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- #1 Louisiana State University (LSU)
- #2 University of Phoenix
- #3 Southern New Hampshire University
- #4 Campbellsville University
- #5 Liberty University
- #6 Northern State University
- #7 Columbia Southern University
- #8 New England College
- #9 Columbus State Community College
- #10 Peirce College
- #11 American Public University
- #12 Penn Foster Career School and College
- #13 Monroe Community College
- Schools Summary Table
The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that there will be nearly 24,000 new jobs for police officers and detectives over the next ten years.
There is an increase expected in the need for new probation officers, investigators, cybersecurity specialists, and other criminal justice professionals.
People who want a career in criminal justice often start their education by earning an associate degree in criminal justice.
Many entry-level positions in criminal justice require a minimum of an associate’s degree in criminal justice.
Students who earn an associate degree may choose to enter the workforce right away or to continue their studies to earn a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a doctoral degree in criminal justice.
This list of the best online associate degrees in criminal justice will help you get started on a career path in criminal justice.
#1 Louisiana State University (LSU)
About the School
Students who enroll in the LSU Online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program learn from nationally recognized leaders.
The university allows students who have military experience or who have the Police/Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification to earn credits towards their online Associate of Criminal Justice Online degree.
Courses Offered
The LSU Online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program curriculum places an emphasis on police, courts, and corrections.
Students also gain the skills that are necessary to analyze technical research in the field.
Some careers that program graduates choose include working in law enforcement, working in corrections, or working in private security.
Students often consider furthering their education, while some students start working in the field of intelligence or in cybersecurity.
Courses offered in the affordable 60-credit hour online program include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Judicial Process, Correctional Process, and Police Process.
Students also complete Criminal and Related Law, Leading Through Crisis, and Emergency Management in High Threat Situations.
Contact Information
- Address: 340 E. Parker Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA., 70808
- Phone: 833-280-5634
- Website: Visit School Website
#2 University of Phoenix
About the School
Earn an online Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice degree from the University of Phoenix with the flexibility that students often want in a college degree program.
The program requires no SAT scores and no application fee.
The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Courses Offered
Students are likely to enjoy the courses that last for just five weeks.
Courses in the 60-credit hour online program provide students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence that are required for working in criminal justice.
The curriculum includes Introduction to Criminal Court Systems, Introduction to Police Theory and Practices, Juvenile Justice Systems and Processes, and Cultural Diversity in Criminal Justice.
The program courses prepare students to work in jails, prisons, and community corrections agencies.
Students may start a career working for probation, juvenile justice facilities, or the courts.
Contact Information
- Address: 4035 S. Riverpoint Parkway, Phoenix, AZ
- Phone: 844-937-8679
- Website: Visit School Website
#3 Southern New Hampshire University
About the School
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The school allows students in the Online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Program to transfer up to 45 credit hours from a previous institution.
Courses Offered
The Southern New Hampshire University Associate of Science (AS) in Criminal Justice online program prepares students for careers in positions such as security, corrections, law enforcement, dispute resolution, or victim advocacy.
The courses in the 60-credit hour online program introduce students to the theories and practices associated with the U.S. criminal justice system.
Students gain an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system when they choose from one of seven concentrations.
Some of the program concentrations include Security Management, Corrections, Police Administration and Operations, and Substance Abuse.
Students may choose one of the other concentrations available in the online program, which include Criminology and Crime Analysis, Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, and Human Services and Advocacy.
A few of the curriculum courses include Communication Skills for Criminal Justice, The United States Judicial System, and Discretion in Criminal Justice.
Contact Information
- Address: 2500 North River Rd., Manchester, N.H., 03106
- Phone: 800-668-1249
- Website: Visit School Website
#4 Campbellsville University
About the School
Campbellsville University prepares students for a rewarding career in criminal justice with an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program that is offered in a fully online format.
Courses Offered
The courses offered in the Online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program at Campbellsville University provide students with a strong foundation of knowledge related to the fundamentals of law and justice, and the current trends in criminal justice.
The courses help students develop skills that prepare them for entry-level criminal justice positions.
Some students complete the associate degree program and then continue their education by earning an advanced degree.
The fully accredited program consists of 60 credit hours, which students usually complete in two years.
Introduction to the Criminal Justice System, Corrections, Civil Liberties, and Police Operations and Programs are some required courses.
Students choose from several electives, which include Introduction to Forensics, Fundamentals of Homeland Security, Probation and Parole, and Serial Killers.
Contact Information
- Address: 1 University Drive, Campbellsville, KY., 42718
- Phone: 888-506-6011
- Website: Visit School Website
#5 Liberty University
About the School
Liberty University is a well-known private university with a strong online presence.
Its online programs are designed to mirror the quality of its on-campus offerings while providing flexibility for distance learners.
Courses Offered
Liberty’s Associate in Criminal Justice includes classes in criminal justice foundations, policing, corrections, courts, and legal issues.
The program emphasizes both practical knowledge and ethical decision-making, making it a solid option for students planning to continue into a bachelor’s program.
Program Cost
Liberty University charges tuition per credit hour, with discounted rates often available for military members and first responders.
Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans can help manage overall costs.
Contact Information
- Address: 1971 University Blvd. Lynchburg, VA 24515
- Phone: 800-424-9595
- Website: Visit School Website
#6 Northern State University
About the School
Northern State University, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, indicates that completing the university’s online Criminal Justice Associate Degree program will make graduates more competitive for entry-level jobs in law enforcement and corrections.
Courses Offered
The 60-credit online Criminal Justice Associate Degree (A.A.) program at Northern State University does not require students to complete an internship.
If a student chooses to complete an internship, it will count as one elective course.
The curriculum provides students with an understanding of the major components of the criminal justice system.
They learn how those components are interdependent, how the environments affect them, and how they affect victims.
Students learn effective communication skills, basic information technology skills, and how to identify and explain various characteristics of high-quality data and methods utilized in criminology and criminal justice research.
Courses include Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Criminology, and the student’s choice of either Prisons and Penology or Community Corrections.
Students choose 15 credits of electives, which include courses such as Courts and Judicial Politics, Crime Scene Investigation, Victimology, Social Deviance, and Policing in a Free Society.
Contact Information
- Address: 1200 S. Jay St., Aberdeen, S.D., 57401
- Phone: 800-678-5330
- Website: Visit School Website
#7 Columbia Southern University
About the School
Columbia Southern University is an online-focused institution known for serving working adults.
The school offers flexible scheduling and a learning format designed for students who need to balance education with work or family responsibilities.
Courses Offered
The Associate degree in Criminal Justice covers core topics such as criminal law, corrections, criminology, law enforcement operations, and ethics.
Courses are structured to provide a broad understanding of the criminal justice system and can serve as a foundation for entry-level roles or further education.
Program Cost
Columbia Southern University is often recognized for its affordability.
Tuition is charged at a flat rate per credit hour, and financial aid options may be available for eligible students. Costs are typically lower than those of many traditional colleges.
Contact Information
- Address: 21982 University Lane Orange Beach, Alabama 36561
- Phone: 251-981-3771
- Website: Visit School Website
#8 New England College
About the School
New England College is one of the top five liberal arts colleges in the State of New Hampshire.
It is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The college uses rolling admissions, which gives students the opportunity to enroll at any time.
Courses Offered
The New England College Online Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program courses provide students with an understanding of the criminal justice system and an understanding of the law, morality, and ethics in criminal justice.
Students gain critical thinking skills, learn effective communication skills, and discover how the civic environment informs human interactions.
Some courses include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminal Law, Criminology, Criminal Justice Ethics, and Police in Society.
Students Complete 12 credits of elective courses.
They choose from courses such as Criminal Investigations, Terrorism, Juvenile Delinquency, and Law Enforcement Supervision, Management, and Leadership.
Students often continue their studies at New England College after earning the Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice degree in an online format.
The college also offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree, an online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity degree, and an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity degree program.
Contact Information
- Address: 98 Bridge St., Henniker, New Hampshire, 03242
- Phone: 603-428-2252
- Website: Visit School Website
#9 Columbus State Community College
About the School
Columbus State Community College is a public institution known for affordability and academic quality.
It serves a diverse student population and offers many programs that easily transfer to four-year colleges.
Courses Offered
The Associate degree in Criminal Justice includes coursework in criminal justice systems, law enforcement, courts, corrections, and criminal procedure.
The curriculum is designed for students seeking entry-level roles or planning to transfer to a bachelor’s program.
Program Cost
As a community college, Columbus State offers lower tuition rates, especially for in-state students.
Financial aid and payment plans are available, making this one of the most budget-friendly options.
Contact Information
- Address: 550 East Spring St. Columbus, OH 43215
- Phone: 614-287-5353
- Website: Visit School Website
#10 Peirce College
About the School
Peirce College is a private college that specializes in career-focused education for adult learners.
The school is known for small class sizes and strong student support services.
Courses Offered
The Associate degree in Criminal Justice at Peirce College covers subjects such as criminal law, investigations, corrections, and the court system.
Courses emphasize real-world applications and career readiness.
Program Cost
Tuition is billed per credit hour, and Peirce College offers financial aid options for qualifying students.
While costs may be higher than at community colleges, the program includes personalized academic support.
Contact Information
- Address: 1608 Walnut Street, Suite 1900, Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Phone: 215-545-6400
- Website: Visit School Website
#11 American Public University
About the School
American Public University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Online Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program is offered by the School of Security & Global Studies.
Courses Offered
The online Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program at American Public University helps students gain an understanding of law enforcement objectives, the courts, and criminal justice administration.
Students also learn criminal justice theory and concepts and gain insight into legal issues.
Program courses in the 60-credit-hour online program include Introduction to the Courts, Introduction to Law Enforcement, Evidence and Procedures, Juvenile Delinquency, and Criminal Justice Administration.
Some other required courses include Introduction to the Courts and Emergency and Disaster Incident Command.
Students complete six semester hours of electives.
They also take the Criminal Justice Sophomore Seminar.
Contact Information
- Address: 111 W. Congress St., Charles Town W.V., 25414
- Phone: 877-755-2787
- Website: Visit School Website
#12 Penn Foster Career School and College
About the School
Get the education that many employers in the criminal justice field require by completing the Online Criminal Justice Associate Degree at Penn Foster College.
The school is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
Courses Offered
Students in the online Criminal Justice Associate Degree program at Penn Foster learn the history of criminal justice from its origins to modern times.
Students learn about the development of common law in the U.S. They learn about constitutional law and about statutory law.
The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to learn about modern policing and to learn about substantive and procedural operations.
Students gain skills to prepare them for working in a variety of criminal justice careers as they learn to apply the principles of criminal responsibility and learn about the organization and management of police operations.
Courses in the 71-credit online program include Criminal Justice Orientation, Introduction to Courts, Police Studies, and Ethics in Criminal Justice. Students also complete the courses Crime Scene Investigation Basics, Correctional Institutions, Criminal Procedures, and Juveniles and the Legal Process.
Some elective courses include Computer-Based Crime, Organized Crime, Terrorism, and Security Management.
The program consists of 10 months of study.
Students can complete the program in five months if they choose the fast-track option.
Contact Information
- Address: 14300 N. Northsight Blvd., Suite 125, Scottsdale, AZ., 85260
- Phone: 800-471-3232
- Website: Visit School Website
#13 Monroe Community College
About the School
Monroe Community College is a public community college with a strong academic reputation.
The school focuses on career preparation and transfer pathways to four-year institutions.
Courses Offered
The Criminal Justice associate program covers policing, courts, corrections, criminal law, and criminology.
Students gain a solid overview of the justice system while building transferable academic credits.
Program Cost
Tuition is charged per credit hour and is especially affordable for in-state residents.
Monroe Community College also offers financial aid options, making it a cost-effective choice for many students.
Contact Information
- Address: 1000 East Henrietta Road Rochester, New York 14623
- Phone: 585-292-2000
- Website: Visit School Website
Schools Summary Table
I’m currently exploring my options in the legal field, and this post on the best online associates in criminal justice programs couldn’t have come at a better time.
The inclusion of diverse institutions, such as American Public University and LSU Online, highlights the range of options available to learners with varying needs and backgrounds.
The emphasis on curriculum content, including courses in law enforcement objectives, court systems, and criminal justice administration, ensures that students are well-prepared for real-world applications.
Exploring the best online associate programs in criminal justice through this article has been enlightening. The detailed descriptions of each program, such as those offered by Campbellsville University and others, provide clarity on what students can expect in terms of coursework and specialization areas.
Criminal justice is an awesome field to get into. For me at least, I just rather not ever work in areas that might risk my life, but lab work, office work and so on are great, rewarding, and stable.