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Florida Criminal Justice Programs Online: Finding the Right School

Florida is home to a range of accredited online criminal justice programs designed for both newcomers to the field and seasoned professionals aiming to level up. Roles like detectives, probation officers, and correctional specialists are expected to see continued demand statewide, according to O*NET Online. Whether you’re interested in public safety, legal studies, or law enforcement leadership, the right online degree can open doors. Use this STEPS guide to explore Florida’s top online criminal justice programs and take charge of your career.

Author: Angela Myers
Editor: Linda Armstrong
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Criminal Justice Associate Degree Programs

Individuals seeking entry-level criminal justice positions should consider associate’s degree programs. They generally take two years to complete and prepare students for a variety of roles, including corrections officer, court reporter, paralegal, and police officer. Coursework typically covers the court system, the juvenile justice process, criminology, crime scene investigation basics, and criminal justice ethics.

Indian River State College

Indian River State College offers an entirely online associate’s degree in criminal justice, with the option to complete the IRSC Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Academy (which must be done in-person). The school also offers professional development resources, and the curriculum covers topics like investigating insurance fraud, introduction to criminology, and the juvenile criminal justice system. Graduates are prepared to enter the career field or can continue on to complete their bachelor’s degree at Indian River State College or another university.

Location: Fort Pierce, Stuart, Okeechobee, Vero Beach, St. Lucis,

Mode: Online

Cost: $2,760 FL resident, $10,212 nonresident

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma/equivalency, college coursework, or home-school affidavit
  • Official academic transcripts

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice

A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice gives students a deep understanding of different areas of the discipline, including juvenile delinquency, the courts, criminology, forensic science, and corrections. These programs, which have a four-year curriculum, allow students to choose between a bachelor of science and bachelor of arts degree.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida’s criminal justice degree can be completed in four years in a fully online or hybrid format. The curriculum covers topics like serial murder, criminal profiling, sex offenders, human trafficking, and domestic violence. Courses also cover cybersecurity and the juvenile criminal justice system. The program is designed to offer foundational coursework early in the program and opportunities to explore professional interests via electives in the final two years. The school also has a scholar’s track where students can work one-on-one with a professor on a research project.

Location: Orlando

Mode: Online or hybrid

Cost: $12,736.80 FL resident, $44,933, 40 nonresident

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • ACT, SAT, or CLT scores
  • Application essay

Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice

Professionals working in the criminal justice field who wish to progress in their careers can pursue a master’s degree. At this level, students can focus their studies on specific areas such as homeland security, cybersecurity, forensic technology, corrections, or public administration. The majority of these programs offered by top criminal justice schools in Florida typically require a two-year time commitment.

Florida Atlantic University

Students interested in learning more about crime and how to respond to it should consider the master’s program from Florida Atlantic University. The curriculum covers topics like criminal justice policy foundations, research methods, and class, race, and gender in criminal justice. Students can also take ample electives and can explore interests ranging from research to computer crime policy. To graduate, students must either complete a thesis or take six additional hours of course credit. Some components of the degree can be completed online, including an optional online teaching assistantship, but certain course components are only offered on-campus.

Location: Boca Raton, Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, Harbor Branch

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $12,270.06 FL resident, $33,884.73 nonresident

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from accredited school
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA for last 60 credits of undergraduate coursework
  • Minimum grade of B in research methods and statistics courses
  • A statement of interest
  • A letter of recommendation from a professor

Advanced Criminal Justice Degrees: Doctorates & Grad Certificates

For individuals seeking the most prestigious roles in the criminal justice industry, a PhD program in criminal justice offers the necessary preparation. These programs at top criminal justice schools in Florida are highly demanding, emphasizing advanced theory and research to mold students into effective leaders. Graduates are prepared for positions as college professors, researchers, intelligence analysts, police chiefs, and more.

St. Leo University

St. Leo’s University provides one of two online doctoral programs in the state. Its criminal justice PhD is designed for seasoned criminal justice professionals who want to become experts, working in either an academic setting or in a law enforcement workplace. The degree can be completed entirely online, or students can elect to take some courses in-person, providing a hybrid option as well. However, even online students must attend a few three-day weekend seminars as part of the program. St. Leo’s also offers two PhD specializations: criminal justice education or homeland security. Students complete a dissertation project in their chosen specialty.

Location: St. Leo

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $51,000

Admissions Requirements:

  • Transcripts from any higher education degrees
  • Statement of professional goals
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA in prior criminal justice coursework

Criminal Justice Student FAQs: Your Questions Answered

What Florida college has the best criminal justice program?

The best criminal justice program is subjective, as each individual’s needs and degree pursuits vary. A student who’s entirely new to the criminal justice field may find the online associate’s degree from St. Leo University suits their needs. In contrast, a law enforcement professional looking to move into a leadership role may benefit from the master’s degree at Florida Atlantic University. To determine the right school for you, first clarify what degree type you want to pursue, your career goals, your budget, and if you want an online, hybrid, or in-person program. Then review our insights and rankings and do your own research to determine which program is best for you.

What are the admissions requirements for criminal justice programs in Florida?

Admission requirements vary based on degree type. Most undergraduate degrees require students to submit their high school GPA, SAT/ACT score, essays, and letters of recommendation. Many also require students to be in their final year of high school or to already have a high school diploma. Graduate programs may also require essays and letters of recommendations, but most look at GRE scores instead of SAT/ACT scores and at applicants’ GPAs from their undergraduate programs.

Are there financial aid opportunities for Florida criminal justice students?

Students at criminal justice schools in Florida have multiple avenues for the financial aid. For example, schools like Florida State University, Florida Atlantic University, and the University of North Florida award scholarships to graduate and undergraduate students in their departments. Also, students can get scholarships from organizations like Alpha Phi Sigma, which is the criminal justice honor society, or private companies like employment screening company Disa (formerly Crimcheck). Additionally, scholarships and grants are available through the state and federal government.

What can I do with a criminal justice degree in Florida?

A criminal justice degree in Florida provides you with the knowledge to work in law enforcement, corrections, or legal services at the local, state, or federal level. More advanced degrees provide opportunities to specialize in a specific area of criminal justice, such as parole or homeland security.

Are there any online criminal justice programs in Florida?

Florida offers online and hybrid criminal justice programs at all education levels. Popular programs include the online bachelor’s from the University of Central Florida, the online associate from Indian River State College, and the online master’s from Florida State University.

Career Prospects & Salary Details for Criminal Justice Graduates in Florida

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ 90th Percentile ↕ Median ↕
Florida Correctional Officers and Jailers $38,730 $71,840 $41,180
Florida Court, Municipal, and License Clerks $32,960 $63,510 $39,660
Florida Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary $48,810 $86,300 $60,670
Florida Detectives and Criminal Investigators $45,800 $155,940 $73,280
Florida Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $47,160 $111,190 $68,240
Florida Private Detectives and Investigators $35,460 $97,740 $50,630
Florida Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists $32,260 $58,800 $42,680
Florida Security Guards $28,210 $44,290 $33,890
Florida Social Workers $36,230 $96,620 $48,980

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ Curr. Jobs ↕ Proj. Jobs ↕ New Jobs ↕ Growth % ↕
Florida Correctional Officers and Jailers 16,990 15,840 -1,150 -6.80%
Florida Court, Municipal, and License Clerks 11,530 12,440 910 7.90%
Florida Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary 1,150 1,220 70 6.10%
Florida Detectives and Criminal Investigators 6,240 6,760 520 8.30%
Florida Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers 48,810 52,560 3,750 7.70%
Florida Private Detectives and Investigators 4,560 5,180 620 13.60%
Florida Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists 3,970 3,940 -30 -0.80%
Florida Security Guards 86,990 93,510 6,520 7.50%
Florida Social Workers 6,070 6,850 780 12.90%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Resources for Criminal Justice Students & Professionals in Florida

Finding the right criminal justice program for you is critical, but getting connected to additional resources can make your degree more affordable and/or provide networking and career growth opportunities. Here are 10 resources that should be on your radar.

  • Central Florida Criminal Justice Association: This LinkedIn group provides professional development resources and alerts on networking events of interest to criminal justice professionals and students in central Florida.
  • Criminal Justice Career Paths: Florida National University explores the benefits of having a criminal justice degree, either at the undergraduate or graduate level, and explores seven careers you can pursue with a degree.
  • Criminal Justice Scholarships: Our guide to criminal justice scholarships presents various financial aid opportunities and resources for those looking to enter the criminal justice field in Florida.
  • Criminology Podcasts: The University of Florida offers a list of podcasts for students who want to learn more about the field of criminology and criminal justice career opportunities.
  • Florida Criminal Justice Test Prep: Many criminal justice jobs in Florida require students to pass state-moderated tests. This hub provides study guides and additional resources for these exams.
  • Florida Criminology Scholarships: Florida Atlantic University provides a good look at what school-sponsored scholarships look like for criminal justice systems. While these financial aid options are only for FAU students, it’s a good example of what solid financial support looks like.
  • Florida Justice Association: This organization supports criminal justice professionals throughout the state and helps connect legal and criminal justice professionals to community members who need their services.
  • Florida Law Enforcement Academy Scholarship Program: Anyone interested in becoming a licensed law enforcement officer should check out this guide on financial resources and licensure requirements.
  • Florida Sheriff’s Association Scholarship: The Florida Sheriff’s Association awards 10 $2,000 scholarships to students pursuing a criminal justice degree at a Florida university each year. Applications from children of sheriffs are prioritized.
  • SWFL Heroes Foundation: Students who live in Southwest Florida and want to pursue a career as a first responder upon graduating should consider this foundation’s scholarships.

Rating the Best Online Options for Criminal Justice Schools in Florida

Ready to dive into more research on Florida’s criminal justice programs? Explore the rankings below. Rankings were determined based on affordability, academia quality, support services, and scheduling flexibility. All ranked schools are accredited, and most offer various forms of financial aid and career support services. For more information on how rankings were chosen, click “about the rankings.”

1

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo, Florida

Why We Selected Saint Leo University:
The Criminal Justice program at Saint Leo University prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and related fields through courses like Criminal Justice Ethics, Substantive Criminal Law, and Theories of Criminal Behavior. The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice requires 39 hours of major coursework, providing a foundation for advancement to administrative roles or graduate study. Career paths include police officer, probation officer, and crime scene investigator. Small class sizes and faculty with extensive field experience enhance networking and learning. Students gain hands-on experience through field placements, supported by industry connections.
Program Highlights
  • Saint Leo offers substantial cost savings through the Next-Level Grad Award for qualifying graduate students.
  • The university provides valuable industry connections through strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies and the FBI.
  • Saint Leo's faculty includes seasoned professionals who are experts in areas like interrogation and hostage negotiation.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$23,990
  • Average Grant Aid$14,901
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid100%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course84%
2

Miami Dade College

Miami, Florida

Why We Selected Miami Dade College:
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Management at Miami Dade College emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and communication, focusing on law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It prepares students for entry-level, mid-management, and supervisory roles in federal and local agencies like the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Secret Service. The 120-credit program typically takes four years, with students holding an A.A., A.S., or A.A.S. in Criminal Justice completing a 60-credit Criminal Justice track in two years. Out-of-state online tuition is $290 per credit hour. Graduates gain skills for immediate employment and career advancement in public safety.
Program Highlights
  • Distinct tuition pricing offers significant savings, with online out-of-state tuition reduced to $290 per credit hour.
  • Accelerated course options allow students to choose from 6, 8, 12, or 16-week terms for flexibility.
  • The program offers specialized career tracks in public safety, enhancing job opportunities with federal agencies.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,987
  • Average Grant Aid$2,338
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid55%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid92%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course82%
3

The University of West Florida

Pensacola, Florida

Why We Selected The University of West Florida:
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at the University of West Florida covers current theories and trends in crime, law enforcement, courts, corrections, and research design. This 120-credit program typically takes 24-48 months to complete, with classes led by experienced faculty and electives in areas like juvenile justice, cybercrimes, and homeland security. Students gain practical experience through internships and can access an accelerated Bachelor’s-to-Master’s program. Need-based and merit scholarships are available. Graduates pursue careers in federal, state, county, and local criminal justice agencies.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers an accelerated bachelor's to master's option, saving time and money for graduate-bound students.
  • Prospective students can graduate with field experience through an optional internship as their senior capstone experience.
  • Faculty members have extensive experience teaching online, fostering a strong engagement and learning outcomes through innovative coursework.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,735
  • Average Grant Aid$4,154
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid73%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid98%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
4

North Florida College

Madison, Florida

Why We Selected North Florida College:
North Florida College offers an Associate in Science degree in Criminal Justice Technology to prepare students for careers in the criminal justice field and support professional advancement. The 60-credit-hour program includes 18 General Education credits, 27 required Professional Courses, and 15 Electives. Students who complete the Law Enforcement or Correctional Basic Recruit Academy may receive credits toward the degree. Graduates can transfer into Bachelor’s Programs and pursue careers in Law Enforcement, Corrections, and Public Safety. The college provides flexible scheduling and financial aid.
Program Highlights
  • Students can articulate into a bachelor's degree in criminal justice after completing this program.
  • NFC offers online degree options for increased flexibility and convenience.
  • Credits may be awarded for completing a Law Enforcement or Correctional Basic Recruit Academy.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,280
  • Average Grant Aid$1,668
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid58%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
5

Florida International University

Miami, Florida

Why We Selected Florida International University:
Florida International University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice provides a comprehensive understanding of the justice system, focusing on police, courts, and corrections. It covers criminological theories, research methods, and legal processes, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, social services, or loss prevention. The program requires 120 credits and offers various financial aid options. Career outcomes include roles in law enforcement, legal services, and public policy. Key strengths include research opportunities and internships in local, state, and federal agencies.
Program Highlights
  • FIU's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice offers a unique combined bachelor's/master's degree program, enabling students to earn both degrees efficiently while gaining a competitive edge.
  • Students benefit from a dedicated success coach throughout their online education, ensuring personalized guidance and support for academic success.
  • The program provides ample internship opportunities with over 45 local, state, and federal agencies, fostering real-world experience and networking for future employment.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,721
  • Average Grant Aid$3,956
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid76%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
6

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, Florida

Why We Selected University of North Florida:
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MS in Criminal Justice) program at the University of North Florida provides advanced instruction in criminology and criminal justice, requiring 36 credits including prerequisites, core coursework, electives, and a thesis or non-thesis exit requirement. It emphasizes advanced criminological theory, research methods, and justice administration, with electives covering topics like women and crime, minorities and crime, and criminal justice administration. Competitive admissions require prerequisite completion within the first nine graduate hours. The program prepares graduates for careers in research, policy development, law enforcement, administration, and academia, fostering critical thinking, research skills, and policy implementation capabilities.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers an online option to enhance flexibility for prospective students.
  • The program emphasizes interconnection between theory, practice, and research for comprehensive learning.
  • Faculty expertise fosters a supportive environment with rigorous academic scholarship.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,996
  • Average Grant Aid$3,350
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid63%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid87%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
7

Florida State University

Tallahassee, Florida

Why We Selected Florida State University:
Florida State University offers a Bachelor’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program requires 36 semester hours, including core courses with a C or better and a 2.0 GPA, plus 27 hours completed at FSU. Careers include detectives, corporate security specialists, and victim advocates, with preparation for graduate studies or law school. Scholarships are available, and admission requires FSU’s liberal studies or a Florida Associate of Arts degree.
Program Highlights
  • No out-of-state tuition for online master's courses.
  • Waived GRE requirement for professionals with five years of experience.
  • Same diploma as on-campus students, ensuring equal prestige.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,640
  • Average Grant Aid$3,699
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid65%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
8

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

Why We Selected Florida Atlantic University:
The Criminal Justice degree programs at Florida Atlantic University offer comprehensive studies in the field. The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice requires 120 credits, including 27-30 credits of advanced courses, focusing on crime causes, legal systems, and agency decision processes. The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice is a 33-credit program with core courses and options for a thesis or non-thesis exit. Both programs prepare students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and policy-making, or further graduate study. Financial aid, like graduate assistantships, is available for Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice students. Admission requires meeting University general requirements.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition discounts to deserving students.
  • It features employer partnerships for enhanced job prospects.
  • It provides specialized career tracks in emerging fields.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,522
  • Average Grant Aid$3,813
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid61%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid89%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
9

Hillsborough Community College

Tampa, Florida

Why We Selected Hillsborough Community College:
The Criminal Justice program at Hillsborough Community College provides a foundation in the criminal justice system’s history, philosophy, and operation. Students can earn an Associate in Science Degree in Criminal Justice or an Associate in Arts Degree with a Criminology pathway. The program prepares graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and court systems, offering entry-level opportunities in local, state, and federal agencies. Completion also supports advancement into sworn law enforcement and legal careers. Tuition varies by residency, with lower costs for in-state students. Admissions follow an open-door policy, and career outcomes include roles in corrections, probation, and private security, enhanced by specialized certifications.
Program Highlights
  • Hillsborough Community College offers a distance learning fee of $14 per credit hour, fostering affordability.
  • HCC provides flexible semester schedules, allowing students to efficiently complete degrees online or in hybrid formats.
  • HCC guarantees transferability to other state colleges and universities, ensuring seamless educational continuation.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,931
  • Average Grant Aid$1,558
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid17%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid78%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
10

University of Central Florida

Orlando, Florida

Why We Selected University of Central Florida:
The University of Central Florida’s Criminal Justice program offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, providing a multidisciplinary understanding of crime and justice through criminology, law, psychology, and public policy. The 120-credit program requires 33 core hours, upper-division coursework, and Bachelor of Arts students must demonstrate foreign language proficiency. Internships are available for credit, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The cost is $212.28 per credit hour with financial aid options. Admission requires the University of Central Florida’s General Education Program and encourages prerequisites like American National Government and Introduction to Psychology.
Program Highlights
  • UCF Online offers tuition discounts for Florida residents, saving $433 per credit hour.
  • The program features flexible online classes and dedicated faculty support for busy students.
  • UCF’s successful network includes partnerships for interns and career opportunities in law enforcement and forensics.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,478
  • Average Grant Aid$2,404
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid56%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid94%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio30/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
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Angela Myers AUTHOR

Angela Myers is a dedicated healthcare and higher education writer with over five years of editorial experience. Her byline appears in outlets like Forbes, AARP, Well+Good, and NextAvenue. Additionally, she has written dozens of articles specifically about higher education, covering disciplines like psychology, fire science, and education & teaching. Before becoming a writer, she conducted award winning research about how to improve sexual violence prevention programs at higher education institutions. Angela holds a degree in Professional Writing and Rhetoric from Elon University, further strengthening her ability to communicate effectively and with multiple audiences. Angela's favorite part of writing for PSD is empowering students to take control of their education and professional future.

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Linda Armstrong EDITOR

With more than 20 years of editing, writing, and content management experience, Linda Armstrong has worked in both print and digital mediums and has earned multiple international writing and editing awards. Specializing in behavioral and mental health treatment, she regularly writes/edits blogs, case studies, white papers, B2B/B2C copy, and more, covering topics ranging from mental health and allergy education to substance misuse and addiction treatment.

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