Top 12 Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees in 2025
Choosing the right university to study criminal justice is one of the most crucial decisions for anyone aspiring to make a mark in law enforcement, criminology, forensic science, or legal studies. With the growing demand for skilled professionals in the justice system, it’s important to pursue your degree from a reputable and forward-thinking institution. In this guide, we rank the top 12 universities for criminal justice degrees in 2025, based on academic excellence, real-world opportunities, faculty credentials, and student outcomes.
Why Study Criminal Justice in 2025?
As society evolves, so does the nature of crime and justice. From cybercrime to criminal reform policies, modern challenges require modern education. A top-tier university doesn’t just offer a degree—it offers research opportunities, internships, professional networks, and specialized concentrations that align with today’s justice system demands.
How We Ranked These Universities
Our ranking is based on the following factors:
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Accreditation and academic reputation
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Curriculum strength and specialization options
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Internship and hands-on learning opportunities
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Faculty expertise and industry connections
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Graduate employment rates and average starting salaries
1. University of Maryland – College Park
Location: Maryland, USA
Why It Stands Out: Consistently ranked as the #1 school for criminology and criminal justice, UMD offers rigorous academics with direct access to federal agencies in Washington, D.C.
Notable Programs: Criminology & Criminal Justice Honors Program, Cybercrime Certificate
Best For: Students interested in policy reform and federal law enforcement careers
2. John Jay College of Criminal Justice – CUNY
Location: New York City, USA
Why It Stands Out: This college is entirely dedicated to criminal justice and public service. It offers unmatched specialization and connections in the justice system.
Notable Programs: Forensic Psychology, Criminal Justice Management
Best For: Urban justice careers, public administration, forensic psychology
3. Florida State University (FSU)
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Why It Stands Out: FSU is known for its research-driven criminal justice program and strong placement rates with law enforcement agencies.
Notable Programs: Criminology & Criminal Justice with Pathways in Law, Policing, and Corrections
Best For: Students pursuing both academic and fieldwork excellence
4. University of California – Irvine (UCI)
Location: Irvine, California
Why It Stands Out: UCI is a leader in crime research and interdisciplinary criminal justice studies.
Notable Programs: Social Ecology, Crime & Justice Policy Track
Best For: Those interested in policy reform, human behavior, and community justice
5. Northeastern University
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Why It Stands Out: Northeastern’s cooperative education (co-op) model lets students gain up to 18 months of professional experience during their degree.
Notable Programs: Criminology and Criminal Justice BA/MS, Homeland Security
Best For: Students who want real-world experience and global perspectives
6. Arizona State University (ASU)
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Why It Stands Out: ASU is one of the most innovative universities, offering online and on-campus options with strong support services.
Notable Programs: Justice Studies, Cybersecurity & Forensics
Best For: Online learners and tech-savvy justice professionals
7. Rutgers University – Newark
Location: Newark, New Jersey
Why It Stands Out: Rutgers has a top-tier doctoral program and is a national research hub for social justice issues.
Notable Programs: Criminology & Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice
Best For: Students interested in research and justice advocacy
8. Michigan State University (MSU)
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Why It Stands Out: MSU is well-known for its homeland security and counterterrorism studies.
Notable Programs: Criminal Justice with Specialization in Intelligence Analysis
Best For: Careers in national security and federal investigation
9. Temple University
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Why It Stands Out: Offers strong internship partnerships with police departments, courts, and correctional institutions.
Notable Programs: Criminal Justice BA/MA, Legal Studies
Best For: Those seeking urban justice careers and courtroom exposure
10. University of Cincinnati
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Why It Stands Out: A nationally ranked online and on-campus criminal justice program with a strong alumni network.
Notable Programs: Criminology & Criminal Justice, Online MS in Criminal Justice
Best For: Flexibility, working professionals, and online learners
11. Sam Houston State University
Location: Huntsville, Texas
Why It Stands Out: Home to one of the oldest and most respected criminal justice programs in the U.S.
Notable Programs: Victim Services Management, Correctional Administration
Best For: Students focused on correctional systems and victim advocacy
12. Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
Location: State College, Pennsylvania
Why It Stands Out: Offers a broad, interdisciplinary approach with strong theoretical and practical foundations.
Notable Programs: Criminology BA/BS, Law and Society Minor
Best For: Well-rounded education and preparation for law school or public policy
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Program
When choosing a criminal justice degree, consider:
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Your career goals (e.g., FBI, law school, forensic science)
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Preferred learning environment (urban vs. rural, online vs. in-person)
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Specializations or minors of interest
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Internship opportunities and networking access
All the universities listed above offer excellent programs that can serve as stepping stones to impactful careers in criminal justice and criminology.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Explore each university’s official site, compare their program offerings, and reach out to admissions advisors. A future in criminal justice begins with choosing the right academic home.
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