Top Criminal Justice Degree Programs In New Jersey
Best Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in New Jersey
Below are the top-ranked Online Criminal Justice programs in New Jersey, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
William Paterson University
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Key Highlights
- This program equips students with practical, analytical, and theoretical tools alongside cultural awareness.
- Students will develop career-ready data analysis skills, gaining advanced insights into crime statistics and prevention strategies.
- Coursework prepares students for continued study in fields such as law, social work, and forensics.
- The curriculum includes courses such as Essentials of Criminal Justice, Criminology, and Criminal Law.
- Students can gain practical experience through an Internship in Criminal Justice (CCJ 4920).
- The program provides knowledge of criminal law.
- Students will gain in-depth knowledge of criminal justice subfields.
- Students will study Inequality and Criminal Justice (CCJ 3770).
- William Paterson University is ranked among the top public schools in the region by U.S. News & World Report.
- The program emphasizes effective communication.
- Students will gain knowledge of criminal justice data analysis.
Program Description
The online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice program at William Paterson University provides students with practical, analytical, and theoretical tools alongside cultural awareness, preparing them for success in criminal justice and related professions. The curriculum focuses on the U.S. justice system, criminal law, causes and consequences of criminal behavior, and evidence-backed strategies for reducing harm in communities. Students will develop career-ready data analysis skills, gaining advanced insights into crime statistics and prevention strategies, and the ability to investigate inequalities within the criminal justice system to enhance community safety. The coursework prepares working adults for continued study in fields such as law, social work, and forensics.
Program Features
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Criminal justice data analysis, Theoretical analysis of crime and crime prevention, Analytical research, Effective communication, In-depth knowledge of criminal justice subfields, Knowledge of criminal law
Tuition & Costs
- Cost Per Credit: $373
Contact Information
- Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Enrollment Services
- 833-960-0139
Sample Courses
CCJ 2610: Essentials of Criminal Justice, CCJ 3680: Criminology, CCJ 3740: Criminal Law, CCJ 4820: Senior Seminar in Criminal Justice, CCJ 4920: Internship in Criminal Justice...
Why Study Online Criminal Justice in New Jersey?
Studying online criminal justice in New Jersey positions you at the center of a rapidly expanding job market, with state-specific growth projections outpacing national trends. New Jersey’s occupational employment projections anticipate a 9% increase in protective service roles through 2032—nearly double the national average for similar fields—driven by demand in cybersecurity, federal law enforcement, and community safety initiatives. This growth translates to over 4,000 new positions in areas like digital forensics and counterterrorism, particularly in hubs like Newark and Jersey City where federal agencies and private security firms cluster. The state’s proximity to major metro corridors creates unique internship pipelines with organizations like the FBI’s Newark Cyber Task Force, giving you direct access to real-world investigations while completing coursework.
Your degree aligns with emerging priorities: state projections highlight a 12% surge in forensic science technician roles by 2030, compared to 8% nationally, with agencies prioritizing candidates trained in local statutes and regional crime patterns. Online programs prepare you for certifications that employers increasingly require—such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for cyber roles.
New Jersey also offers targeted financial incentives, including the Law Enforcement Officer Loan Redemption Program, which forgives up to $20,000 in student debt for graduates entering public service roles like state troopers or corrections supervisors. Regional networking groups like the New Jersey Criminal Justice Association further connect you to mentorship opportunities in growing sectors, from port security along the Delaware River to corporate fraud units in Princeton’s tech corridor.
With salaries for specialized roles like intelligence analysts projected to rise 18% statewide by 2030, your online education becomes a strategic investment in sectors where New Jersey leads. Start building expertise now to meet the demand for professionals who understand both traditional policing and next-generation threats—your future in this evolving field begins with aligning your skills to the state’s priorities.
Where Can You Work After Graduating in New Jersey?
After completing an online criminal justice degree in New Jersey, you’ll find opportunities across public agencies and private organizations. State and county governments dominate hiring, with roles like probation officers, court clerks, and pretrial services officers frequently appearing in Indeed’s criminal justice job listings. The New Jersey Judiciary system, for example, regularly recruits court managers to oversee operations in hubs like Newark or Trenton courthouses, where you’d handle case scheduling and public inquiries. County probation departments also post roles for supervising offenders, often providing mentorship programs and state pension plans.
Federal agencies like the FBI’s Newark field office and Homeland Security Investigations hire graduates for investigative and compliance roles, particularly if you specialize in cybersecurity or forensic analysis. These positions often involve collaborating with local law enforcement and may require clearance processes. On the private side, firms like Securitas and Allied Universal list criminal justice degree jobs on Indeed’s specialized portal, including corporate investigators and loss prevention specialists. These roles might involve protecting retail chains or tech campuses in economic centers like Jersey City, with some companies offering flexible schedules or tuition reimbursement.
New Jersey’s universities, including Rutgers and Montclair State, don’t just educate students—they often partner with regional employers for internships. While the state’s salary guide doesn’t specify employers, it highlights competitive salaries for roles like correctional treatment specialists (averaging $68,000 annually), which you’ll find in facilities like Northern State Prison or Edna Mahan Correctional Institution.
For networking, attend job fairs hosted by the New Jersey Police Chiefs Association or join regional chapters of the American Criminal Justice Association. Many county sheriff’s offices and federal agencies post openings on LinkedIn or government portals—set alerts for keywords like “compliance officer” or “juvenile justice specialist” to stay ahead. Focus your applications on agencies near transportation hubs like Newark or Camden, where demand for bilingual candidates and tech-savvy professionals continues to rise.
What Can You Earn With a Criminal Justice Degree in New Jersey?
Earning potential with a criminal justice degree in New Jersey varies significantly based on your role and experience. According to ZipRecruiter’s 2025 data, the average annual salary for criminal justice professionals statewide is $65,996, breaking down to roughly $31.73 hourly or $5,499 monthly. Entry-level positions often start below this average, with many graduates securing roles like probation officers or paralegals earning closer to $48,000–$55,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years of experience typically see salaries align with or exceed the statewide average, particularly in roles such as police detectives or court administrators.
Specialization plays a key role in boosting earnings. For example, All Criminal Justice Schools reports that correctional officers and jailers in New Jersey earn a median salary of $87,460 annually—the second-highest in the nation. Senior professionals (8+ years) in federal law enforcement or cybersecurity roles can surpass $95,000, especially with advanced certifications like Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or specialized training in digital forensics. Location also impacts pay: urban areas like Newark or Jersey City often offer 10–15% higher salaries than rural counties due to higher demand and cost of living.
Your degree directly influences hourly wages. ZipRecruiter’s degree-specific data shows criminal justice graduates in New Jersey earn an average of $29.26 per hour, translating to roughly $60,860 annually for full-time roles. This positions New Jersey above the national average for many criminal justice careers—for instance, the national median for correctional officers is $54,000, while the state’s median exceeds $87,000. Bilingual skills or federal agency certifications (like FBI firearms training) can further increase earnings by 8–12%.
Future salary growth looks promising, particularly in cybercrime investigation and homeland security sectors, where demand is projected to rise 7–9% statewide through 2030. Roles requiring technical skills or advanced degrees, such as forensic analysts or federal intelligence officers, are expected to see faster-than-average wage growth. While entry-level salaries may start modestly, strategic career moves and ongoing professional development can significantly elevate your earning potential in New Jersey’s criminal justice field.
FAQs About Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to complete an online criminal justice degree in New Jersey? A: Most bachelor’s programs take 4 years full-time, but accelerated options may shorten this. William Paterson University’s online BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice follows a standard 120-credit structure, which typically requires 4 years. Part-time students often take 5-6 years to complete degree requirements.
Q: Are online criminal justice degrees respected by employers in New Jersey? A: Yes, employers like the New Jersey State Police and county agencies recognize degrees from accredited programs. William Paterson’s program signals a strong local reputation. Federal agencies and private security firms also value regionally accredited online degrees for promotion eligibility.
Q: What jobs can I get with a criminal justice degree in New Jersey? A: Common roles include probation officer (average $60k/year), police detective ($90k+), or correctional supervisor ($87k median). Federal agencies and court systems also hire graduates for compliance and investigative roles.
Q: How do New Jersey programs compare to out-of-state options? A: NJ programs like William Paterson’s focus on state-specific laws and local internship networks with agencies like the NJ Judiciary. Out-of-state programs may lack this regional relevance but could offer lower tuition rates. Consider NJ’s higher correctional officer salaries (2nd nationally) when evaluating career ROI.
Q: Can I transfer credits from another school to a New Jersey program? A: Most NJ universities accept credits from regionally accredited institutions. William Paterson and others typically allow up to 90 transfer credits toward bachelor’s programs. Always request a formal credit evaluation before enrolling to maximize previous coursework.
Q: What support do online students receive from New Jersey universities? A: Online students access career services through platforms like NJ’s One-Stop Career Centers, academic advising, and technical support. Many programs offer virtual networking events with NJ law enforcement recruiters and alumni mentors.
Q: Are there scholarships available for criminal justice students in New Jersey? A: Yes, explore the NJ Criminal Justice Association’s awards and university-specific aid. William Paterson’s program costs $372.75/credit – compare this with state tuition assistance programs for public safety professionals. Some county sheriff’s offices offer tuition reimbursement for active employees.
Q: How do I choose the right program for my career goals? A: Match programs to specific roles: cybersecurity tracks for digital forensics careers, or community justice courses for probation work. William Paterson’s program suits those targeting NJ law enforcement promotions. Verify faculty experience in your target sector through program websites.