Best Online Criminal Justice Degrees in Washington (WA)
If you want to keep your community safe, a criminal justice degree program might be a good choice. Criminal justice is one of the 20 most popular degree programs in Washington, according to the Seattle Medium. The state of Washington offers among the highest paying mean annual salaries in the U.S. – $98,640 – for detectives and criminal investigators, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A criminal justice degree program can lead to a personally and financially fulfilling career. But, it can be hard to determine which type of program and school is ideal for your professional goals and learning preferences. In this STEPS guide, we’ll discuss top criminal justice degree programs in Washington – both online and hybrid options. Read on to discover which degree type might be right for you, the career outlook for graduates, and financial aid opportunities for criminal justice majors.
Online Associate’s Programs in WA
Pursuing an associate degree in criminal justice is a great first step toward a rewarding career in law enforcement, corrections, or other public safety roles. With the flexibility of online education, students can balance their studies with work or personal commitments. This makes it easier to achieve their academic and career goals.
Most associate degree programs take around two years to complete and consist of 60 credits, completed over four semesters. Two primary types of online associate degree programs are generally available for students who are interested in a criminal justice degree: standard and accelerated.
Pierce College
Students should consider the online Associate in Criminal Justice degree program from Pierce College for a flexible, high-quality associate degree. This two-year program was designed with maximum flexibility in mind. Students can complete the program completely online, in a hybrid format, or through in-person courses at the Fort Steilacoom campus, Puyallup campus, or Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM).
No matter the format, all students will study theories of the criminal justice system, different perspectives on the legal system, and the impact of the system on local communities. The program also offers a specific focus on domestic violence plus resources for women in the field. In this program, students have the option to complete an internship (which is usually completed in person), but this component is not required to graduate.
Pierce College works with nearby four-year academic institutions for students who want to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree. The school offers easy transfer to Washington State University, Saint Martin’s University, Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, and University of Washington Tacoma.
Location: Fort Steilacoom campus, Puyallup campus, Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), WA
Mode: Online, hybrid, or in-person
Cost: $6,654 (tuition and fees for full-time students)
Admissions Requirements:
- Minimum age of 18
- High school diploma or GED
- Qualified for admission through Running Start or a similar program
Online Bachelor’s Programs in WA
A bachelor’s degree program opens up more career opportunities than an associate degree program. These four-year programs provide an overview of the criminal justice field. Students often complete experiential components, such as an internship.
Some criminal justice degree programs in Washington (like the one at Washington State University) offer bachelor’s degrees that can be completed online for added flexibility. Graduates are equipped to work across criminal justice sub-disciplines, in positions like corrections officer or crime analyst.
Washington State University
Washington State University (WSU) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Criminology degree program. All classes through the university’s Global Campus are designed to be completed online and can be taken anywhere in the world. WSU’s criminal justice degree program was founded in 1943; it is the second oldest continuous one in the U.S.
The program prepares students to succeed in a variety of diverse career opportunities, including roles in crime analysis, community corrections, victim advocacy, child protective services, border security, cyber-crime prevention, security/loss prevention and court administration.
Through the Global Campus, students can take courses from top-tier faculty members. They can utilize learning technologies like Blackboard to communicate with professors and peers and submit assignments between synchronous class sessions. Students in the online bachelor’s degree program take core courses in subjects like criminological theory and criminal law. They also participate in research methods classes that culminate in a final-semester capstone project.
Students must take 12 credit hours of elective courses throughout the four-year program. Topics include American criminal courts, juvenile justice, and violence toward women. The school offers scholarships for online students to make the program more affordable.
Location: Pullman, WA
Mode: Online
Cost: $6,025 (tuition for Washington residents)/$6,719 (tuition for out-of-state residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Official transcripts
Online Master’s Programs in WA
Online master’s degree programs in criminal justice are designed to provide students with a thorough comprehension of advanced theories and policies. Legal and ethical responsibilities required of professionals and strategic thinking needed to apply these concepts effectively in the workplace are also taught.
Due to the online delivery of much of the curriculum, several schools offer distance learning options. This makes it easier for students to manage their education along with personal and professional obligations. These programs might be fully online; in some cases, hybrid programs are offered that include a blend of online coursework and in-person requirements.
Seattle University
Seattle University offers an online Master of Arts in Criminal Justice degree program. It prepares professionals to become leaders who work to rebuild a just, humane, and anti-racist criminal justice system. Students in the 55-credit program will analyze crime and its impact through a diverse, socially-conscious lens while examining criminology policies and operations.
The program – which can be completed fully online – offers three specializations: Criminal Justice Research and Evaluation, Investigative Criminology, and Victimology. While internships are not required for academic credit or graduation from the program, Seattle University helps students seek out internship and employment opportunities at the local and national level.
Location: Seattle, WA
Mode: Online
Cost: $849 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
- Transcripts for most recent coursework
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Statement of purpose that outlines the student’s background (personal, academic, etc.), interests, and goals
- Resume that documents education, work, and volunteer experience
- Recommendation form
- Writing sample (optional)
PhD, Doctoral, and Graduate Certificate Programs in WA
Students who pursue a doctoral degree in criminal justice aim to secure top-level academic and research positions that are reserved for the brightest minds in the field. While a master’s degree program allows students to delve into more complex topics than a bachelor’s degree program, only a doctoral degree program offers access to the dedicated and extensive study required for such roles.
Pursuing a PhD in criminal justice demands a substantial commitment, as these programs usually require between three and five years of study for completion. Part-time students might require up to seven years to complete a doctoral degree program.
While the state of Washington offers several online associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs in criminal justice, no online PhD or doctoral degree programs are available.
Washington State University
Washington State University (WSU) offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminal Justice and Criminology degree program at its Pullman campus. This program is designed for students who already completed a master’s degree program and requires 72 credits to complete. Students can expect to spend three to four years on coursework and research beyond a master’s degree, with at least two years of enrollment at WSU and two consecutive semesters in residence as a graduate student in criminal justice.
Before earning a PhD, students must gain formal teaching and/or research experience at an institution of higher learning. This requirement can be fulfilled by serving as a teaching assistant in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology or by collecting original data. The program also requires a preliminary examination, a dissertation prospectus examination, and defense of a dissertation or thesis.
Location: Pullman, WA
Mode: In-person
Cost: $6,137 (tuition for Washington residents)/$14,689 (tuition for out-of-state residents)
Admissions Requirements:
- Master’s degree in a related field
- Official transcripts from all schools attended
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation (ideally with at least one from a PhD-holding professor)
- Writing sample that demonstrates research ability; strong emphasis is placed on research interests aligned with faculty expertise within the program
Washington Criminal Justice Student FAQs
What kind of accreditation should a criminal justice degree program have?
When choosing a criminal justice degree program, look for schools that are accredited by regional accrediting bodies, such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). Accreditation ensures that a program meets academic quality standards and its degrees are recognized by employers and other schools.
Some programs might have specialized accreditation from the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS), which signals a strong curriculum aligned with industry standards. Students should verify accreditation to ensure eligibility for federal financial aid and credit transfers to other accredited institutions.
Can I complete a criminal justice degree program in Washington fully online?
Yes; several universities in Washington offer fully online criminal justice degree programs. They allow students to complete coursework without visiting a campus. These programs – such as the ones offered by Pierce College, Washington State University, and Seattle University – often provide flexible scheduling with asynchronous (self-paced) or synchronous (live, scheduled) classes.
Hybrid programs are designed for students who need more structure or hands-on experience. They combine online coursework with limited in-person sessions. It’s important to note that while you can obtain an associate, bachelor’s, and/or master’s degree in criminal justice completely online in Washington, no online PhD or doctoral programs are available.
What career opportunities are available with an online criminal justice degree?
Online criminal justice degree programs offer as much thorough training as in-person programs do. So, students can pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, forensic science, cybersecurity, homeland security, and/or legal studies.
Graduates can pursue roles as police officers, detectives, probation officers, crime analysts, or federal agents. Many Washington-based programs also prepare students for careers in public policy or private security. An online master’s degree program can open doors to leadership roles such as management positions in criminal justice agencies. Some careers, particularly in law enforcement, might require additional academy training, internships, and/or certifications beyond a degree.
How much does a criminal justice degree program cost in Washington?
The cost of a criminal justice degree program in Washington depends on the degree level and institution. But, most programs are generally affordable. For example, obtaining an online Associate in Criminal Justice degree from Pierce College totals $6,654 for Washington residents, making it an affordable entry point for criminal justice education.
Washington State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Criminology degree program costs $6,025 for Washington residents. Students who pursue a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at Seattle University should expect to pay $849 per credit.
Are online criminal justice degree programs in Washington respected by employers?
Yes; online criminal justice degree programs from accredited Washington institutions are widely respected by employers, as long as they come from regionally accredited schools like Pierce College, Washington State University, or Seattle University. Many law enforcement agencies, government organizations, and private security firms recognize online degrees, especially since the coursework and requirements are often identical to on-campus programs.
For example, Washington State University’s online criminal justice degree program is the second oldest in the U.S. and is widely respected. Hybrid programs that blend online learning with hands-on experience such as internships or research projects further enhance a graduate’s credentials.
Salaries for Criminal Justice Careers in Washington
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | Correctional Officers and Jailers | $50,090 | $89,130 | $62,820 |
| Washington | Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | $45,660 | $73,170 | $58,950 |
| Washington | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $49,880 | $97,230 | $64,100 |
| Washington | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $76,400 | $159,740 | $110,530 |
| Washington | Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $72,740 | $128,210 | $99,510 |
| Washington | Private Detectives and Investigators | $42,020 | $104,240 | $65,500 |
| Washington | Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $57,600 | $94,270 | $69,150 |
| Washington | Security Guards | $36,570 | $59,430 | $45,090 |
| Washington | Social Workers | $64,230 | $113,780 | $94,250 |
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 % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | Correctional Officers and Jailers | 7,390 | 8,100 | 710 | 9.60% |
| Washington | Court, Municipal, and License Clerks | 3,350 | 3,700 | 350 | 10.40% |
| Washington | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | 160 | 180 | 20 | 12.50% |
| Washington | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | 1,880 | 2,010 | 130 | 6.90% |
| Washington | Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers | 10,040 | 11,100 | 1,060 | 10.60% |
| Washington | Private Detectives and Investigators | 3,650 | 4,890 | 1,240 | 34.00% |
| Washington | Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | 2,070 | 2,260 | 190 | 9.20% |
| Washington | Security Guards | 21,260 | 27,400 | 6,140 | 28.90% |
| Washington | Social Workers | 1,430 | 1,570 | 140 | 9.80% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Washington Criminal Justice Resources
The state of Washington offers a variety of resources for criminal justice students and professionals, including internships, career services, networking groups, and research centers. Listed below are helpful resources and organizations that you can use to advance your career.
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Washington: This organization advocates for criminal justice reform and provides legal resources, policy research, and internships for students who are interested in civil rights, policing policies, and criminal law.
- Justice Today Podcast: This is the official podcast of the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs. Its hosts discuss pressing criminal justice issues and explore efforts to prevent crime, assist victims, and strengthen the criminal and juvenile justice systems by providing vital research, data, and best practices.
- Seattle University Crime and Justice Research Center Advisory Committee: This organization connects students with mentors, internships, and networking opportunities in law enforcement, legal services, and forensic psychology through Seattle University’s well-established criminal justice graduate program.
- More than 100 members – including key professionals from more than 50 agencies in local, state, federal, and private criminal justice agencies – provide critical input to this organization.
- Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs: Students and graduates who want to enter police leadership should consider the resources offered by this organization. The group organizes networking events, offers programs and resources for police personnel, and features an online forum for members.
- Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC): This organization provides certification programs, continuing education, and academy training for aspiring police officers, correctional officers, and law enforcement professionals in Washington.
- Washington State Department Of Corrections: This organization is committed to helping criminal justice professionals serve as leaders in their field. This website offers skills development insight, free resources, and more to criminal justice professionals and students in the state.
- Washington State Jail Association: Students who are interested in living standards at jails and restorative justice should explore this non-profit organization. Its mission is to improve the quality of life in state jails, and that mission is served through in-person educational events and online resources.
Washington State Law Library: This free resource offers legal research materials, case law databases, and study guides to help criminal justice students understand legal precedents, case law, and court procedures. - Washington State University Academic Success and Career Center: This organization helps students with resume writing, job search strategies, and internship placements. It offers direct connections to Washington law enforcement agencies and criminal justice organizations.
- Washington State University Criminal Justice and Criminology Club: Many schools in Washington feature a criminal justice club so students can gather, share resources, and learn from peers. This club is a great example of student organizations, though the components might differ from university to university.
Top Online Criminal Justice Schools in Washington
If you’re balancing a full-time job or other life commitments, consider one of many online or hybrid criminal justice degree programs available in Washington. Most programs span two years for associate degrees and four years for bachelor’s degrees. An online criminal justice degree program allows students to study from home, with the flexibility of either synchronous virtual classes or asynchronous modules that they can complete on their own schedule.
Hybrid programs offer the best of both worlds; they are designed for students who prefer a mix of online and in-person learning. Some schools let students choose how many courses they take on campus, while others have set online and in-person requirements. Both options provide greater flexibility, can be more cost-effective, and help students save on transportation and certain fees.
To explore top online and hybrid criminal justice degree programs in Washington, check out the rankings and program spotlights below. To be eligible for this ranking, schools are required to hold institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, offer an online or hybrid two- or four-year program in criminal justice, and offer career placement and academic counseling services.
Walla Walla Community College
Walla Walla, Washington
Public
