If you are a current professional in law enforcement, investigations, corrections, or the legal system and want to enhance your knowledge of crime and criminal behavior, an affordable online master’s in criminology could be the perfect choice for you.
Students in these programs learn how to approach crime from many angles. They develop research and data analysis skills while also studying the social, psychological, and economic factors that play a role in crime. Graduates of these programs also have enhanced communication skills, helping them to better convey their findings to law enforcement, politicians, lawyers, and the public.
Throughout their careers in the criminal justice system, criminologists seek to uncover the traits and patterns of people who commit crimes. They try to understand the reasons why people commit crimes such as robbery, fraud, theft, and murder and the effects these crimes have on victims and the larger society. Above all, they try to discover new methods for preventing crime and keeping people safe.
We have found 47 degrees from 36 top accredited schools. These include online master’s of science and master of arts programs, as well as unique degrees like a master of advanced study and a master of legal and forensic psychology. There are also a wide range of concentrations, allowing prospective students to choose the best degree for their needs.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost: $24,500
Least Expensive (All Students): University of Central Missouri – $13,815
27 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Criminology
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Central Missouri | (MO) | $13,815.00 | All Students |
2 | Missouri State University | (MO) | $14,076.00 | All Students |
3 | University of St. Thomas Houston | (TX) | $14,850.00 | All Students |
4 | West Liberty University | (WV) | $15,010.00 | All Students |
5 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | (NE) | $15,141.00 $30,693.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | University of California-Irvine | (CA) | $15,810.00 | All Students |
7 |  Campbellsville University | (KY) | $16,152.00 | All Students |
8 | University of Missouri-Kansas City | (MO) | $16,263.00 $23,583.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | Texas A & M University - Commerce | (TX) | $16,476.00 $31,164.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Indiana State University | (IN) | $16,800.00 $21,660.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | Delta State University | (MS) | $17,440.00 | All Students |
12 | Salem State University | (MA) | $17,971.00 $21,298.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | Indiana State University | (IN) | $18,200.00 $23,465.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | Touro University Worldwide | (CA) | $18,200.00 | All Students |
15 | Pennsylvania Western University | (PA) | $18,768.00 $20,643.00 $15,492.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
16 | CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice | (NY) | $19,042.00 $22,462.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
17 | Hardin-Simmons University | (TX) | $19,290.00 | All Students |
18 | Indiana University of Pennsylvania | (PA) | $19,316.00 $28,631.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | East Tennessee State University | (TN) | $19,800.00 | All Students |
20 | University of North Dakota | (ND) | $19,802.00 | All Students |
21 | Thomas College | (ME) | $19,930.00 | All Students |
22 | Kent State University | (OH) | $20,730.00 $21,030.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
23 |  Liberty University | (VA) | $21,636.00 $10,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
24 | Tiffin University | (OH) | $21,800.00 $10,550.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
25 | Pennsylvania Western University | (PA) | $22,522.00 $24,772.00 $18,590.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
26 |  Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $22,932.00 $16,920.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
27 | Florida State University | (FL) | $23,510.00 $47,524.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Saint Leo University | (FL) | $24,740.00 | All Students | |
Regis University | (CO) | $24,854.00 | All Students | |
Saint Joseph's University | (PA) | $25,350.00 | All Students | |
National University | (CA) | $27,410.00 | All Students | |
University of Michigan - Dearborn | (MI) | $28,070.00 $50,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $28,980.00 | All Students | |
St. Thomas University | (FL) | $29,700.00 | All Students | |
Northeastern University | (MA) | $32,352.00 | All Students | |
Texas Christian University | (TX) | $34,350.00 | All Students | |
Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $34,620.00 | All Students | |
The Chicago School | (TX) | $42,035.00 | All Students | |
Seattle University | (WA) | $46,819.00 | All Students | |
The Chicago School | (TX) | $51,611.00 | All Students | |
The Chicago School | (TX) | $83,660.00 | All Students |
Methodology for Rankings of the Most Affordable Online Master’s in Criminology
These rankings of online criminology master’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 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, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an online master’s in criminology degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. 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 online master’s degree programs 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. Online master’s degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Choose an Affordable Online Master’s in Criminology?
People are motivated by many factors. Here are some of the top reasons that students enroll in a master’s in criminology online:
- Improve criminal justice: Criminal justice and law enforcement are under a microscope. With an online master’s degree in criminology, you can do your part to ensure a better, more effective system that helps keep communities safe.
- Advance into leadership: Many criminal justice careers only require a bachelor’s degree. However, if you want a role in criminal justice administration, a master’s degree in criminology may open new opportunities.
- Enhance the safety of your community: Your community needs people who understand violent crime and criminal behavior. With an education in criminology, you’ll be equipped to work with criminal justice organizations to keep your city, state, and nation safe from harmful crime.
Master’s in Criminology Online: Program Cost
An online master degree is an investment in your future. Even more expensive degrees can bring a solid value, helping graduates earn a higher income while advancing their career. But you can’t rush into a degree. You need to find a program that fits your budget.
In this database, you’ll find 46 degrees from 35 leading accredited organizations. These programs vary in price from below $14,000 to over $83,000. That’s a range of roughly $69,000, which means you need to be careful when selecting a program.
The most affordable online master’s in criminology comes from the University of Central Missouri. The school’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice & Criminology, which is available in Administration & Leadership or Theoretical concentrations, has an estimated cost of $13,815. This cost is available to both Missouri residents and out-of-state students, making it a highly attractive program no matter where you live.
The average cost is this database is $24,500. Most of these programs are completed in two years (four semesters), which means the annual per-year cost is about $12,250 for a typical student.
The most expensive program in this database comes from The Chicago School. The Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology with a Professional Counselor Licensure Track has a cost of $83,660, making this by far the most expensive. The second most costly is the non-licensure track of the same degree; this program costs $51,611. It’s roughly $32,000 less than the licensure track.
The third-most expensive is the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Investigative Criminology from Seattle University. This program has a total estimated cost of $46,819.
Pricing may not be the only factor to consider, but it certainly matters. Use this database to research degrees and find a program that fits your budget needs.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Criminology Master’s Degrees Online?
This database includes many programs below the average pricing, including 23 programs with estimated in-state costs below $20,000. If you want the most affordable online masters in criminology, start your search with these three programs:
#1. University of Central Missouri
Degree: Master of Science in Criminal Justice & Criminology (Administration & Leadership or Theoretical concentrations)
Cost: $13,815 (All students)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
This is the only degree in our database with an estimated cost below $14,000, and the low price is available to students from all across the country, not just Missouri residents. The degree is available in a Theoretical track, which includes statistics and methods of criminal justice. Another option is the Administration and Leadership track, which has coursework in criminal justice planning, municipal administration, and criminal justice ethics.
The University of Central Missouri has built an online school that follows the same 8- or 16-week schedule as its on-campus classes. However, online students do not have to face daily meeting times, allowing for greater flexibility.
#2. Missouri State University
Degree: Master of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice
Cost: $14,076 (All students)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Missouri State University offers an online master’s in criminology that has a price of $14,076, making it our second cheapest master’s in criminology online. This program can be completed in four semesters and comes with thesis and non-thesis options. Coursework includes crime theory, criminal decision-making, ethics of justice, and leadership in the criminal justice system.
This online degree comes from a school that understands online education and provides a wide range of resources for stronger learning. Students can access virtual research assistance, writing help, and one-on-one tutoring, among many other support services.
#3. University of St. Thomas Houston
Degree: Master of Arts in Criminology, Law & Society
Cost: $14,850 (All students)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
This online program is tailor-made for active law enforcement professionals, especially police officers, who want to deepen their knowledge of criminal behavior, criminal law, and the justice system. It’s available 100% online and can be completed in as little as one year and seven weeks, making it attractive to those who want a fast-paced, results-driven education.
The University of St. Thomas has created a comprehensive online school that includes a variety of resources to improve your learning experience. Students can access information on delivery strategies or join workshops and events to discuss their education with peers.
Types of Criminology Online Programs
When selecting a master’s in criminology, you have many options. To select the ideal program for your future, it helps to understand the various types, as well as available specializations. Let’s examine the various options:
Master of Arts (MA)
A master of arts is one of the most common types of master’s degrees. These programs are the most far-ranging, broad, and theoretical, often ranging into diverse subjects that include history, philosophy, and cultural issues. Courses may include theories of crime and justice, victimology, and issues impacting police or communities.
Master of Science (MS)
These programs are more scientific and research-based. Students develop knowledge of the scientific process as it relates to criminology and psychology, with coursework that may include the fundamentals of forensic psychology, rehabilitation practices, and crisis intervention.
Master of Advanced Studies (MAS)
These are highly specific degrees that equip students with direct training. Students establish skills that are essential to the career. In many ways, these degrees reflect technical training instead of a scholarly degree. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications central to crime, justice, and law enforcement administration.
Master of Legal and Forensic Psychology
These degrees combine forensic psychology with law and crime studies, often focusing on the intersection between psychology and legal issues. These are interdisciplinary programs used to advance a career in law, psychology, or criminology.
Master’s in Criminology Concentrations
Arguably, the concentration or specialization is more important than degree type, as it directly impacts what you learn and what jobs are available after graduation. Here are a few of the possible concentrations for students in an online master’s in criminology program:
- Administration
- Law and society
- Psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Behavioral crime analysis
- Criminal behavior
- Criminology and deviance
- Forensic linguistics
- Threat assessment
- Professional counselor licensure
Accreditation for Criminology Programs
If you spend thousands of dollars on a degree, you need to know that your money is well spent. One of the ways to ensure a quality education is to only seek degrees from accredited schools.
Accreditation is a review process for academia. Acting like a quality-control system, it’s completed by independent groups that review schools for curriculum, staff, graduate success, and other factors. The main type of accreditation is institutional. The most widely respected type of institutional accreditation is known as “regional”, because it’s granted by regional bodies such as the New England Commission of Higher Education, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
All the programs in this database come from regionally accredited institutions. This ensures greater dependability for your education.
Typical Admission Requirements
Master’s programs, which are challenging, rigorous, and demanding, have high enrollment standards. The main requirement is a bachelor’s degree, but you’ll also need to prepare a variety of documents.
All master’s programs require a bachelor’s degree. However, this degree must be applicable to the specific master’s program. A bachelor’s in criminology, law enforcement, psychology, legal studies, sociology, or behavioral science could apply to a master’s in criminology online. Many programs require a minimum GPA as well. A GPA of 2.75 or 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is usually required.
Master’s programs also require a variety of documents, letters, essays, and statements. You’ll need to submit all transcripts from previous colleges, and you’ll need to create a statement of purpose, which not only describes why you want a master’s degree in criminology, but also shows your writing and communication skills.
These online programs will also require multiple letters of recommendation written by previous supervisors or instructors.
The application process for a master’s is far more detailed than a bachelor’s. But if you have a strong background, prepare early, and gather all documents, you should find a program that accepts your application.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements
These degrees are often used to supplement or enhance a career, resulting in criminal justice leadership or management roles. Licensing, therefore, is not a concern, as most people in these programs already have the appropriate license or certification.
For example, online education may enhance a police career by strengthening investigative skills or psychological knowledge. An officer entering one of these programs will already have the appropriate training and license to work as an officer of the law.
Some of these programs allow you to become a psychologist, which requires training and a state license. Clinical and counseling psychologists, however, will need a Ph.D in psychology; these programs can act as a stepping stone to these advanced degrees.
Regardless of your career, you may seek certification or advanced credentials after graduation. Numerous certifications available from the American Board of Criminalistics, for instance, can improve your earning potential and job opportunities.
Salary and Career Information for Criminal Justice Careers
To succeed in a criminology career, you need to have motivation beyond money. However, you can expect a strong salary, especially after completing an online master’s program.
Criminal investigators have some of the highest earnings in law enforcement. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income for these professionals is $91,100, while the top 10% earn over $154,000 a year.
The BLS does not provide expected growth data for these careers, but the overall trend for similar careers is positive. Police and detectives are expected to grow by 3% between 2022 and 2032; this is the same growth rate as the entire job market.
Forensic science technicians, another investigative role, are expected to grow by 13%, a sign that investigative skills will be in high demand.
Here are some of the stats for similar careers:
Career | Expected Growth | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | 6% | $92,740 |
| Criminal Investigator | (not available) | $91,100 |
| Police Officer or Detective | 3% | $74,910 |
| Forensic Science Technician | 13% | $64,940 |
It’s clear that a graduate of an online master’s degree in criminology can earn a quality income in a stable field while performing some of the most important work in all society.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Criminology Master Program?
Choosing the right program is essential, as it impacts your educational experience and future career. Having a plan, therefore, is important.
Start your process by searching for an online master’s degree in criminology that fits your budget. With this database, you can quickly search for the total estimated cost from accredited programs.
Once you identify online programs that fit your budget, you can review the degree types and specializations, This will help you choose a program that achieves your unique career goals.
Always review the programs for schedule and delivery format. For example, are the programs completely online, or is there a small in-person requirement? This will ensure you can attend the program and not miss classes.
If you need further help to find an affordable online master’s in criminology, the resources and information from GetEducated.com are available whenever, and wherever, you need them!