Online Criminal Justice Programs in North Carolina 2026

Updated January 15, 2026 Table of Contents

Explore accredited online criminal justice programs in North Carolina. 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

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 87%
Graduation rate 60%
Tuition
In‑state$4,532
Out‑of‑state$8,532
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 19

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 31%
Tuition
In‑state$2,336
Out‑of‑state$7,582
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 68

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

Cape Fear Community College

Wilmington, NC In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 31%
Tuition
In‑state$2,748
Out‑of‑state$8,892
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 78

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 69%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$6,735
Out‑of‑state$17,391
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 10

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Central Carolina Community College

Sanford, NC In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 36%
Tuition
In‑state$2,554
Out‑of‑state$8,698
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 66

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

Campbell University

Buies Creek, NC In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 94%
Graduation rate 56%
Tuition
In‑state$40,410
Out‑of‑state$40,410
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Wayne Community College

Goldsboro, NC In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 51%
Tuition
In‑state$2,524
Out‑of‑state$8,668
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 36

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Central Piedmont Community College

Charlotte, NC In-state option
  • 2 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 24%
Tuition
In‑state$2,792
Out‑of‑state$8,936
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 73

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 North Carolina. 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 North Carolina.

  • Attorney$124,880
  • Judge or Magistrate$156,210
  • Police Supervisor$87,110
  • Detective or Criminal Investigator$62,480
  • Police or Sheriff's Patrol Officer$58,030
  • Correctional Officer$49,080
  • Probation Officer$60,410
  • Forensic Science Technician$50,460
  • Paralegal or Legal Assistant$49,390
  • Information Security Analyst$121,070

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

Cities in This State

Browse criminal justice program options by city across the state.