Criminology is an interesting yet intense professional field to pursue. It delves into the intricacies of criminal behavior, analysis of crime patterns, and strategies required for crime prevention. Whether pursuing an undergraduate or a graduate program, potential students can kickstart their career in their chosen specialization. Those unable to attend on-campus programs can opt for online programs. These programs provide opportunities for roles like court clerks, crime journalists, crime investigators, or positions in detention centers.
1. Texas Tech University – Bachelor’s of Arts in Criminology
The online program features a comprehensive 120-credit curriculum. It covers a wide range of topics related to criminology, including juvenile delinquency, school violence, family violence, international and domestic terrorism, and more. This program offers the flexibility for students to complete their degree in four years without the need to visit the university campus. Moreover, the format of this online program enables students to balance their studies and professional job commitments, allowing them to upskill and advance their careers. For in-state students, the cost of the program is approximately $238 per credit.
2. University of Missouri – St. Louis – BS in Criminology and Criminal Justice
The online BS in criminology and criminal justice program is another option for individuals looking for online criminology college programs. This program offers applicants an opportunity to learn in an accelerated pattern and earn a dual degree, allowing students to complete both the bachelor’s and master’s programs in just five years. The coursework for the bachelor’s program covers topics such as statistical analysis in criminology, theories of crime, and research methods in criminology. After completing the program, graduates can pursue potential careers as criminal profilers, crime reporters, and private investigators. Eligibility for the program is based on a high school or diploma degree, whereas out-of-state students may have to qualify for reduced tuition fees through the Midwest Student Exchange Program. The online program averages its tuition fees at around $508 per credit for in-state students.
3. University of South Florida – Bachelor’s in Criminology
The University of South Florida is a public university that offers a highly regarded online bachelor’s program in criminology, making it an excellent choice for those interested in cybercrime. The program covers subjects such as digital forensics, combating cybercrime, and cybercrime investigations. The in-state undergrad tuition fees cost around $4,559, while the graduate tuition fees averages around $8,350. In addition, for out-of-state applicants, the average tuition fees are higher, with undergrad and grad education costing approximately $15,475 and $19,048, respectively. The course requires students to meet the required 120 credits, and in the process, they also learn topics like research methods for criminal justice and criminal behavior. Additionally, online learners residing near the campus have the option to pursue a hybrid program, blending online and offline learning.
4. University of North Carolina Wilmington – BA in Criminology
This university offers an online BA in criminology course with 120 credits. In-state students can expect to pay an average cost of $210 per credit, while out-of-state students may have to pay around $843 per credit. This extensive course covers topics like social research fundamentals, sociology analysis, and criminology. Students can choose their electives for the program from a range of options based on the subject of interest. Additionally, these electives can help improve the student’s potential career prospects. Moreover, UNCW offers optional internships, providing students with hands-on experience in settings such as juvenile detention centers, state bureaus of investigation, or sheriff’s departments.
5. University of Florida – Bachelor’s in Criminology
This has an extensive range of online programs, with courseworks majorly focusing on law and legal practices, principles of criminal justice, and law and society. Prospective students have the opportunity to choose their desired electives from a wide range of online degree courses that are tailored to their interests, including general psychology and American Federal Government. The University of Florida’s Bachelor’s in Criminology program can cost in-state applicants about $3,358. However, the same course can cost about $15,000 for out-of-state students. Those interested in the program are required to hold a GED diploma or high school degree, and their standardized test scores should be from the last five years. Upon graduating from the 120-credit program, students can pursue various opportunities like court clerks or criminal investigators.
6. SUNY College of Technology at Canton – Forensic Criminology
The New York-based university offers a Forensic criminology course that covers core topics of criminal justice, forensic science, and sociology. Full-time students have a four-year timeframe to complete the 122-credit program. The curriculum covers a range of topics like forensics, causes of crime, and American social issues. Prospective first-year students are required to have a high school average of 80 or above to be eligible for the course. Additionally, the university charges a $50 application fee in addition to the $295 per credit tuition fee.
When applying to online criminology programs, interested students should carefully review the eligibility of the course and the ranking of each university. Most colleges provide information such as retention rate and acceptance rate, which can offer insight into the college’s performance in preparing students for their desired careers. That said, one must check the course curriculum and select one that aligns with their learning requirements.
