4 Easiest Criminal Justice Degree Programs

Criminal justice degrees help you understand how the legal system works and how professionals keep communities safe. These programs teach skills in investigation, ethics, and public policy, preparing students for many law enforcement or security roles.

For those seeking a flexible and less intensive path, some criminal justice degrees are easier to complete than others. Factors like online learning options, transfer-friendly credits, and practical coursework can make the process faster and more manageable.

What Makes a Criminal Justice Degree “Easy”?

Easier criminal justice programs tend to focus on flexibility and prior learning credit rather than intensive research or fieldwork. Students can make their degree path smoother through the following approaches:

• choosing schools that offer transfer credit for police academy or military training
• selecting programs with accelerated online terms to complete classes in a shorter time frame
• taking applied or project-based courses instead of heavy theory or statistics requirements
• using prior work experience or certifications to waive certain introductory classes
• enrolling in programs that provide academic advising and tutoring support for working adults

Easiest Criminal Justice Degrees

A criminal justice degree is often perceived as less challenging than other majors due to its less rigorous coursework, although hard work and dedication are still required no matter what program a student pursues. Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice, both of which lead to rewarding job opportunities in various roles in corrections, law enforcement, and security.

Online bachelor's degrees can be easier for adult learners since these programs allow flexibility and accelerated options to get an education around busy working schedules. The following shows examples of some of the easiest criminal justice degrees accessible through online learning from popular accredited colleges across the nation.

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice administration, where students acquire career-oriented skills for working in law enforcement and the courts.

Coursework focuses on teaching administrative practices and responsibilities for employment in the criminal justice system and includes topics like grant writing and funding, ethics, and interagency communication.

Kean University

Kean University helps students acquire real-world knowledge and insights into the American legal system with its highly-ranked online Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice.

This program teaches proper techniques and methods in crime investigation and prevention, handling security breaches, and victimology, leading to careers as police officers, detectives, and Secret Service agents.

Walden University

Walden University has a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice with concentrations in criminal investigation, corrections and human services, or criminal justice management and administration.

It prepares students for protecting and serving their communities and holding impactful leadership roles with instruction in criminal justice processes, practices, and concepts.

Liberty University

Liberty University has a top-rated online criminal justice degree, ideal for first-time police officers and those with experience who are interested in advancing their law enforcement careers.

It includes topics like criminal justice reform, community-based corrections, and crisis intervention and offers specialization areas such as crime scene investigation, public administration, and criminal psychology.

How We Rank Schools

The easiest criminal justice degrees are chosen based on flexibility, program design, and accessibility for adult learners. We focus on institutions that make earning a degree realistic for working students and those returning to college.

• Accreditation: Each featured university holds regional accreditation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Degree requirements: Programs are selected for streamlined curricula that minimize elective overload while maintaining career relevance.
• Online options: All listed schools provide accredited online pathways that fit working professionals’ schedules.
• Affordability: Schools are evaluated for competitive tuition rates, financial aid availability, and credit transfer policies.

FAQs About the Easiest Criminal Justice Degrees

Criminal justice programs vary in format and focus, so it’s helpful to understand what makes one easier to complete. Below are answers to some common questions for students exploring these degree paths.

Is a Criminal Justice Degree Hard to Earn Online?

Online criminal justice degrees are designed for accessibility, with self-paced classes and structured modules that support independent learning. Students can log in around work or family commitments, making coursework less stressful to manage.

Because online programs still require exams, essays, and projects, students should plan to stay organized and meet regular deadlines. However, online study often allows learners to revisit lessons and communicate easily with instructors for additional support.

What Jobs Can You Get With a Criminal Justice Degree?

Graduates can pursue roles in law enforcement, corrections, or investigation, depending on their specialization. Common job titles include police officer, probation officer, and private investigator.

Those who continue their studies may advance into management or federal positions, such as FBI or homeland security agents. Some also move into fields like compliance, forensics, or criminal analysis.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Criminal Justice Degree?

Most online criminal justice bachelor’s degrees take about four years to finish, though accelerated or transfer pathways can shorten that timeline. Students with relevant prior coursework or professional experience may graduate in as little as two to three years.

Program duration often depends on course load and pacing options. Choosing shorter terms or taking summer sessions can help motivated learners complete their degrees more quickly.

Explore Criminal Justice Degrees

Explore accredited criminal justice programs to find the option that fits your goals and schedule. Learn.org can help you compare online and on-campus degrees that make advancing your education and career easier.