Best Schools Offering Online Criminology Programs (2024)

An online degree in criminology offers you the opportunity to explore the complex relationships between crime, criminal behavior, and the legal system from the convenience of your own home. This program typically covers key areas such as criminal justice theories, social psychology, and the functioning of law enforcement agencies. Here are some essential aspects of a typical criminology online degree program:

• Duration: Most online criminology programs can be completed in about 3-4 years when pursued on a full-time basis. Part-time options may extend this timeline.

• Prerequisites: Before enrolling, you will generally need to meet the following requirements:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Completion of any necessary standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT, depending on the institution.
  • Some programs may require prerequisite courses in social sciences or basic statistics.

• Technical Requirements: You will need a reliable computer and internet access to participate in online classes and access course materials.

• Transfer Credits: If you've previously attended college, you may be able to transfer credits from related courses to expedite your degree completion.

• Application Materials: Typical application requirements may include:

  • A completed application form.
  • Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
  • Personal statement or essay explaining your interest in criminology.
  • Letters of recommendation may also be requested by some programs.

• Accreditation: Ensure that the program you choose is accredited by a recognized body, which is important for the quality of education and recognizability of your degree in the job market.

Participating in an online criminology program provides you with both the theoretical and practical frameworks needed to understand and analyze crime, contributing to a variety of careers within criminal justice and social services.

In an online degree program for Criminology, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of courses that provide foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the field. Here are the typical courses you may take:

• Introduction to Criminology
  This course offers a foundational understanding of criminology, exploring theories of crime, the nature of criminal behavior, and the societal impact of crime.

• Criminal Justice System
  You will study the structure and function of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, and how these components interact.

• Research Methods in Criminology
  Emphasizing qualitative and quantitative research techniques, this course covers research design, data collection, and analysis methods relevant to criminological studies.

• Criminal Law
  This course examines the principles of criminal law, including definitions of crime, defenses, and the legal processes surrounding criminal prosecutions.

• Understanding Crime and Deviance
  You will explore the social and psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior and deviance, including socioeconomic influences and cultural norms.

• Victimology
  This course focuses on the study of victims, their role in the criminal justice system, and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.

• Juvenile Delinquency
  You will examine the causes and consequences of juvenile crime, as well as the legal and social responses to juvenile offenders.

• Forensic Psychology
  This course applies psychological principles to understand criminal behavior and the psychological evaluation of offenders, emphasizing the intersection of law and psychology.

• Crime Prevention Strategies
  You will learn about strategies and programs designed to prevent crime, including community initiatives, law enforcement efforts, and social programs.

• Cybercrime and Digital Evidence
  This course covers the emergence of cybercrime, its implications for law and society, and methods for investigating and gathering digital evidence.

• Ethics in Criminal Justice
  You will explore the ethical dilemmas faced by professionals in the criminal justice system, emphasizing integrity, fairness, and the implications of decisions made by law enforcement and legal practitioners.

• Policy Analysis in Criminal Justice
  This course examines the development and evaluation of policies related to crime and justice, providing skills to analyze their effectiveness and impact on society.

By completing these courses, you will gain a well-rounded education that prepares you for various career paths within the field of criminology.

Choosing the right school for your online criminology degree is a significant step that can impact your education and future career. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a program that aligns with your goals:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the institution is accredited by a recognized agency. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets certain educational standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

• Specializations Offered: Look for programs that offer specializations or concentrations within criminology that align with your interests. Areas such as forensic psychology, criminal justice policy, or cybercrime may provide you with focused expertise.

• Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers essential topics in criminology, including theories of crime, criminal justice systems, research methods, and ethical issues in criminology. A well-rounded program should also include practical applications, such as internships or fieldwork opportunities.

• Faculty Qualifications: Investigate the qualifications and experience of the faculty members. Instructors with real-world experience or academic credentials in criminology can provide valuable insights and mentoring.

• Online Learning Environment: Evaluate the online platform the school uses for course delivery. A user-friendly and engaging online learning environment enhances your educational experience. Consider schools that offer interactive elements like discussion boards, virtual classrooms, and multimedia resources.

• Student Support Services: Research the availability of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and technical support. Strong support services can help you navigate your studies and plan for your career more effectively.

• Reputation and Rankings: Look into the school's reputation and its program rankings. While rankings shouldn't be the sole determinant, a school with a strong reputation can enhance your credentials and networking opportunities.

• Flexibility and Scheduling: Consider your personal schedule and commitments. Look for programs that offer flexibility in terms of course load, pacing, and scheduling options to accommodate your lifestyle.

• Cost and Financial Aid: Analyze the tuition fees and overall cost of the program in relation to your budget. Additionally, explore financial aid options, scholarships, and grants that the institution may offer to help manage expenses.

• Alumni Success: Research the success of the program's alumni. Understanding their career paths and achievements can provide insights into what you can expect after graduation.

Taking the time to evaluate these factors will help you select a criminology online degree program that fits your needs and career aspirations.

As you consider enrolling in an online degree program in criminology, various resources can facilitate your academic journey and enhance your learning experience. Here’s a curated list of tools and resources that you may find beneficial:

• Accreditation Information

  • Ensure that your chosen program is accredited by a reputable organization. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) provides a list of recognized accrediting bodies. Visit CHEA for more details.

• Financial Aid Resources

  • Explore financial aid options through the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website. This is a great starting point to learn about grants, loans, and work-study programs. Access the website at Studentaid.gov.

• Scholarship Opportunities

  • Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for criminology and criminal justice students. Websites like Fastweb and Scholarships.com allow you to search for available scholarships based on your profile.

• Professional Associations

  • Join professional associations such as the American Society of Criminology (ASC) or the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS). These organizations provide networking opportunities, access to conferences, journals, and other academic resources. Visit ASC and ACJS for more information.

• Online Libraries and Databases

  • Utilize online library resources such as JSTOR or Google Scholar for access to academic papers and journals related to criminology. Check JSTOR and Google Scholar for research materials.

• Learning Platforms

  • Enhance your understanding of criminology topics through online learning platforms like Coursera or edX, which offer courses taught by university professors. Explore Coursera and edX for available courses.

• Study Aids and Tools

  • Websites like Quizlet provide flashcards and study sets to help you retain key concepts and terminology essential for your criminology studies. Visit Quizlet for additional resources.

• Career Services

  • Take advantage of career services offered by your institution, including resume writing assistance, job placement services, and internship opportunities. Contact the career services office at your school for specific programs available.

• Mentorship Programs

  • Seek mentorship opportunities through nonprofit organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters or local community organizations. Exposure to professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and guidance.

• Forums and Online Communities

  • Participate in criminology-related forums such as Reddit’s r/criminology for discussions, advice, and resources shared by peers and professionals in the field. Engage with the community at Reddit Criminology.

Utilizing these resources will help you navigate the landscape of an online criminology degree program effectively and support your academic and professional growth.