Criminal justice programs in Chattanooga, TN

3 schools within 30 miles of Chattanooga, TN offer police academy & criminal justice programs, and 2 are in Chattanooga itself. Police officers in Tennessee earn a median $59,280 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
3
Closest
2 mi
Public colleges
2
Median pay in TN
$59,280

3 police academy & criminal justice schools within 30 mi of Chattanooga, TN

School results

  1. Chattanooga State Community College

    Chattanooga, TN · 2.4 mi · Public

    • Police academy & criminal justice
    • Welding
    • Automotive technician
    • +12
  2. Chattanooga College Medical Dental and & Technical Careers

    Chattanooga, TN · 4.7 mi · Private

    • Police academy & criminal justice
    • Medical assistant
    • Dental assistant
    • +3
  3. Cleveland State Community College

    Cleveland, TN · 23 mi · Public

    • Police academy & criminal justice
    • Welding
    • CNC machining
    • +5

What police officers earn in Tennessee

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Median pay
$59,280
$28.50 an hour
Typical range
$43,520–$79,480
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in TN
15,630
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 Chattanooga?

The closest are Chattanooga State Community College (Chattanooga, 2 mi), Chattanooga College Medical Dental and & Technical Careers (Chattanooga, 5 mi), and Cleveland State Community College (Cleveland, 23 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach police academy & criminal justice.

How much do police academy & criminal justice programs near Chattanooga cost?

For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $5,283 to $33,625. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do police officers make near Chattanooga?

Across Tennessee, the median pay is $59,280 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 Chattanooga?

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.