Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Criminology is a highly-interdisciplinary field that deals with the study of the nature of crime itself and of criminal behavior, and an online bachelor’s degree in criminology is in high demand nowadays. Although it is related to other fields, it does not directly deal with institutions of the criminal justice system, law enforcement, and judicial or courts and corrections systems, as this is the domain of the field of criminal justice studies. Criminology centers more on understanding crime and the factors affecting it and draws from diverse fields such as economics, social studies, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and psychiatry (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2019).

The core skills acquired from a typical criminology degree are highly valued, which include problem-solving and analytical skills, research skills, communication skills, writing and presentation skills, interpersonal skills, and ethical awareness skills that can all be applied to analyzing crime and criminal behavior.

Criminology careers include law enforcement and investigation, policy-making and advocacy-related jobs, social, socioeconomic, and sociopolitical research, local and international crime analysis, criminal behavior profiling, military and intelligence agency positions, private security, and academic careers, among many others. As crime evolves into more complicated forms and spread globally, the need for criminology degrees will also increase in the future. This article will discuss the nature of criminology as a subject and present some of the best online criminology degree programs based on our extensive research.

Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology Table of Contents

• Can you get a degree completely online?
• Will employers take my online degree seriously?
• Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
• Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology
• How much does an online bachelor’s degree in criminology cost?
• What are the requirements of an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?
• Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology
• Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology
• 2025 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology Programs
• Choosing the Right Program for Your Criminology Goals
• Gaining Practical Experience and Building Networks in Online Criminology Programs
• Is an Easier Criminal Justice Degree a Viable Option for Accelerating Your Career?
• What is the earning potential of a Criminology Degree?
• What are the career growth prospects after earning an online criminology degree?
• How Does Forensic Science Enhance Criminology Studies?
• Is a Criminology Degree Compatible with Homeland Security Careers?
• Can a Criminology Degree Be Complemented with Homeland Security Studies?
• What Colleges Offer the Best Programs for Future Law Enforcement Officers?
• How an Online Criminology Degree Can Enhance Your Career

Can you get a degree completely online?

In modern tertiary education settings, a criminology degree can be either a hybrid or a 100% online degree, and most if not all institutions accept the equivalent of an online degree with traditional degrees from reputable institutions. All one needs is a computer and a good Internet connection in order to attend classes and submit assignments and exams online. Online classes have been the trend since before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, and even more so now that universities have accepted an entirely new large student market segment. They have also lessened or eliminated face-to-face costs associated with brick-and-mortar classes (Zheng, et al, 2021).

The main advantage of online classes is flexibility—typical students are already working professionals who do not have time to commute to physical classes and follow synchronous class schedules. Asynchronous teaching and learning have become the main trends in adult learning and will continue to increase in the future.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

Generally nowadays, online degrees are considered equivalent to face-to-face degrees and no employer would turn down an applicant based solely on online qualifications. One thing to note though is that one’s research work or thesis is heavily considered in potential hires, so good grades and a good research project or thesis will always be helpful. While having experience is often advantageous, an online degree is the first step to getting real-world experience.

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

Worldwide, recognition of online degrees as legitimate degrees is no longer a question as long as the degree is from an accredited institution and the student has completed all necessary requirements. That said, it has also become more competitive, so good grades and thesis projects can make a big difference in getting hired at the most prestigious institutions. Your mileage may vary, though—some institutions insist on real-world or hands-on experience (e.g., actual crime scene investigations, DNA laboratory analysis, etc.), but it is always useful to ask yourself what specific job positions you would like after taking this degree. Experience can come on the job, anyway.

Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology

Criminology is closely related to criminal justice studies and is often offered as a standalone degree in some universities. They have several tracks depending on one’s desired specialty and target job market. Paralegal degrees online is another closely related program that offers similar tracks.

Though traditional and online degree formats differ mostly in delivery format and schedules, they are not very different content-wise. The online format allows for flexible and asynchronous learning, which is more valuable to people who work and have particular learning styles suited to busy lifestyles.

To facilitate this, universities utilize centralized learning management systems (LMS) that contain all reading, video, and resource materials, course syllabi, grade sheets and tracking, course announcements, report submission forms, and exam schedulers which can provide push notifications to mobile devices as reminders. Though these can also be made available for face-to-face degrees, they are the exclusive systems used by most online criminology degree programs.

Instead of required face-to-face lectures where student-faculty interaction can be minimal, students can immerse themselves in lecture videos and pause, rewind, and replay sections that are unclear to them. They allow learning at one’s own pace and instant access to reading materials and videos. One learns more quickly and deeply with interactive materials than from one-way lectures.

Also, classrooms can be set up to allow for online discussions with classmates, and synchronous exchanges of knowledge and professional experience are made possible by online connectivity. These are next to impossible to set up in actual face-to-face classrooms.

Is an online degree cheaper?

In terms of the total cost, online degrees tend to be cheaper as location-based out-of-state fees are decreased or eliminated. Lab fees, sports or gym fees, and other brick-and-mortar-associated costs are essentially gone, but these have been somewhat offset by increased tuition per credit unit. That being said, other incidental costs to consider include the occasional requirement to travel to university test centers for exam-taking.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Online criminology degree programs are much like traditional classes with the only differences being in the format and delivery schedules. Typically, classes rely heavily on case studies and readings on the basic principles and concepts of a particular subject. Face-to-face classes also require this, and if we think about it, most of the time is spent on reading, analysis, and reflection for both formats. Live lectures can easily be substituted with videos, which can be accessed anywhere and at any time, so quality-wise, they are virtually identical in content and subject matter.

Class discussions and consultations with faculty advisers are even more convenient because of online scheduling and accessibility. And class forums can also be set up to allow for asynchronous discussions.
Also, online classes tend to be more current and are easily updated in real time as news and interesting crime stats and crime analyses are reported, making class discussions more practical and relevant than fixed older textbooks. Online journals can be accessed as interesting articles are published, and one can read them anytime, anywhere.

These and more actually point to a better learning setup online than face-to-face, a fact that more and more universities are embracing. In a study by Zheng, et al. in the journal BMC Med Educ comparing the effectiveness of online versus face-to-face classes in dentistry, online learning produced better student outcomes, stating that, “Regression analyses revealed that students’ perceived engagement with faculty and classmates predicted their perceived effectiveness of the online course. More notably, Chi Square tests demonstrated that in 16 out of the 17 courses compared, the online cohort during the summer quarter of 2020 was equally or more likely to get an A course grade than the analogous face-to-face cohort during the summer quarter of 2019" (Zheng, et al., 2021).

How much does an online bachelor’s degree in criminology cost?

There is a wide range of tuition fees across the board in online criminology and/or criminal justice degree programs, ranging from the number one ranked (cheapest tuition) University of West Georgia with annual tuition of $5,464 to tenth-ranked Colorado State University Global with $10,500 (OnlineU, 2022). Although they are the least expensive programs, they have good quality programs and are, therefore, a good bang for the buck. They offer different tracks and minor specializations, so factor these in for additional costs.

Of course, these costs do not include other fees like out-of-state fees and dorm costs and the like, so make sure you include lab, textbook, printing, and all other associated costs in your budget planning. You may also check our guide to the most affordable online criminal justice degrees.

Is an online criminology degree worth it?

Generally, online degree programs for criminology are much in demand nowadays with the worldwide increase in general forms of crime, particularly sex-related or ethnicity-related hate crimes. In particular, statistics on U.S. crime reported to police in the National Incident-Based Reporting System (as presented in the U.S. Crime Victimization Survey) indicate constant rates of crime in 2020 and 2021, emphasizing the need for criminology majors to analyze and try to solve these types of crimes.

Additionally, arrests, incarceration, and repeat offenders will keep increasing if the psychological, social, and socioeconomic factors behind juvenile delinquency and propensity for committing a crime are not addressed at the personal and social levels. Law enforcement and the criminal justice system will have decreased burdens once a crime is stopped or decreased, and the study and application of criminology are central to intervention and crime prevention.

The job prospects for criminology and/or criminal justice majors are quite diverse. The following table shows some statistics on median wages in various fields:

What are the requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

In general, applicants with practical law enforcement, military, or justice system employment experience are ideal candidates for studying criminology degrees. If you have a background in any of these fields, you have a higher chance of getting accepted into the best online criminology degree programs. Associate degrees or certifications in any subfield of criminology or criminal justice are also helpful.

A minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.7 to 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, depending on the institution, is required. For transfer students, it is a cumulative GPA of 2.0 from all prior institutions combined.

Admission Requirements

1. High School Diploma with Minimum GPA (university requirements vary)
2. Professional Certification Documents (Optional, but helpful)
3. Professional Employment Documents (Optional, but helpful)
4. Additional Proficiency Tests (TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS for International Students)
5. Specific Related Work Experience (Depends on the Program)

General Requirements

1. Application and Processing Fees
2. Statement of Purpose
3. CV/Resume
4. Recommendation Letters (From Employer, Commanding or Senior Officer, or Academic; Varies with the Program
5. GRE or GMAT Test Scores (Optional)

What are the technological requirements of students for online learning?

The minimum technological requirements are as follows. A fast internet connection, preferably a fiber optics connection, or at least cable is essential; Wi-Fi is acceptable as long as connection speeds and bandwidth can accommodate live audio and video communications. Some aspects of the coursework can be accessed using mobile devices for text-based or web-based reading work.

Generally, a dual-core laptop with at least 4 GB of RAM is the minimum spec but higher specs will greatly improve one’s learning experience. Web browsers, PDF file readers, and office software for word processing and spreadsheets are all standard software, and Office 365 and the free Google Suite of programs are popular choices. Specialist software tools for special classes (e.g., DNA analysis software, advanced statistical analysis software, evidence management software) are usually provided by the university or can be accessed on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis.

Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology

Criminology is a diverse field and can take different tracks with various subspecialties or subfields, However, some core courses for a criminology online degree typically include the following, or their equivalents:

Introduction to Criminology. This course provides a broad overview of the field of criminology and introduces key concepts, theories, research methods, and case studies.

Psychology. This course explores the various psychological factors contributing to actual or potentially criminal behavior, including personality disorders, the impact of trauma, childhood development factors, social learning theory, and other factors.

The Corrections and Criminal Justice System. This course covers law enforcement, courts, corrections, and related institutions and government branches that comprise the justice system as an institution with its specific processes. It centers on the institutional aspect of justice and corrections rather than on the motivations and causes of crime per se and deals with the corrective part of criminal justice institutions (overlaps with criminal justice degrees). Details vary depending on country or state/ province.

Juvenile Delinquency. This course focuses on the causes of delinquent behavior among youth with factors, such as the roles of friends and peer groups, schools, and family on crime and propensity for crime at younger ages.

White Collar and Organized Crime This course deals with financial or white-collar crimes committed by individuals or organizations/companies, typically utilizing technology and legal loopholes, and include fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, data theft, and other forms of financial crimes.

Criminal law. This course deals with the basic principles of the elements of crime, criminal charges, criminal charge defense, and the processes involved in criminal justice as it applies to state, federal, and international prosecution and sentencing.

Victimology. This course delves into crime victim experiences, the various impacts of victimization on individuals and communities, and the various forms of victim services and support provided by social and government institutions.

Data analysis. This course covers basic and advanced statistics, survey analysis, factor analysis, causal inference testing, and other quantitative analysis concepts and tools.

Some courses may overlap in coverage or case studies with other degree programs such as criminal justice, but criminology is a standalone field central to any profession that involves crime and justice. Each institution has its own particular area of expertise and sub-specialties, so it is worth taking note of these if you have a specific pathway or research topic you would like to pursue.

Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology

Since one is looking for the best online criminology degree programs, the most important essentials include teaching methods, faculty quality, which includes background, experience, credibility, publications, and the school’s reputation. Nowadays, accessibility and availability are practically guaranteed for online learners but do check if there is a need for onsite requirements. You may also want minors or specializations in other subfields but check with your program as some fields have now become standalone fields, for instance, forensic science degrees.

Teaching methods

Most often, top schools offer a purely online or hybrid program using online asynchronous teaching methods for general coursework and for reading materials that require reflection and analysis, especially in selected crime case studies. Live lectures are sometimes offered, but mostly, recorded lectures are made available at any time to circumvent difficulties in time-zone synchronization.

Faculty

Most faculty teaching criminology or criminal justice courses typically have law enforcement, military, investigator, or other justice system-related backgrounds. This is central to connecting theory with real-world experience, which counts a lot in crime analysis and prevention. Publishing in such fields as psychology, psychiatry, forensics, white-collar crime, and related areas would increase their credibility, and help you choose your research or thesis adviser in specific fields that you are interested in.

On-site requirements

To uphold academic integrity, some universities require physically coming to classrooms for written exams, physical or hands-on lab exams (especially in forensics sciences), or actual practical exams or labs such as recreated crime scenes for analytical investigations. These are moving mostly online nowadays, so decide whether you prefer a purely online experience or if you want more hands-on practice and live feedback from instructors and ask your university what they require.

2025 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology Programs

In coming up with the 2025 rankings, our team of review experts at Research.com gathered data from the most current public datasets from credible sources. The different degree programs were compared using key metrics such as academic ratings, enrollment rate, affordability, online reliability, and others.

1. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater online degree program in Criminology caters to full-time students or working professionals and has a strong undergraduate research component. This allows students to present their research at scholarly associations and to do travel-study outside the U.S. depending on faculty grants. Faculty actively publish in their respective fields and are the direct course teachers—the program has no teaching assistants. An honors program is offered to outstanding students. Internships linked to online course enrollment are also available.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: A. Law Enforcement and Investigation Track B. Adult and Youth Corrections Track C. Honors program
3. Cost per Credit: Annual total tuition and fees = Wisconsin Resident $7,864 / Nonresident $17,039
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 39 (36 + 3 credits of Unique Requirement)
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), USA

2. Concordia University Saint Paul

Concordia University Saint Paul offers a fully online B.A. in Criminal Justice as an asynchronous program that fits the busy lifestyles of working professionals. University tech support and tutorials are available for CSP Global’s online learning management tool for online classes. The B.A. in Criminal Justice does not follow a cohort education framework. Tuition and financial aid, scholarships, and military benefits are available, including the Yellow Ribbon program for military veterans and active-duty military personnel.

1. Program Length: 2 years (accelerated criminal justice degree)
2. Tracks/concentrations: Minnesota POST licensure and non-POST licensure tracks
3. Cost per Credit: $420
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120 (44 core credit hours)
5. Accreditation: Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) academic licensure requirements, and continuing education (CE) credits toward annual licensure requirements.

3. National Louis University

National Louis University, in existence for more than 135 years, offers a B.A. in Criminal Justice online program for full-time students and busy professionals. Its faculty members have years of collective experience and real-world expertise in criminal justice and the program is designed to include the most current criminal justice techniques and theories.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: A. Criminal Justice Administration B. Forensic Social Justice C. Customizable minors/concentrations (upon consultation with adviser)
3. Cost per Credit: $430
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 180 QHs (120 semester hours) plus, Core Courses of 60 QHs (40 semester hours)
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), USA

4. Regis University

Regis University offers a flexible B.S. in Criminology degree program that can be taken 100% online, on campus in the evenings, or as hybrid classes. The program emphasizes tangible skills with much hands-on experience and real-world case studies. Education is based on their own scholar-practitioner model, where the faculty have experience as detectives, police chiefs, crime scene investigators, and other criminology-related occupations.

1. Program Length: 5- to 8-week terms, 4 years total
2. Tracks/concentrations:
3. Cost per Credit: $500 per credit hour
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), USA

5. Washington State University

Washington State University offers a BA degree in Criminal Justice is offered online and face-to-face for freshmen and working professionals. The program’s undergraduate learning goals and outcomes follow the WSU Seven Learning Goals and the standards set by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. Its new curricula and syllabi are designed with student learning outcomes as part of student assessments.

1. Program Length: 4 years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Criminal Justice and Criminology
3. Cost per Credit: $563.30
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 30 for the BA degree (minimum of 120 credit hours already taken)
5. Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Choosing the Right Program for Your Criminology Goals

Selecting the best online criminology degree program is crucial to aligning your academic journey with your career aspirations. Here are critical factors to consider that ensure you make an informed decision and maximize your educational investment:

1. Accreditation and Reputation: Choose a program accredited by recognized educational bodies as this guarantees that the program meets high-quality standards. A well-regarded institution not only strengthens your resume but also assures potential employers of the program’s credibility.

2. Curriculum Focus: Look for programs that offer specializations aligning with your long-term goals, such as cybercrime, forensic psychology, victimology, or juvenile justice. Ensure the curriculum is up to date with emerging trends and technologies, such as AI-driven crime analytics or digital crime investigation techniques.

3. Delivery Format and Flexibility: Flexibility is essential for online learning. Check if the program offers an asynchronous format, recorded lectures, and access to learning materials 24/7. If you aim to complete your degree faster, explore an online accelerated bachelor's degree, which enables you to finish in a shorter time frame without compromising on quality.

4. Faculty Expertise: Faculty members with real-world expertise in criminology or criminal justice can bridge the gap between theory and practice. Research their professional backgrounds, publications, and involvement in the field to ensure they align with your interests.

5. Career Services and Networking Opportunities: Strong career services, such as resume workshops, job boards, and alumni networks, can enhance your transition into the workforce. Ensure the program provides access to virtual career fairs and internships to support experience-building and professional networking.

6. Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the program’s total cost, including tuition, technology fees, and materials. Investigate scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities that can reduce financial stress and make the program more affordable.

By focusing on these elements, you can identify a program tailored to your criminology ambitions, paving the way for a rewarding career in this evolving and impactful field.

Gaining Practical Experience and Building Networks in Online Criminology Programs

While online criminology programs offer excellent flexibility and quality, building real-world experience and professional connections is crucial for transitioning from academics to a career. Here’s how you can enhance your practical learning and network while studying online:

1. Leverage Internship Opportunities: Many online programs partner with law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, and legal institutions to offer internships. These hands-on experiences allow you to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and strengthen your resume. Check if your program provides virtual internship options or connections to opportunities in your area.

2. Participate in Online Networking Events: Universities often host virtual career fairs, webinars, and discussion panels featuring professionals in criminology and related fields. These events are excellent for learning about industry trends and establishing connections with potential employers and mentors.

3. Engage in Faculty and Peer Interactions: Take advantage of discussion boards and online forums to interact with professors and classmates. Faculty members with law enforcement or criminal justice backgrounds can offer guidance and industry insights, while peers might share job leads or collaborate on projects.

4. Join Professional Organizations: Many criminology-focused organizations, such as the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS), offer student memberships with access to conferences, workshops, and job boards. Membership in such groups demonstrates your commitment to the field and provides valuable networking opportunities.

5. Explore Research Collaborations: If your program includes a research component, collaborate with professors or classmates on projects that align with your career goals. Publishing your work in academic journals or presenting it at conferences can significantly enhance your credibility and employability.

6. Seek Mentorship Programs: Some universities offer mentorship programs connecting students with alumni or industry professionals. These relationships can provide guidance on career paths, interview preparation, and job applications.

Even in an online format, criminology students can access abundant opportunities to build their skills and networks. For programs that combine flexibility with robust career resources, consider exploring options like a self-paced online college to achieve your academic and professional goals.

Is an Easier Criminal Justice Degree a Viable Option for Accelerating Your Career?

For many candidates, the choice between a highly rigorous program and one with a more accessible pathway can significantly influence career planning. Evaluating program structure, course load, and available academic support is essential when opting for a streamlined curriculum that still maintains professional standards. Analyzing factors such as mentorship quality, internship integration, and curriculum alignment with current industry needs can help ensure that a less intensive program meets career readiness objectives. For those interested in exploring accessible options, reviewing our article on the easiest criminal justice degree offers insight into programs that balance academic integrity with a more manageable progression toward career advancement.

What is the earning potential of a Criminology Degree?

Graduates with an online criminology degree can access a wide range of career paths, each with its own salary trajectory. Specialized roles in areas such as forensic analysis, criminal profiling, and cybercrime investigation typically offer competitive starting salaries and significant opportunities for advancement. With practical experience and relevant certifications, professionals are well-positioned to secure positions among the highest paying criminal justice jobs. Additionally, earning potential is influenced by factors such as geographic location, advanced training in emerging fields, and continuous professional development. Detailed market research is essential for aligning academic investments with realistic income expectations and long-term career goals.

What are the career growth prospects after earning an online criminology degree?

Online criminology graduates are entering an evolving job market with opportunities in digital forensics, policy consulting, and corporate security, among other areas. Continuous professional development—through specialized certifications, advanced technical training, and strategic networking—can significantly accelerate career trajectories. Graduates are encouraged to further develop skills in data analytics and emerging technologies, aspects that are increasingly critical in today’s interdisciplinary work environments. For a detailed overview of industry standards and emerging roles, consult the comprehensive guide on criminal justice careers.

How Does Forensic Science Enhance Criminology Studies?

Integrating forensic science principles is essential to complement criminology studies by offering rigorous techniques for evidence collection, analysis, and interpretation. Advanced forensic courses provide specialized training that reinforces critical research methods and analytical skills needed for complex crime scene investigations. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadens investigative capabilities but also elevates precision in both digital and physical evidence assessments. Prospective criminology professionals may consider augmenting their academic portfolio with programs like the cheapest online forensic science degree to further expand their expertise and career versatility.

Is a Criminology Degree Compatible with Homeland Security Careers?

A criminology degree offers advanced analytical and research skills that can be directly applied to emerging challenges in homeland security, including cybersecurity threats, terrorism, and transnational crime. Leveraging robust methodologies in data analysis and behavioral research, graduates can contribute significantly to risk assessment and strategic planning within Homeland Security sectors. Integrating criminology with specialized homeland security protocols creates a unique advantage by bridging theoretical insights with practical applications. For a detailed look at specialized curricular offerings and career pathways, consider exploring the top homeland security degree programs.

Can a Criminology Degree Be Complemented with Homeland Security Studies?

Integrating homeland security studies with criminology equips graduates with a broader analytical framework to address evolving security challenges such as terrorism, cyber threats, and transnational crime. This interdisciplinary approach enhances strategic risk assessment and intelligence analysis, enabling professionals to respond effectively in both public and private sectors. Specialized modules in homeland security can strengthen a criminology curriculum, offering a competitive edge in roles that demand rapid adaptation to emerging threats. For more information on complementary educational pathways, consider exploring our article on the fastest psychology masters programs.

What Colleges Offer the Best Programs for Future Law Enforcement Officers?

When considering a career in law enforcement, it's essential to choose a college that offers a high-quality program in criminology or a related field. Some of the best colleges for police officers can be found at colleges for police officers. These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in law enforcement, including coursework in criminology, criminal justice, and law enforcement procedures. By attending one of these top colleges, students can gain a competitive edge in the job market and set themselves up for success in their future careers.

How an Online Criminology Degree Can Enhance Your Career

An online criminology degree not only equips students with essential skills but also significantly boosts career prospects in an increasingly competitive job market. As crime continues to evolve, the demand for criminology professionals is on the rise. Graduates of online criminology programs are well-prepared for a range of career opportunities, from law enforcement to criminal justice research and policy-making.

One of the key advantages of pursuing an online criminology degree is the flexibility it offers, especially for those already working in the field or with other commitments. Online programs allow students to continue their current jobs while earning their degree, which can lead to immediate career advancement and better earning potential. In addition to theoretical knowledge, online criminology programs emphasize practical skills such as analytical thinking, research methods, and digital crime analysis. These competencies are highly transferable to various sectors, including law enforcement, intelligence, and social policy.

Furthermore, completing a criminology degree online allows students to build a professional network. Online programs often offer virtual internships, collaborative projects, and access to criminal justice professionals, helping students to gain real-world experience and connect with potential employers. These networking opportunities can be a significant factor in securing post-graduation employment.

If you’re considering a quick path to advancing your career, pursuing an online degree might be ideal. For those interested in faster degree programs, exploring short online degrees may provide an opportunity to gain valuable qualifications without the extensive time commitment traditionally required.

The Future of Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies

The emergence of new forms of crime has always followed rapid technology paradigm shifts, and since these are all online phenomena anyway, analyzing them online is one way to go. Online analysis is a strong domain of online criminology degrees, so it is in some sense superior to a traditional bachelor’s degree in terms of program results and outcomes. The best online criminology degree programs are also constantly evolving and incorporating deep learning and AI in analysis and behavior profiling in crime analytics software. These would be very useful for intervention and preventative action.

Cybercrime has increased by a lot lately, as evidenced by 2021-2022 crimes involving cryptocurrency fraud, with investment scams at $575 million, romantic scams at $185 million, and business and government impersonation scams at $94 million and $40 million, respectively (Fletcher, 2022). Thus, there is a pressing need to study this and similar types of modern criminal behavior and modus operandi. 

Key Insights

• Interdisciplinary Field: Criminology is a highly interdisciplinary field, drawing from economics, social studies, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and psychiatry to understand crime and criminal behavior.
• Core Skills: A criminology degree equips students with valuable skills such as problem-solving, analytical skills, research skills, communication skills, writing and presentation skills, interpersonal skills, and ethical awareness.
• Diverse Career Paths: Criminology graduates can pursue various careers, including law enforcement, investigation, policy-making, advocacy, social research, crime analysis, criminal behavior profiling, military and intelligence roles, private security, and academia.
• Flexible Learning: Online criminology programs offer flexibility and accessibility, allowing working professionals to earn their degrees without attending traditional classes.
• Recognition of Online Degrees: Online degrees from accredited institutions are widely recognized and valued by employers globally, provided the institution is reputable and accredited.
• Cost-Effective: Online criminology degrees tend to be more affordable than traditional degrees due to lower associated costs, such as travel and accommodation.
• Job Market Demand: The demand for criminology professionals is expected to grow, driven by the increasing complexity and globalization of crime.

FAQ

Can you get a degree completely online?

Yes, many institutions offer criminology degrees that can be completed entirely online. These programs provide the same curriculum and accreditation as traditional degrees but with the added flexibility of online learning.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

Generally, employers accept online degrees from accredited institutions. The key factors for employers are the accreditation of the institution and the quality of the degree program, including the student’s research work and thesis.

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

Yes, online degrees are recognized globally, provided they are from accredited institutions. Accreditation ensures that the degree meets certain quality standards and is considered equivalent to a traditional degree.

What is the cost of an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

Tuition fees for online criminology programs vary widely. For instance, the University of West Georgia charges approximately $5,464 annually, while Colorado State University Global charges around $10,500. Additional costs may include technology fees, textbooks, and exam fees.

How long does it take to complete an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

The duration typically ranges from three to four years, depending on the student’s pace and the program’s structure. Some accelerated programs may allow completion in less time.

What are the requirements for enrolling in an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

Requirements generally include a high school diploma with a minimum GPA, professional certification documents, relevant work experience, recommendation letters, and proficiency tests for international students.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Yes, online degrees offer the same content and quality as traditional degrees. The main difference lies in the delivery method, with online programs providing greater flexibility and often more up-to-date resources.

What courses can I expect in an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

Core courses typically include Introduction to Criminology, Psychology, The Corrections and Criminal Justice System, Juvenile Delinquency, White Collar and Organized Crime, Criminal Law, Victimology, and Data Analysis.

What should I look for in an online bachelor’s degree in criminology?

Key factors to consider include the program’s accreditation, the quality and experience of faculty, the flexibility of the course schedule, and any on-site requirements. It’s also important to consider the institution’s reputation and any available specializations or minors.

What are the technological requirements for online learning?

Students need a reliable internet connection, a computer with at least 4 GB of RAM, web browsers, PDF readers, office software, and possibly specific software for certain courses. Some coursework can be accessed via mobile devices.

What are the latest research areas and topics in criminology that students can explore?

The latest research areas and topics in criminology that students can explore include cybercrime, criminal justice reform, forensic psychology, and the impact of social media on crime. Cybercrime research focuses on understanding digital offenses and developing methods to combat them. Criminal justice reform examines systemic issues within the justice system and explores strategies for fairer, more effective practices. Forensic psychology delves into the psychological aspects of criminal behavior and profiling. Additionally, the influence of social media on crime, including how it facilitates criminal activities and affects public perceptions of crime, is a burgeoning area of study. These topics offer dynamic and relevant avenues for criminology research.

References:

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2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.2022. Occupational Outlook Handbook, Police and Detectives. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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