Online Criminal Justice Programs in California 2026

Updated January 15, 2026 Table of Contents

Explore accredited online criminal justice programs in California. Compare schools, degree levels, and flexible formats designed for working adults.

Schools to Compare

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 87%
Graduation rate 69%
Tuition
In‑state$7,073
Out‑of‑state$18,953
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 5

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 93%
Graduation rate 56%
Tuition
In‑state$7,095
Out‑of‑state$18,975
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 18

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 47%
Graduation rate 71%
Tuition
In‑state$7,008
Out‑of‑state$18,888
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 14

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

California State University-Chico

Chico, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 94%
Graduation rate 64%
Tuition
In‑state$8,064
Out‑of‑state$19,944
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 98%
Graduation rate 55%
Tuition
In‑state$7,675
Out‑of‑state$19,555
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 92%
Graduation rate 52%
Tuition
In‑state$6,813
Out‑of‑state$18,698
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 13

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 94%
Graduation rate 55%
Tuition
In‑state$7,602
Out‑of‑state$19,482
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Santa Ana College

Santa Ana, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 29%
Tuition
In‑state$1,180
Out‑of‑state$9,460
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 55

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

About Online Criminal Justice Programs

Criminal justice programs cover law enforcement, corrections, criminology, and public safety. Look for accredited schools, flexible schedules, and strong student support. Compare programs by degree level, coursework, and delivery format before applying.

What You Can Study

Common topics include criminal law, courts, policing, corrections, ethics, and research methods. Some programs offer concentration options such as criminology, homeland security, or forensic investigation.

How to Compare Programs

Focus on accreditation, program format, and how credits transfer. Review required courses, delivery style, and support services like tutoring, advising, and career services.

Online Format Options

Many schools offer asynchronous classes so you can study on your schedule. Some programs include synchronous sessions, short residencies, or local field experiences. Ask each school which format they use.

Transfer Credit and Prior Learning

If you have prior college coursework or training, ask about transfer policies and credit for prior learning. This can reduce time to completion.

Questions to Ask Schools

  • Is the program regionally accredited?
  • What concentrations are available?
  • Are there fieldwork or internship requirements?
  • How many credits can transfer?
  • What support is available for online students?

Local Agencies to Research

To understand regional requirements and opportunities, review local law enforcement agencies, courts, and corrections departments in California. Requirements can vary by jurisdiction.

Which Careers Make the Most Money with a Criminal Justice Degree?

Some of the many high-paying careers available to criminal justice program graduates are as follows:

Median annual wages shown for California.

  • Attorney$197,790
  • Judge or Magistrate$156,210
  • Police Supervisor$162,740
  • Detective or Criminal Investigator$122,140
  • Police or Sheriff's Patrol Officer$115,400
  • Correctional Officer$95,840
  • Probation Officer$107,050
  • Forensic Science Technician$96,850
  • Paralegal or Legal Assistant$72,960
  • Information Security Analyst$140,660

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS).

Cities in This State

Browse criminal justice program options by city across the state.