Boston Criminal Justice Schools

Criminal justice is a big field, so it’s clear that post-high school education is a must. You can contact one or more of our featured schools, listed below, to learn more about criminal justice programs in Boston and what choices are available to you. Each school you contact can send you an information packet, which may help you make an informed choice.

Worried that it may be too hard to get to school? Never fear, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is here. With three different transit services—subway, bus, and commuter rail—it is simple to get online, look at routes, and find the easiest way to get to school every day. Different fare and pass packages make it easy to choose a plan that fits your needs.

Criminal Justice Education in Boston

One of the educational hubs of New England, Boston has an impressive selection of schools. This includes public schools, private schools, two-year institutions, and four-year institutions. You may even be able to take courses online to earn your degree.

Prior to committing to a program, you need to decide what kind of degree you want to earn. An associates degree is a popular choice, as it only requires two years of full-time study. However, a bachelor’s degree may be a better choice for you if you want to pursue higher-level criminal justice careers. This degree requires four years of study.

Regardless of which degree level you choose to pursue, your schooling is comprised of two parts: general education and criminal justice courses. General education courses give you a strong educational base on which to base your career. Criminal justice classes take you through fields like criminal law, criminal justice ethics, court procedures, and policing procedures.

There are two ways you can set yourself apart from your peers. First, you can complete a concentration or area of focus. By focusing on a field like victimology, cyber crime, or forensic crime, you may qualify for more specialized work in these fields. You can also choose an internship, which allows you to gain experience in a criminal justice environment.

As you consider all of the criminal justice programs that Boston offers, remember to look into tuition and financial aid. Rates vary between schools, but tuition tends to be less costly at public colleges and universities. Tuition at Boston University, one of the most prominent private universities in Boston, is $26,408 per semester.

As a student, take advantage of local criminal justice groups. You can network with professionals in the career path you want to pursue and learn more about the community. Groups based in or near Boston include the Massachusetts Paralegal Association, the High Technology Crime Investigation Association, and the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association.

Job Outlook for Criminal Justice Graduates in Boston

Starting your criminal justice career can be one of the most exciting parts of going to school and earning your degree. Earning an Associate’s degree may allow you to apply for jobs in a number of fields, including the following (listed here with their median salaries in the Boston area for 2022 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Correctional officer: $70,330 per year
• Security guard: $41,180 per year
  

If you have a bachelor’s degree, consider some of the following career options that you may be qualified for:

• Supervisor of police officers: $111,390 per year
• Detective: $101,920 per year
• Supervisor of correctional officers: $46,420 per year
  

Joining the Boston Police Department can give you many career opportunities. As a police officer, you can qualify for membership in groups like the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association. This group can advocate for you, keep you updated on legislation, and give you access to special events.

2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Boston, Cambridge and Nashua, MA-NH positions contained here reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2023.