Are you fascinated by anything concerning the legal system? Do you binge watch cold-case shows and enjoy watching trials? Or perhaps you’re intrigued by police procedurals and all things public safety. If this describes you, working in the criminal justice system might be a great career move.
You can take several paths to fulfilling careers in law enforcement, corrections, or the court system. One of the most popular avenues is to earn a degree in criminal justice, and there are many criminal justice programs in Massachusetts to choose from at the undergraduate and graduate levels. And because many students wish to continue working or taking care of their families while in school, you’ll also find fully-online criminal justice degrees in Massachusetts.
But which programs provide the quality, accreditation and affordability you’re looking for? In this guide, we highlight the best overall criminal justice schools in Massachusetts and provide other helpful information to help you narrow your options. Get started with our list of top-ranked schools below.
Spotlighting the Best Massachusetts Colleges for Criminal Justice in 2024
Your first step is researching criminal justice schools in Massachusetts. But how do you decide which program is best for you? One way to begin your search is to take a look at several top-notch schools and see how they stand out in terms of affordability, accreditation, student services, and learning options. Below, we’ve spotlighted three fully accredited programs that excel in these areas, providing you with a good starting point in your search. This is just a preview of our full college rankings, coming soon — so bookmark this page and check back for the complete guide.
Northern Essex Community College
At Northern Essex Community College, students seeking a general education in criminal justice can enroll in the Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program. The curriculum includes courses on topics such as law enforcement and the criminal court system, with both classroom and experiential learning components.
There’s also the MassTransfer Pathways program to help students earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a similar field like psychology, behavioral sciences, or social sciences.
For students who know they want to work in law enforcement, there’s the Law Enforcement Certificate program. Taking as little as 10 months to complete, this program was created with the help of the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association and provides the skills and knowledge students need to begin working as a police or security officer. The credits earned with this certificate can also be used towards an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at nearby universities and colleges.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 62-65
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $254.00 per credit in-state | $495.00 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: On-Campus; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: None
Law Enforcement Certificate
- Credits: 27
- Length: About 1 year
- Cost: $254 per credit in-state | $495 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: On-Campus; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: None
Boston College
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal and Social Justicefrom Boston College is a little different from other programs because it not only covers topics in criminal justice, but also examines how social issues affect crime and how society treats individuals who break the law. Even though the program requires 120 credits, up to 60 of those credits can come from another accredited school.
Because Boston College is a liberal arts institution, in addition to major-related coursework, students will take many general education courses in subjects such as arts, religion, writing, philosophy, and cultural diversity. Specific to their major, students will take eight core courses, but they can customize their degree by choosing six electives.
To help students succeed and make the most of their time at Boston College, the BC Career Center provides assistance to students applying to graduate school or finds relevant internships and post-graduate positions in the social justice and criminal legal system fields.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal and Social Justice
- Credits: 120
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $602 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: None
University of Massachusetts – Lowell
Of all the criminal justice schools in Massachusetts , the University of Massachusetts – Lowellis one of the few with a full slate of undergraduate and graduate degree options in the criminal justice field.
First up, there’s the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Students have flexibility in the speed in which they progress through this program, as well as how they complete their coursework (online, on-campus, or both). There’s also the accelerated BS to MS in Criminal Justice and Criminology pathway, offering a faster, less costly path to a graduate degree.
Prospective students thinking about a graduate program can choose from a master’s degree, certificate, or doctoral degree. The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice and Graduate Certificate in Forensic Criminology are available in online formats. UMass Lowell’s criminal justice doctoral program is one of the few offered in the Commonwealth, and although it’s only available on campus, students can select either the general option or the Terrorism specialization.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 120
- Length: About 4 years
- Cost: $1,320.83 per credit in-state | $2,889.67 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: Crime and Mental Health; Homeland Security; Police
Graduate Certificate in Forensic Criminology
- Credits: 12
- Length: About 1 year
- Cost: $1,703.33 per credit in-state | $3,078.44 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: Online; Part-Time
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 33
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $844.99 per credit in-state and on-campus | $1,499.44 per credit out-of-state and on-campus | $575 per credit online
- Delivery: On-Campus and Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
PhD in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Credits: 60
- Length: Varies
- Cost: $1,703.33 per credit in-state | $3,078.44 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: On-Campus; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: Terrorism
Top Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in Massachusetts
If you have a busy life with personal, educational, and professional obligations that need balance, you’ll find many online criminal justice degrees in Massachusetts available for busy students. These programs allow students to complete academic requirements in an online or hybrid format, making it easier to take classes from anywhere and usually at any time during the day. Depending on the school, your degree, and area of focus, you can often earn your degree 100% online, with no on-campus or in-person learning requirements needed.
If you’re interested in learning more, we’re spotlighting three programs that use an online learning format to provide flexible options tailored to your specific professional and academic needs. Additional information about online criminal justice programs can also be found on our main guide to online criminal justice programs.
Boston University
When it comes to having a wide selection of online criminal justice degrees programs to choose from in Massachusetts, Boston University is a stand-out school. At the graduate levels, students can choose from a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Graduate Certificates in Crime Analysis, Criminal Justice, Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity, and Strategic Management in Criminal Justice. These certificates are also available as concentrations in the Master of Science program. All of the graduate programs in criminal justice at Boston University are available in either a full-time and part-time format, with classes available on campus and online. Additionally, the graduate certificates and master’s degree online pathways are fully online, with no in-person learning requirements.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 32
- Length: 8-16 months
- Cost: $752.50 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus or Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: Crime Analysis; Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity; and Strategic Management
Graduate Certificate in Crime Analysis
- Credits: 16
- Length: 8-12 months
- Cost: $857.50 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus or Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity
- Credits: 16
- Length: 8-12 months
- Cost: $962.50 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus or Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 16
- Length: 8-12 months
- Cost: $857.50 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus or Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 16
- Length: 8-12 months
- Cost: $636.25 per credit
- Delivery: On-Campus or Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
Holyoke Community College
The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program from Holyoke Community Collegeprovides one of the most convenient and quickest ways to start a career in criminal justice. The advanced curriculum offers an academic starting point for future court officials, law enforcement officers, and even social workers. Because this is an associate-level program, students can typically graduate in just two years of full-time study. And depending on the choice of electives, it’s possible to complete all program requirements 100% online.
To help make the most of their academic journey, each student will have access to an academic advisor, as well as other school resources, such as wellness programs, academic support center, and a writing clinic. For students who want to continue their college education, Holyoke Community College has articulation agreements with several area colleges and universities, so a seamless transfer process is possible.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 62
- Length: About 2 years
- Cost: $395 per credit in-state | $601 per credit out-of-state
- Delivery: Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: None
Fitchburg State University
At Fitchburg State University, students interested in criminal justice can opt for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice. Available fully online, students can earn their master’s degree in as little as one year while choosing from two concentrations. The Municipal Police Training Committee concentration is tailored to students who want to become full-time municipal police officers. The Professional Studies concentration focuses on leadership skills for individuals who want management responsibilities within the criminal justice system. This program takes 30-36 credits to complete, which can be done in as little as one year for a full-time, motivated student.
Program Highlights:
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 30-36
- Length: About 1-2 years
- Cost: $347 per credit
- Delivery: Online; Full-Time and Part-Time
- Specializations: Municipal Police Training Committee; Professional Studies
Types of Criminal Justice Programs in Massachusetts
One of the great things about the various criminal justice programs in Massachusetts is that they can be found at almost any level in colleges and universities. Because of this, criminal justice schools in Massachusetts offer programs that will meet your academic needs, whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or have decades of experience. The next few sections provide an overview of what you can expect at the various undergraduate and graduate criminal justice program levels.
Criminal Justice Associate Degrees in Massachusetts
If you want to enter the criminal justice field as quickly as possible, the associate degree in criminal justice is probably your best option. These programs typically last two years and provide an education in both criminal justice and general education areas. Graduating from a criminal justice school in Massachusetts with an associate degree usually means you’re ready to take on entry-level positions within the criminal justice system, such as legal assistant, bailiff, crime scene technician, or police officer.
Examples of Accredited Massachusetts Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
| College | Location | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Essex Community College | Haverhill | On-Campus | NECHE |
| Holyoke Community College | Holyoke | Online | NECHE |
| Cape Cod Community College | West Barnstable | On-Campus | NECHE |
| Quinsigamond Community College | Worcester | Hybrid | NECHE |
| Massachusetts Bay Community College | Wellesley Hills | On-Campus | NECHE |
Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees in Massachusetts
A criminal justice bachelor’s degree is often ideal for individuals who want to begin their careers in criminal justice but want a more comprehensive and in-depth education. Earning an undergraduate degree can mean you’ll be eligible for additional positions and may offer an easier road to future advancement. This is because there are some jobs open to those with an associate degree, but they offer preference to those with a bachelor’s degree — such as a police officer or a position with management responsibilities.
Examples of Accredited Massachusetts Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
| College | Location | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston College | Chestnut Hill | On-Campus | NECHE |
| Worcester State University | Worcester | On-Campus | NECHE |
| University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth | Dartmouth | On-Campus | NECHE |
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | Amherst | Online | NECHE |
| Springfield College | Springfield | On-Campus and Online | NECHE |
Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees in Massachusetts
There are several reasons why you may be interested in seeking a master’s degree from criminal justice colleges in Massachusetts, especially if you’re already working in the field. For example, some enroll in graduate criminal justice schools in Massachusetts to receive a promotion. The master’s degree also helps individuals be more competitive when applying for a different job within the criminal justice realm. This might occur when applying for a job with a federal law enforcement agency that prefers applicants with graduate degrees.
Examples of Accredited Massachusetts Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
| College | Location | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salem State University | Salem | Online | NECHE |
| Merrimack College | North Andover | On-Campus | NECHE |
| Fitchburg State University | Fitchburg | Online | NECHE |
| Curry College | Milton | Online | NECHE |
| Westfield State University | Westfield | Hybrid | NECHE |
Criminal Justice Doctoral Degrees in Massachusetts
A doctorate is the highest level of education someone can obtain. Because most criminal justice occupations don’t require a doctoral degree, these types of criminal justice programs aren’t common in Massachusetts. However, a few programs exist and are usually tailored to professionals who want a job that requires them to teach, conduct research, or develop new policies. Graduates often find work as professors, senior analysts, and research directors.
Examples of Accredited Massachusetts Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
| College | Location | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University | Boston | Online | NECHE |
| University of Massachusetts – Lowell | Lowell | On-campus | NECHE |
Criminal Justice Certificates in Massachusetts
Criminal justice colleges in Massachusetts often offer CJ certificates at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. These certificates are designed for students who already have a degree or established careers but want to shift into the criminal justice field for the first time. They’re also good for criminal justice professionals who need to learn about a specialized area. Certificates offer an affordable and quick way to get the necessary training without committing the time and money to a full degree.
Examples of Accredited Massachusetts Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
| College | Location | Delivery | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgewater State University | Bridgewater | On-Campus | NECHE |
| University of Massachusetts – Amherst | Amherst | Hybrid | NECHE |
| University of Massachusetts – Lowell | Lowell | On-Campus | NECHE |
| Boston University | Boston | Online | NECHE |
Where to Get Financial Aid in MA for Your Criminal Justice Degree
To help pay the costs of an on-campus or online criminal justice degrees in Massachusetts, you’ll find a variety of financial aid options available. For many students, the primary source will come from federal student loans, but an even better source will come from scholarships, fellowships, and grants, especially those only open to criminal justice students. These can be found from schools and organizations. For instance, Merrimack College offers a competitive fellowship for its criminal justice graduate students, and theSoutheastern Massachusetts Police Chiefs Association has its annual scholarship that provides a special preference to students studying criminal justice, law enforcement, or public service.
Because some criminal justice students have well-established careers before applying, there’s also the possibility of tuition reimbursement or discount benefits. The University of Massachusetts – Amherst has special partnerships with certain employers where their employees receive a 10% discount on tuition. And state workers (and their spouses) in Massachusetts may be eligible for total or partial tuition remission when attending a public college or university in the state. To learn more about how to pay for your criminal justice education, check out our criminal justice scholarships and resources guide.
Employment and Salary Outlook in MA After Your Criminal Justice Degree
Graduating from one of the criminal justice colleges or universities in Massachusetts is an excellent way to find an in-demand career with solid potential for advancement. Despite this fact, not all careers hold the same level of promise. To provide you with an overall picture of what sort of pay and job growth you can anticipate after you graduate, check out the following chart.
One thing you’ll notice is that the best pay usually lies with criminal justice jobs where you’ll be working for the Commonwealth or a local government. However, these positions are more likely to have less growth in the foreseeable future. In contrast, criminal justice positions in the private sector pay less, but have much higher growth rates for certain occupations. One common area for criminal justice graduates is corrections, and while the profession is expected to contract in the next few years, certain parts of Massachusetts like Essex County have a need for correctional officers that’s so strong, they’re lowering the age requirement from 21 to 19 and offering signing bonuses.
| Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Average Annual Openings (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2022) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Guards | 33.9% | 3,870 | $40,760 |
| Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | 6.8% | 1,480 | $73,290 |
| Private Detectives and Investigators | 23.3% | 40 | $55,730 |
| Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | 3.9% | 220 | $56,670 |
| Correctional Officers and Jailers | -9.1% | 450 | $69,140 |
Sources: Projections Central;Bureau of Labor Statistics
Criminal Justice Professional Associations in Massachusetts
- The Correctional Association of Massachusetts
The Correctional Association of Massachusetts (CAM) exists to provide opportunities for professional development and education for those already working in the field or who are interested in starting a career in this field. - Massachusetts Police Association
As its name implies, this professional organization is for members of law enforcement in Massachusetts. Members include police officers from all over the Commonwealth, and services include protection of employment benefits, financial products, scholarships, and policy advocacy. - Licensed Private Detectives Association of Massachusetts
Also known as LPDAM, this group exists to help private detectives network and exchange advice. The LPDAM also provides legislative advocacy services to promote the professional interests of private detectives within the Commonwealth. - Massachusetts Association of Crime Analysts
Despite its name, the Massachusetts Association of Crime Analysts (MACA) accepts members from several states in the northeast as well as from Canada. Its student and professional members come from various areas of the criminal justice field to work together to advance the field of crime analysis. - Massachusetts Minority Court Officers Association
The mission of the Massachusetts Minority Court Officers Association (MMCOA) is to promote the interests of the diverse workforce of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Trial Court Security Department. Members enjoy benefits such as career development, networking events, and learning opportunities.