Criminology is perhaps the single most fascinating academic subject. This field, which is the study of crime and why it happens, combines elements of law enforcement, psychology, economics, legal issues, public policy, and more. By better understanding crime with one of the cheapest online criminology degree programs, one hopes, we can better address root causes and find ways to reduce the prevalence and severity of theft and violence.
This database includes 46 online bachelor programs from 43 colleges and universities. They come in a range of types, including bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degrees. There are also various topics and concentrations, including criminology, forensic psychology, criminal justice, and criminal behavior. Because there are dozens of degrees, there is also a wide range of prices.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost: $53,000
Least Expensive (In-State): University of Florida – $15,502
Least Expensive (Nationwide): Georgia Southern University – $22,196
21 Cheapest Online Criminology Degree Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Florida | (FL) | $15,502.00 $66,314.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Georgia Southern University | (GA) | $22,196.00 | All Students |
3 | University of West Georgia | (GA) | $22,396.00 | All Students |
4 | SUNY College of Technology at Canton | (NY) | $28,280.00 $33,920.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
5 | Arkansas State University | (AR) | $33,120.00 | All Students |
6 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | (NE) | $35,430.00 $77,910.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 | Ohio University | (OH) | $36,840.00 $37,440.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
8 | University of Central Missouri | (MO) | $38,940.00 $35,640.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
9 | Ball State University | (IN) | $38,952.00 $65,952.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Louisiana State University-Alexandria | (LA) | $39,000.00 | All Students |
11 |  Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $39,600.00 $27,720.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
12 | Missouri State University | (MO) | $40,752.00 | All Students |
13 | The University of Alabama | (AL) | $48,000.00 | All Students |
14 | Touro University Worldwide | (CA) | $48,200.00 | All Students |
15 | Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | (IL) | $48,228.00 | All Students |
16 | Bay Path University | (MA) | $49,240.00 $42,040.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
17 | Liberty University | (VA) | $49,292.00 $30,100.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
18 | Lander University | (SC) | $50,950.00 | All Students |
19 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | (MO) | $51,252.00 $123,252.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
20 | Coker University | (SC) | $51,400.00 | All Students |
21 | University of Memphis | (TN) | $51,720.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Kean University | (NJ) | $53,704.00 | All Students | |
University of Illinois at Springfield | (IL) | $53,872.00 | All Students | |
George Mason University | (VA) | $55,598.00 $152,270.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Buena Vista University | (IA) | $55,890.00 | All Students | |
University of Missouri-St Louis | (MO) | $57,600.00 $143,280.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Kentucky Wesleyan College | (KY) | $57,980.00 | All Students | |
Webster University | (MO) | $58,980.00 $32,100.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Lindenwood University | (MO) | $59,400.00 | All Students | |
Los Angeles Pacific University | (CA) | $59,955.00 | All Students | |
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | (IN) | $60,270.00 $30,750.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Concordia University Texas | (TX) | $61,560.00 | All Students | |
 Carlow University | (PA) | $61,830.00 | All Students | |
The Chicago School | (TX) | $62,235.00 | All Students | |
Bushnell University | (OR) | $62,580.00 | All Students | |
Florida Institute of Technology | (FL) | $66,120.00 | All Students | |
Western Kentucky University | (KY) | $66,120.00 $30,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
DeSales University | (PA) | $67,200.00 | All Students | |
Maryville University | (MO) | $70,480.00 | All Students | |
Regis University | (CO) | $71,570.00 | All Students | |
Chaminade University of Honolulu | (HI) | $74,135.00 $33,935.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
National Louis University | (IL) | $80,025.00 | All Students | |
University of Providence | (MT) | $117,450.00 $30,090.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
Methodology for These Rankings of the Cheapest Online Criminology Degree Programs
These rankings of online criminology bachelor’s programs are based on our spring 2024 review of degrees. In order to calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual online bachelor program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, then your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online criminology degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible for the cheapest online criminology degree programs. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online criminology degree. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: In order to qualify for a ranking, the online criminology program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Choose One of the Cheapest Online Criminology Degree Programs?
Here are some of the top reasons to consider an online bachelor of criminology degree online:
- Fascinating field: Criminology is one of the most fascinating fields. Just consider all the police and CSI dramas on television. Realistic or not, there is an obvious attraction to the justice system.
- Excellent degree for officers: Law enforcement officers are not required to have a bachelor’s degree, but a college education can boost career potential and bring possible leadership roles. It’s hard to imagine a better education than a criminology degree.
- Multiple career options: You don’t have to work in law enforcement. After graduating with a criminology degree online, you can work in psychology, sociology, corrections, and more.
- Stable, reliable employment: While these jobs won’t see rapid growth, law enforcement is a stable, secure field, one that certainly won’t shrink or be relocated to a specific area.
Online Criminology Degrees: Program Cost
With 46 different options in this database, there are plenty of choices for your online bachelor degree. Always research the coursework and delivery structure, but first you must understand the cost of these degrees.
These online criminology degree and online forensic psychology degree programs have an average cost of $53,000. Most of these degrees take four years of full-time study, so the average annual cost is about $13,250.
The most affordable online bachelor program in this database comes from the University of Florida. In-state students enrolled in the online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology pay $15,502, which is far below the database average.
But you don’t have to live in Florida to enjoy a low price. For all students, the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice & Criminology from Georgia Southern University is available at an estimated cost of $22,196. Similarly, the University of West Georgia has a program for $22,396 for all students.
The most expensive degree in this database is the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology / Forensic Psychology from the University of Providence, which has an estimated cost of $117,450. The second-highest price is from National Louis University, which costs $80,025. So there is a gap of roughly $37,000 between the first and second-most expensive online bachelor degrees.
With diligent research and preparation (and the help of this database), you can find an online bachelor program that fits your budget.
The Three Most Affordable Criminology Degrees Online
These programs range from around $16,000 to over $117,000. Out of the 46 degrees in this database, these three offer the lowest price:
#1. University of Florida
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Criminology
Cost: $15,502 (In-state, Florida)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Of all the affordable criminology online programs in our database, this online bachelor of arts degree offers the lowest price, at least to Florida residents. With a total estimated in-state price of $15,502, the annual cost for this degree (assuming four years of study) is less than $4,000. Per semester, Florida students pay less than $2,000. While out-of-state cost is higher, this remains an impressively low price.
This criminology degree is a cross-discipline program that offers coursework in legal, social, political, and historical issues. There is also a deep study into criminological theory and the psychological factors of criminal behavior.
The University of Florida has created a highly-regarded online school with multiple degrees from various disciplines. The school offers flexible learning supported by a range of services.
#2. Georgia Southern University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice & Criminology
Cost: $22,196 (All students)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Compared to the previous degree’s in-state cost, the price for this online bachelor program jumps nearly $7,000. However, the estimated cost of $22,196 is available to all online students, not just in-state learners. This makes it the cheapest online criminology degree for students from all corners of the country.
GSU offers an online bachelor of science degree that covers the details of the American criminal justice system and criminal law processes. Students understand all steps of the justice system from arrests to appeals. They also understand procedures used in criminal investigations and the factors that lead to criminal behavior. A cybercrime emphasis is offered to students interested in computer-related crimes as well.
Georgia Southern is especially popular among adult learners, who can take advantage of a practical mix of criminological theory and skills development. Using a collaborative learning system called Georgia Online Virtual Instruction Enterprise Wide, this school has become a popular online university.
#3. University of West Georgia
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Criminology
Cost: $22,396 (All students)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
This is another school that offers a low cost for all students, regardless of location. The price is only $200 more than the GSU program, which translates to $25 more per semester.
The online bachelor program trains students to contribute to numerous professions and industries related to crime, criminology, law enforcement, and the legal system. As an online bachelor of science degree, it focuses on conducting research that enhances our knowledge of criminal behavior and the effectiveness of criminal justice.
The University of West Georgia leverages “eCore,” the electronic core curriculum developed by the University System of Georgia. Bachelor students complete these programs to fulfill their general education coursework, then move into UWG eMajor programs.
Criminology and Forensic Psychology: Degree Program Types
All of these degrees deal with criminology in some fashion. However, there are various types and different concentrations. Most of these programs are either bachelor of arts or bachelor of science. While the differences can be hard to spot, a bachelor of arts generally includes more broad-based studies into history, culture, literature, philosophy, and other classic liberal arts topics. An online bachelor of science, on the other hand, is rooted in the hard science, data, and research methods involved in criminology.
Choosing a degree type is important, but online students also need to select a concentration or subject area.
Criminology
Many of these programs focus on criminology, which is a science just like biology, geology, or sociology. It looks at countless factors that contribute to criminal behavior and attempts to teach students why crime happens and how to facilitate crime prevention. Students in criminology programs are therefore exposed to topics that include economics, sociology, psychology, public policy, and more.
Forensic Psychology
This is a relatively new subfield of psychology that explores criminal behavior and the law. Essentially, this discipline seeks to explain the psychological elements of legal cases. It’s the application of clinical psychology to the legal field and may include psychological assessments, the legal system, and criminal investigation. Professionals in this arena may assist law enforcement agencies alongside criminal investigators or act as expert witnesses during trials.
Accreditation for Criminology Degrees
If you are enrolling in an online bachelor program, then you need to understand accreditation, a critical part of the academic system. Accreditation is a review process completed by established groups that specialize in education. Most accreditation is institutional, meaning the entire college or university has been reviewed and approved. Accreditation is critical, as it ensures a quality education. Also, some financial support, such as federal student loans, is only available if you attend an accredited school.
All the online bachelor’s degrees in this database come from accredited institutions; this is a requirement for inclusion. (Another major requirement is that the degrees must contain at least 80% online courses.)
Typical Admission Requirements for Online Criminology Programs
Most of the online bachelor’s programs in this database have fairly light admission standards. If you are a high school graduate with a decent academic background, then you can likely find a program that accepts your application.
The most important requirement is a high school diploma or equivalency. Some online bachelor’s programs also have GPA requirements. For example, you may need a 2.5 out of 4.0 to be eligible. However, many programs have flexible or conditional enrollment, allowing you to begin classes even if you don’t have a strong academic history.
Some schools will require test scores, such as ACT or SAT scores. You may also need letters of recommendation from previous teachers or supervisors. A college could also request a personal essay to understand your background and interest in an online criminology degree.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements for Criminology Careers
Specific licensing, training, and experience requirements will vary depending on the career you choose in the criminal justice field. Some criminal justice professionals, such as forensic science technicians, will need on-the-job training in addition to a bachelor’s degree. New hires in this profession will work under experienced professionals to learn the procedures and methods of the job.
Police officers will be required to complete academy training to work in criminal justice, which includes aspects such as classroom learning, firearms training, and physical conditioning.
Psychiatrists and sociologists will need additional education. While an online forensic psychology degree is a good start to work in the justice system, professionals will need at least a master’s degree. Others may need a doctorate. This is why attending an accredited school is critical, as most master’s programs will only accept graduates of accredited colleges and universities.
Some careers allow graduates to go directly from an online bachelor’s degree to the job. Criminology and forensic psychology, however, will usually require additional training, education, or professional experience.
Salary and Career Information for Criminology Graduates
Occupation | Minimum Education | Expected Growth (2022-2032) | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sociologist | Master’s | 5% | $98,590 |
| Psychologist | Master’s | 6% | $85,330 |
| Police Officer or Detective | Varies (High School to Bachelor’s) | 3% | $69,160 |
| Forensic Science Technician | Bachelor’s | 13% | $63,740 |
| Probation Officer | Bachelor’s | 3% | $59,860 |
| Correctional Officer | High School | -7% | $49,610 |
| All occupations | N/A | 3% | $46,310 |
To have a successful career in criminology, forensic psychology, law enforcement, and the justice system in general, you need a passion for solving crimes and helping victims. But you can still enjoy a strong salary and a stable industry.
Forensic science technicians have a median annual wage of $63,740, which is roughly $17,000 more than the median for all occupations. The top 10% earn over $104,000, so there is plenty of room for a high income.
Job stability is also strong. Most law enforcement careers and justice system grow, more or less, at the same rate as the national job market. Some see excellent growth, such as forensic science technicians, which are expected to grow by 13% between 2022 and 2032.
This growth will be caused by numerous factors, including the need to process more caseloads. Scientific and technological advances will make these professionals more effective and, therefore, will make the technicians more attractive to state and local governments.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Criminology Degree Program?
Are you interested in becoming a criminologist or forensic psychologist? Or do you want to be a police officer, detective, probation officer, or work in crime prevention instead? If so, then an online bachelor’s criminology degree may be perfect.
Firstly, use this database to start your search for the ideal program. All the degrees on this page come from accredited colleges and universities, thus making them the perfect choice for your future. Also, you’ll find reliable pricing information so that you can make a fully informed decision.
To find the ideal program, think about your goals, budget, and schedule in detail. If you have any questions about the course delivery methods, then you can always contact the school, by phone or email, for more information.
From start to finish, GetEducated.com can be your guide as you search for the right forensic psychology bachelor’s degree online.