Let’s say you’re working as a criminal analyst in a city police department but your bigger goal is to get into the FBI and work your way up. What’s your next step? A master’s degree is one of the best ways to get ahead in the criminal justice field. But first you have to find a high-quality program that fits your budget.
Affordable online master’s degrees in criminal justice are readily available—including top-quality programs. This guide reveals the 22 programs that are both affordable and worthwhile, as well as insider tips to help you save money on your degree throughout your program.
Most Affordable Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs for 2023
When applying for a master’s in criminal justice program, you’ll need to consider the curriculum, internship opportunities, and the time it takes to get your degree. All things being equal, there’s one other consideration that most likely will determine which program you choose: the cost. Finding an affordable program doesn’t have to be difficult. That’s why we put together these rankings, which were determined from data on affordability and quality from the The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). If you want to learn more about how we calculated these rankings, click the “about the ranking” button below.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program from Texas A&M International University is designed for students with busy working and professional lives. The university makes life easier by offering several flexible learning features. Students can begin classes during any one of the six start dates each year, and those courses last just seven weeks. The bulk of the coursework can be completed fully online, with no in-person learning requirements. Of the 36 required credits, 18 are criminal justice electives. This allows students to customize their education to meet their personal and professional needs. There’s no thesis required to complete the program and graduate.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 36
- Length: About one to two years
- Cost: $13,189.00 (total program cost, in-state); $37,080.00 (total program cost, out-of-state)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Albany State University offers a hybrid online Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree that combines the convenience of online learning with the benefit of face-to-face classes. Students get to make two major decisions when it comes to customizing their degree: the first concerns whether to complete a thesis research project, which is optional, and the second concerns which specialization to choose. The criminal justice program offers the following four specializations: corrections, public administration, law enforcement and corrections. Even though some classes require in-person learning, the learning is self-paced. Students who fully commit to their education can graduate in just one year.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 30
- Length: About one to two years
- Cost: $300.00/credit
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Whether an individual seeks additional responsibility at a current position in the criminal justice field or wants to become a criminal justice instructor, the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program from Fayetteville State University is a great option. Students can pick and choose which courses they want to take online and on-campus. They can also decide between two degree pathways. First, there’s the 33 credit thesis option, which allows for 15 credits of electives coursework in addition to completing a thesis project. Second, there’s the 36 credit professional option, which requires students to complete a capstone project and provides for 18 credits worth of electives
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 33 to 36
- Length: About one to two years
- Cost: $320.96/credit (in-state); $607.46/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
Students seeking maximum learning flexibility will appreciate the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program from Angelo State University. The program’s biggest selling point is that it can be completed 100% online, with no in-person requirements. But there are other features of this program that make it an attractive option to anyone interested in criminal justice. For example, anyone with a bachelor’s degree is eligible, regardless of their major. Also, no GRE entrance exam is needed. And for those who already have some college learning completed, Angelo State University will apply up to 9 transfer credits toward the criminal justice degree.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 36
- Length: About 18 to 24 months
- Cost: $7,247.00/year (in-state); $14,590.00/year (out-of-state)
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
The online Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree offered by the University of North Georgia has several features that any student, especially those already working, will appreciate. The entire curriculum can be completed online, with no campus visits required. And not only are the classes available online, but they’re offered asynchronously. This means students can complete their classes from anywhere and at any time. Students can begin the program during any semester, and there is no GRE or other entrance exam requirement. There’s no thesis requirement, either; instead, students must complete a capstone project to graduate.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 36
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $303.00/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | WSCUC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | NWCCU |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | SACSCOC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
School Services & Accreditation
| Career Services | Yes |
| Academic Counseling | Yes |
| Accreditation | HLC |
5 Ways to Save on Paying for Your Online Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice
When calculating the cost of the most affordable online master’s in criminal justice, it’s important to look past the listed tuition price. That’s just a starting point; you can make your master’s more affordable and earn money while getting your degree. These five ways to save money on your online master’s degree are great for your wallet and may also help you build up your experience in the criminal justice field.
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Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships for Criminal Justice Master’s Students
One of the most common ways to lower the cost of your master’s in criminal justice is applying to scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Some scholarships are designed for criminal justice graduate students in particular, such as the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship. For more scholarships you can apply to and tips on how to make your applications stand out, visit OMD’s scholarships and resources guide.
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Work-Study or Assistantships
Another great option for the cheapest online master’s in criminal justice is to apply for a work-study position or assistantship. Work-study programs are run through the federal government and give students the opportunity to make money through an on-campus job. An example might be a job as a criminal justice student assistant providing support to criminal justice faculty and staff. Assistantships are offered through individual departments and are a great way to earn extra money while playing a bigger role in your academic community. They often consist of helping a professor with their teaching or research responsibilities.
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Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees who get master’s degrees relevant to their job. In the criminal justice field these programs are popular, especially if you are employed by the federal or state government. Some departments even have fellowships that offer additional support beyond tuition reimbursement, such as the reimbursement program offered by the CIA. Check with your employer to find out if they offer tuition reimbursement program.
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Payment Plans
Let’s say paying a semester of tuition at a time would wipe out your emergency fund, but you could afford to pay your tuition in smaller installments after each paycheck. Luckily, many schools are aware of the heavy burden of paying tuition upfront and offer payment plans so you can pay in monthly installments. For example, Texas A&M International University and Westfield State University both offer payment plans. To find out if this is an option, check with each individual program you’re considering.
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Paid Internships
Another option to help fund the cheapest online master’s in criminal justice is a paid internship. This is an especially great opportunity for those who don’t currently have a job or who are looking to get hands-on experience in branches of the federal or state government. Some criminal justice paid internship opportunities also offer tuition reimbursement and academic support as well, such as the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs program.
FAQs: Affordable Master’s Programs in Criminal Justice
Q. What impacts the affordability of an online master’s program?
In general, public schools with online programs will have the least expensive tuition both because they receive federal funding and because online programs require fewer costly resources than in-person programs. However, the availability of scholarships, assistantships, and work-study positions also impacts how cheap your online master’s in criminal justice will be. Depending on scholarships and other financial assistance, one program could be more affordable to one student than another.
Q. What is the ROI on an online master’s degree in criminal justice?
Calculating the ROI on a master’s degree in criminal justice can be difficult because there are many career fields one could go into, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $120,000 a year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for someone working in the criminal justice field is $67,000 per year. However, those with a master’s degree make more starting out and usually have more promotions over the course of their career. So, a master’s degree in criminal justice can definitely pay off in the long run.
Q. How can I ensure that an affordable master’s in criminal justice program is high-quality?
One indicator of a high-quality program is how many graduates are employed in the field after getting their master’s. A less expensive online master’s degree in criminal justice isn’t worth a dime if employers don’t value it. Other signs of quality include the resources available to help you with your courses, from tutoring and mentoring to libraries and subscriptions, and how closely the curriculum aligns to your professional goals. A top-ranked program won’t help you if, for example, you want to learn about social justice and the courses barely touch on the topic.
Q. Is an online master’s degree more or less affordable than an in-person program?
An online master’s degree is almost always more affordable than an in-person program. It costs less for a university to run an online degree than to find classroom space and pay utilities and other expenses for in-person classes, and that translates into lowered overall costs for an online master’s in criminal justice. Plus, you’ll spend less on transportation since you won’t have to commute back and forth to campus—a savings for both money and time.
Q. Can job experience count towards your online master’s degree in criminal justice and help cut costs?
This depends on the school and program, though most programs want you to go through their rigorous training instead of counting job experience toward credit hours. If a program has an internship or work experience requirement, current or previous job experience will often fulfill it. That could make one program more affordable than another for your situation.
Q. How can I know if the cheapest online master’s in criminal justice program is right for me?
Whether or not a program is right for you is a highly individual decision. When looking at different programs, jot down a list of what matters to you. Then, compare the programs and see which offer the most from your list of qualities to find the cheapest online master’s in criminal justice that suits your needs.