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100% Online

Earn your degree part-time and online while you continue to gain valuable work experience.


25+ Years

Penn State World Campus has been a leader in online education for more than two decades.

Earn a Criminal Justice Degree Part-Time and Online

Best Online Programs US News and World Report Bachelor's 2025

As a law enforcement professional, you know firsthand the pressing issues facing your communities and others working in the field. Penn State’s nationally recognized undergraduate and graduate criminal justice programs are designed to advance your understanding of criminal behavior, crime control, and the justice system. You can acquire the critical knowledge, communication skills, and analytical mindset to help you improve your career trajectory and become a leader in your community

Earn a Master’s Degree

The master of professional studies program is designed to take your understanding of criminal behavior and policy to the next level. You’ll identify new trends in the field and learn to apply data-driven practices that work for your agency and community.

This master's degree is designed for those who want to address pressing criminal justice issues facing society. Learn to evaluate the societal workings that create crime, assess equity in policy enforcement, and propose data-driven and evidence-based solutions that benefit the greater society.

Learn more about the Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration

Earn Stackable Credentials on the Way to Your Degree

A figure standing halfway up a set of stairs leading towards a graduation cap

Earn up to 3 graduate certificates while you work toward your criminal justice policy and administration degree. It’s a great way to quickly add valuable credentials to your résumé and gain new skills — without any additional course work. The following certificates are embedded in the online MPS in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration:

The criminal justice administration and procedure graduate certificate can provide you with a broad understanding of criminal justice systems, key legal procedures, and ethical criminal justice systems considerations. Whether you are already working in law enforcement, the courts, or corrections or are transitioning into the field, this program can equip you with skills and knowledge that align with real-world challenges.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Administration and Procedure

The criminological theory and research graduate certificate is designed to enhance your skills in advanced statistical techniques in criminology. You will focus on understanding the latest theories in criminal justice best practices, analyzing computer-generated data, and researching how to address current criminal justice issues.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Criminological Theory and Research

The impacts on victims and offenders graduate certificate can provide you with a broad perspective on the effects of crime and the criminal justice system on both victims and offenders. The certificate program introduces you to the field of victimology, explores theories of criminology, and examines research and policies related to sentencing decisions, including the death penalty.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Impacts on Victims and Offenders

Build the knowledge and skill base needed to succeed in the international security field. Courses from the 9-credit Graduate Certificate in Global Justice and Security can be applied to a Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration.

Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Global Justice and Security

Apply Your Training Credits to Fast-Track Your Degree

You’ve worked hard to establish yourself in your career. We think that should count for something. If you’ve completed training programs, you may be eligible to receive academic credit toward your Penn State World Campus criminal justice degree. Students with Pennsylvania state or municipal police training, deputy sheriff training, or Act 120/Act 2 training may receive up to 16.5 academic credits for the following courses:

  • CAS 203: Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
  • CRIMJ 100: Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
  • CRIMJ 210: Policing in America (3 credits)
  • CRIMJ 220: Courts and the Prosecution Process (3 credits)
  • KINES 067: Physical Conditioning (1.5 credits)
  • NURS 203: First Aid and CPR (3 credits)

Training from other states will be reviewed upon request.

Comfort in the Classroom

Your experiences in the field are invaluable. A core tenet of our curricula is to incorporate the experiences of law enforcement professionals. You will engage with and learn from those who understand the unique challenges of working on the front lines.

Completely Online — Designed for Working Adults

With our convenient online platform, you’ll have the flexibility to earn a world-class degree part-time and online — while balancing your work and family commitments.

  • asynchronous delivery
  • study whenever, wherever
  • complete weekly assignments at your preferred pace
  • freedom to take a semester off
  • start in fall, spring, or summer
  • SAT/GRE test scores are NOT required

Special Benefits for Military Members

Best for Vets Colleges, 2024 Military Times

Military members can earn a respected Penn State degree in less time and at a considerable discount. Penn State:

  • offers its Military Grant-in-Aid program — an award per credit for which all service members and their spouses are eligible
  • accepts Military Tuition Assistance and VA benefits
  • provides scholarship opportunities and undergraduate application fee waivers

For more information, submit the Request Information form or email our dedicated military support team at [email protected].

We Are Penn State Online

This is the real Penn State. You will take courses with curriculum developed by the same professors who teach on campus. You can expect the same caliber of academic quality that you associate with Penn State.

Request Info to Get Started

Or if you need immediate assistance, contact us directly at:

World Campus Admissions Counselors
Phone: 814-863-5386
[email protected]