There are a few choices in schools throughout New York if you want to earn a Criminal Justice degree. Whether you are ready to make a bachelor’s or master’s, you will find some of the best criminal justice schools New York where you can study criminal justice in-depth. They will open you up to numerous job opportunities, allowing you to pursue a wide range of career options, including law enforcement and teaching.
Why Choose New York For Your Criminal Justice Degree?
A lot of opportunities are available when you attend one of the many criminal justice colleges in New York. many of the schools on our list can help you get an internship with some of the country’s top law enforcement, private security, and criminal justice agencies. Certain sectors of criminal justice are more in demand than others. The U.S. Bureau of Labor & Statistics expects job growth for various positions within the criminal justice industry between now and 2028.
Top 5 Criminal Justice Colleges in New York
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Albany | Albany, New York |
| 2 | Suny Brockport | Brockport, New York |
| 3 | Molloy College | Rockville Centre, New York |
| 4 | Hilbert College | Hamburg, New York |
| 5 | Morrisville State College | Morrisville, New York |
For example, the need for Forensic Science Technicians is expected to rise by 14%. The expected job growth rate for Police Officers and Sheriffs is 5%. When it comes to detectives and investigators, the need is expected to rise by 8%, with the demand for probation officers growing by an expected 3%
Below is our list of the best Criminal Justice colleges in New York, based on tuition and required credit hours. Here is a list of the top 15 Criminal Justice colleges in New York.
Best 15 Criminal Justice Colleges In New York
University of Albany
Students can study for a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at the University of Albany. Students can choose from several concentrations; Criminal Justice System, IT, Problem Solving and Analysis, Crime Causation, Prevention, and Intervention.
Those who prefer can also participate in an internship through this program. The recommended path for students that pursue an internship is to spend just as much time and effort on independent study.
Students who want to go on to earn a Juris Doctor in Law at Albany Law School can follow this career path once they have completed the program successfully.
School Overview
Suny Brockport
SUNY Brockport offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Internationally recognized scholars and current outstanding practitioners in the field bring the real world to the classroom. The program’s curriculum focuses on theory and practice in criminal justice systems (policing, courts, corrections, juvenile justice, law, forensics, issues in forensic computing, and more). While enrolled in this criminal justice program, students are encouraged to pursue an internship, extracurricular activities, and even a study abroad session in Dublin or Waterford.
Students can pursue a double major by combining Criminal Justice and Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Health Care Studies (alcohol and substance abuse studies-clinical approach and Health Care Administration), and other related disciplines. Many students also seek to achieve their degrees with other minors, such as forensic science.
The student association has actively provided extracurricular opportunities such as special lectures, job fairs, crime lab visits, correctional facility visits, and firearm training. Whether they choose a double major or not, students in this criminal justice program may be invited to join the Criminal Justice Honor Society.
School Overview
Molloy College
Molloy College offers a Master of Science in Criminal Justice. The curriculum is based on six areas of focus, including Criminological Theory, Administration of Justice, and research & analytical methods. To graduate, students must complete a Master’s seminar on campus.
- Credit Hours: 33 for Master’s degree program, 27 credits for BS/MS program (with classes being taken as an undergraduate that counts toward the MS)
School Overview
Hilbert College
Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Hilbert College. Their experiences in criminal justice programs are highly interactive. The curriculum relies heavily on ethics, corrections, criminology, and research methods.
Students are always encouraged to pursue an internship as part of their education. Many of them work as interns at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Others complete internships with the New York State Attorney General’s Office or the U.S. Secret Service.
School Overview
Morrisville State College
Students that attend Morrisville State College often study for a Bachelor of Technology in Criminal Justice. Possible concentrations include:
- Information Technology
- Adolescents and the Criminal Justice System
- Public Safety and Security
- Economics and White Collar Crime
- Natural Resources
In addition to the curriculum, students must take a semester to complete an internship before graduating.
Other perks of studying this criminal justice program include using the IES Milo Simulator found on the school’s campus. The simulator consists of a system called “Shoot Don’t Shoot.” Students learn how to use force using chemical agents and Taser technology while still communicating professionally. Students are placed in virtual scenarios they may face as part of their jobs.
The school also boasts a crime scene lab where students learn about forensic technology and how to collect, preserve, and handle evidence in a police case.
School Overview
The College of Saint Rose
The College of Saint Rose offers a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Behavior, and Law. The diversity of the program means that it prepares students to work as a court advocates, crime analysts, research/analyst statisticians, and enforcement personnel. To qualify for these criminal justice careers, students can choose to focus on criminal justice, law, or behavior.
The students that shine the most in this criminal justice program may be chosen to complete an internship at the school’s Cold Case Analysis Center. During their internship, students work to solve real cases.
Students can also enhance their education by listening to the Upstate Unsolved Podcast jointly by the Cold Case Analysis Center and Saint Rose.
School Overview
Rochester Institute of Technology
The Rochester Institute of Technology is known for its Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. In this program, students are taught to apply problem-solving techniques to criminal behavior, administration, management, and social control mechanisms. As part of the program, students have the opportunity to work in the school’s Center for Public Safety Initiatives. In conjunction with the Rochester Police Department, students work to gain practical experience in data analysis, crime mapping, and data gathering by collaborating on projects with the center’s staff. Additionally, motivated students have the opportunity to pursue a 4+1 BS/MS program in which bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice are earned in just five years.
School Overview
Farmingdale State College
At Farmingdale State College, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Police, Courts, and Corrections. The program’s curriculum covers areas of study like:
- Patrol Operations
- Leadership and Ethics
- Homeland Security and Counterterrorism
- Civil Rights and Liberties
Many students are completing this program work as Transit/Railroad Police, New York Criminal Investigators, Detectives, and Correctional Treatment and Probation Office Specialists.
School Overview
Pace University
Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences at Pace University. Those enrolled in this program are strongly encouraged to pursue a minor in related files such as psychology or computer science. As part of their bachelor’s, students study subjects like terrorism, administration and leadership, criminal investigation, criminal profiling, community-based corrections, and police-community relations. Students, if accepted, can also enroll in the joint Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Pace’s Juris Doctorate program (BS/JD).
To get the most out of their experience, students are encouraged to join the school’s Criminal Justice Society. It hosts professional meetings, lectures, and hands-on activities as a student-run group.
School Overview
St. John’s University
Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at the Lesley H. And William L.Collins College of Professional Studies at St. John’s University. One reason this program stands out from others is that it gives students the chance to pursue a specialization in Forensic Psychology. Earning their Bachelor of Science at St. John’s University may be easier for students that have passed courses with Suffolk County, Nassau County, or the NYC Police.
Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to study abroad on the school’s overseas campuses, located in Paris, Rome, and Italy.
During their second year of study, students may file an application with the New York Police Department (NYPD) Cadet Program. This gives them access to exclusive internships other students aren’t eligible for.
School Overview
Marist College
Marist College offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The program’s curriculum includes defense, prosecution, punishment, treatment, and socialization of criminals. To graduate, students are required to complete an internship at an allied or criminal justice agency. These internships are often found with the Green Haven Correctional Facility, the New York Police Department, and the District Attorney’s office of Duchess County.
School Overview
Iona College
Students can earn a Master’s of Science in Criminal Justice at Iona College. The program is highly customizable, allowing students to focus on victims’ services, justice administration, probation & parole services, and criminology. In addition, as part of their Master’s degree program, students can earn a certificate in cybercrime & prevention or forensic criminology & criminal justice.
Many students who have completed this program have gone worked at the New York Police Department, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Homeland Security.
School Overview
Adelphi University
At Adelphi University students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The program emphasizes hands-on learning to prepare students for careers with enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and the F.B.I. Students often complete internships with the Nassau County Police Department as well as the New York Police Department.
The curriculum includes courses taught by various departments, including the Derner School of Psychology, the Departments of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology, as well as the School of Social Work.
School Overview
Alfred University
At Alfred University, students can study for a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Studies. The curriculum in this program includes international security, psychology, ethics, and public policy.
Before students can graduate, they also have to attend at least two Institutes. This helps students gain insights into the problems they will face throughout their criminal justice careers. Every student must complete two half-day workshops.
School Overview
Niagara University
Niagara University offers students the chance to earn a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration. Students must follow a curriculum that includes Criminal Justice Management & Administration, Professional Ethics, System-Wide Issues in Criminal Justice, and Computers/Statistics. Those that would prefer can simply complete a six-credit thesis that counts towards graduation.
School Overview
If you are still struggling to choose the school that is right for you, our Degree Finder tool will help you narrow down your choices to the best.
How We Rank School
We compile information on each school’s in-state per semester tuition and its acceptance rate. Tuition rates are based on two-year programs for a Masters, and four-year programs for a Bachelors.
By sorting criminal justice schools according to their tuition and acceptance rates, schools get up to 50 points in both categories. The lowest tuition rates get the highest score as do the highest acceptance rates. We add these two scores together to determine a school’s final ranking on our list.
It is our goal to provide only accurate information for each school that we recommend. If you work for a school we have included, and you feel we ranked it incorrectly, please let us know. We will fix any errors immediately.
Benefits of doing Criminal Justice in New York
Here are some of the benefits a graduate in criminal justice gets.
Competitive Advantage
If you desire to pursue active jobs that keep you on your toes, you should work for an organization such as the FBI, CIA, DEA, and others. This criminal justice degree program also gives you an advantage in fields where only a high school education is required.
Employers will look at your jacket when it comes time for a promotion. A criminal justice degree combined with a strong work ethic and relevant experience will make you more competitive than a coworker who does not have a degree. Opportunities for advancement include supervisory, leadership, and administrative positions.
Positions with Good Pay
Numerous criminal justice career options can be financially rewarding. If you apply your criminal justice knowledge in the classroom, you can earn up to $72,000 annually as an instructor.
Job Safety
Criminal justice positions are always in high demand. Because individuals abandon the occupation every year for various reasons—retirement, relocation to another city (or county or state), or taking a supervisory position in some other agency—jobs in this career sector will always be available.
National Possibilities
Some states and municipalities pay more than others. And it usually depends on population density, the type of work, or the local economy. For example, criminal justice jobs in California, New York, or Florida frequently pay more than jobs in Alabama, Georgia, or Tennessee. Salaries are also affected by your level of education and experience. A criminal justice degree is usually more valuable than a diploma from high school or even a degree in some other field.
You will also have the opportunity to review the various criminal justice fields and personalize your studies to your chosen profession while achieving your criminal justice program. You might want to work as a cop for the federal government or begin your security firm. It only makes sense to tailor your schooling to your future goals.
Options for Flexible Learning
Students frequently have to manage many responsibilities, from school and volunteer work to family issues. It cannot be easy, especially for those who return to school to switch careers or those who have created a family before attending school. You must be able to fit classes around your working time and other obligations. Flexibility is essential.
What will I study in my Criminal Justice Program?
Before moving on to the more in-depth, upper-level courses required by the criminal justice specialization you select, you must complete the following core classes in AIU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program:
• Criminal Justice System Foundations
• Crime Causation Theories
• Criminal Law Fundamentals
• An Overview of Law Enforcement
• An Overview of the American Court System
• Correctional Foundations
These courses can help students understand the criminal justice system by covering a wide range of essential introductory knowledge that you can build on later in your degree.
Once you’ve completed these courses, you’ll have a choice of taking upper-level core classes.
Which jobs can I do after graduating in criminal justice?
The following are just a few intriguing job opportunities available to you.
Law Enforcement Officer
Police officers’ job is to safeguard the property and lives of the residents of the neighborhoods they serve. Police officers may respond to emergency calls and complaints, patrol their work areas to keep people safe, and provide evidence and testimony in criminal court proceedings on any given day.
State Trooper
Whereas police officers’ jurisdiction is limited to the city or town wherein they work, a state trooper’s jurisdiction extends throughout the entire state. (On occasion, state troopers will aid local police in investigations.) State troopers, also recognized as highway patrol officers, guarantee traffic safety on province and interstate roads. They may respond to car accidents, driver emergencies, and issue moving violations.
Security Officer
Security managers assist businesses of all sizes — corporate offices, retail outlets, and even non-profit organizations — safeguard their assets. As a security manager, you’ll help develop the procedures and guidelines for preventing theft and inventory loss, and you’ll be in charge of enforcing those rules. You will hire security personnel and manage your department’s budget, which is crucial to an organization’s overall health.
Correctional Counsellor
Correctional counselors assist inmates in correctional centers with mental and emotional issues. They assist inmates in changing their lives in a positive direction by changing the way they deal with the challenges they face. Correctional counselors may teach basic life skills, facilitate job training, and meet with inmates’ families to encourage more healthy decisions. Correctional counselors (along with parole officers and probation officers) are there to show people how to reap the benefits of a second chance in life.
Corrections Officer
Corrections officers collaborate in detention facilities such as jails and prisons to ensure safety, including inmates and staff. They may regularly check services for security vulnerabilities and unsanitary conditions, investigate unlawful behavior and rule violations, prevent disturbances and escapes, and safely transport prison staff to and from their facilities.
What is the Average Salary for a Criminal Justice Graduate in New York?
As of September 2022, the average annual salary for Criminal Justice Graduates in New York City is $63,503 per year, which tends to work out to around $30.53 per hour. This equates to $1,221 per week or $5,291 per month.
How Long Does It Take to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice?
If you enroll as a full-time student in an undergrad criminal justice degree, the requirements will require an average of four years. Major-specific courses, as well as general university requirements, are part of the degree requirements.
Another thing to consider is whether you want to add a minor to your research. If you decide to add a minor to your studies, consult with your college counselor to ensure that you will graduate within four years.
How much does a Criminal Justice Degree Cost?
The average tuition for colleges providing Criminal Justice/Police Science programs for 2021-2022 is $10,653 for undergraduate programs and $15,425 for graduate programs.
