Home > Programs > Criminal Justice > States > Washington


Washington Criminal Justice At a Glance

MetricDetail
Median Criminal Justice Salary$109,168
National ComparisonWashington salaries are approximately 23.3% higher than the national average for criminal justice
Primary Licensing BodyWashington POST Commission
Accreditation RequiredInstitutional + Regional

Earning an online criminal justice degree in Washington offers a flexible path to a high-demand career. Washington salaries are approximately 23.3% 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, Washington students have access to a variety of accredited online choices that balance quality and cost.


Top Online Criminal Justice Schools in Washington

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

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 Washington

Criminal Justice professionals in Washington 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 Washington.

OccupationMedian Annual Salary (Washington)
Attorney$151,950
Judge or Magistrate$131,740
Police Supervisor$134,120
Detective or Criminal Investigator$116,450
Police or Sheriff’s Patrol Officer$102,640
Correctional Officer$76,400
Probation Officer$79,800
Forensic Science Technician$77,650
Paralegal or Legal Assistant$78,010
Information Security Analyst$142,920

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


Why Pursue an Online Criminal Justice Degree in Washington?

Choosing a program in Washington can provide several advantages:

  • In-State Tuition: Many public universities in Washington 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 Washington often align with POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) requirements specific to the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online criminal justice programs in Washington accredited?

Yes, the programs listed above are accredited by recognized regional or national agencies. For Washington, 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 Washington compare to other states?

Washington salaries are approximately 23.3% higher than the national average for criminal justice roles. This makes Washington a strong choice for students looking to maximize their ROI after graduation.

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

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


Browse Other States