20 Best Criminal Justice Scholarships with High Awards
Your resource for finding scholarships specifically designed for criminal justice students.
- By: The College Compass Team
Picture this: you, a pivotal part of the justice system, upholding the law or shaping policy that could revolutionize society.Â
But there’s one problem – according to the U.S. Federal Reserve, Americans owed over $1.77 trillion in student loan debt by 2023, a sum that is daunting to even the most determined students.Â
However, what if there’s a way to mitigate this financial burden?Â
Criminal justice scholarships are here to help you get that criminal justice degree. You may be surprised by the variety and abundance of scholarship opportunities waiting for you to explore.
Criminal Justice Scholarships for 2023/24
Beinecke Scholarship
Dedicated to exceptionally talented undergraduate students, the Beinecke Scholarship is a golden opportunity that funds your graduate education in the arts, humanities, or social sciences, including criminal justice.
ISF Congressional Policy Fellowship
For graduate students eyeing a career in policymaking, this fellowship offers a one-year placement with a Member of Congress in Washington, D.C, providing real-world experience in policymaking.
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship
Geared towards undergraduates and graduate students in criminal justice, this scholarship by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners fosters future anti-fraud professionals’ growth.
Mercatus Adam Smith Fellowship
The Mercatus Adam Smith Fellowship, targeting graduate students, cultivates an understanding of the broader context in which criminal justice policies operate, inspired by Adam Smith’s economic teachings.
ABF Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
The ABF Summer Research Fellowship is a program designed for undergraduates to provide them with a practical and engaging research opportunity in socio-legal studies.
SVCF Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship
Administered by the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, this scholarship supports Bay Area high school students and college undergrads aiming for a career in law enforcement, a noble branch of criminal justice.
MSSA Scholarship Program
The MSSA Scholarship Program is designed explicitly for Michigan Sheriffs’ Association members interested in pursuing a career or degree in law enforcement.
Captain James J. Regan Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship honors Captain James J. Regan’s memory by supporting law enforcement students who exemplify his qualities of leadership, dignity, and commitment to justice.
COMTO North Texas Scholarship
Targeting students from North Texas, this scholarship supports those aspiring to careers in transportation law enforcement, a niche yet essential aspect of criminal justice.
Beverley Yip Scholarship
This scholarship, in honor of Beverley Yip, supports international and local students at the University of British Columbia who demonstrate an interest in Asian legal systems’ study.
SSC's Leadership in Law Enforcement Scholarship
A unique scholarship offered by Security Service Company (SSC) targets individuals dedicated to forging a career in law enforcement leadership roles, promoting excellence and professionalism.
WIFLE Scholarship Program
Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) offers this scholarship to females pursuing education and careers in law enforcement, advocating for gender balance in criminal justice roles.
Mercatus Joseph Schumpeter Undergraduate Fellowship
This fellowship, aimed at undergraduates studying criminal justice, promotes an understanding of institutional analysis, a crucial aspect of the justice system.
Oregon State Sheriff's Association Scholarship
Exclusively for Oregon residents, this scholarship supports students keen on serving their community through a career in law enforcement, strengthening the bond between the public and the police.
Nellie Martin Carman Scholarship
The Nellie Martin Carman Scholarship supports public high school seniors in Washington State, providing financial aid for those aiming for a career in criminal justice.
Vermont Police Association Scholarships
Through various scholarships, the Vermont Police Association supports Vermont students showing a keen interest in law enforcement careers, fostering strong community bonds.
Darius Quimby Memorial Scholarship
In memory of the first U.S. law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty, this scholarship supports New York students pursuing a career in law enforcement or criminal justice.
Orbeck Memorial Scholarship
Aimed at students studying criminal justice, this scholarship honors Officer Chris Orbeck’s legacy, highlighting the importance of commitment and dedication to law enforcement.
Bishop John Bryson Chane Scholarship for Social Justice
This scholarship is specifically aimed at students dedicated to social justice and emphasizes the significance of justice beyond the legal system. It aims to develop leaders who will strive for equality in society.
Sheryl A. Horak Law Enforcement Explorer Memorial Scholarship
In honor of Sheryl A. Horak, this scholarship supports Law Enforcement Explorers pursuing a law enforcement or criminal justice career, emphasizing the importance of exploration and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most criminal justice scholarships are open to high school seniors and undergraduate or graduate students studying criminal justice or related subjects.
Law enforcement professionals may have the opportunity to receive these scholarships for additional education.
The application process varies depending on the scholarship, but common elements include filling out an application form, writing an essay, and providing letters of recommendation.
Some scholarships may also require a demonstration of financial need or academic transcripts.
Yes, you are generally encouraged to apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. Securing multiple scholarships can significantly reduce financial stress and allow students to focus more on their studies.
While some scholarships are merit-based and require high academic performance, many also consider other factors such as community service, leadership, personal essays, and career goals.
Some scholarships are also need-based and focus more on the student’s financial needs rather than academic performance.
With these scholarships, your dream career in Criminal Justice is closer than ever. Why wait?
Dive right in, start your applications today, and fuel your passion for justice.
Your future starts here!
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