How to Choose the Right Online Master’s Program in Criminal Justice
So, you’re thinking about continuing your education with an online master’s program in criminal justice? How do you find the program that is best for you? Explore our six-step guide to determine the right program!
Evaluate the curriculum
- A criminal justice program may be a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree. All three master’s degrees are equally valid, though their focus and areas of study will vary from a social science to a hard science approach. Be sure to research what each individual program offers for coursework and study, what the required core courses are and requirements for the capstone course. Ideally, you’ll want a blend of criminological theory, research and statistics.
- Marshall’s program, for example, takes a hybrid approach to criminology that focuses on scientific, quantitative research in addition to the social science aspects of crime deterrence and rehabilitation.
Research faculty expertise
- One thing you should take care to check about an online program is if it still allows you to connect directly with faculty. There are some online master’s programs that are entirely asynchronous, meaning you only ever see or hear faculty through pre-recorded videos. You should have the option to connect directly with faculty to ask them questions, request help or even just engage in conversation for networking purposes.
- For example, Marshall students can interact in a virtual setting in each course but maintain the flexibility of never having to come to campus.
Consider flexibility & online learning support
- Are classes offered asynchronously, meaning you work when is convenient for you, or synchronously, meaning you have set times to attend virtual classes? If you are working or have additional responsibilities in addition to going to school, it is important to consider if synchronous classes are the right fit for your schedule.
- Are online students offered the same benefits and resources as in-person students? Marshall Online offers career assistance, online tutoring sessions, online writing support and more.
Check accreditation & reputation
- Not every program holds itself to the same set of standards. A regionally accredited program is guaranteed to meet high academic standards, ensuring you can receive a quality education. A degree from an accredited program also enhances your career prospects and credibility, as these programs are widely respected. You’ll find a school’s accreditation on its website.
- Marshall University is accredited as an institution of higher learning by The Higher Learning Commission. All of the university’s programs are covered by the HLC accreditation.
Evaluate cost & scholarship opportunities
- Earning a graduate degree can open greater job opportunities and increase your earning potential. You will need to evaluate if the earning potential can offset the cost of continuing education.
- Scholarships are available for online graduate students and the Office of Student Financial Assistance at Marshall University is available to guide you through the financial aid process.
Assess career opportunities & alumni success
- Because the criminal justice field encompasses such a wide variety of positions, the job outlook varies between different careers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the employment rate for police officers, detectives, probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to grow 3% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The employment rate for social and community service managers across nonprofit organizations, for-profit social service companies and government agencies is expected to grow 9% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- Studies have shown that after years of steady increases in law enforcement resignation and retirement rates, more sworn officers were hired in 2023 than in any of the previous four years.
- Marshall University’s master’s in criminal justice program has prepared graduates for positions with the West Virginia National Guard, the Department of Justice, the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the West Virginia State Police and more.
Why choose Marshall University for your online master’s in criminal justice?
Marshall’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice program recently ranked #20 in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s Programs list.
In 2024, Marshall’s criminal justice and criminology program celebrated its 50th year, making it one the most established programs in the state.
Comprehensive Curriculum
- The Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice at Marshall University requires the completion of 30 credits of coursework. Students take 18 credit hours of core courses and 12 credit hours of elective courses.
- Sample online electives include:
- Race, Ethnicity, Class, and Crime
- Terrorism
- Applied Ethics in Criminal Justice
- Computer Crime
- Criminal Justice Response to Domestic Violence
- Understanding Cybercrime
- Crime & Pop Culture
- Check out all the criminal justice course descriptions.
- By combining criminological research with scientific methods, the program tackles complex societal issues, promoting a comprehensive understanding of crime and justice. Students cultivate empathy and ethical responsibility, equipping them to champion reform and social justice.
Expert Faculty
- As a student you’ll have direct, regular contact with PhD faculty, even if you’re enrolled in a fully online program. This includes potentially working with them on guided research opportunities.
- Our faculty are committed to providing students with the conceptual and research skills needed to undertake advanced analyses of the criminal justice system.
Flexible, Online Format
- Marshall Online allows you the flexibility to tailor your education to your schedule.
- You can count on the Marshall Online student services team to guide and support you throughout your educational journey, from the first email to graduation.
Affordable Tuition
- Tuition for online graduate students at Marshall University is not dependent on your geographic location, meaning in-state and out-of-state tuition are the same cost.
- According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of a master’s degree in science nationwide is $61,380. The average cost of earning your master’s degree in criminal justice online at Marshall University in 2 years is $56,348, including estimated living expenses and books.
For more information, visit our program page, or contact our criminal justice faculty and staff today.