2024 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America

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Alum: I loved the layout of the college, it was easy to find and surrounded by other colleges in the neighborhood. The neighborhood itself was also easily accessible and in an area where it was easy to find food, convenience store, shop, and take public transit. The security on campus was fantastic, you can’t get into campus without swiping your ID and they kept the campus fairly clean as well. There were so many spaces for students to relax in, ie: classrooms, benches, couches, etc. I wish I participated in groups and side activities a lot more but because I was a commuter, I focused mainly on classes. They did advertise many social clubs and groups fairly well and the professors were also well versed in their fields so it was easy to learn from their previous experiences and benefitted class discussions a lot more.... Read 1,430 reviews
#1 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
NEW YORK, NY,
1430 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I loved the layout of the college, it was easy to find and surrounded by other colleges in the neighborhood. The neighborhood itself was also easily accessible and in an area where it was easy to....
Read 1430 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 51%,
Net Price: $5,001,
SAT Range: 1020-1160,
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Freshman: It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be transformative and rewarding. Instead of focusing on the negatives, perhaps you could consider exploring constructive criticism or discussing specific areas for improvement in the college experience. This approach allows for a more balanced and productive discussion that can lead to positive changes and improvements in the education system. If you have specific concerns about your college experience, it might be helpful to address them directly with the appropriate channels within your institution or seek support from counselors or advisors. Remember, challenges are a natural part of any educational journey, and there are often resources available to help navigate them.... Read 1,364 reviews
#2 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Pennsylvania
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PHILADELPHIA, PA,
1364 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says It's important to acknowledge that college experiences vary greatly from person to person, and while some may face challenges or difficulties, others may find their time in college to be....
Read 1364 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $26,123,
SAT Range: 1500-1570,
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Alum: The university is known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, biological sciences, business, and the arts, providing ample research opportunities and access to dedicated faculty who are leaders in their fields. The diverse and inclusive campus community enriches the student experience, supported by numerous cultural clubs, advocacy groups, and resources. However, there are areas that could be improved. The cost and availability of housing in Irvine can be challenging. Parking on campus is also a concern due to high fees and limited spaces, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, popular classes often fill up quickly, making it hard for students to enroll in required courses. Simplifying administrative processes and improving communication between the administration and students would enhance the overall experience. Despite these challenges, UCI remains an excellent environment for academic and personal growth... Read 4,303 reviews
#3 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of California - Irvine
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
IRVINE, CA,
4303 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says The university is known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, biological sciences, business, and the arts, providing ample research opportunities and access to dedicated faculty...However, there are areas that could be improved. The cost and availability of housing in Irvine can be challenging. Parking on campus is also a concern due to high fees and limited spaces,....
Read 4303 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 21%,
Net Price: $14,033,
SAT Range: 1230-1430,
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Eastern Illinois University
4 Year·
CHARLESTON, IL
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Rating 3.55 out of 5 1,365
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Marion Technical College
2 Year·
MARION, OH
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Rating 4.11 out of 5 241
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Holmes Community College
2 Year·
GOODMAN, MS
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Rating 4.12 out of 5 319
#4 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Florida State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
TALLAHASSEE, FL,
7677 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says Campus is beautiful! There's always so much to do. There's so many unique stuff to do at FSU, like the Club Downunder events with awesome musical guests, the pottery place, the midnight movie....
Read 7677 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 25%,
Net Price: $14,003,
SAT Range: 1210-1370,
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Junior: The University of Florida is a great school for online students. I am a student in the Fire and Emergency services program and have enjoyed my time here. Although I am an out of state student, the tuition rates for this school are more affordable than an in-state institution where I live in Tennessee. Also, the academics are sufficiently challenging. The professors that I've had have all been very helpful, welcoming calls or emails. There are a few programs noted for their fire science across the nation, such as Oklahoma State University but they are so much more costly. Another great aspect of being an online student at University of Florida is being treated like an on-campus student. You have access to all campus facilities, can purchase Florida Gators football student season tickets, etc. While many "colleges" that cater to fire and emergency services are basically degree mills and lack the reputation that the University of Florida offers. UF has instant name recognition.... Read 8,131 reviews
#5 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Florida
4 Year,
GAINESVILLE, FL,
8131 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The University of Florida is a great school for online students. I am a student in the Fire and Emergency services program and have enjoyed my time here. Although I am an out of state student, the....
Read 8131 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $11,740,
SAT Range: 1300-1490,
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Alum: I went to NU and lived on campus for over a year. The freshman dorms were not great. Small cramped and the communal bathrooms were ugly although they did keep them remarkably clean! Food wasn’t bad but having to buy the dining plan was a drag as sometimes people didn’t want to eat in the dining hall. It would be nice to have a choice as a freshman. I feel like advisors and those in charge of helping you would be more helpful. You needed to advocate for yourself with your education, financial aid, etc and everyone seemed so burdened to help when it was their job to do so!... Read 3,768 reviews
#6 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Northeastern University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BOSTON, MA,
3768 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I went to NU and lived on campus for over a year. The freshman dorms were not great. Small cramped and the communal bathrooms were ugly although they did keep them remarkably clean! Food wasn’t bad...I feel like advisors and those in charge of helping you would be more helpful. You needed to advocate for yourself with your education, financial aid, etc and everyone seemed so burdened to help when....
Read 3768 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 7%,
Net Price: $35,827,
SAT Range: 1440-1550,
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Senior: I have had an excellent experience at the University of Miami. I started at the school during the Spring semester of my Freshamn year which made it a bit hard to meet people initially, but I found my people after only a few shorts weeks. I played club field hockey and joined a sorority, which made the adjustment easy. Academically, I find the school very challenging, but I believe I'm receiving an excellent education. I'm majoring in Health Sciences and this summer I'm working at a hospital as a nursing assistant. I feel well prepared thanks to some of the courses I've taken at school. The one drawback for me was I only had the opportunity to live on campus for one semester. Housing is hard to secure, so I've had to live off campus which I would have ideally delayed until my junior or senior year. The campus is beautiful and I'm very happy. I will miss Miami after I graduate!... Read 3,097 reviews
#7 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Miami
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
CORAL GABLES, FL,
3097 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says I have had an excellent experience at the University of Miami. I started at the school during the Spring semester of my Freshamn year which made it a bit hard to meet people initially, but I found....
Read 3097 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 19%,
Net Price: $36,467,
SAT Range: 1310-1480,
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Freshman: Attending National University fully online has been a unique experience for me. While I miss the in-person interactions and campus atmosphere, I appreciate the flexibility and convenience that their classes offer me. It has challenged me to be more disciplined and independent in managing my time and workload. Overall, my online National University experience has been a positive one.... Read 1,184 reviews
#8 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
National University
4 Year,
LA JOLLA, CA,
1184 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Attending National University fully online has been a unique experience for me. While I miss the in-person interactions and campus atmosphere, I appreciate the flexibility and convenience that their....
Read 1184 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 55%,
Net Price: $30,527,
SAT Range: 750-1170,
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Sophomore: Boston University is a great school. It has several resources that are widely accessible for students to succeed, even those managing challenging course loads. Boston University is a school that is filled with support, and amazing opportunities including but not limited to study abroad, research, leadership positions across multiple departments, a range of different clubs/activities on campus, and the ability to form close relationships with other Boston/Massachusetts schools (Northeastern, Harvard, Emerson, Berklee, etc), depending on the students' interests. What I like about my school are the opportunities that you can achieve. I just started an internship at Massachusetts Eye & Ear at an ophthalmology research-oriented lab. This opportunity originated from my email about being a student at BU! What I would like to see changed is an improvement in mental health resources for students on campus.... Read 3,656 reviews
#9 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Boston University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BOSTON, MA,
3656 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Boston University is a great school. It has several resources that are widely accessible for students to succeed, even those managing challenging course loads. Boston University is a school that is...What I like about my school are the opportunities that you can achieve. I just started an internship at Massachusetts Eye & Ear at an ophthalmology research-oriented lab. This opportunity originated....
Read 3656 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 14%,
Net Price: $27,829,
SAT Range: 1350-1500,
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Freshman: As a freshman at the University of South Florida, I've had an incredible experience so far. I love the vibrant campus life, the warm weather, and the supportive community of students and faculty. The diverse range of clubs and activities has made it easy to find my niche and make new friends. However, I'd like to see more emphasis on mental health resources and support services for students, as the transition to college can be overwhelming at times. Overall, I'm excited about the journey ahead and proud to be a Bull!... Read 7,589 reviews
#10 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of South Florida
4 Year,
TAMPA, FL,
7589 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says As a freshman at the University of South Florida, I've had an incredible experience so far. I love the vibrant campus life, the warm weather, and the supportive community of students and faculty. The....
Read 7589 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 44%,
Net Price: $11,004,
SAT Range: 1140-1330,
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Alum: I entered FAMU as a transfer student in the fall of 2021 and graduated in the fall of 2023. I now work as a writing tutor at the university and am headed to grad school. As an English major, I had a wonderful time academically at the university but experienced the same hardships with financial aid that you would at any other institution. Overall, I could get what I needed when needed, even if it took a few extra steps. You will undoubtedly learn how to advocate for yourself as a student and as a person here, which is a good thing--it helped me overcome some anxiety. The professors here, especially in the Department of English and Modern Languages, are dedicated to presenting students with stellar opportunities and fostering meaningful learning environments. Though there is not much to do in Tallahassee, campus activities and parties are fun to attend! Homecoming and Set Friday is definitely where it’s at.... Read 2,768 reviews
#11 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Florida A&M University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
TALLAHASSEE, FL,
2768 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Alum says I entered FAMU as a transfer student in the fall of 2021 and graduated in the fall of 2023. I now work as a writing tutor at the university and am headed to grad school. As an English major, I had a....
Read 2768 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 33%,
Net Price: $11,583,
SAT Range: 1010-1150,
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Sophomore: My experience at Monroe College has been incredible. I’ve had the privilege of learning from some outstanding professors, although not all of them were exceptional, which is to be expected. As a former Monroe College softball player, I’ve enjoyed fantastic opportunities within the softball community and have built strong connections with my teammates. The school’s environment is quite diverse, with a significant Hispanic presence at the Bronx campus. Additionally, being a student at Monroe College has provided me with numerous internship opportunities in various fields, helping us grow and work towards our dream jobs upon graduation.... Read 828 reviews
#12 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Monroe College - Bronx/New Rochelle
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
BRONX, NY,
828 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says My experience at Monroe College has been incredible. I’ve had the privilege of learning from some outstanding professors, although not all of them were exceptional, which is to be expected. As a....
Read 828 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B+,
Acceptance Rate: 60%,
Net Price: $9,157,
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Junior: My experience as an Ohio State student has been incredibly fulfilling in many ways. I've loved the sense of community here; there's always something happening on campus, whether it's a big football game, a cultural event, or a club meeting. The diversity of academic programs and the quality of professors have allowed me to explore my interests deeply. I've had some amazing research and hands-on learning opportunities that have enriched my education. That being said, there are a few things I wish could be different. Sometimes, the large class sizes can make it challenging to connect with professors on a personal level, especially in introductory courses. It would be great to see more resources allocated to smaller discussion groups or more office hours. Additionally, while the campus is vibrant, there are areas where improvements could be made in accessibility and campus infrastructure. Ensuring all students feel included and supported is crucial for a positive university experience.... Read 5,929 reviews
#13 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
The Ohio State University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
COLUMBUS, OH,
5929 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My experience as an Ohio State student has been incredibly fulfilling in many ways. I've loved the sense of community here; there's always something happening on campus, whether it's a big football...That being said, there are a few things I wish could be different. Sometimes, the large class sizes can make it challenging to connect with professors on a personal level, especially in introductory...Additionally, while the campus is vibrant, there are areas where improvements could be made in accessibility and campus infrastructure. Ensuring all students feel included and supported is crucial....
Read 5929 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 53%,
Net Price: $19,582,
SAT Range: 1310-1480,
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Sophomore: The diverse campus community has made here a unique place to learn at and I love it here! The professors are knowledgeable and passionate, always willing to help me succeed. I major in Biology with a minor in psychology, a full time student while working, and my teachers are very understanding. The campus features modern buildings like Tamiami which I will be living in next month, lush green spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere. You'll find various academic buildings, student centers, and recreational facilities all within walking distance. The campus also has dining options, study spots, and even a beautiful lake where you can relax and unwind, which I often do on Sundays. I've had the chance to join some amazing student organizations like the Haitian Student Union as a dance coordinator, which has helped me build lasting friendships and develop my leadership skills. Overall, FIU has provided me with a well-rounded education and unforgettable experiences so far.... Read 7,577 reviews
#14 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Florida International University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
MIAMI, FL,
7577 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says The diverse campus community has made here a unique place to learn at and I love it here! The professors are knowledgeable and passionate, always willing to help me succeed. I major in Biology with a....
Read 7577 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 64%,
Net Price: $9,881,
SAT Range: 1060-1250,
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#15 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of South Florida - Sarasota-Manatee
4 Year,
SARASOTA, FL,
100 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says I absolute love this school. Im an introvert so it helps that its smaller and more compact when compared to other campuses..
Read 100 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 24%,
Net Price: $2,734,
SAT Range: 1160-1290,
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Sophomore: ENMU is a very welcoming school the people are as friendly as can be and they have events happening weekly to daily so if you were missing from home you forget with how busy you are with events or classes, my only thing i think i would change is that ENMU has DAWG days for incoming freshman it is to move you in and acclimate you to separating from family, but with them wanting the events to be outside it is 105+ degrees and you get tire and overwhelmed i think it should at least be indoors. The DAWG days did make me many acquaints and staff i can turn to when i need them.... Read 766 reviews
#16 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Eastern New Mexico University
4 Year,
PORTALES, NM,
766 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says ENMU is a very welcoming school the people are as friendly as can be and they have events happening weekly to daily so if you were missing from home you forget with how busy you are with events or....
Read 766 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A minus,
Acceptance Rate: 28%,
Net Price: $8,702,
SAT Range: 840-1100,
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Sophomore: Madonna, being the very small university it is provides incoming students with a strong welcoming feeling. With only living on campus for a few weeks, meeting people was not a challenge. People were always hanging out in the lounges or dining areas and playing games to add more people to their social circle. Though not all the sports were great, the students who supported the athletes made a huge difference. The classes themselves were diverse and had plenty of resources that aided students in excelling in any class they took.... Read 537 reviews
#17 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Madonna University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
LIVONIA, MI,
537 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Madonna, being the very small university it is provides incoming students with a strong welcoming feeling. With only living on campus for a few weeks, meeting people was not a challenge. People were....
Read 537 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 65%,
Net Price: $18,344,
SAT Range: 890-1140,
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Junior: My experience at the University of Maryland - College Park has been incredibly fulfilling overall. Academically, I've found the courses to be rigorous and engaging, with professors who are knowledgeable and supportive. The university offers a wide range of majors and minors, allowing me to explore different fields of study and find my academic passions. Overall, I am very satisfied with my experience at the University of Maryland - College Park. It has provided me with a solid academic foundation, valuable life skills, and lifelong friendships. If I were to suggest areas for improvement, I would highlight the importance of expanding mental health resources and increasing support for first-generation college students.... Read 5,625 reviews
#18 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Maryland - College Park
4 Year,
COLLEGE PARK, MD,
5625 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says My experience at the University of Maryland - College Park has been incredibly fulfilling overall. Academically, I've found the courses to be rigorous and engaging, with professors who are...Overall, I am very satisfied with my experience at the University of Maryland - College Park. It has provided me with a solid academic foundation, valuable life skills, and lifelong friendships. If I....
Read 5625 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 45%,
Net Price: $16,210,
SAT Range: 1360-1520,
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Freshman: Athens, Georgia, the home of the University of Georgia, remains a fond memory in my heart. Athens is not too big of a city to get lost in, but not so small that it gets boring. There's always events taking place on campus, and Saturdays in Athens are some nobody should ever miss! The students here are willing to talk to you, and the campus makes it easy to bump into each other often. Amidst all these wonderful attributes that makes UGA so special--not to mention the great weather--I believe the housing situation needs to be updated. They are working on renovating certain dorms over the summer, so perhaps the housing situation may be better for the incoming class of 2024. The university also needs to address the parking situation because thousands of students are without a parking permit on the campus and have to park illegally due to lack of parking spaces. I've witnessed tons of cars issued tickets/boots. Despite some issues, I had an amazing freshmen year staying on campus at UGA.... Read 5,798 reviews
#19 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Georgia
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ATHENS, GA,
5798 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says Athens, Georgia, the home of the University of Georgia, remains a fond memory in my heart. Athens is not too big of a city to get lost in, but not so small that it gets boring. There's always events....
Read 5798 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 43%,
Net Price: $17,180,
SAT Range: 1220-1420,
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Junior: The University of Central Florida provide students with a broad variety of programs of study, resources, and extra-curricular opportunities. Campus is huge and extremely lively. The school make it easy to get involved in extracurriculars; personally, being in the marching band has been an amazing experience that has allowed me to keep a healthy balance between my studies and my passion for music, not to mention the opportunity it has brought to meet new, wonderful people. Similarly, the many clubs on campus are an amazing way to begin building connections as a new student; in my case, as a Mechanical Engineering major, being involved in clubs gave me the valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience that is applicable to my major within my first semester in UCF. Overall, this school has a plethora of resources and support systems always at your disposal; you won't regret studying here!... Read 22,422 reviews
#20 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
University of Central Florida
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ORLANDO, FL,
22422 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Junior says The University of Central Florida provide students with a broad variety of programs of study, resources, and extra-curricular opportunities. Campus is huge and extremely lively. The school make it....
Read 22422 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 41%,
Net Price: $13,108,
SAT Range: 1200-1360,
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Senior: My experience so far at Rutgers has been pretty good overall, but I have experienced a few bumps. I love the wide range of academic courses and the many research opportunities that allowed me to pursue my passions. Socializing was made easy by the welcoming community and active campus life. However, managing administrative tasks can be time-consuming and a big class can sometimes feel cold. Parking is a pain! Rutgers's bus system is sometimes a hassle. On-campus housing quality is unpredictable. Despite these challenges, I've had a useful and enjoyable time at the university thanks to its modern facilities, convenient location, and sometimes useful transportation system. Improvements in administration, housing, class sizes, dining, and the bus system would enhance the experience further.... Read 6,170 reviews
#21 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Rutgers University–New Brunswick
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
PISCATAWAY, NJ,
6170 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says My experience so far at Rutgers has been pretty good overall, but I have experienced a few bumps. I love the wide range of academic courses and the many research opportunities that allowed me to....
Read 6170 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 66%,
Net Price: $17,535,
SAT Range: 1270-1480,
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Senior: Attending North Carolina Wesleyan University has been a huge experience so far as learning new responsibilities. I am a member of the National Honor Society. As a student, I’ve learned to become a better leader and show myself friendly towards others when it comes to communicating. I enjoy meeting and building relationships with my instructors so that they can assist me with any questions I may have throughout the semester. If the instructor is unavailable, tutoring would be a key source for me when there is a problem that I am having. As I grow, I’ve realized that college tutoring is meant to help me improve my work ethics and understand the material of the course. It is always good to ask questions. This scholarship will help relieve stress from the courses that I am currently in. Enrolling in college is a very challenging experience. I will be forever grateful if I am chosen to receive this scholarship.... Read 244 reviews
#22 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
North Carolina Wesleyan University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
ROCKY MOUNT, NC,
244 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.
Featured Review: Senior says Attending North Carolina Wesleyan University has been a huge experience so far as learning new responsibilities. I am a member of the National Honor Society. As a student, I’ve learned to become a...improve my work ethics and understand the material of the course. It is always good to ask questions. This scholarship will help relieve stress from the courses that I am currently in. Enrolling in....
Read 244 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: B minus,
Acceptance Rate: 68%,
Net Price: $18,701,
SAT Range: 860-1120,
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Freshman: I absolutely love Villanova, I was very skeptical because it was a mid size university and I wasn’t sure about the area. However, very quickly I became attached to this university! Villanova has opened my eyes to so much in terms of new amazing friends, great athletics, demanding but rewarding academics, plenty of campus/organization sponsored events/activities through the year, vast networking opportunities, numerous research/internship programs, hundreds of clubs and organizations for everyone!! Villanova’s beliefs, traditions, and values are a huge part of the reason I love it here! The people here are loving, accepting, understanding and supportive! I’ve met the most amazing people (of course there’s always outliers) at Villanova and lifelong friends for sure! The professors and staff members that I’ve connected and worked closely with are some of the most caring and genuine individuals I’ve ever met in my entire life. Last but not least is the beautiful gothic architecture! V’s up... Read 1,577 reviews
#23 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
Villanova University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
VILLANOVA, PA,
1577 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says I absolutely love Villanova, I was very skeptical because it was a mid size university and I wasn’t sure about the area. However, very quickly I became attached to this university! Villanova has....
Read 1577 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A+,
Acceptance Rate: 23%,
Net Price: $34,837,
SAT Range: 1360-1500,
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Sophomore: Well, I just completed my first year as a freshman, and it was pretty good! Because it was my first year, I initially struggled a lot with making friends and putting myself out there, but eventually I was lucky enough to meet some fun people and I gained the energy and motivation to attend school events! The campus is gorgeous, even on a cloudy day, and the students attending the school are pretty chill and fun to be around! There is definitely a strong community, and there's plenty of opportunities for free food, stuff to do in your free time, and ways to connect with people! Dorming is a pretty good experience too, mostly thanks to the amenities and meal plans available. There's also a community within each dorm group, so no matter where you choose to live, there's good things about each of them.... Read 4,923 reviews
#24 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
California State University - Long Beach
4 Year,
LONG BEACH, CA,
4923 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Sophomore says Well, I just completed my first year as a freshman, and it was pretty good! Because it was my first year, I initially struggled a lot with making friends and putting myself out there, but eventually....
Read 4923 reviews.
Overall Niche Grade: A,
Acceptance Rate: 40%,
Net Price: $9,346,
SAT Range: 1020-1240,
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Freshman: My experience at St. Mary's has been quite positive so far. The academic environment is supportive, with dedicated faculty who are always ready to help students succeed. The food offerings have consistently been satisfying, adding to the overall experience. However, I believe there's room for improvement in terms of incentivizing students financially. Introducing a scholarship program for those with a GPA of 3.8 or higher could be a great way to motivate academic excellence while also easing financial burdens. Furthermore, while the academic aspect is strong, enhancing extracurricular activities or student engagement opportunities could enrich the overall experience. By providing more avenues for students to connect, learn, and grow outside of the classroom, St. Mary's could create a more dynamic and fulfilling environment for its students.... Read 1,102 reviews
#25 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America.
St. Mary's University
Blue checkmark.
4 Year,
SAN ANTONIO, TX,
1102 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars.
Featured Review: Freshman says My experience at St. Mary's has been quite positive so far. The academic environment is supportive, with dedicated faculty who are always ready to help students succeed. The food offerings have....
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Overall Niche Grade: B,
Acceptance Rate: 86%,
Net Price: $21,379,
SAT Range: 1020-1220,
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FAQs

How many colleges for criminal justice are in America?: There are 2,234 colleges in this list.
What is the average acceptance rate for colleges for criminal justice in America?: For the top 25 colleges, the average acceptance rate is 40%, which makes these schools competitive to get into. For these colleges, University of Pennsylvania is the most competitive with an acceptance rate of 7% and St. Mary's University is the least competitive with an acceptance rate of 86%. Try using the Niche Admissions Calculator to get an idea of your chances.

The Best Schools for Criminal Justice

Do you have a curious mind and a strong sense of civic duty? If so, you might consider a future in criminal justice. If that appeals to you, your first step should be to attend one of the best colleges for criminal justice.

These schools will hone your critical thinking skills, give you a strong background in the elements of the U.S. justice system, and introduce you to the field’s many different career possibilities.

What do you learn as a criminal justice major?

As a criminal justice major, you’ll learn all about the courts, policing, and corrections systems. You’ll engage with U.S. history, current laws and practices, and competing theories regarding the role of these institutions.

At many schools, a major in criminal justice will also involve work in criminology, the sociology related to criminal behavior. This will include learning about the conditions that lead to higher rates of criminal activity and how it’s handled after the fact.

What classes will you take as a criminal justice major?

In addition to core-curriculum classes on the justice system, you’ll take electives in the areas of criminal justice that most interest you.

Specialties include:

Law enforcement
Case management
Juvenile justice
Homeland security
Forensic security
Crime prevention

Criminal justice integrates many other subjects, so don’t be surprised to find some of your coursework cross-listed with political science, sociology, or history.

To supplement your classroom education, look for internships and field experience. Many schools help you find and apply to exciting opportunities.

What careers can you pursue with a criminal justice degree?

There are plenty of popular criminal justice careers. These include:

Lawyer
Police officer
Forensic accountant
FBI officer
Crime scene investigator
Emergency management coordinator
Private investigator
Social worker

Some of these jobs do require additional training, certification, or graduate work.

How we rank the best colleges for criminal justice

The best colleges for criminal justice are also strong all-around schools. That’s why looks at the school’s overall grade as well as its criminal justice specifics.

We base our evaluations on the following considerations:

Overall Niche grade (30%)
Percent of students majoring in criminal justice (17.5%)
Demand for the school’s criminal justice program (15%)
Acceptance rate (10%)
Surveys on the experience of criminal justice majors at the school (10%)
Student-faculty ratio (10%)
Percent of total criminal justice graduates that come from the school (7.5%)

If you are considering majoring in criminal justice, you should try to find a school that blends competitive academics with individual attention and a strong student experience.

How to use the list of the best criminal justice colleges

You can filter this list by a number of criteria, including college type, size, geography, and religious affiliation. Look through our detailed listings and compare your top choices. If you create a Niche account, we’ll also help you calculate your odds of being admitted.

Once you’ve started narrowing your results, take some virtual college tours and check out the criminal justice department websites. Learn more about the degree requirements and school-specific opportunities.

Let us help you navigate your college search. From beginning to end, we’ve got the you need to get into one of the best schools for criminal justice.

2024 Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America

Best programs

Students

Social scene

Campus

Athletics

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania

University of California - Irvine

University of California - Irvine

Florida State University

Florida State University

University of Florida

University of Florida

Northeastern University

Northeastern University

University of Miami

University of Miami

National University

National University

Boston University

Boston University

University of South Florida

University of South Florida

Florida A&M University

Florida A&M University

Monroe College - Bronx/New Rochelle

Monroe College - Bronx/New Rochelle

The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University

Florida International University

Florida International University

University of South Florida - Sarasota-Manatee

University of South Florida - Sarasota-Manatee

Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University

Madonna University

Madonna University

University of Maryland - College Park

University of Maryland - College Park

University of Georgia