Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary: Salary 2025 & Career Guide
Postsecondary criminal justice and law enforcement teachers earn a median salary of $76,590, according to the latest BLS data. The mean wage is $87,550, or roughly $37 per hour. This occupation covers professors who teach policing, corrections, and the legal system at colleges and universities. The lowest 10% earn about $45,000, while the highest 10% make up to $140,240.
How much Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary earn
Nationally, the median annual wage is $76,590 (mean $87,550). The typical range runs from $45,000 at the 10th percentile to $140,240 at the 90th. Pay varies significantly by institution type, location, and academic rank. Community college instructors tend to earn less than those at four-year universities; full professors at research institutions top the scale.
- Median annual salary: $76,590
- Mean hourly wage: $37 (approx.)
- 10th percentile: $45,000
- 90th percentile: $140,240
Pay by state
California pays criminal justice teachers the most, with a mean annual wage of $139,720. Colorado follows at $122,050, then Maryland ($99,600), Pennsylvania ($94,710), and Oregon ($93,960). At the lower end, Florida averages $61,550, Kentucky $60,280, and Kansas $50,270. These differences reflect cost of living, state funding for higher education, and demand.
How to become Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Most postsecondary criminal justice teachers hold at least a master’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a closely related field. For tenure-track positions at four-year colleges, a doctorate is often required. Community colleges may accept a master’s plus professional experience in law enforcement, corrections, or the courts.
- Earn a master’s degree (or doctorate) in criminal justice or criminology.
- Gain professional experience in law enforcement, legal services, or corrections.
- Complete teaching certificate or adjunct experience preferred by some colleges.
- Apply for open positions; publish research for tenure-track roles.
Job outlook
Employment for postsecondary criminal justice teachers is projected to grow 2% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The BLS expects about 1,200 openings per year, largely due to retirements and faculty turnover. Growth is tied to overall college enrollment; online programs may boost demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for criminal justice teachers?
California, with a mean salary of $139,720.
Do I need a PhD to teach criminal justice at a college?
Not always. Community colleges often accept a master’s plus field experience. Four-year universities typically require a PhD for tenure-track positions.
How many criminal justice teachers are there in the U.S.?
The BLS counts about 13,150 postsecondary criminal justice and law enforcement teachers nationally.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary data.