Rankings / Bachelors

Best Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$57,151

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

56%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,325

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right school for a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. These programs not only prepare students for careers in law enforcement and related fields but also significantly impact their future earnings and job prospects. For instance, graduates from the top programs can expect an average salary of over $60,000.

Key Findings

CUNY John Jay College graduates earn $56,195 on average, but their graduation rate is only 56%.

In contrast, the University of Virginia boasts a remarkable 95% graduation rate with average earnings of $86,863.

Florida State University graduates earn $61,675 with a graduation rate of 84%, showcasing a solid balance of income and completion.

Overall, the average debt for these programs is nearly $15,000, making financial planning crucial.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $57,151

Avg. graduation rate 56%

Avg. net price $14,325

Avg. median debt $20,219

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs ranked by outcomes, mobility, and program concentration in Criminal Justice

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY

Graduation56%

Earnings$56,195

Net Price$3,203

View full profile →

Bethel University

McKenzie, TN

Graduation35%

Earnings$47,482

Net Price$12,595

View full profile →

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX

Graduation55%

Earnings$54,211

Net Price$16,404

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is dedicated to students passionate about understanding the complexities of law enforcement, social justice, and public safety. Ideal for those aiming to make a difference in their communities, this program emphasizes real-world applications and critical thinking in criminal justice contexts, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the field.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

Bethel University

McKenzie, TN · 1,547 students · Private nonprofit

At Bethel University, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program attracts students eager to explore the intricacies of law enforcement, rehabilitation, and community safety. It is ideal for those who want to build a career in criminal justice or related fields, providing a robust academic grounding while encouraging students to engage in critical thinking and ethical discussions. The program offers an engaging environment where students can collaborate and develop their understanding of justice in society.

60% accepted 35% graduate $47,482 earnings

Bethel's full profile

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX · 17,743 students · Public

Sam Houston State University offers a Criminal Justice bachelor's program that is well-suited for students interested in careers in law enforcement, corrections, and public service. This program prepares students to understand the legal framework and social implications of crime, making it an excellent choice for those looking to influence positive change in society. With a diverse student body and a focus on practical applications, students are encouraged to think critically about the justice system and its impact on communities.

90% accepted 55% graduate $54,211 earnings

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Buzzards Bay, MA · 1,395 students · Public

At Massachusetts Maritime Academy, students pursuing a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice dive into a program that combines maritime and security studies—ideal for those interested in law enforcement within specialized environments. This unique perspective prepares graduates for careers that span local police departments to federal agencies, and even roles that focus on security in maritime settings. The program is a fit for dedicated individuals looking to blend their interests in law and public safety with a distinctive maritime focus.

95% accepted 77% graduate $82,392 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

The University of Central Florida's Criminal Justice bachelor's program caters to students who are passionate about public service and the justice system. This program prepares future leaders to tackle real-world challenges in law enforcement, policy-making, and community relations, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for success in diverse roles.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX · 9,912 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $50,296 earnings

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

George Mason University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program welcomes students interested in the complex interplay of crime, justice, and society. This program attracts individuals committed to understanding crime prevention, rehabilitation, and the societal impact of crime. Students will engage with various aspects of criminal justice, preparing them for diverse career paths in public service, legal advocacy, and beyond.

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

The Criminal Justice bachelor's program at the University of North Florida is designed for students eager to engage with the legal system and explore the intricacies of law enforcement, corrections, and the judicial process. It attracts individuals who are passionate about making a difference within communities, preparing them for various roles in public safety, legal aid, and policy-making. Students can expect a curriculum that emphasizes real-world applications, critical thinking, and ethical considerations in the criminal justice field.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University offers a Criminal Justice bachelor's program designed for students eager to engage with social issues and public safety challenges. This program prepares students for careers that directly impact their communities, giving them the skills to analyze criminal behavior and work effectively within various sectors of the justice system.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#10

Westfield State University

Westfield, MA · 3,615 students · Public

Westfield State University presents a supportive environment for students pursuing a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about social justice and want to explore the dynamics of crime and law enforcement. With a focus on experiential learning, students engage in discussions about policy and reform, preparing them for impactful careers in various sectors, including law enforcement, corrections, and advocacy.

81% accepted 55% graduate $57,346 earnings

Westfield's full profile

#11

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

At San Jose State University, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program is perfect for students who are driven by a desire to make a difference in their communities. The program prepares students for diverse career paths, including roles in law enforcement, corrections, and social services, by fostering a deep understanding of legal principles and societal impacts of crime.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Madonna University

Livonia, MI · 1,632 students · Private nonprofit

Madonna University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program is designed for students eager to understand the intricacies of the justice system and its impact on society. This program is well-suited for those who want to make a positive impact in their communities, whether through law enforcement, social work, or advocacy. Students will delve into topics that challenge their views and prepare them for thoughtful careers in the field of criminal justice.

63% accepted 59% graduate $59,058 earnings

Madonna's full profile

#13

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program is designed for students interested in exploring the intersection of law, society, and justice. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, students prepare for impactful roles in law enforcement, legal advocacy, and community engagement, making meaningful contributions to society.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#14

University of New Haven

West Haven, CT · 4,841 students · Private nonprofit

60% accepted 61% graduate $60,126 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

The Criminal Justice bachelor's program at Florida Atlantic University caters to students who are passionate about understanding the nuances of crime and justice in modern society. This program is especially fitting for those looking to pursue careers in law enforcement, social services, or public policy. It emphasizes critical analysis and ethical considerations, preparing students for the complex challenges they may face in the field of criminal justice.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#16

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL · 4,410 students · Public

Western Illinois University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program is tailored for students interested in the mechanics of law enforcement and the broader justice system. This program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, preparing students for direct involvement in criminal justice careers. It attracts individuals eager to explore issues of crime, justice, and societal impact through a dedicated academic lens.

71% accepted 45% graduate $54,163 earnings

Western's full profile

#17

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

The Criminal Justice bachelor's program at Ferris State University is designed for students passionate about making a difference in their communities. With a focus on practical skills and real-world applications, students delve into topics like law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice, preparing them for varied careers in the field. This program is ideal for those who aim to understand the complexities of the justice system and want to contribute positively to society.

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings

Ferris's full profile

#18

Missouri Southern State University

Joplin, MO · 3,019 students · Public

97% accepted 40% graduate $42,620 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#19

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

At Elizabeth City State University, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program attracts those eager to serve their communities and enact change. Students in this program are prepared for careers in law enforcement, social services, and legal advocacy. The curriculum is designed to provide a clear understanding of the justice system, encouraging students to think critically about issues of justice and ethics in society.

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

#20

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL · 4,015 students · Private nonprofit

Lewis University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about justice and public safety, preparing them for a variety of careers in law enforcement and community service. This program emphasizes ethical decision-making and critical analysis, aligning with Lewis's commitment to social responsibility. Students will engage in discussions about current issues in criminal justice while gaining practical skills through hands-on experiences that prepare them for the workforce.

71% accepted 65% graduate $66,099 earnings

Utica University

Utica, NY · 2,278 students · Private nonprofit

92% accepted 56% graduate $63,277 earnings

Lake Superior State University

Sault Ste Marie, MI · 1,325 students · Public

At Lake Superior State University, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program invites students to explore vital themes in law enforcement and public safety. This program is designed for those who are committed to understanding crime prevention and community service, making it ideal for aspiring police officers, detectives, or social advocates. Students will learn through both theoretical frameworks and hands-on experiences that emphasize practical applications in the field of criminal justice.

54% graduate $49,045 earnings

Norwich University

Northfield, VT · 2,428 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 61% graduate $65,575 earnings

Norwich's full profile

#24

Florida Gulf Coast University

Fort Myers, FL · 13,874 students · Public

The Criminal Justice bachelor's program at Florida Gulf Coast University is a great fit for students interested in understanding crime and the operations of the legal system. This program appeals to those who want to tackle real-world issues, preparing them for careers that can range from law enforcement to public service. Students engage with community challenges, making a meaningful impact through their education.

63% accepted 57% graduate $54,560 earnings

Florida's full profile

#25

Saint Peter's University

Jersey City, NJ · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 61% graduate $57,815 earnings

Hilbert College

Hamburg, NY · 921 students · Private nonprofit

97% accepted 52% graduate $48,309 earnings

Hilbert's full profile

#27

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

San Diego State University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program attracts students eager to engage with real-world issues in law enforcement and public policy. This program is ideal for those looking to make a positive impact in their communities, as students study the intricacies of crime, justice processes, and societal challenges. With a strong emphasis on practical experience, students often find opportunities to participate in internships and community projects that deepen their understanding of the justice system.

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

At the University of West Florida, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program is tailored for students who are passionate about understanding the legal system and its impact on society. This program emphasizes critical thinking and real-world application, making it ideal for those who aspire to work in law enforcement, corrections, or social services. Here, students will explore both the theoretical frameworks and practical challenges in the field, preparing them for meaningful careers dedicated to public safety and community well-being.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#29

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

At the University of Florida-Online, the Criminal Justice bachelor's program is tailored for self-motivated students looking to advance their careers in a flexible learning environment. This program caters to individuals who are balancing work and study, providing the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of crime, law, and justice effectively.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#30

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#31

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, FL · 6,721 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 47% graduate $48,364 earnings

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · 3,930 students · Public

Worcester State University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program is tailored for students interested in understanding the complexities of law enforcement, public safety, and the justice system. With a focus on real-world applications, this program encourages critical thinking and prepares students for various careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, and social services. Here, students can expect to engage with issues that matter in today's society while developing the skills needed to make a difference in their communities.

88% accepted 58% graduate $60,624 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#33

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

San Francisco State University's Criminal Justice bachelor's program attracts students who wish to engage deeply with the multifaceted issues surrounding crime and justice in society. This program encourages critical analysis and fosters a sense of community service, ideal for those eager to influence change through careers in law enforcement, social advocacy, or legal studies. Students here are equipped to tackle the challenges of the justice system while promoting social equity.

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

New Jersey City University

Jersey City, NJ · 3,681 students · Public

98% accepted 36% graduate $52,745 earnings

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO · 5,648 students · Public

64% accepted 52% graduate $49,560 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#37

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY · 12,318 students · Public

78% accepted 50% graduate $45,795 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#40

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings

Sonoma's full profile

#41

Western Connecticut State University

Danbury, CT · 3,511 students · Public

87% accepted 51% graduate $59,115 earnings

Western's full profile

#42

Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, OK · 4,772 students · Public

100% accepted 36% graduate $45,379 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#43

Nevada State University

Henderson, NV · 3,762 students · Public

87% accepted 32% graduate $53,166 earnings

Nevada's full profile

#44

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC · 24,453 students · Public

80% accepted 68% graduate $57,289 earnings

University's full profile

#45

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND · 9,981 students · Public

77% accepted 62% graduate $63,552 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant, OK · 3,018 students · Public

76% accepted 32% graduate $45,079 earnings

Southeastern's full profile

#47

University of North Texas

Denton, TX · 34,341 students · Public

72% accepted 60% graduate $57,010 earnings

University's full profile

#48

University of Central Oklahoma

Edmond, OK · 10,170 students · Public

78% accepted 37% graduate $48,351 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX · 36,177 students · Public

89% accepted 56% graduate $56,906 earnings

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings

When comparing schools, one striking pattern emerges: the balance between graduation rates and potential earnings. For example, the University of Virginia-Main Campus stands out with a 95% graduation rate and average earnings of $86,863. In contrast, CUNY John Jay College, while offering a focus on criminal justice, has a lower graduation rate of 56% and average earnings of $56,195. This highlights how a strong graduation rate can correlate with higher future income.

As you sift through these 50 programs, consider your own priorities. Are you looking for a school with strong support systems that boost graduation rates? Or maybe you prefer a lower net price, like the University of Florida-Online, which offers a competitive $4,815 net price, albeit with a slightly lower graduation rate of 81%. Weighing factors like location, program fit, and financial implications will help you make a more informed decision.

This data underscores how critical it is to choose a program that not only prepares you academically but also supports your transition to a stable career. Each decision, whether it’s about major, school choice, or finances, can shape the path toward a rewarding life. Understanding these figures can help families make choices that lead to greater opportunities in the future.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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