phd criminal justice online

Best Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice Programs 2024

If you want to delve into criminal justice research, advance to a leadership role, or head into an education job, a doctoral degree in criminal justice can prepare you for high-level roles.

Both a doctorate and Ph.D. in criminal justice are terminal degrees, meaning they’re the highest level of degree that can be attained. With a heavy focus on research and analysis, these degrees can help you stand out from the competition in the job market or take on research-heavy roles.

Read on to learn more about how doctorate degrees can help advance your career in criminal justice.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

2024 Best Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice Programs

Keiser university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $20,800
• Out-of-state $20,800
• In-State $29,632
• Out-of-state $29,632
• Retention Rate 68%
• Acceptance Rate 97%
• Students Enrolled 19,019
• Institution Type Private

National University

• In-State $13,320
• Out-of-state $13,320
• In-State $15,480
• Out-of-state $15,480
• Retention Rate 64%
• Acceptance Rate 55%
• Students Enrolled 18,631

Nova Southeastern University

• In-State $33,510
• Out-of-state $33,510
• In-State $21,153
• Out-of-state $21,153
• Retention Rate 78%
• Acceptance Rate 76%
• Students Enrolled 20,939

PennWest Global Online

• In-State $7,716
• Out-of-state $11,574
• In-State $9,288
• Out-of-state $13,932
• Retention Rate 67%
• Students Enrolled 6,509
• Institution Type Public

Walden University

• In-State $10,064
• Out-of-state $10,064
• In-State $9,651
• Out-of-state $9,651
• Retention Rate 25%
• Acceptance Rate N/A
• Students Enrolled 46,455

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2024. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies .

What’s the Difference Between a Ph.D. and a DCJ?

There are several key differences between a Ph.D. in criminal justice and a DCJ:

DCJ stands for Doctor of Criminal Justice and is a relatively new professional doctorate degree. The first DCJ program in the United States launched in 2017 at Pennsylvania Western University, California. A DCJ is a professional doctorate, meaning it has more of a focus on applying criminal justice theory in the workplace.

A Ph.D. in criminal justice tends to be more focused on research and theory and will typically put a spotlight on conducting original research as opposed to applying theory to the workplace.

What Can You Do With an Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice?

An online doctoral degree in criminal justice can help you move into specialized roles within the workforce or head into a more research-focused or educational role.

A doctor of criminal justice features applied learning in areas like criminal justice leadership to prepare you for leadership roles in the field, such as a departmental director or a specialized analyst. A Ph.D. in criminal justice can also help you advance within the workforce, but with more of a focus on theory and research, and will open up doors in policy and educational fields.

Criminal justice is a vast, multidisciplinary field with applications well beyond the traditional law enforcement route . When paired with work experience, a doctoral degree in criminal justice can lead you to a number of varied, high-paying opportunities across industries.

What to Expect From an Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice Program

The time it takes you to finish a doctoral degree in criminal justice varies widely depending on the program.

Some schools offer DCJ programs that, based on credit transfers and the workload you take on, can be completed in as little as two years. Most doctoral programs will take you longer if you are working full time while pursuing your doctorate on a part-time basis . A typical Ph.D. usually takes longer than four years to complete.

Transferable coursework from prior study can be applied to some programs, but how much of your previous credits will count toward your degree depends on the college or university.

Your classwork will vary based on whether you pursue a DCJ or Ph.D. A DCJ will feature classes with technical learning around criminal justice policies and leadership, but a Ph.D. will have a more research-oriented curriculum.

Some criminal justice doctoral programs allow elective coursework and concentrations in areas like justice administration. Some also offer dual degree programs, allowing you to work toward a Ph.D. in criminal justice and a juris doctor (JD) degree simultaneously.

Criminal Justice Certifications and Licenses

There are a number of certifications and licenses you can pursue in addition to a doctoral degree. A certification or license can verify your skills in an area, boosting your resume and certifying your skills.

Certified Emergency Manager

The Certified Emergency Manager designation is offered by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). The designation is nationally recognized and a major career-enhancing credential, according to the IAEM. IAEM also offers an Associate Emergency Manager designation.

Certified Homeland and Protection Professional

Offered by the Global Society of Homeland Security Professionals, the Certified Homeland and Protection Professional designation provides an objective means of distinguishing highly competent homeland protection professionals from their less experienced peers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Justice Doctoral Programs

How long does it take to get a doctorate in criminal justice.

The time it takes to earn a doctoral degree in criminal justice depends on the program type and school you attend. At some schools, transferable coursework and a high course load can help you finish a professional doctorate in three years or less. A Ph.D. program, however, will typically take at least four years to complete.

Does the FBI hire people with a doctorate in criminal justice?

The FBI hires many types of criminal justice professionals, including researchers, analysts, and more. While a doctorate isn’t a requirement to work for the FBI, it can bolster your resume and help you stand out from the competition along with your work experience.

What degree is best for criminal justice?

A degree in criminal justice provides instruction in a number of relevant fields, helping to prepare you for jobs in the interdisciplinary field. More specialized degrees in fields within criminal justice, like criminology and forensic science , may help you land jobs within those disciplines.

Do people in law enforcement have a doctorate in criminal justice?

A criminal justice degree isn’t a requirement to work in law enforcement , but a doctorate in criminal justice can help you land roles within law enforcement leadership and management.

Why get an online doctorate in criminal justice?

A doctoral degree in criminal justice, whether a career-oriented DCJ or a research-focused Ph.D., can open up doors in both the varied field of criminal justice and beyond. As a terminal degree, a doctorate in criminal justice will give you high-level skills and help you stand out from the competition in the job market.

Explore More College Resources

How to Become a Criminal Investigator

Learn about requirements, salary, and career paths for becoming a criminal investigator.

by Jennifer Lee

Updated April 16, 2024

Criminology Careers

A criminology degree can unlock various careers for students. Learn what jobs are available with a criminology degree.

by Bennett Leckrone

Updated April 18, 2024

Scholarships for Criminal Justice Majors

Criminal justice majors qualify for dozens of scholarships. Save money on your degree by learning about these scholarships for criminal justice majors.

by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

Updated April 19, 2024

View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.

Top 10 Online PhD in Criminal Justice Programs 2024

Find your perfect school.

Author: Ben Karleen Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson Reading level: Grade 10 Reading time: 12 minutes, 27 seconds Original publication date: October 2016 Updates: 5

Key Takeaways:

• Online Ph.D. programs in criminal justice offer flexibility and diverse specializations , accommodating professionals who balance work with study.
• These programs typically require a dissertation , blending online coursework with occasional on-campus engagements.
• Graduates can expect enhanced career prospects and higher earning potential in various sectors, including law enforcement and homeland security.

With an online Ph.D. in criminal justice program, you can transform your passion for law and order into a leadership role. An online doctorate in criminal justice offers convenient pathways to top positions in criminal justice careers like:

Featured Programs

• Corrections
• Law enforcement
• Homeland security

While it may be challenging to find criminal justice PhD programs that are entirely online, they do exist. Plus, if you’re willing to make the occasional trip to campus, you might also consider programs with hybrid courses . This ranking identifies the top 10 online PhD criminal justice programs.

Top 10 Online PhD Criminal Justice Ranking Methodology

After scouring the web for online criminal justice doctoral programs, our editors identified the following ten programs. After identifying these doctoral offerings, we applied our site-wide graduate ranking methodology. In the case of a tie, our editors awarded the higher ranking to the more affordable program.

Tuition costs were taken from NCES College Navigator where possible. We relied on the school’s website for additional information.

Types of Degrees Featured in this Ranking:

• Online Doctor of Criminal Justice (DCJ)
• Online PhD in Criminal Justice
• Online Doctor of Criminal Justice (DJC) in Education
• Online PhD in Criminal Justice: Intelligence
• Online PhD in Leadership Studies: Criminal Justice
• Online PhD in Criminology & Criminal Justice
• Online PhD in International Crime and Justice

This ranking/article was originally published in October 2016 and was last updated in March 2023. The 2023 updates may affect the ranking order, but the list has not been re-ordered.

#1. Florida International University                                                                             

Miami, florida.

Website In-state   Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $11,334

Points : 11

FIU has one of the nation’s top doctorate in criminal justice programs in terms of return on investment. Its Ph.D. in International Crime and Justice is offered through the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs. The program is technically a hybrid option, though most required coursework can be completed online. Core courses comprising the curriculum for the degree include:

• Advanced Data Analysis in Criminal Justice
• Geospatial Crime Analysis
• Applied Research in Human Rights
• Transnational Crime and National Security

FIU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the 35 best colleges and universities for graduate criminology degrees, including online criminal justice doctoral programs.

• Fairly diverse student body
• Top school nationwide for awarding degrees to Latino/Latina students
• High student-to-faculty ratio
• Acceptance rate is lower than the national average

#2. Penn West Global Online

California, pennsylvania.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $23,856

The accelerated online doctorate in criminal justice from Penn West Global can be completed in two years of part-time study. It features fully online coursework; however, students must attend a five-day summer residency on campus. Courses comprising the program’s 42-credit hour curriculum include:

• Using Theory to Improve Criminal Justice Practice
• 21st Century Policing
• Applied Criminal Justice Research Methods for Criminal Justice Leaders
• Contemporary Forensic Science and Technology for Criminal Justice

Penn West Global is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the school among the top colleges and universities nationwide for a graduate degree in criminology.

• Online programming is designed for working professionals
• Lack of faculty support has been reported
• Some lack of class accessibility has been reported

#3. Arizona State University

Tempe, arizona.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $13,389

Arizona State University has an online doctorate in criminal justice. It is offered through its distinguished School of Criminology & Criminal Justice. This comprehensive option requires 72 credit hours of coursework, including course titles such as:

• Seminar on Criminal Justice Policies and Practices
• Seminar on Criminological Theory
• Advanced Statistical Analysis
• Advanced Research Design

Elective classes are also available in criminology, criminal justice, or a related field. A doctoral dissertation and comprehensive examination are required. ASU is fully accredited to award an online credential for a Ph.D. in criminal justice. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university’s graduate school in criminology as the second-best program of its kind nationwide.

• Online education programming has a long-established reputation
• Curriculum is innovative
• Competitive admissions process
• Higher student-to-faculty ratio

#4. University of the Cumberlands                                                                             

Williamsburg, kentucky.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $4,560

The University of the Cumberlands offers a PhD in Leadership Studies with a concentration in Criminal Justice. The fully online curriculum for the program requires 27 credit hours of core courses, including:

• Leadership in Theory and Practice
• The Politics of Organizational Decision-Making
• Program Planning and Assessment
• Leadership in Historical Context

Students pursuing Criminal Justice concentration will also take classes like:

• Critical Issues in Law Enforcement: Race and Gender
• Corrections Administration
• Legal Research and Analysis

A dissertation is also required as a culminating element of the program. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has accredited the University of Cumberlands.

• Affordability
• High-quality education
• Lack of communication with online students
• Lack of diversity

#5. University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, georgia.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $5,556

The online criminal justice doctorate from UNG is the most affordable on our list. This unique option requires just 54 credit hours beyond the master’s degree and includes a concentration in Intelligence. The program is offered fully online and can be pursued part-time or full-time. Curriculum details include:

• 30 credit hours of core courses
• 9 credit hours of electives
• Doctoral dissertation
• 2 teaching practicums

UNG is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the Ph.D. in criminal justice online degree. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the university among the top 50 best value schools nationwide.

• Experienced faculty
• Smaller class sizes
• Lack of student diversity
• Good graduate student support network

#6. Fielding Graduate University

Santa barbara, california.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $22,260

The PhD in Criminal Justice from FGU requires a lengthier time commitment. Technically a hybrid offering, the program requires at least five years to complete. The program has another distinguishing feature. It is a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Forensic Psychology for criminal justice professionals.

Core academic classes required for the program include:

• History and Systems of Psychology
• Ethical and Professional Practice
• Multicultural Psychology
• Social Bases of Behavior

The Forensic Psychology concentration requires additional specialization courses such as:

• Forensic Assessment in Criminal Cases
• Ethics in Forensic Psychology
• Evaluations for the Immigration Courts
• Forensic Assessment in Civil Court

FGU has institutional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission. The programmatic accreditation is from the American Psychological Association (APA).

• Decent caring faculty
• Decent tech support
• Lack of dissertation support
• Low graduation rate

#7. Liberty University

Lynchburg, virginia.

Website Graduate TuitionFees:  $8,340

Liberty University’s PhD criminal justice degree is available fully online. It features accelerated 8-week courses. The program is offered through the university’s Helms School of Government and requires 60 credit hours of coursework. It is designed to be completed within just three years. The program’s versatile curriculum features a general track as well as two optional specializations:

Homeland Security

Core courses include:

• Comparative Criminal Justice
• Theories of Crime
• Advanced Corrections Policy

Liberty University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to confer this online PhD degree in criminal justice.

• Customizable curriculum
• Dual degree options
• Less Diverse
• Minimal tech support

#8. Saint Leo University

St. leo, florida.

Website Graduate Tuition:  $15,840

The online PhD in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University is available through the school’s College of Education & Social Services. This 3 ½- year program requires 60 credit hours of graduate coursework, including core classes such as:

• Critical Issues in Criminal Justice
• Law, Policy, and Social Order
• Managing Human Resources in Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theories

Doctorate students can elect to take classes in two available specializations:

Saint Leo University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to offer online Ph.D. programs in criminal justice.

• Online program flexibility
• Lack of online student support reported

#9. Nova Southeastern University

Fort lauderdale, florida.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees:  $24,140

Nova Southeastern University offers an online interdisciplinary PhD in criminal justice. It is offered through the school’s Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. It features a dynamic curriculum that can be customized around three available concentrations:

Behavioral Science

Juvenile Justice

Organizational Leadership

All students will take certain core courses mandated by the curriculum, including:

• Criminal Law, Procedure, and Individual Rights
• The Police and Society
• Applied Statistics

A formal dissertation is also required to complete the doctorate in criminal justice. Most students earn their credentials within two and a half years of study, taking three courses per semester. Nova Southeastern University holds its institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Graduate tuition for in-state and out-of-state students is the same
• Heavy courseload can cause stress
• Lack of student support has been reported

#10. Northcentral University

La jolla, california.

Website Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,998

Northcentral University offers an online criminal justice program. It is one of the most versatile in our ranking, featuring four distinct concentration options:

• Public Administration
• Policing/Law Enforcement

The 54-credit hour curriculum for the program features required core courses such as:

• Strategic Planning and Implementation in Criminal Justice
• Theory in Justice Administration
• Ethics and Criminal Justice
• Management Issues in Justice Agencies

The WASC Senior College and University Commission has fully accredited Northcentral University to offer top criminal justice PhD programs.

• Manageable coursework load
• Lack of dissertation support has been reported
• Lack of transparency regarding degree cost has been reported

About Programs Online in PhD Criminal Justice

Online doctorates in criminal justice are reserved for those willing to put in the time and effort required to rise to the very top of their fields. Despite being online programs, these degree plans are extremely challenging. They require students to push their intellectual and creative limits to achieve their academic and career goals.

Still, the nature of online programs makes these degree options more convenient and accessible. They are ideal for students who can’t commute to campus due to personal or professional obligations. Many doctorate in criminal justice online students can keep their day jobs or raise a family while earning this terminal degree.

Types of Programs in Online Criminal Justice PhD

While it’s fair to say that all of these programs are challenging, that’s often where the similarities end. There are many different types of online doctoral degree programs offered in this field. Below, we’ll discuss some of these different variations.

Hybrid/100% Online Criminal Justice PhD Degree Programs

Some of the doctorate in criminal justice programs featured in this ranking can be completed entirely online, while others require some visits to campus in addition to online coursework. This is the difference between a fully online program and one that might be better described as a hybrid or blended option.

Both of these different types of degree plans have pros and cons, but if your schedule prevents you from visiting campus (even once or twice), you’ll want to opt for a 100% online program.

Synchronous/Asynchronous Doctorate in Criminal Justice Programs

Even programs that are fully online can vary in terms of how the online content is delivered. There are two basic methods of content delivery: synchronous and asynchronous methods. The primary difference between these two delivery formats has to do with when students are required (or not required) to log into their virtual classes.

Synchronous programs are more flexible and allow students to log in at their convenience; asynchronous programs require specific log-in times. For maximum flexibility, look for an asynchronous program.

Part-Time/Full-Time Criminal Justice Doctoral Programs Online

Like more traditional on-campus programs, online criminal justice PhD programs can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. Both are legitimate options, but part-time programs may be more suited for individuals who plan on keeping their full-time jobs.

These programs feature a lighter course load but will take more time to complete over the long term. On the other hand, full-time programs can be completed in less time but require that students take more classes at once.

Doctorate in Criminal Justice Programs: Admissions

The process of getting into an online doctorate in criminal justice program isn’t as difficult as the program itself, but you might still be required to jump through some hoops, so to speak. Still, so long as you have a master’s degree in a field related to criminal justice and have maintained good academic standing, your chances of being successfully admitted to your program of choice are good.

Depending on the school and program you’re applying to, you can expect additional admissions requirements such as:

• Minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0 and over)
• Professional Resume
• Recommendation Letters
• Writing Samples
• Statements of Purpose

Before applying, check with the school’s website or speak to an admissions counselor for specific admissions criteria.

PhD in Criminal Justice Programs: Curriculum

The curricula for online doctorate in criminal justice programs will be similar to on-campus programs. The main difference being the content delivery method. Sometimes, these programs follow the same curriculum model as the school’s traditional program and are even taught by the same professors.

Exact curriculum details will vary by school, but you can expect to take between 50 to 70 credit hours of coursework, on average. This coursework will cover complex topics in criminal justice, including:

• Managing criminal justice organizations
• Ethics in the criminal justice system
• Criminal justice policy and procedure

Likely, you will also take courses in criminal justice research, including both qualitative and quantitative research methods. These courses will help you prepare for your dissertation, a common culminating requirement for top criminal justice PhD programs.

We’ve listed some sample course titles from some of the top criminal justice PhD programs currently available.

Sample PhD Criminal Justice Course Titles:

• Legal Research Methods for Criminal Justice Practitioners
• Contemporary Forensic Science and Technology for Criminal Justice Leaders
• Critical Issues in Law Enforcement: Race & Gender
• Criminal Justice Program Evaluation
• Comparative Criminal Justice Systems

Remember that specific course titles vary by school and program.

Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice Concentrations

As we’ve established, the school you choose and the exact PhD in criminal justice online program you’re enrolled in will determine the bulk of your curriculum. Another factor that will affect the courses you’re required to take, though, is what (if any) specializations or concentrations you elect.

Below, our editors briefly describe some of the most popular PhD criminal justice online concentrations and list some sample course titles for each.

Online criminal justice PhD programs with concentrations in Behavioral Science seek to bridge the gap between psychological health issues and criminal behavior. These programs often feature course titles such as:

• Gender Violence: Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse
• Psychological Issues for Children and Adolescents in the Legal System
• Mental Health Courts and Therapeutic and Restorative Justice
• Risk Assessment

Online doctorate in criminal justice students who desire an advanced leadership or administrative role in the criminal justice system may choose a specialization in Organizational Leadership. Programs of this kind are comprised of coursework such as:

• Current Trends and Issues in Criminal Justice Organizations
• Criminal Justice Organizational Planning and Change
• Leadership: Putting Theory into Practice in Criminal Justice Administration
• Policy and Analysis in Criminal Justice Systems

PhD in criminal justice online students who work with young offenders may consider a doctoral program with a formal concentration in Juvenile Justice. These specialized programs emphasize the unique legal situation surrounding juveniles in the criminal justice system and may include classes such as:

• Legal and Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice
• Comparative Juvenile Justice Systems

Prospective criminal justice professionals interested in advanced positions in national security may consider a PhD criminal justice degree online plan with a concentration in Homeland Security. These programs address topics in intelligence, emergency management, and disaster preparedness. Coursework may resemble the following:

• Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Intelligence Strategies
• Critical Infrastructure: Vulnerability Analysis and Protection
• Intelligence for Homeland Security: Organizational & Policy Changes
• Theories and Concepts of Security

Frequently-Searched Criminal Justice Doctoral Programs Online

Arizona State University – Online PhD in Criminology & Criminal Justice: Designed specifically for those in a criminal just career like educators, researchers, and administrators in the field, Arizona State’s program is a comprehensive option requiring a minimum of 72 credit hours of coursework. Both a dissertation and comprehensive examination are required at the culmination of the program.

California University of Pennsylvania – Online Doctorate in Criminal Justice Program (DCJ): The PhD in criminal justice program online from California University of Pennsylvania is an accelerated option that can be completed in just two years of part-time study. The program requires 42 credit hours of coursework beyond the master’s credential and is available via a cohort model.

Liberty University – Online PhD in Criminal Justice Program: The doctorate program from Liberty University features optional Homeland Security and Leadership concentrations. A general track is also available.

Florida International University – Online PhD in International Crime and Justice: Technically a hybrid program, FIU’s online option requires on-campus attendance for the purpose of dissertation defense. The program is offered through the university’s renowned Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs.

Nova Southeastern University – PhD in Criminal Justice Online: This versatile program from Nova Southeastern University includes three specialization options: Juvenile Justice, Organizational Leadership, and Behavioral Science. Sixty credit hours of coursework and a dissertation are required for successful program completion.

Frequently-Asked Questions About Criminal Justice Doctoral Programs Online

Q: How much does a PhD online program cost?

A: Tuition will vary by school. Our research indicates that educational expenses for these types of programs range from approximately $5,000 to $20,000 annually.

Q: How long does it take to earn a degree?

A: Completion times for these degree plans also vary and can range from two to six years.

Q: How can I choose from the top online programs?

A: Look for accreditation first. Then, evaluate programmatic features like cost, curriculum, and scheduling options.

Q: Will I have to prepare a dissertation?

A: Most likely, yes. Most programs require a doctoral dissertation as a culminating element of the program. Hybrid programs often require students to come to campus to defend their dissertation.

Career Questions for PhD in Criminal Justice Programs

Q: How much will I earn with a PhD in criminal justice?

A: Your wages will depend on your specific terms of employment. Still, PayScale reports that professionals with this credential earn over $66,000 per year on average.

Q: Are jobs for graduates of this kind of program in demand?

A: Job prospects in the field are good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that jobs in protective service occupations are currently growing about as fast as the average occupation.

Q: What professional organizations in criminal justice should I join?

A: If you’re considering doctoral programs online in law enforcement, you may also be interested in joining the following industry-specific professional organizations:

• Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS)
• American Correctional Association (ACA)
• International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
• International Association of Women Police (IAWP)
• National Institute of Corrections (NIC)
• Justice Research and Statistics Association (JRSA)

Related Resources:

• Doctorate Degree Online
• Highest Paying Criminal Justice Jobs
• Highest Paying PhD
• Can You Get a Doctorate Online?
• 5 Fast PhD in Public Administration Degrees
• PhD in Psychology Online Programs
• PhD in Marriage and Family Counseling Online
• Online PhD Programs in Management Information Systems
• PhD in Healthcare Administration Online
• Other Criminal Justice and Legal Degree Rankings
• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook
• National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator
• PayScale: Best Value Colleges
• PayScale: Salary
• U.S. News & World Report: Best Colleges

This concludes our list of the 10 PhD criminal justice online programs.

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice

Learn More About The Program

Request information

By submitting contact information through this form, I agree that Liberty University and its affiliates may call and/or text me about its offerings by any phone number I have provided and may provide in the future, including any wireless number, using automated technology.

Message and data rates may apply. For additional information, text HELP to 49595 or 49596. You may opt-out at any time by sending STOP to 49595 or 49596. Visit for Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminal Justice

Be a leader in the criminal justice field with a ph.d. in criminal justice from liberty university.

If you are an experienced law enforcement professional, Liberty’s online Ph.D. in Criminal Justice can prepare you for senior leadership roles in criminal justice organizations at all levels of government. Through advanced research and analysis of criminal justice practices, you will learn how to assess and improve government and law enforcement organizations while mastering techniques in teaching and leadership. With training from experienced criminal justice scholars founded in a Christian worldview, Liberty’s Ph.D. in Criminal Justice can provide you with biblically-based training to lead effectively in your field with integrity.

With our general track and specializations in homeland security and leadership, you can diversify your opportunities for career advancement. You will be taught by professors who integrate biblical values into each course, providing a well-rounded education based on the principle of integrity, which is highly regarded in the field of criminal justice. 

What Will You Learn in the Ph.D. in Criminal Justice Online Degree?

• Transnational organized crime
• Advanced topics in terrorism and intelligence
• Criminal justice organizational conflict
• Stress management in criminal justice

Our flexible and affordable Ph.D. in Criminal Justice offers a general track as well as two specializations: homeland security and leadership. The core courses within the program provide training in crime causation, international crime rings, advanced juvenile justice and corrections policy, and terrorism.    

• Our homeland security specialization provides advanced training in cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and counterintelligence strategies. 
• Our leadership specialization provides an advanced study of criminal justice leadership techniques, strategic planning, and advanced HR development.  

Potential Career Options

• Administration/management (federal, state, or local)
• Administrator (department chair, dean, chancellor)
• Crime scene investigation unit manager
• Criminal investigator
• Forensics investigator
• Police chief
• Polygraph examiner/operator
• Prison warden
• Professor/instructor
• Writer (textbooks, criminal justice theory)

Benefits of Earning Our Ph.D. in Criminal Justice Online

As a leader in distance education since 1985, we understand what it takes to create a flexible and affordable education for busy people. Since we have been investing in distance and online learning for decades, our experience has taught us how to streamline our degree options so you can focus on what really matters to you. While many schools offer online degrees, we believe Liberty stands out.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online Ph.D. in Criminal Justice degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• You can complete your Ph.D. in Criminal Justice degree online in under 3 years!

Military Tuition Discount

We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only  $300/credit hour . Here’s how:

• If you’re earning or have earned a master’s degree through Liberty, you automatically qualify for the low price (when you begin within 2 years of your master’s completion).
• If you haven’t earned a graduate degree through Liberty, our Executive Certificate program allows you to pay only $300/credit hour for a postgraduate certificate that can stand alone or potentially count as the first 21 hours of a related doctoral degree. Then pay just $300/credit hour for your doctorate. Learn more!

Credit Hours

100% online, 8-week courses

Interested in studying on campus?

Transfer Credits

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Next Start Date

Jan 13, 2025

Accreditation

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC

600+ Online Degrees

With over 600 online degrees, we have something that will accommodate your dreams and calling.

Ranked in the top 10% of Niche.com’s 2024 best online schools in America

Recognized by multiple institutions for academic quality, affordability, and accessibility.

No tuition increase for 9 years

We want to help you pursue your goals – so while tuition rates at most universities have continued to increase over the years, the majority of our rates haven’t.

Popular Degrees

BS in Business Administration

BS in Psychology

MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

• BS in Aviation

All Areas of Interest

Arts & Sciences

Popular programs:

• BS in English and Writing View All Writing Programs
• BS in History View All History Programs
• MFA Creative Writing View All Writing Programs
• BS in Aviation Management
• MS In Aeronautics

View All Aviation Programs

Behavioral Sciences

• BS In Psychology: Christian Counseling
• BS In Social Work
• MA In Clinical & Mental Health Counseling

View All Behavorial Sciences Programs

• Bachelor of Science (BS) Business Administration and Data Analysis
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Doctor of Strategic Leadership

View All Business Programs

Communication & Design

• BFA in Graphic Design
• MFA in Graphic Design
• PhD in Communication

View All Communication & Design Programs

Criminal Justice

• AA in Criminal Justice
• BS in Criminal Justice
• MS in Criminal Justice

View All Criminal Justice Programs

• BEd in Elementary Education
• MA in Teaching: Elementary Education
• PhD in Curriculum & Instruction

View All Education Programs

Engineering & Computer Science

• BS in Civil Engineering
• BS in Computer Science Cyber Security
• BS in Information Technology – Data Networking & Security

View All IT Programs

Health Sciences

• BS In Health Sciences
• MPH In Global Health
• MS in Exercise Science & Wellness View All Sports Management Programs

Law & Government

• AA: Paralegal Studies View All Law Programs
• BS: Law & Policy: Pre-Law View All Law Programs
• MA in Public Policy — International Affairs View All Government Programs

Music & Worship

• BS in Commercial Music
• BS In Worship Studies
• Doctor of Music Education

View All Music & Worship Programs

• MS in Nursing
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• PhD in Nursing: Nursing Education

View All Nursing Programs

Religion & Seminary

• BS In Religion
• Master Of Divinity
• Doctor Of Ministry: Biblical Studies

View All Divinity Programs

Hear from our Graduates

Megan Schultz, EdD School Administration & Supervision

Morgan Schlesselman, Master’s in Public Policy

James, Master of Divinity

Apply FREE This Week*

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

just applied for !