Criminal Justice Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Criminal Justice Majors?

Yes, scholarships and grants are widely available for students majoring in criminal justice, criminology, forensic science, and related fields. These awards are offered by universities, government agencies, private foundations, and professional associations to support future law enforcement officers, public servants, and researchers.

Tip: Many scholarships for criminal justice majors consider leadership, community involvement, or a demonstrated interest in public safety—not just GPA.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Criminal Justice?

Yes, several scholarships are designed to support women pursuing careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, and forensic science.

• Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) Scholarship: Awards up to $2,500 to women studying criminal justice with a goal of entering federal law enforcement. Applicants must show academic excellence and community engagement.
• Ellis R. Kerley Forensic Sciences Scholarship: Supports female students in forensic anthropology or criminal investigation. Typically awarded to upper-level undergraduates or graduate students.

Tip: Highlight how your goals support representation and leadership in the field of justice or forensic science.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Criminal Justice?

Yes, high school students who plan to pursue a criminal justice degree can apply for entry-level scholarships tied to public safety, leadership, or law enforcement interest.

• Crime Stoppers Scholarship: For students active in youth Crime Stoppers programs or who have contributed to crime prevention in their communities. Award amounts vary by region.
• Future Law Enforcement Officers Scholarship: Provides funding to seniors entering criminal justice programs. Often sponsored by local police departments or state trooper foundations.

Tip: Volunteer work, school safety club participation, or mock trial competitions can boost your application profile.

Are There Scholarships for High School Seniors Interested in Criminal Justice?

Yes, high school students who plan to pursue a criminal justice degree can apply for entry-level scholarships tied to public safety, leadership, or law enforcement interest.

• Crime Stoppers Scholarship: For students active in youth Crime Stoppers programs or who have contributed to crime prevention in their communities. Award amounts vary by region.
• Future Law Enforcement Officers Scholarship: Provides funding to seniors entering criminal justice programs. Often sponsored by local police departments or state trooper foundations.

Tip: Volunteer work, school safety club participation, or mock trial competitions can boost your application profile.

What Is the AFCEA Law Enforcement Scholarship?

The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) Law Enforcement Scholarship supports students pursuing careers that blend criminal justice with technology. It is ideal for those interested in cybersecurity, digital forensics, or intelligence within law enforcement.

Eligibility and award details:

• Open to undergraduate and graduate students in criminal justice, cybersecurity, forensic science, or related fields.
• Must be a U.S. citizen and enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution.
• Award amounts range from $2,500 to $5,000 annually.

This scholarship is especially valuable for students seeking careers in federal law enforcement, cybercrime investigation, or intelligence analysis.

Tip: Strong candidates will demonstrate both technical proficiency and a clear commitment to public safety.

What Is the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Scholarship?

The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Scholarship provides financial support to students pursuing degrees in law enforcement, criminal justice, or public safety. It helps foster the next generation of officers and public servants connected to the FOP community.

Eligibility and requirements:

• Applicants must be FOP members or dependents of active or retired FOP members.
• Must be enrolled in an accredited criminal justice or related program.
• Requires an essay outlining career goals in law enforcement or public safety.

Scholarship amounts vary by lodge and can support both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in policing, corrections, or justice administration.

Tip: Contact your local or state FOP lodge for application instructions, since guidelines and deadlines can vary by chapter.

What Is the James L. Maddex Criminal Justice Scholarship?

The James L. Maddex Criminal Justice Scholarship is awarded by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) to students pursuing careers in law enforcement, criminology, or criminal justice research.

• Open to undergraduate and graduate students.
• Typical award range: $1,000 to $2,000 annually.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic merit and strong interest in public service or justice policy.

Tip: A strong personal statement outlining your goals in justice reform, policy work, or public safety can strengthen your application.

What Is the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Scholarship?

The NOBLE Scholarship promotes diversity in law enforcement by supporting minority students pursuing criminal justice degrees.

• Must be enrolled in an accredited criminal justice or law enforcement program.
• Applicants submit a personal essay on leadership and inclusion in law enforcement.
• Award amounts vary and may include mentorship or internships with NOBLE members.

Tip: Emphasize community engagement and your commitment to equity in justice and policing.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Criminal Justice Students?

Yes, several corporate and nonprofit partnerships offer scholarships to support students pursuing degrees in criminal justice, cybersecurity, and public safety.

• Target & Law Enforcement Grant: Supports students focusing on community policing or private security. May include internship opportunities.
• State Farm Criminal Justice Scholarship: Provides funding for students in public safety-related majors, including criminal justice and fire science.
• Verizon Cybersecurity Scholarship: Offers scholarships to students studying cybercrime investigation, digital forensics, or related fields in law enforcement.

Tip: Explore internships or mentorships offered through these programs—they often provide networking benefits alongside funding.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Criminal Justice Majors?

Many universities offer dedicated scholarships for students majoring in criminal justice, criminology, or forensic science. Examples include:

• John Jay College of Criminal Justice: Offers need-based and merit-based scholarships, including the Ron Moelis Social Innovation Fellowship and Dean’s Merit Awards.
• University of Maryland Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice: Provides scholarships and paid research opportunities for undergraduates and graduate students.
• Michigan State University School of Criminal Justice: Offers scholarships such as the Anna and Donald Wells Scholarship and awards for students focused on corrections and public policy.

Tip: Contact your school’s criminal justice department directly—some awards are not widely advertised online.

How to Apply for Criminal Justice Scholarships?

Applying for scholarships in criminal justice is similar to other fields but often emphasizes civic engagement, ethical reasoning, and career alignment.

• Write a Personal Statement: Share your motivation to work in criminal justice, law enforcement, or social reform.
• Secure Strong Recommendations: Ask for letters from professors, mentors, or community leaders who can speak to your commitment to justice and leadership potential.
• Include Volunteer or Internship Experience: Highlight any experience with police departments, legal clinics, youth outreach, or forensic labs.
• Track Deadlines: Organize application dates and required documents early to avoid missing opportunities.

Tip: Apply for both national and local scholarships—even smaller awards can add up over time.

Myth: Criminal Justice Scholarships Are Only for Law Enforcement Careers

Fact: While many scholarships support students entering policing or corrections, others focus on:

• Criminology and criminal justice research
• Forensic science and forensic psychology
• Cybersecurity and digital investigations
• Legal studies, juvenile justice, and public policy

The criminal justice field is broad—and scholarships are available for nearly every specialization within it.

Tip: Use specific keywords when searching—like “forensic science scholarship,” “juvenile justice grants,” or “law school diversity scholarships.”