Key Takeaways
- Arizona State University (ASU) offers the top-ranked bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Criminal Justice in Phoenix, combining nationally recognized faculty with flexible study options.
- Phoenix College and Glendale Community College provide affordable transfer pathways for associate degree seekers.
- Graduates in Phoenix enter strong job markets in law enforcement, cybersecurity, and policy roles with average salaries between $60,000–$95,000 annually.
- Prospective students should evaluate programs based on accreditation, format (online vs on-campus), internships, and career placement.
Best Criminal Justice Degrees in Phoenix: 2024 Ranking
Pursuing a criminal justice degree in Phoenix means tapping into one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing markets for public safety and law enforcement careers in the Southwest. Arizona ranks among the nation’s leaders in criminal justice employment growth, fueled by demand for professionals skilled in corrections, forensics, homeland security, and criminal investigation.
This guide showcases the best criminal justice degrees in Phoenix, ranked by academic reputation, program flexibility, cost, student outcomes, and career placement success.
1. Arizona State University – School of Criminology and Criminal Justice
Location: Downtown Phoenix
Degree Options: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Format: On-Campus & Online
ASU’s criminal justice program consistently ranks among the top 10 in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report. The curriculum integrates criminal theory, public policy, and data analytics, preparing students for advanced roles in law enforcement, intelligence, and criminal law administration.
Notable Features:
- Faculty-led research centers such as the Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety
- Internship programs with local police departments and federal agencies
- Online degree option for working professionals
Tuition: Approximately $11,700 per year (in-state undergraduate)
2. University of Phoenix – Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Format: 100% Online
The University of Phoenix emphasizes real-world applications of justice theory through courses in organizational behavior, ethics, and emergency management. Its accelerated online format allows students to complete their bachelor's degree in as little as three years.
Top Benefits:
- Flexible online scheduling and rolling admissions
- Career pathways in corrections, probation, or private security
- Transfer credit acceptance from community colleges
Tuition: Approximately $398 per credit hour
3. Grand Canyon University – B.S. in Justice Studies
Location: Central Phoenix
Format: Campus & Online
Grand Canyon University integrates ethics, law, and policy through a Christian worldview. Its program suits students aspiring to serve in law enforcement, criminal law, or advocacy. The degree emphasizes applied research, forensic concepts, and constitutional law.
Key Highlights:
- Capstone experience focused on local justice system challenges
- Online and evening programs for flexibility
- Collaborations with Maricopa County law enforcement agencies
Tuition: $16,500 per year (undergraduate average)
4. Phoenix College – Associate of Applied Science in Administration of Justice
Location: Downtown Phoenix
Format: On-Campus & Hybrid
Phoenix College offers one of the most affordable entry points into criminal justice careers. The AAS degree prepares students for immediate employment or transfer to ASU or Northern Arizona University through established partnerships.
Program Strengths:
- Small class sizes and hands-on training
- Transfer pathways under the Maricopa-to-ASU alliance
- Courses in criminal law, forensic science, and report writing
Tuition: $97 per credit hour (Maricopa County residents)
5. Glendale Community College – A.A. in Administration of Justice
Location: Northwest Phoenix
Format: In-Person
GCC provides a comprehensive foundation in American criminal law, crime scene investigation, and corrections. It is popular among students intending to join local or state law enforcement agencies directly after graduation or transfer into a four-year program.
Program Highlights:
- Transfer articulation with Arizona State University
- Law enforcement-focused coursework and applied training
- Optional internship with the Glendale Police Department
Tuition: $97 per credit hour
Program Comparison: Phoenix’s Top 5 Schools
Institution Degree Level Format Approx. Annual Tuition Transfer Pathways Arizona State University B.S. / M.S. / Ph.D. Online & On-Campus $11,700 (in-state) Multiple partners statewide University of Phoenix B.S. Online $398/credit Community Colleges Nationwide Grand Canyon University B.S. Campus & Online $16,500 Transfer-friendly Phoenix College A.A.S. Hybrid $97/credit ASU, NAU Glendale Community College A.A. In-Person $97/credit ASU
Types of Criminal Justice Degrees Available in Phoenix
Associate Degree (A.A. or A.A.S.)
Two-year degrees focus on foundational legal theory, public safety principles, and basic investigative techniques. Ideal for entry-level law enforcement or as stepping stones toward a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s Degree (B.S. or B.A.)
Four-year programs integrate policy analysis, criminology, and leadership development. Graduates qualify for mid-level administrative roles or federal law enforcement positions.
Master’s and Doctorate
Advanced degrees emphasize criminal theory, public policy analysis, and quantitative research—preparing students for careers in academia, leadership, or forensic analytics. ASU and University of Arizona offer strong graduate options accessible to Phoenix-based professionals.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (for undergraduates)
- Minimum 2.5 GPA (varies by institution)
- Completed general education coursework (for transfers)
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
- Letters of recommendation (for graduate applicants)
Career Outlook and Salary Potential in Phoenix
The greater Phoenix area has one of Arizona’s highest concentrations of protective service and legal professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023 data):
- Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers: $75,540 median annual salary
- Detectives and Criminal Investigators: $90,750 median annual salary
- Paralegals and Legal Assistants: $57,810 median annual salary
- Correctional Officers: $54,880 median annual salary
Growth is strongest in areas tied to cybersecurity, digital evidence analysis, and data-driven policing strategies. Graduates of ASU and GCU report job placement rates above 85% within six months of graduation.
Choosing the Right Program for You
Selecting the best criminal justice degree depends on individual goals and learning preferences. Here are actionable factors to guide your decision:
- Career Objective: Determine whether you aim for fieldwork (law enforcement, investigation) or administration and policy roles.
- Format Needs: Online programs like University of Phoenix or ASU Online support working professionals; campus programs offer hands-on labs and team-based training.
- Budget: Community colleges offer affordable entry points that can later transfer into bachelor’s programs.
- Internship Access: Seek programs with partnerships involving the Phoenix Police Department, Maricopa County, or federal agencies.
Student Experience and Alumni Insights
Graduates from Phoenix-area institutions highlight strong mentorship, internship integration, and opportunities for cross-agency collaboration. Many ASU alumni work in the Arizona Department of Public Safety or with federal agencies such as the FBI and Homeland Security. Community college graduates often praise smaller class sizes and accessible faculty who guide paths to four-year degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Justice Degrees in Phoenix
Which school in Phoenix is best if you want a full criminal justice career path from bachelor’s to Ph.D.?
Arizona State University (ASU) offers a full path in criminology and criminal justice, including B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. options. You can start with an undergraduate degree and continue through graduate study on the same campus or online.
What is the most affordable way to start a criminal justice degree in Phoenix?
You can lower your cost by starting at a community college, such as Phoenix College or Glendale Community College, where tuition is about $97 per credit for Maricopa County residents. After earning an associate degree, you can transfer into a bachelor’s program at ASU or another university.
Can you earn a criminal justice degree online while working full-time in Phoenix?
Yes. ASU Online, the University of Phoenix, and Grand Canyon University all offer online criminal justice or justice studies programs. These formats let you study on a flexible schedule while working full-time or managing family duties.
What jobs can you get with a criminal justice degree in Phoenix, and how much do they pay?
With a criminal justice degree, you can pursue roles such as police officer, detective, correctional officer, paralegal, or cybersecurity and investigations specialist. In the Phoenix area, police officers earn about $75,540 and detectives about $90,750 in median annual pay, according to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (https://www.bls.gov/).
How do you choose between an associate, bachelor’s, and master’s criminal justice degree in Phoenix?
If you want a fast, lower-cost entry into law enforcement or public safety, an associate degree from Phoenix College or Glendale Community College is a good start. If you aim for leadership, federal roles, or policy work, a bachelor’s from ASU, GCU, or the University of Phoenix is helpful. For advanced research, teaching, or high-level administration, you may benefit from a master’s or Ph.D. at ASU.
What admission requirements should you expect for Phoenix criminal justice programs?
Most programs ask for a high school diploma or GED, a minimum GPA around 2.5, and completion of basic general education courses if you transfer. Graduate programs often require a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, and a short personal statement or essay.
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