Top Criminal Justice Degree Programs In California
California’s criminal justice system operates at the intersection of public safety, social justice, and legal innovation—and you could play a vital role in shaping its future. With over 2,000 law enforcement agencies, state prisons, federal courts, and nonprofit organizations addressing everything from cybercrime to community rehabilitation, careers here span far beyond traditional policing. An online criminal justice degree positions you to step into roles like probation officer, forensic analyst, or federal investigator while balancing work and personal commitments.
Salaries reflect California’s demand for skilled professionals: Correctional supervisors average $95,000 annually, while criminal investigators with federal agencies like the FBI or Homeland Security often exceed $120,000. The state projects a 5% job growth for protective service occupations through 2032, outpacing national averages, driven by evolving needs in digital forensics, border security, and juvenile justice reform. Major employers range from the California Department of Corrections to tech-driven private firms specializing in cybersecurity—industries where your ability to analyze data, understand legal frameworks, and communicate across cultures becomes invaluable.
Earning your degree online means accessing internships with local police departments or courthouses while studying, building networks before graduation. Specialized courses in criminology theory or constitutional law prepare you to address real-world challenges, whether improving parole systems or advocating for crime victims. With California’s diverse communities and complex legal landscape, your expertise can drive meaningful change where it’s needed most. Explore options that align with your goals, and take the next step toward a career where every day brings new opportunities to protect and serve.
Best Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in California
Below are the top-ranked Online Criminal Justice programs in California, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of La Verne
Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology
Key Highlights
- The program prepares students for careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, or rehabilitation.
- The program examines the criminal justice system from multiple angles, with the criminology component focusing on the causes and effects of criminal behavior.
- Graduates gain analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, research skills, and communication skills.
- The program includes courses such as White Collar Crime and Social Impact of Criminal Behavior.
Program Description
The University of La Verne's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology examines the sociological aspects of criminal behavior and the workings of the American criminal justice system. The program prepares students for careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, or rehabilitation. It examines the criminal justice system from multiple angles, with the criminology component focusing on the causes and effects of criminal behavior and the criminal justice side detailing methods and systems for detecting crime. Graduates gain knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and critical-thinking skills.
Program Features
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Analytical skills, Problem-solving, Research skills, Communication skills
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $48,300/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $48,300/year
- Additional Cost Information:
We offer:
- Special rates for military members and their spouses.
- Partnerships with 100+ corporations and government agencies that may subsidize tuition.
Sample Courses
Introduction to Sociology, Research Theories, Criminal Justice System, White Collar Crime, Social Impact of Criminal Behavior
Why Get Your Criminal Justice Degree Online in California?
Earning your criminal justice degree online in California positions you at the center of a job market projected to grow faster than national trends, with specialized roles in tech-driven sectors and public service leading the way. The state anticipates a 10% increase in criminal justice employment through 2030, according to California Employment Trends, creating over 220 new positions annually—many tied to emerging fields like cybercrime investigation and restorative justice programs. This growth outpaces the national average by nearly 3%, driven by California’s unique blend of tech innovation and legislative reforms targeting prison overcrowding and juvenile rehabilitation. You’ll gain direct access to employers shaping these trends, from Silicon Valley firms developing predictive policing algorithms to state agencies expanding digital forensics units in Sacramento.
Online programs like those at the University of La Verne integrate internships with county probation departments and federal agencies, letting you build relationships with employers overseeing California-specific initiatives such as wildfire arson task forces or port security operations. Regional salary advantages compound these opportunities: forensic analysts in Los Angeles earn 18% more than counterparts in Texas, while bilingual probation officers in San Diego secure $7,000 annual pay premiums due to high demand in cross-border crime units. The state’s focus on community-oriented policing also opens roles in victim advocacy and crisis intervention—careers often require the policy analysis and ethics training embedded in online curricula.
With California allocating $1.2 billion to modernize its court systems and expand reentry programs, your online degree becomes a bridge to roles that didn’t exist five years ago, like drone surveillance operators or human trafficking data analysts. Flexible scheduling lets you pursue certifications in high-growth niches—crime scene photography or emergency management—while working full-time. Combine this with California’s network of professional organizations like the California Peace Officers Association, which offers virtual career fairs exclusively for online students, and you’re positioned to enter a market where adaptability meets urgency. Start your application now to align your education with a state redefining justice in the digital age.
Where Can You Work With a Criminal Justice Degree in California?
With a criminal justice degree in California, you’ll find diverse opportunities across government agencies, law enforcement, and private organizations. The California Department of Justice stands out as a major employer, offering roles like Special Agents, Legal Analysts, and Forensic Specialists through its career portal. These positions often involve collaborating on statewide investigations or policy development, with benefits like pension plans and professional development programs. On job boards like SimplyHired, you’ll frequently see openings with county probation departments, such as the Los Angeles County Probation Department, which hires officers to manage rehabilitation programs and conduct risk assessments in community-based settings. These roles emphasize case management and often include training in conflict resolution.
Indeed’s listings highlight demand for Crime Analysts in municipal police departments like the San Francisco Police Department, where you’d analyze crime patterns to support patrol strategies. Federal agencies such as the FBI and U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement also recruit in California for roles like Intelligence Analysts or Deportation Officers, particularly in cities like San Diego and Sacramento with large federal offices. Private employers like G4S Secure Solutions post roles for armed security specialists, often requiring collaboration with tech companies or event venues to design safety protocols.
Regional hubs like Los Angeles and the Bay Area offer concentrated opportunities in both public safety and corporate security sectors. For job searches, prioritize platforms like CalCareers for state roles, and attend conferences hosted by groups like the California Crime Analysts Association to connect directly with hiring managers. Many employers value internships or volunteer experience with community outreach programs, so consider partnering with local nonprofits focused on reentry services or victim advocacy to build relevant skills.
How Much Do Criminal Justice Professionals Make in California?
Criminal justice professionals in California can expect salaries that reflect the state’s higher cost of living and demand for skilled workers. Entry-level positions (0-2 years experience) vary significantly by role: Police officers and sheriffs start between $71,360 and $84,210 annually according to law enforcement salary data, while non-sworn roles like case managers or court clerks often begin closer to $29.32 per hour ($61,000 annually) for those with a criminal justice degree, as reported by hourly wage statistics. Mid-career professionals (3-7 years) typically see increases of 20-30%, with police detectives reaching $95,000-$115,000 and federal probation officers averaging $85,000-$100,000. Senior roles (8+ years) in specialized units or leadership positions often exceed $143,650 for police captains or $135,000+ for federal agency supervisors.
California salaries outpace national averages by 15-25%, particularly for sworn roles. Police sergeants here earn 22% more than the U.S. median, while forensic analysts make 18% above national figures. Three factors notably boost earning potential: bilingual skills (adding $4,000-$7,000 annually in urban areas), POST certifications for law enforcement (increasing promotion eligibility by 40%), and cybersecurity specializations for investigators (raising salaries 12-18% above generalist roles).
Projections suggest 9% growth for California criminal justice careers through 2032, driven by expanded digital forensics needs and community policing initiatives. While automation may impact administrative roles, demand for crisis negotiators, juvenile justice specialists, and anti-fraud experts is rising faster than statewide occupational averages. Salaries in metropolitan regions like San Jose and San Diego currently run 8-12% higher than inland areas, though remote work options in victim advocacy and data analysis are narrowing geographic pay gaps.
FAQs About Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in California
Common Questions About California Criminal Justice Degrees
Q: Are online criminal justice degrees respected by employers?
A: Yes, employers typically respect regionally accredited online degrees equivalent to campus programs, especially from schools like the University of La Verne. Their partnerships with 100+ agencies signal real-world relevance, and California’s major employers prioritize skills over delivery format.
Q: Can you become a police officer with an online degree?
A: Many California agencies accept online degrees if the program is accredited. You’ll still need POST certification and physical training. Programs like La Verne’s connect students with law enforcement internships, which strengthen job applications.
Q: How long does it take to finish an online bachelor's program?
A: Most online bachelor’s programs take four years full-time. Accelerated options may trim this to 3 years, while part-time students often complete coursework in 5-6 years. Check if your school offers year-round enrollment to speed progress.
Q: Do California schools offer financial aid for online students?
A: Yes—FAFSA eligibility applies to online programs, and schools like La Verne provide military discounts. Corporate partnerships at some institutions may also reduce tuition costs for employees of partner organizations.
Q: What internships are available for criminal justice students?
A: Internships range from local sheriff’s offices to federal agencies like Homeland Security. La Verne’s corporate and government partnerships help students secure roles in crime analysis, victim advocacy, or corrections.
Q: Can military benefits apply to online programs?
A: Absolutely. The GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program cover online degrees, and La Verne offers reduced tuition for active-duty personnel and spouses. Confirm program eligibility with your education officer.
Q: Do these programs prepare you for law school?
A: Online criminal justice degrees include foundational courses in legal writing and constitutional law, which help prepare for the LSAT. Some programs offer pre-law advising or mock trial participation to build relevant skills.
Q: What tech tools do online students use for classes?
A: Expect learning platforms like Canvas for assignments, Zoom for virtual lectures, and simulation software for case studies. Some courses use collaborative tools like Slack for group projects or discussion boards.