Online Criminal Justice Programs in Illinois 2026

Updated January 15, 2026 Table of Contents

Explore accredited online criminal justice programs in Illinois. 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.

#2

University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, IL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 78%
Graduation rate 61%
Tuition
In‑state$14,338
Out‑of‑state$29,360
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 15

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

William Rainey Harper College

Palatine, IL In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 45%
Tuition
In‑state$3,822
Out‑of‑state$11,802
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 73

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 89%
Graduation rate 66%
Tuition
In‑state$20,325
Out‑of‑state$20,325
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 9

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Western Illinois University

Macomb, IL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 75%
Graduation rate 46%
Tuition
In‑state$14,952
Out‑of‑state$14,952
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 16

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

Olney Central College

Olney, IL In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 61%
Tuition
In‑state$4,390
Out‑of‑state$12,340
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 39

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Illinois Central College

East Peoria, IL In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 35%
Tuition
In‑state$4,650
Out‑of‑state$11,700
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 81

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Highland Community College

Freeport, IL In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 48%
Tuition
In‑state$4,696
Out‑of‑state$7,120
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 49

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 Illinois. 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 Illinois.

  • Attorney$157,320
  • Judge or Magistrate$156,210
  • Police Supervisor$136,440
  • Detective or Criminal Investigator$89,740
  • Police or Sheriff's Patrol Officer$101,530
  • Correctional Officer$78,750
  • Probation Officer$70,350
  • Forensic Science Technician$117,590
  • Paralegal or Legal Assistant$62,290
  • Information Security Analyst$114,300

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

Cities in This State

Browse criminal justice program options by city across the state.