Are you interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice? Are you looking for the best online school to get your criminal justice degree? Look no further.
In this article, we will provide you with an overview of the best online schools for a criminal justice degree.
Overview of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
Criminal justice degree programs prepare students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and the court system.
Students will learn about the criminal justice system, criminal law, criminology, and more. A criminal justice degree is a versatile degree that can lead to a variety of careers in the criminal justice field.
Why Pursue an Online Criminal Justice Degree?
Online criminal justice degree programs offer several advantages. They are flexible and allow students to complete their coursework on their own schedule.
This is especially beneficial for working professionals or those with family obligations. Online programs are also typically less expensive than traditional on-campus programs.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Online School for Criminal Justice Degree
When selecting the best online school for a criminal justice degree, consider the following criteria:
- Accreditation: Make sure the school is accredited by a reputable accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain academic standards.
- Curriculum: Look for a school that offers a comprehensive criminal justice curriculum that covers all aspects of the criminal justice system.
- Faculty: Look for a school with experienced faculty members who have real-world experience in the criminal justice field.
- Student Support Services: Look for a school that offers robust student support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
Flexibility: Look for a school that offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to complete your coursework at your own pace.
5 Best Online Schools for Criminal Justice Degree
Based on the above criteria, here are the best online schools for a criminal justice degree:
1. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program.
The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in criminal justice. The curriculum includes courses in criminology, criminal law, and criminal procedure.
The faculty members are experienced criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in the field. The University of Cincinnati also offers robust student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
2. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice degree program.
The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the criminal justice system. The curriculum includes courses in criminal law, criminology, and criminal justice administration.
The faculty members are experienced criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in the field. Arizona State University also offers robust student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
3. Penn State World Campus
Penn State World Campus offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program. The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in criminal justice.
The curriculum includes courses in criminology, criminal law, and criminal justice research methods.
The faculty members are experienced criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in the field. Penn State World Campus also offers robust student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
4. Liberty University
Liberty University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program.
The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the criminal justice system. The curriculum includes courses in criminal law, criminology, and criminal justice ethics.
The faculty members are experienced criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in the field. Liberty University also offers robust student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
5. Colorado State University Global
Colorado State University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration degree program.
The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system. The curriculum includes courses in criminal law, criminology, and law enforcement administration.
The faculty members are experienced criminal justice professionals with real-world experience in the field. Colorado State University Global also offers robust student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
Different Types Of Criminal Justice Degrees
If you have an interest in pursuing a career in the criminal justice system, then you may be interested in exploring the various types of criminal justice degrees available. A criminal justice degree can help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a variety of fields, from law enforcement and corrections to private security and investigation.
Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice
An associate's degree in criminal justice is a two-year program that provides students with a basic understanding of the criminal justice system. This program typically covers topics such as criminal law, criminology, and law enforcement.
Graduates of an associate's degree program in criminal justice may be qualified for entry-level positions in law enforcement, such as police officers, correctional officers, and security guards.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Application for admission
- Proof of residency
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice
A bachelor's degree in criminal justice is a four-year program that provides students with a more in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system.
This program covers a wide range of topics, including criminal law, criminology, forensic science, and corrections.
Graduates of a bachelor's degree program in criminal justice may be qualified for a variety of positions in the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, corrections, and private security.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Official transcripts
- Minimum GPA
- ACT or SAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
Master's Degree in Criminal Justice
A master's degree in criminal justice is a two-year program that provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of criminal justice.
This program may include courses in criminal justice research methods, criminology, and criminal law. Graduates of a master's degree program in criminal justice may be qualified for management and leadership positions in law enforcement, corrections, and other areas of the criminal justice system.
Admission Requirements
- Transcripts from a bachelor’s program in criminal justice, criminology, sociology or a related subject from an accredited university
- Prerequisite courses in subjects like statistics, psychology and sociology for learners who earned their bachelor’s degrees in unrelated disciplines
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Completed application for admission
Doctorate Degree in Criminal Justice
A doctorate degree in criminal justice is the highest level of education available in the field. This program typically takes four to six years to complete and focuses on advanced research and scholarship in criminal justice.
Graduates of a doctorate degree program in criminal justice may be qualified for teaching and research positions in academia, as well as leadership roles in the criminal justice system.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology or a closely related field
- Master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field may be required for some programs
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or letter of intent
- Competitive GRE scores
Certificate Programs in Criminal Justice
Certificate programs in criminal justice are short-term programs that provide students with specialized training in a specific area of the criminal justice system.
These programs may focus on topics such as forensic science, criminal law, or corrections. Certificate programs in criminal justice may be useful for individuals who already have a degree in another field but are interested in transitioning to a career in criminal justice.
Choosing the Right Criminal Justice Degree Program
When choosing a criminal justice degree program, it is important to consider your career goals and the specific skills and knowledge you need to achieve those goals. You should also consider factors such as the program's reputation, accreditation, and cost.
Potential Career Paths with a Criminal Justice Degree
Individuals with a criminal justice degree may be qualified for a wide range of career paths, including law enforcement, corrections, private security, and investigation. Some specific job titles that may be available to criminal justice graduates include police officer, detective, probation officer, parole officer, corrections officer, and security analyst.
Job Opportunities for Criminal Justice Graduates
Criminal justice graduates may find job opportunities in various fields, including federal, state, and local government agencies, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, private security firms, and legal offices. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with a criminal justice degree:
Law Enforcement
Individuals with a criminal justice degree may work in law enforcement agencies, such as police departments, sheriff's offices, and federal agencies like the FBI or DEA. Some common job titles in law enforcement include police officer, detective, and criminal investigator.
Corrections
Criminal justice graduates may also work in correctional facilities, such as jails and prisons. Jobs in this field include correctional officer, probation officer, and parole officer.
Private Security
Individuals with a criminal justice degree may work in private security, protecting individuals, organizations, or properties. Some potential job titles in this field include security analyst, loss prevention specialist, and private investigator.
Legal Services
Criminal justice graduates may also work in legal offices, assisting attorneys with legal research and other tasks. Some job titles in this field include paralegal and legal assistant.
A criminal justice degree can open up a variety of job opportunities in the criminal justice system and related fields. Whether you are interested in law enforcement, corrections, private security, or legal services, there is a criminal justice degree program that can help you achieve your career goals.
When choosing a criminal justice degree program, it is important to consider your career goals, as well as the reputation and accreditation of the program. With the right education and training, you can pursue a rewarding career in the criminal justice system.
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Conclusion
Getting a criminal justice degree online can be a great way to advance your career in law enforcement, corrections, or the court system. When selecting the best online school for a criminal justice degree, make sure to consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty, student support services, and flexibility.
The five schools listed above are among the best online schools for a criminal justice degree.
FAQs
What can you do with a criminal justice degree?
A criminal justice degree can lead to a variety of careers in law enforcement, corrections, and the court system. Some common career paths include police officer, probation officer, correctional officer, and court administrator.
Is it better to get a criminal justice degree online or on-campus?
Both online and on-campus criminal justice degree programs have their advantages. Online programs are typically more flexible and less expensive, while on-campus programs offer more opportunities for networking and hands-on learning.
What is the salary for someone with a criminal justice degree?
The salary for someone with a criminal justice degree can vary depending on the career path and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for police and detectives is $67,290.
Can you get a criminal justice degree in less than four years?
Yes, some schools offer accelerated criminal justice degree programs that can be completed in less than four years. However, these programs may require a heavier course load and may not offer as much flexibility as traditional four-year programs.
Are criminal justice degrees in high demand?
The demand for criminal justice professionals varies depending on the location and the specific career path. However, overall, there is a growing demand for criminal justice professionals due to an increase in crime rates and an aging workforce.
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