Should I Get My Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Online?
Criminal justice is a growing and dynamic field, offering opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, and the legal system. But with busy schedules and work commitments, many students wonder:
Is earning a criminal justice degree online a smart choice?
The short answer—yes! An online criminal justice degree offers the flexibility, affordability, and career advantages needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Whether you’re already in law enforcement or looking to break into the field, online programs provide a convenient and accessible way to earn your degree without disrupting your life.
Let’s explore 10 compelling reasons why an online criminal justice degree could be the right fit for your career.
1. Earn Your Degree While Working Full-Time
Struggling to balance work, life, and career growth? One of the biggest benefits of earning your criminal justice degree online is flexibility. Unlike traditional on-campus programs, online degrees let you:
- Set your own study schedule—ideal for those with jobs or family responsibilities.
- Complete coursework from anywhere—no commuting required.
- Choose full-time or part-time enrollment—go at your own pace.
Many law enforcement professionals choose accredited online criminal justice programs because they fit around shift work and unpredictable hours. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, security specialist, or corrections professional, an affordable online criminal justice degree allows you to continue working while advancing your education.
2. Save Money with Lower Costs Compared to On-Campus Programs
Worried about the cost of a degree? Pursuing a criminal justice degree online is often more affordable than enrolling in a traditional in-person program. On average, an online degree at a public university costs over $30,000 less than an out-of-state traditional degree, according to the Education Data Initiative.
Here’s why:
- Lower tuition costs—Many online programs have reduced fees compared to on-campus degrees.
- No commuting expenses—Save nearly $1,300 per year on gas, parking, and public transportation.
- Digital textbooks & resources—Cut down on pricey printed materials.
Plus, many universities like, Rowan University, offer financial aid, tuition reimbursement, and military discounts, making an online criminal justice degree even more cost-effective.
3. Open Doors to Many Careers
One of the biggest questions students ask is:
“What can you do with a criminal justice degree?”
The answer? There’s a lot you can do with a criminal justice degree! This online program prepares you for high-demand careers in law enforcement, security, intelligence, and more. Here are some of the top careers for graduates:
- Police Officer or Detective – Solve crimes and protect communities.
- Corrections Officer or Probation Officer – Work in jails, prisons, or with parolees.
- Homeland Security Specialist – Protect national security against threats.
- Forensic Science Technician – Analyze crime scene evidence.
- Cybercrime Investigator – Combat fraud, hacking, and digital crimes.
- Private Investigator or Corporate Security Manager – Work in private security and risk assessment.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that legal occupations will grow steadily over the next decade, with 85,600 job openings annually. Many of these roles only require a bachelor’s degree, making a criminal justice degree a strong pathway to law-related careers without attending law school.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Law & Justice, you can qualify for these roles without putting your current job on hold.
4. Increase Your Salary Potential
A major advantage of earning a criminal justice degree online is the potential to make more money.
The BLS reports that higher education leads to higher earnings. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can boost your salary—even if you stay in the same rank. Some agencies also provide education incentive programs, offering raises to encourage officers to continue their education. While a degree isn’t required for every entry-level law enforcement role, a bachelor’s degree can open the door to promotions, leadership positions, and higher pay.
Investing in your education now can pay off financially in the long run by helping you qualify for higher-paying positions in the criminal justice field.
5. Gain Real-World, Career-Focused Training
A high-quality online criminal justice degree isn’t just about theory—it includes hands-on training, real-world case studies, and practical law enforcement techniques.
Courses often cover:
- Criminal Law & Investigations – Learn legal procedures, trial processes, and case-solving techniques.
- Forensic Psychology – Understand criminal behavior and offender profiling.
- Homeland Security & Counterterrorism – Train in emergency response and risk management.
- Cybercrime & Digital Forensics – Study modern crime trends and cybersecurity solutions.
Online criminal justice programs use interactive technology, including virtual simulations, discussion boards, and case-study analyses, to enhance learning and critical thinking.
6. Connect with Criminal Justice Professionals Nationwide
Online programs provide networking opportunities that extend far beyond your local area. Through these programs, you can:
- Interact with law enforcement professionals from across the country
- Connect with professors who are experienced criminal justice professionals
- Gain access to alumni networks for career opportunities
These connections can lead to mentorships, job referrals, and career advancement opportunities within and beyond law enforcement.
7. Develop the Leadership Skills Needed for Promotions
Many law enforcement agencies require a bachelor’s degree for supervisory and command positions. Earning a criminal justice degree online helps develop essential leadership skills such as:
- Strategic thinking & decision-making
- Crisis management & emergency response
- Personnel management & team leadership
- Public policy & law enforcement ethics
Whether you’re aiming for a promotion in your current department or transitioning into a federal agency, this degree provides the credentials needed to step into leadership positions.
8. Study from Anywhere While Staying Safe on the Job
An online criminal justice degree eliminates the hassle of:
- Commuting to campus—save hours each week.
- Missing work shifts for scheduled classes.
- Balancing high-risk law enforcement duties with in-person lectures.
With an online criminal justice degree, you can advance your education from anywhere—whether at home, on a lunch break, or during downtime at the station.
9. Specialize in High-Demand Criminal Justice Fields
The field of criminal justice is evolving, with new challenges in cybersecurity, forensic science, and counterterrorism. An online criminal justice degree allows you to gain specialized expertise in these emerging areas without disrupting your current job.
Some in-demand specializations include:
- Cybercrime & Digital Forensics – Investigate cyberattacks, identity theft, and online fraud.
- Forensic Psychology – Understand criminal behavior and work in profiling or victim advocacy.
- Homeland Security & Emergency Management – Train for roles in disaster response and national security.
- Corrections & Rehabilitation – Focus on criminal rehabilitation, probation, and parole services.
By specializing in one of these fields, you can enhance your expertise and increase your job prospects in both public and private sector roles.
10. Earn a Degree from a Respected, Accredited University
Worried about credibility? Online criminal justice degree programs are just as valuable as on-campus degrees—as long as you choose an accredited university.
- Employers recognize regionally accredited online degrees.
- Your diploma doesn’t say “online”—it’s the same as an on-campus degree.
- Many federal agencies and law enforcement departments now accept (and prefer) online degrees for hiring and promotions.
When selecting a program, make sure the university has regional accreditation, ensuring it meets high academic and professional standards.
Why Choose Rowan University for Your Online Criminal Justice Degree?
Rowan University’s online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Law & Justice is designed for working professionals looking to advance in law enforcement, public safety, and the legal system. This program provides a strong academic foundation in criminal justice while enhancing critical thinking, reasoning, writing, and analytical skills—all essential for leadership roles in today’s evolving justice system.
Here’s what sets Rowan’s online criminal justice program apart:
- Flexible 100% Online Format – Earn your degree on your terms while balancing work and life.
- Accredited & Respected Degree – Recognized by employers, law enforcement agencies, and public safety organizations nationwide.
- Expert Faculty – Learn from criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in law, policing, and corrections.
- Career Advancement Support – Access mentorship, networking opportunities, and career counseling to help you reach your goals.
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role, transition into a new career, or prepare for graduate or law school, Rowan’s fully online B.A. in Law & Justice provides the knowledge, credentials, and flexibility to succeed in this high-demand field.
Apply today to pursue your criminal justice degree online and take the next step in your professional journey.