Criminal justice programs in Tacoma, WA
4 schools within 30 miles of Tacoma, WA offer police academy & criminal justice programs, and the closest is Pierce College District in Lakewood, 8 miles away. Police officers in Washington earn a median $102,080 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 4
- Closest
- 8 mi
- Public colleges
- 4
- Median pay in WA
- $102,080
What police officers earn in Washington
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
Police officer salary in WashingtonHow to become a police officer
- Median pay
- $102,080
- $49.08 an hour
- Typical range
- $79,120–$132,200
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in WA
- 9,160
- 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 Tacoma?
The closest are Pierce College District (Lakewood, 8 mi), Highline College (Des Moines, 12 mi), and Green River College (Auburn, 14 mi). In total, 4 schools within 30 miles teach police academy & criminal justice.
How much do police academy & criminal justice programs near Tacoma cost?
For the 4 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $9,879 to $13,803. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do police officers make near Tacoma?
Across Washington, the median pay is $102,080 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 Tacoma?
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
- Maple Valley (21 mi)
- Bremerton (23 mi)
- Seattle (26 mi)
- Issaquah (28 mi)
- Everett (51 mi)
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