Best Online Criminal Justice Programs in Minnesota (2026)

Updated May 3, 2026 Table of Contents

Minnesota Criminal Justice At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Criminal Justice Salary$99,595
National ComparisonMinnesota salaries are approximately 12.5% higher than the national average for criminal justice
Primary Licensing BodyMinnesota POST Commission
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online criminal justice degree in Minnesota offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Minnesota salaries are approximately 12.5% higher than the national average for criminal justice roles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable in-state option or a top-ranked national program, Minnesota students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.

Top Online Criminal Justice Schools in Minnesota

The following schools offer accredited online criminal justice programs and are ranked based on affordability, graduation rates, and student outcomes in Minnesota.

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.

Career Outlook and Salaries in Minnesota

Criminal Justice professionals in Minnesota experience a dynamic job market with competitive wages. Below are the median annual salaries for key roles in the field, based on the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for Minnesota.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Minnesota)
Attorney$137,720
Judge or Magistrate$182,790
Police Supervisor$100,680
Detective or Criminal Investigator$82,330
Police or Sheriff’s Patrol Officer$83,310
Correctional Officer$64,670
Probation Officer$79,510
Forensic Science Technician$68,790
Paralegal or Legal Assistant$67,320
Information Security Analyst$128,830

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.

Why Pursue an Online Criminal Justice Degree in Minnesota?

Choosing a program in Minnesota can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Minnesota offer lower tuition rates for residents, even for online programs.
  • Local Networking: Attending a school within your state can make it easier to connect with local employers and professional organizations.
  • Licensing Alignment: Programs in Minnesota often align with POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) requirements specific to the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online criminal justice programs in Minnesota accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Minnesota, this includes accreditation from agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, ensuring your degree meets high academic standards.

How does Criminal Justice pay in Minnesota compare to other states?

Minnesota salaries are approximately 12.5% higher than the national average for criminal justice roles. This makes Minnesota a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

What is the primary licensing board for criminal justice in Minnesota?

The Minnesota POST Commission oversees professional standards and licensure for the field in Minnesota. Most accredited programs are designed to align with their specific requirements.

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