding criminal justice field — and more graduate students are choosing it every year.
There are a lot of programs to sort through, so this guide cuts through the noise with program spotlights, core course previews, cost breakdowns, career outlooks, and answers to the questions prospective students ask most.
A Closer Look into Three Criminology Online Master’s
Every program takes a different approach to online learning. Use these three spotlights as a starting point and as a benchmark when evaluating others.
The University of California, Irvine
- Degree: Master of Criminology, Law and Society
- Format: Fully online with optional on-campus events
- Duration: 2 years (while working full time)
- Capstone: Applied capstone course (no traditional thesis required)
UCI’s program is built for criminal justice professionals looking to move into leadership. Core courses cover research, social policy, and law, followed by electives in your chosen specialty.
Optional on-campus touchpoints include:
- 5-day residential orientation
- 2-day capstone workshop
- In-person commencement ceremony
These aren’t required, but they offer strong networking opportunities with instructors and peers.
Georgia Southern University
- Degree: Master’s in Criminal Justice and Criminology
- Format: 100% online or in-person at Statesboro, GA campus
- Specializations: Criminal justice, criminology, or cybercrime
- Certificate option: Graduate certificate in cybercrime available
Georgia Southern stands out for two things: a strong research skills focus and unusually flexible capstone options. Capstone paths include:
- Traditional thesis — ideal for academic or research careers
- Internship — hands-on experience in your field
- Additional coursework — for roles requiring deep technical or methodological skills
At least two research-specific courses are required, drawn from statistical, qualitative, and quantitative options.
East Texas A&M University
- Degree: MS in Applied Criminology
- Credits: 36
- Duration: As few as 18 months (full-time)
- Format: One course at a time in intensive 8-week sessions
East Texas A&M’s accelerated structure lets you focus on one topic at a time rather than juggling multiple courses. Specialization tracks include:
- General criminology
- Criminal justice administration
- Forensic accounting
- Homeland security
Internship opportunities are available with the State of Texas, the CATO Institute, and the Credit Union National Association.
What You’ll Study in an Online Criminology Master’s
Criminology is a broad field, so course offerings vary significantly by program. That said, most master’s programs share a core set of required courses. Here are five topics you’ll almost certainly encounter:
Digital Forensics
Even non-tech-focused criminologists need a working understanding of digital forensics — every corner of the criminal justice field is affected by digital investigation and research methods today.
An introductory course covers the essentials and shows how digital methods interact with your chosen specialty. It’s also a good way to gauge whether a cybercrime emphasis is the right fit for you.
Criminal Behavior
These courses examine the social and psychological roots of crime. They’re valuable for future criminal analysts and for anyone working within criminal justice or justice administration systems.
Courses are often taught in a “topics” format, with the professor focusing on a specific issue that aligns with the cohort’s research interests.
Research Methods in Criminal Justice
This is typically one of the first courses graduate students take — and for good reason. The skills covered here underpin both your coursework and your future career.
Expect to learn how criminology knowledge is developed and interpreted, and how to locate and use essential research resources.
Criminal Justice Administration and Management
This course prepares you to navigate the criminal justice system, either as an administrator or as an outside expert. You’ll apply research methods to current issues in justice administration.
The foundation you build here helps you understand how your work — in any role — connects to the broader goal of crime prevention and justice.
Criminal Law
One semester won’t make you a criminal law expert, and that’s not the goal. Like the courses above, these are typically taught in a “topics” format focused on one area of the field.
The real value is developing the analytical skills to interpret and apply criminal law concepts you encounter throughout your education and career.
Admission Requirements for Criminology Master’s Programs
1. Bachelor’s Degree
All master’s programs require a bachelor’s degree. A degree in criminology can strengthen your application, but it isn’t always required. Related fields like criminal justice, pre-law, and social work are typically considered as well.
2. Statement of Purpose
Your statement of purpose/personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application. Use it to:
- Explain your background and career goals
- Highlight relevant achievements
- Address any gaps or weak spots in your record
- Explain why you’re applying to this specific program (mention faculty or features that excite you)
You don’t need to write a new statement from scratch for every school, but you should customize each one to reflect the specific program’s goals and why you’re a good fit.
Letters of Recommendation
Most programs require three letters of recommendation. The majority should come from former professors or faculty who know your work well.
If you’ve been working in the field for a while or have been out of school, letters from professional mentors or supervisors are generally acceptable.
Minimum GPA
Every program sets a minimum GPA threshold, and that number varies. A strong undergraduate GPA signals you can handle rigorous graduate work.
That said, minimums aren’t always firm. If your application is strong in other areas but your GPA falls slightly short, consider reaching out to the program director directly as many programs make exceptions for promising candidates.
Prerequisite Coursework
You don’t need an undergraduate degree in criminology to apply, but most programs expect some foundational background knowledge.
If you’re missing prerequisites, options include:
- Taking individual courses at a local university or community college before applying
- Completing prerequisites after acceptance, before beginning graduate coursework
Tuition and Financial Aid for Online Criminology Master’s Programs
Earning a master’s in criminology is a significant financial commitment. Before you get your heart set on a program, set a realistic budget and then explore your options for bringing costs down.
| School | Program | Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regis University | MS in Criminology | 36 | $21,564 |
| University at Buffalo | Criminology (Online) MS | 30 | $14,130 |
| Florida State University | Online Masters in Criminology | 36 | $15,984 |
Ways to Fund Your Degree
- Program scholarships and grants — most schools offer some form of financial aid; check each program’s website
- External scholarships — professional organizations, nonprofits, and businesses often offer awards for graduate students
- Assistantships and work-study — some programs cover tuition and provide a stipend in exchange for research or teaching work
- Employer tuition assistance — check whether your current employer offers tuition benefits, or look for employers who do
- Federal student loans — after exhausting other options, low-interest federal loans are generally preferable to private lending
The ultimate goal is to take on as little debt as possible, so exhaust as much “free” money as you can before taking out loans.
Popular Careers with a Master’s in Criminology
A criminology master’s opens doors across law enforcement, government, social services, and private industry. Most programs let you tailor your coursework through tracks or electives to align with your career goals.
Note: salary data below includes both master’s and non-master’s holders. With a master’s degree, expect a higher starting rate and faster advancement.
Fraud Investigator
Fraud investigators work in law enforcement, private investigation firms, and large corporations to detect and prevent fraud. The role calls for strong attention to detail, computer skills, and a solid grasp of relevant laws.
Early in your career, you’ll likely work on a team. As you advance, you’ll take on more independent investigations or move into a team leadership role. Look for programs with electives or specializations in fraud and financial crimes.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $78,310 | $139,960 | 5-8% | Finance, Insurance, Government |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts work with government agencies and law enforcement to identify patterns in large datasets. Day-to-day work might include developing criminal profiles, working cold cases, or monitoring security threats.
Target programs and courses that emphasize research methods, statistical analysis, and forensics to best prepare for this role.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $91,100 | $182,370 | 2%-4% | Government |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Victim Advocacy Director
Victim advocacy programs provide support and legal guidance to crime victims and witnesses as they navigate the justice system. Directors oversee resource allocation, ethical practices, and outcomes for the people they serve.
Most people in this role start as individual advocates before taking on increasing responsibility. Programs that emphasize the legal system, justice administration, and social services are ideal preparation. A background in social work is also common.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $77,030 | $127,550 | 9%+ | Government, Social Services, Healthcare |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Criminology Professor
If you want to educate the next generation of criminal justice professionals, teaching is a natural path. While four-year universities typically prefer PhDs for tenure-track positions, a master’s can open doors to community college teaching posts or adjunct lecturer roles.
Look for teaching assistant positions during your program because they can cover tuition, provide a stipend, and give you direct experience working with undergraduates.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $69,030 | $134,580 | 2 to 4% | Educational Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Digital Forensics Analyst
Digital forensics analysts investigate cybercrime and strengthen cybersecurity systems. Core responsibilities include recovering damaged or destroyed data, analyzing digital evidence, and developing defenses against hackers.
This is a high-demand, high-skill role. An interest or background in computer science is a strong complement to your criminology degree. Many programs offer specializations and electives specifically designed to build job-ready digital forensics skills.
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $104,920 | $174,300 | 9%+ | Professional, Scientific, Technical Services, Government |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online criminology master’s programs more affordable than in-person programs?
Online programs often cost less overall, even when tuition rates are comparable to in-person programs. Tuition itself varies widely, so there’s no guarantee the sticker price will be lower.
Where the savings tend to add up:
- Lower fees — online students don’t pay for campus amenities they’re not using
- No commuting costs — no gas, no parking
- No need to live near campus, which can mean significant savings on rent
Freedom to choose any accredited program, not just local ones, giving you access to more affordable options nationwide
How long does it take to earn a criminology master’s degree online?
Most students finish in 1.5 to 2 years, depending on pace and program format. Your timeline depends on your situation:
- Accelerated programs (e.g., Texas A&M): as few as 18 months with full-time, intensive study
- Flexible programs (e.g., Georgia Southern): take one class at a time, skip semesters as needed — up to 7 years to complete
- Traditional programs: 2-year standard completion time
Can I earn an online graduate certificate in criminology instead of a master’s degree?
Yes, most criminology master’s programs also offer a graduate certificate option. Certificates typically take about a year and focus on a narrower skill set.
Two ways to pursue one:
- Standalone certificate — great for professional development, a career pivot, or as a stepping stone toward a full master’s. Credits from accredited programs can often be transferred toward a graduate degree later.
- Certificate alongside your master’s — pairing a criminology degree with a certificate in, say, cybersecurity can deepen your expertise and make you a stronger candidate in specialized roles. You can also pair a criminology certificate with a related degree like public administration or social work.
Is earning a criminology master’s degree online more flexible than traditional, on-campus programs?
What typically makes online programs more flexible:
- Asynchronous classes let you study on your own schedule
- No commute frees up meaningful time each week
- Shorter semester structures make it easier to pause if life gets hectic
- Many programs are specifically designed for working professionals
Keep in mind: accelerated programs are more demanding day-to-day, even if they’re shorter overall. More flexibility in pacing doesn’t always mean a lighter workload.
Do I need to take the GRE to apply for online criminology master’s degrees?
Most online criminology master’s programs no longer require the GRE. The exam has largely fallen out of favor across graduate admissions.
The tradeoff: without a standardized test score, admissions committees lean harder on your GPA, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose. These elements carry more weight than ever, so invest time in making them as strong as possible.