Best Criminal Justice Degree Programs In Colorado (2025)
Colorado’s growing demand for skilled criminal justice professionals means your path to a meaningful career could be closer than you think. Whether you’re drawn to law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, or federal agencies, an online criminal justice degree offers the flexibility to balance your current job while preparing for roles that directly impact communities. With Colorado’s population growth driving demand for public safety experts, positions like probation officer, crime analyst, and emergency management specialist are projected to grow faster than average in the state over the next decade—and salaries reflect that need, ranging from $50,000 for entry-level roles to over $90,000 for experienced federal agents or forensic specialists.
Top employers like the Colorado Department of Public Safety, Denver Police Department, and regional FBI offices actively seek candidates with relevant education and training. An online degree allows you to build expertise in areas like criminology, cybersecurity, or homeland security without pausing your career, making it easier to transition into higher-paying roles or specialized fields. Colorado’s respected programs, including those at University of Colorado Denver, blend academic rigor with practical skills tailored to real-world challenges.
The convenience of online learning doesn’t mean sacrificing quality—accredited programs mirror their on-campus counterparts, ensuring your degree holds weight with employers. Whether you’re aiming to advance in local law enforcement or pivot to federal agencies, this path keeps you competitive in a field where education increasingly influences promotions and leadership opportunities. Exploring online criminal justice programs in Colorado could position you for roles that protect communities while offering stability in a sector critical to the state’s future.
Best Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in Colorado
Below are the top-ranked Online Criminal Justice programs in Colorado, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of Colorado Denver
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Key Highlights
- The University of Colorado Denver's Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, and the judicial process.
- Graduates will gain knowledge of crime and justice, research skills, and critical thinking skills.
- Students can choose concentrations in Law Enforcement or Victims and Victim Services.
- The program includes courses such as Criminology and Criminal Justice: An Overview, Criminological Theory, and Research Methods.
- Students have the opportunity to complete an internship (CRJU 4939).
- The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The University of Colorado Denver's fully online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice prepares students for diverse career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, and the judicial process. The program develops well-rounded graduates with practical skills through a foundation in criminal justice theory and research methods, equipping them to develop innovative solutions for complex legal systems. Students will examine criminology theories, develop interpersonal skills, and learn how courts and law enforcement collaborate.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Concentrations: Law Enforcement, Victims and Victim Services, General Track
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Knowledge of crime and justice, research skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, diversity and cultural literacy, interpersonal skills, leadership skills
Tuition & Costs
- Cost Per Credit: $607
- Additional Cost Information:$390 for residents (after College Opportunity Fund - COF). See the COF website for details.
Sample Courses
CRJU 1000 - Criminology and Criminal Justice: An Overview, CRJU 2041 - Criminological Theory, CRJU 3100 - Research Methods, CRJU 3150 - Statistics for Criminal Justice, CRJU 4042 - Corrections...
Colorado Technical University
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Investigation
Key Highlights
- This Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program offers a Forensic Investigation concentration.
- Students gain skills in crime scene investigation, evidence collection and preservation, criminal profiling, forensic analysis, report writing, courtroom testimony, and interview and interrogation techniques.
- The curriculum includes courses such as Advanced Crime Scene Forensics, Forensic Photography & Crime Scene Documentation, and Medico-Legal Death Investigations.
- The program includes lab work, combining theory and practice in investigating crimes.
- Graduates may be prepared for roles in the growing field of forensic science.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Investigation at CTU is designed for individuals interested in solving crimes and building cases. The program provides a solid foundation in law enforcement, the courts, and corrections, as well as foundational forensic investigative knowledge. Students will have opportunities to gain real-world experience in investigating crimes and criminal profiling through lab work, combining theory and practice. This program can prepare students for potential roles in the growing field of forensic science.
Program Features
- Concentrations: Forensic Investigation
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Crime scene investigation, Evidence collection and preservation, Criminal profiling, Forensic analysis, Report writing, Courtroom testimony, Interview and interrogation techniques
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $12,100/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,100/year
Sample Courses
Ethics in Criminal Justice, Interpersonal Communications, Introductory Written Communication, Professional Written Communications, American Government and Public Affairs...
Why Get Your Criminal Justice Degree Online in Colorado?
Colorado’s criminal justice job market is surging ahead of national trends, creating a prime opportunity to earn your degree online while positioning yourself for high-demand roles. With a projected 25% growth rate through 2030 for criminal justice teaching positions (Colorado Employment Trends: 25-1111.00) and a 10% expansion for detective roles in the same period (Colorado Employment Trends: 33-3021.00), online programs let you align your studies with these emerging needs without career interruption. These growth rates outpace many national averages, particularly in specialized fields like forensic technology and cybercrime investigation, where Colorado’s tech hubs in Denver and Colorado Springs are driving innovation. Employers increasingly prioritize candidates who understand regional challenges, from managing urban population growth to addressing border security—topics integrated into online curricula through case studies and virtual simulations. Programs like those at University of Colorado Denver emphasize partnerships with local agencies, giving you access to internships and mentorship opportunities even in a remote learning format. With annual job openings for criminal justice roles projected to rise steadily, online students can strategically time their degree completion to coincide with hiring cycles for state agencies and federal offices expanding their Colorado operations. The state’s focus on restorative justice and community policing also creates demand for graduates trained in modern conflict resolution techniques, which many online programs now embed into core coursework. By studying through Colorado-based institutions, you’ll build networks with instructors actively shaping state policy and gain insights into regional salary trends—critical advantages when negotiating roles in competitive sectors like federal law enforcement or private security consulting. As agencies modernize their recruitment processes to include virtual interviews and digital skills assessments, the adaptability you develop through online learning directly mirrors workplace expectations. Explore programs designed to prepare you for Colorado’s evolving landscape, where education flexibility meets tangible demand for professionals ready to tackle next-generation public safety challenges.
Who Hires Criminal Justice Graduates in Colorado?
If you’re pursuing criminal justice careers in Colorado, opportunities span law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, and legal services. The Denver Police Department stands out as a major employer, offering roles like patrol officers, detectives, and crime analysts, with a focus on community engagement and specialized training programs as highlighted in salary and employment guides. They prioritize candidates with degrees for leadership tracks and crisis intervention roles. Another key player is the Colorado Department of Corrections, which hires probation officers, case managers, and correctional counselors. Their positions often emphasize rehabilitation programs and restorative justice initiatives, with state benefits like tuition reimbursement for advanced certifications.
For roles in advocacy, organizations like the Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center frequently seek victim advocates and legal assistants. These positions involve direct client support, courtroom navigation, and collaboration with law enforcement, ideal for graduates passionate about trauma-informed care. Job boards like Indeed list over 300 criminal justice openings in Colorado, including niche roles such as pretrial services officers and criminal justice consultants. Pretrial officers, often employed by county governments like Denver County, conduct risk assessments and monitor defendants, requiring strong analytical skills and familiarity with local court systems.
Startups and private firms are also growing in this space. Companies like Invictus Consulting Group (hiring criminal justice consultants) work with law enforcement agencies to improve operational efficiency, offering project-based roles for those interested in policy analysis or data-driven reform. Federal agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service in Colorado Springs, provide opportunities for criminal investigators and fugitive recovery specialists, often requiring clearance and field experience.
Denver and Colorado Springs serve as hubs for these careers, with many employers valuing internships or volunteer experience. Build connections through organizations like the Colorado Criminal Justice Association, and check county government portals for unadvertised roles. Regularly update your Indeed profile for alerts on new criminal justice postings, and consider certifications like Crisis Intervention Training to stand out in competitive applications.
What Can You Earn With a Criminal Justice Degree in Colorado?
If you're pursuing a criminal justice career in Colorado, your earnings will depend on experience, specialization, and role. Entry-level positions (0-2 years) for degree holders typically start between $22.50 and $25.75 per hour, translating to $46,800-$53,560 annually, based on hourly wage data from ZipRecruiter. Mid-career professionals (3-7 years) earn closer to Colorado's average criminal justice salary of $65,000 per year, as reported in ZipRecruiter's broader state survey. Those entering law enforcement often see higher starting wages—police and sheriff roles range from $62,070 for early-career officers to $105,840 for senior professionals (8+ years) in the top 10% statewide, according to All Criminal Justice Schools.
Colorado salaries generally run 4-9% above national averages, particularly for federal and investigative roles. Specializing in cybercrime analysis or earning certifications like Certified Fraud Examiner can boost earnings by 15-20%, while bilingual professionals often command 5-10% higher wages in community-focused positions. The state's growing focus on forensic technology and border security is driving demand for specialists, with projected salary increases of 3-5% annually through 2026. Urban centers like Denver and Colorado Springs show the strongest growth, offering pathways to six-figure roles in federal agencies or corrections leadership for experienced professionals.
FAQs About Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in Colorado
Common Questions About Criminal Justice Programs in Colorado
Q: Are online criminal justice degrees respected by employers in Colorado? A: Yes, especially from accredited programs like University of Colorado Denver’s BA (Higher Learning Commission accredited). Colorado Law states online degrees meet admission requirements for graduate programs, signaling employer acceptance. Major employers like Denver Police Department and Colorado Department of Corrections actively hire graduates from these programs.
Q: How long does it take to complete an online criminal justice degree? A: Full-time students typically finish in 4 years. Part-time options extend timelines, while transfer credits can accelerate completion. Check specific programs for accelerated tracks or credit limits per term.
Q: Can I transfer credits from another college? A: Most Colorado programs accept transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. University of Colorado Denver and Colorado Technical University evaluate transcripts individually. Note that some courses may be mandatory before advancing, regardless of prior credits.
Q: What financial aid options are available for Colorado students? A: Residents qualify for the College Opportunity Fund (COF), reducing University of Colorado Denver’s cost. Federal aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement are common options. Always complete the FAFSA and check program-specific aid deadlines.
Q: Do these programs require internships or fieldwork? A: Requirements vary. University of Colorado Denver’s listing doesn’t specify fieldwork, but many programs connect students with local agencies for practical experience. Confirm with your chosen school.
Q: What’s the difference between a BA and BS in criminal justice? A: A BA (like CU Denver’s) focuses on liberal arts with courses in sociology and policy. A BS (like Colorado Technical University’s Forensic Investigation degree) emphasizes technical skills—crime scene analysis, forensic tech, and data-driven methodologies. Choose based on career goals.
Q: Are there part-time study options for working professionals? A: Yes. Most online programs allow part-time enrollment, letting you balance work and studies. University of Colorado Denver’s per-credit pricing supports taking fewer courses per term. Confirm minimum credit requirements to maintain financial aid eligibility.
Q: How do I know if a program is accredited? A: Check the program’s website for accreditation details—University of Colorado Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Verify through the U.S. Department of Education’s database or Council for Higher Education Accreditation listings. Avoid unaccredited programs for employer recognition.