Criminal justice programs in Knoxville, TN
3 schools within 30 miles of Knoxville, TN offer police academy & criminal justice programs, and 2 are in Knoxville 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
What police officers earn in Tennessee
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
Police officer salary in TennesseeHow to become a police officer
- 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.
Hear from the best fits near Knoxville
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Frequently asked questions
What are the closest police academy & criminal justice schools to Knoxville?
The closest are South College (Knoxville, 2 mi), Pellissippi State Community College (Knoxville, 12 mi), and Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Jacksboro (Jacksboro, 28 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach police academy & criminal justice.
How much do police academy & criminal justice programs near Knoxville cost?
For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $4,983 to $17,858. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do police officers make near Knoxville?
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 Knoxville?
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.