Criminal justice programs in Des Plaines, IL
17 schools within 30 miles of Des Plaines, IL offer police academy & criminal justice programs, and one is in Des Plaines itself. Police officers in Illinois earn a median $100,520 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 17
- Closest
- 2 mi
- Public colleges
- 15
- Median pay in IL
- $100,520
What police officers earn in Illinois
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
Police officer salary in IllinoisHow to become a police officer
- Median pay
- $100,520
- $48.33 an hour
- Typical range
- $58,420–$119,560
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in IL
- 29,180
- Job growth, 2025–35
- +3.5%
- 51,500 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the closest police academy & criminal justice schools to Des Plaines?
The closest are Oakton College (Des Plaines, 2 mi), City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College (Chicago, 8 mi), and Triton College (River Grove, 9 mi). In total, 17 schools within 30 miles teach police academy & criminal justice.
How much do police academy & criminal justice programs near Des Plaines cost?
For the 17 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $2,829 to $18,894. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do police officers make near Des Plaines?
Across Illinois, the median pay is $100,520 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.
How do I choose a police academy & criminal justice school in Des Plaines?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Criminal justice programs in nearby cities
- Arlington Heights (6 mi)
- Chicago (18 mi)
- Downers Grove (18 mi)
- Elgin (22 mi)
- Waukegan (23 mi)
- Aurora (27 mi)
- McHenry (29 mi)
- Orland Park (30 mi)