5 reasons to earn your criminology master's degree online

If you’re interested in understanding crime and justice and their societal impacts, a master’s degree in criminology can help you develop specialized expertise, contribute to meaningful change and open doors to advanced career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, crime analysis, policymaking and beyond.

Finding the right time to complete a traditional on-campus program can be challenging for a working professional or someone juggling several responsibilities. Online criminology graduate programs offer convenience, accessibility and a path to achieving your goals without uprooting your life.

Explore the five key benefits of earning your criminology master’s degree online and what sets University of Idaho’s program apart.

1. Maximize your flexibility

One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a criminology master’s program online is the flexibility it provides. Virtual learning allows you to tailor your study schedule around your work, family and other commitments. Whether you work full-time in the criminal justice field or need the flexibility to manage personal obligations, this program allows you to attend classes virtually so you can further your education in a more accommodating way.

This factor is especially crucial for existing law enforcement, corrections and crime analysis professionals who want to deepen their expertise for higher-level, research-based positions. Through synchronous and asynchronous formats, you can revisit materials as needed, submit assignments wherever you have an internet connection, and still meet with your professors and peers on a regular basis. 

2. Learn from anywhere

In the past, returning to school meant completely relocating or commuting long distances to campus. Today, online learning offers an upgrade, letting you access relevant curriculum and practical experiences no matter where you live. This especially benefits students who live in areas where nearby universities don’t have a criminology master’s degree program. It’s easier than ever to select the best program for your goals.

Concerned about interaction? U of I brings lectures, discussions and coursework directly to you. And here, convenient doesn’t mean compromise — our in-person faculty teach our online classes, and all campus resources are open to you.

3. Advance your career on your timeline

Earning a master’s degree in criminology online can significantly boost your career opportunities. It shows you can lead and have the quantitative and qualitative skills for conducting research. And as crime-fighting shifts from reactive to predictive, criminologists are increasingly vital to law enforcement agencies’ efforts.

Based on your background, you have a few routes forward: analyzing patterns in crime, developing criminal justice policies or seeking promotion within your agency. A master’s degree not only helps you stand out across these paths but also ensures you’re ready to influence decisions, improve public safety and adapt to new advancements. 

Completing an online criminology degree program elevates your prospects while you’re still in the field. Exploring the causes of criminal behavior, advanced research methods, the development of evidence-based policies and other complex topics positions you to address some of society’s most pressing challenges, from reducing crime rates to reforming justice systems. 

Get more insights into career opportunities with a master’s degree in criminology.

4. Save time and money

Online programs often present cost savings compared to traditional on-campus options. With no need to commute or relocate, you can avoid expenses like transportation, housing and dining. Additionally, competitive tuition rates and financial aid opportunities make starting a master’s in criminology degree more affordable and accessible. Beyond money, flexible course schedules and not traveling to campus frees up hours in your day. For busy professionals, eliminating these extra trips and time makes completing your degree a more efficient, interruption-free experience.

5. Expand your network

Your future classmates are a lot like you — driven, curious and ready to network. Building relationships with them, your professors and industry leaders you’ll encounter in the degree program leads to valuable connections that extend beyond graduation and into your career. You will also have the option of completing internships in your hometown, which will help you build relationships with justice-related organizations. Every time you log in, you interact with a diverse cohort of students, including working professionals from various sectors of the criminal justice system. Their perspectives enrich your learning experience and offer an inside view of law enforcement. And with U of I’s flexible program, on-campus students might join, too. 

Tips for success in an online graduate program

Maximizing the benefits of an online program requires strong self-discipline, efficiency and time management. Here are some practical strategies to help you stay organized, maintain motivation and make the most of your learning experience:

• Create a dedicated study space: Set up a quiet, well-organized work area to stay focused and productive.
• Establish a routine: Develop a schedule that balances classes, assignments, work and personal responsibilities. Consistency is key to staying on track.
• Engage with professors and peers: Actively participate in discussions, group projects and virtual office hours to build impactful relationships.
• Leverage online resources: Take advantage of online libraries, writing centers, career services and other resources designed to support your academic journey.
• Stay organized: Use digital tools like calendars and project management apps to keep track of deadlines and assignments.

University of Idaho’s Master of Science in Criminology

When searching for the best online criminology master’s program, University of Idaho’s rises above the rest. At U of I, you’ll experience a commitment to academic excellence, flexibility and student support. You’ll also have hands-on opportunities to conduct meaningful research, customize your classes and participate in fieldwork or internships in your local community.

And you’ll be connected to campus. Students in the online and in-person criminology programs take many of the same classes, even synchronously in some cases. This unique integration fosters a sense of collaboration across each cohort and with faculty. Each online student has access to specialized resources and opportunities to build impactful relationships while enjoying the convenience of remote study.

Your future in criminology starts here

Whether you choose to study online or at our Moscow campus, you’ll benefit from a 30-credit criminology program that balances thought-provoking coursework with real-world application. Prepare to achieve your aspirations with University of Idaho’s Master of Science in Criminology degree program — request information or start your application.