Deciding on the right path for your education is a big step, and choosing an online pre-law or criminal justice program is a major milestone in your academic and professional journey. Whether you’re preparing for law school, looking to advance in public safety, or pivoting into a new career altogether, your choice of program can shape your future.
With so many online criminal justice degrees, how do you find the right one—one that fits your life, aligns with your goals, and leads to real opportunity?
Let’s explore what matters most in making this important decision—and how to choose a program that sets you up for long-term success in the legal or criminal justice fields.
1. Clarify Your Criminal Justice Career Goals
Your path starts with purpose. Before comparing programs, get clear on what you want your future to look like. The field of criminal justice is broad and evolving, so the best online program for you depends on where you want to make an impact.
Ask yourself:
- Do you see yourself as a lawyer, law enforcement officer, or policy leader?
- Are you interested in courts, corrections, homeland security, or advocacy?
- Do you want to work on the front lines or influence change behind the scenes?
Well-defined goals will help you:
- Evaluate course offerings and specializations
- Select electives that align with your interests
- Find a program that builds a direct path to your career
Whether you’re aiming to become an attorney, paralegal, court official, or law enforcement leader, the right program will build the foundation to get there.
2. Know What to Look for in Criminal Justice Degrees Online
Once your goals are in focus, start comparing programs. While there are many schools that offer online bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, not all are created equal.
Look for programs that offer:
- Regional accreditation to ensure credibility with employers and grad schools
- Asynchronous learning so you can balance school with work and family
- Asynchronous learning involves students working at their own pace during times that work best for their learning style
- Robust student support services, like online tutoring and career advising
- Transfer-friendly policies that let you maximize previously earned credits
One standout option is Rowan University’s online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Law and Justice, a regionally accredited, 100% online program tailored for working professionals and transfer students. With personalized advising, asynchronous coursework, and multiple start dates per year, it’s one of the most flexible and career-ready online bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice available today.
3. Dive into the Curriculum of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
The curriculum should reflect the complexity of today’s justice system—not just its procedures, but its social impact and evolving challenges.
Look for programs that cover:
- Fundamentals like criminal law, courts, policing, and corrections
- Topics like victimology, forensic law, homeland security, and restorative justice
- Opportunities to build critical thinking, legal writing, and data analysis skills
Rowan’s program delivers exactly that. Core courses include Survey of Criminal Justice, Criminal Law, and Criminal Justice Research. Electives such as Sentencing and the Rights of the Convicted, Women, Crime and Criminal Justice, and Crime Mapping offer students a comprehensive look at real-world issues and policy development across the justice system.
To view the full list of courses and official program requirements, visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.
4. Make the Most of Your Investment and Prior Credits
Choosing between criminal justice degrees online means weighing both cost and efficiency. Financial planning and credit transfer options can significantly impact the value of your degree—and how quickly you can finish.
Here’s how to make a smart, strategic decision:
- Explore scholarships and financial aid opportunities to reduce out-of-pocket expenses
- Conduct a cost-benefit analysis that considers career advancement and long-term earning potential
- Request a clear breakdown of tuition and fees so you know what to expect upfront
If you’ve already earned college credits or have military training, choosing a transfer-friendly program can save you both time and money.
Rowan University supports transfer students with:
- Tools like the Transfer Equivalency Digital Portal (TREQ) and Transferology
- A 3+1 option through Rowan College partners for streamlined, affordable degree completion
- Personalized guidance to help you map the most efficient path to graduation
Plus, Rowan’s Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice requires only 30 of your 120 total credits to be completed at Rowan University, giving you maximum flexibility to finish faster.
By choosing a program that respects your past learning and supports your financial goals, you can finish your online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with clarity and confidence.
5. Prepare for Long-Term Success
A good program doesn’t just end with graduation. It prepares you for what comes next—whether that’s law school, a promotion, or an entirely new career.
Make sure your program supports your future by offering:
- Opportunities to complete internships or applied projects
- A network of peers, alumni, and professors who understand your goals
- Career services that support job placement or grad school admissions
At Rowan, online students benefit from comprehensive academic and personal support throughout their entire educational journey, including:
- 24/7 online tutoring via Brainfuse and Rowan’s own peer-to-peer tutoring program
- Academic advising and personalized one-on-one guidance to help you stay on track
- Virtual workshop series on essential topics like time management, motivation, study tips, and well-being
No matter where you’re learning from, Rowan’s welcoming and inclusive environment ensures you have the resources, tools, and support to thrive.
Why Rowan University Stands Out
As a Top 100 public research institution and one of the fastest-growing public universities across the country, Rowan University is a national leader in online learning and career-focused education. Its online B.A. in Law and Justice is built for working professionals, career-changers, and transfer students who want a high-quality degree that fits into their lives.
You’ll benefit from:
- A 100% online, asynchronous format designed for flexibility
- A rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum with real-world application
- A transfer-friendly structure that helps you finish faster
- Access to experienced faculty, academic advisors, and career mentors who understand the justice field
- Institutional strength backed by economic impact, innovation, and student-centered support
Rowan’s commitment to access, affordability, and quality education—paired with its growing national reputation and robust online ecosystem—makes it a standout choice for anyone ready to lead in criminal justice.
FAQs About Earning an Online Criminal Justice Degree
Can I go to law school with an online bachelor’s in criminal justice?
Yes. While a criminal justice degree isn’t required for law school, it provides a strong foundation in law, policy, and analytical thinking—valuable for success on the LSAT and in legal studies.
What jobs can I get with an online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice?
Graduates pursue roles in law enforcement, court administration, corrections, security, advocacy, and public policy. Some continue on to graduate school or law school.
Is an online criminal justice degree respected by employers?
Absolutely—especially when it comes from a regionally accredited university like Rowan. Employers increasingly value flexible, career-focused education that prepares candidates for real-world challenges.
How long does it take to finish an online bachelor’s in criminal justice?
At Rowan University, the program can be completed in as little as 48 months—and even faster if you’re transferring previously earned college credits.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right online criminal justice degree is more than a practical decision—it’s a personal one. It’s about finding a path that supports your ambitions, respects your life outside school, and prepares you for what comes next.
With the right program and the right support, you can turn your passion for justice into a powerful career.
Ready to learn more?
Apply now or request more information about Rowan University’s online B.A. in Law and Justice today.