Criminal Justice Master’s Degree Costs: Ways to Pay for a Graduate Program
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Understanding the Costs of A Criminal Justice Graduate Program
One of the best investments you can make is a graduate degree. Not only can it increase your potential earnings, but it will also serve as a stepping stone for career advancement.
However, getting a master’s degree in criminal justice can be pricey. Masters in criminal justice tuition can range from around $1,000 a year at affordable schools to as high as $10,000 at more expensive ones. However, financial aid and scholarships can help lower the cost.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a college or university for your master’s degree in criminal justice. While tuition gives a good idea of how affordable a college is, there are other important factors to consider, too.
- Residency Status: Your residency status can really impact college costs. In-state tuition is usually cheaper than out-of-state. These policies usually apply to public/government-funded colleges and universities. If you’re an out-of-state student, it’s worth including private schools in your list of colleges.
- Modality: The way classes are delivered can also affect prices. Online classes might cost less since you miss out on some campus resources. But this is always on a case-by-case basis. Some online degree programs can actually be more expensive than traditional ones.
- Transfer Credits: If you’re transferring schools or returning after a break, know your credits. Working with an enrollment coach can help you navigate this process, saving you time and money. You can earn credit from community colleges, military training, work experience, and even tests.
- Federal Financial Aid: Most students rely on financial aid, so start with the FAFSA to see if you qualify for grants, loans, or work-study. It can really help cut down your tuition costs.
- Scholarships: Don’t overlook scholarships! They can take some searching, so start with your school to find internal options.
However, tuition is not your only problem. You’d also have to budget for other things, including:
- Technology fees: Online programs may have extra fees for software and resources.
- Textbooks: Costs vary; e-books can be cheaper, but check requirements.
- Living expenses: Factor in housing, transportation, and daily costs based on location.
Because the cost of getting a master’s degree keeps increasing, many students doubt whether to enroll. If the master’s in criminal justice cost scares you, just think about these benefits:
Career Boost
Getting your master’s can really open doors in law enforcement, like with the FBI or U.S. Marshals. While you don’t need a master’s for those jobs, having one can set you apart from the competition and help you snag better roles, especially in leadership or research.
Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy higher earning potential. Master’s in criminal justice graduates typically earn over $100,000 more in their lifetime than those with just a bachelor’s degree.
Making an Impact
Climbing the ranks gives you the chance to influence policies and drive change in your community. For instance, moving up to a local police department might let you rethink how things are done, including resource allocation. A master’s can be your ticket to making a real difference where it matters!
Master’s in Criminal Justice degree programs are designed for those passionate about justice and community safety. It focuses on developing several key skills important in the criminal justice field. These include:
- Attention to Detail: No detail is too small! A master’s program helps train you to notice everything that could be important in a case.
- Research Skills: You’ll learn how to dig deep, whether it’s going through old case files, tracking crime trends, or analyzing forensic data. This is super important for building strong cases.
- Tech Skills: Tech is a big part of the job now. You’ll get really good at using computers and software to help solve cases and analyze data.
- Communication Skills: Being able to share your findings is crucial. You’ll develop advanced skills that help you communicate well with prosecutors and in courts.
- Analytical Skills: You need to be able to analyze crime scenes and data carefully. It’s all about spotting trends and making smart conclusions.
Most importantly, master’s programs in criminal justice keep you up to date on the latest trends in the field. Here are some big trends covered in these advanced degrees:
- Cannabis Laws: As laws around cannabis shift, knowing the ins and outs will help you handle drug cases effectively.
- Police Reform: There’s a push for reform, especially regarding racial disparities. Skilled pros can lead the charge for change.
- Cybercrime: This is becoming a major issue. Those with strong research and tech skills will be key in fighting cyber threats.
You don’t always need a bachelor’s in criminal justice or criminology to apply for this degree. However, you may need to meet specific prerequisites. These may include foundational courses in social sciences or relevant work experience.
Comparing Criminal Justice Master’s Degree Costs
We evaluated the best-value criminal justice master’s degree program online. Online degree programs are known to be more affordable than on-campus degrees. According to the Educational Data Initiative, online degrees are $30,000 cheaper than traditional ones.
We put together today’s cheapest online master’s degree in criminal justice:
| University | Net Price (In-State) | Net Price (Out-of-State) |
| Fayetteville State University | $3,438 | $14,503 |
| University of North Georgia | $4,050 | $16,164 |
| New Mexico State University | $4,390 | $15,309 |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | $4,950 | $13,824 |
| The University of Oklahoma | $5,119 | $19,778 |
The next table shows the cheapest on-campus master’s degrees in criminal justice programs.
| University | Net Price (In-State) | Net Price (Out-of-State) |
| Texas A&M University-Commerce | $9,032 | $16,505 |
| California State University-Long Beach | $9,867 | $17,622 |
| University of Texas at Dallas | $10,254 | $18,985 |
| Indiana State University | $10,681 | $16,210 |
| University of Nebraska Omaha | $11,223 | $23,700 |
Paying for Your Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Getting a master’s degree in criminal justice takes time, focus, and money. Costs vary based on your school, program, and location, so it’s good to explore your options.
Tuition
Check out this data from the National Center for Education Statistics:
| Average Cost of Graduate Tuition and Fees, 2021-22 | ||
| Public Institutions | Private For-Profit Institutions | Private Nonprofit Institutions |
| $12,596 | $28,017 | $27,776 |
Private nonprofit schools charge almost twice the tuition of public ones. Tuition at public schools also depends on whether you’re a state resident, with locals getting much better rates. So, going to an in-state public school is usually the cheapest option.
But don’t forget private schools can offer big scholarships, too, and some even give discounted rates for online students.
Room and Board
Another thing to worry about is room and board. Here’s some data from the Education Data Initiative:
| Average Cost of Room and Board | ||
| Institution Type | On-Campus Housing | Off-Campus Housing |
| Public | $12,302 | $11,983 |
| Private For-Profit | $9,151 | $9,564 |
| Private Nonprofit | $13,842 | $10,876 |
Online grad students often save by avoiding housing costs and might live with family. Cooking at home can cut food expenses, too, since campus meal plans usually cost more. Ultimately, it all comes down to what works best for you.
Other Expenses
Don’t forget relocation or commuting expenses, like transit passes, fuel, and parking. Other costs include internet, computer gear, and supplies. Textbooks can add up, but buying used or borrowing can save cash. Plus, most applications have fees, and tests like the GRE or GMAT can run you $200-$400.
There are several strategies you can use to cover your graduate school costs, including:
Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships are free financial aid that usually doesn’t need to be repaid. Grants are typically need-based, while scholarships are merit-based. Researching these options can be beneficial.
- Federal and State Funding: You might qualify for federal or state funding. Completing the FAFSA is essential for accessing these funds.
- School Funds: Universities often provide their own scholarships and grants. Contact your financial aid officer to explore available options.
- Private Organizations: Many private organizations offer scholarships based on various criteria, such as field of study or background. Your school’s financial aid officer can help you find relevant opportunities.
Some of the most popular scholarships for master’s in criminal justice students include:
- Helen Taylor Greene and Vernetta D. Young Graduate Fellowship
- Amount: $2,500
- Eligibility: Graduate students, typically in fields related to social justice or education
- Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship
- Amount: $2,000-$10,000
- Eligibility: Students pursuing degrees in accounting or finance, with a focus on those interested in fraud prevention
- Kush Arora Federal Criminal Justice Reform Scholarship
- Amount: $500
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in a criminal justice program with an interest in reform
Tuition Reimbursement or Tuition Assistance
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance, covering part of your education costs and potentially helping with student loans. A Lumina Foundation study shows employers can see up to a 144% ROI on these programs.
If a graduate degree could benefit your organization, ask HR about reimbursement options, noting that a commitment may be required.
Many universities also offer tuition remission for full-time employees, allowing you to take classes for free. Consider applying for relevant positions there, but you’ll need to stay employed full-time during your program to qualify.
Work Part-Time While Studying
Working part-time can really boost your college experience and help pay the bills.
Internships: These are great for getting real-world experience and often fit around your class schedule. Plus, they can help you network for jobs after graduation.
Work Study: Check if your financial aid includes work study, which lets you work on campus to cover costs. Ask your financial aid office about options.
Pro Tip: Join professional organizations. Here are some of the top ones for those in the criminal justice field:
- American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA)
- American Society of Criminology (ASC)
- National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
- National Organization of Black Law Enforcement (NOBLE)
- International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
Getting involved with these organizations isn’t just about the money—you’ll also score some valuable career-building experiences along the way!
Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Within Your Reach
Here are a few practical tips on how to choose the right Master’s in Criminal Justice program based on your needs.
Step 1: On-campus vs Online
The primary appeal of online education is its flexibility, allowing working professionals and part-time students to manage their schedules with options like asynchronous classes. While online programs can save on transportation and lodging costs, they may lack the social connections found in traditional settings.
Step 2: Research Schools and Programs
Focus on accredited institutions and programs to enhance your career prospects, as they meet high academic standards and are recognized by employers. Research the school and faculty to understand the culture, and consider visiting or attending an open house.
Step 3: Choose a Specialty
Graduate programs provide various concentrations to help maximize your potential return on investment (ROI). Some popular concentrations that often lead to high-paying careers include:
- Cybercrime Investigation
- Intelligence Analysis
- Forensic Psychology
- Homeland Security
- Law and Public Policy
Step 4: Check Out Costs and Financial Aid
Take a good look at how much each program costs, including tuition and any extra fees. Don’t forget to explore financial aid options like scholarships and grants. Many schools have people who can help you figure this stuff out, so reach out if you need a hand!
Step 5: Look into Career Services and Alumni Connections
Check how good the career services are—they can really help you land a job after you graduate. Look for programs that offer internships and job placement opportunities. A solid alumni network can also open doors for you in the criminal justice world, making your career journey even smoother.
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