Obtaining a criminal justice degree opens doors to a rewarding and enduring career in a highly competitive field. In addition, the abundance of opportunities allows students to take advantage of online programs, enabling them to choose their preferred study time instead of being constrained by a conventional class schedule.
Flexible Scheduling
Many criminal justice majors use online learning options to earn their degrees while working full-time or taking care of other commitments. In addition to flexible scheduling, online criminal justice programs typically offer shorter course lengths than traditional bachelor’s degree programs. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice requires four years of coursework, but students who enter the program with transferrable credits or core courses could earn their degrees sooner. Some online criminal justice programs also operate acceleratedly, offering 7- or 8-week courses. Students should investigate whether the college they are considering has regional accreditation, which employers prefer, and consider joining professional organizations. These organizations often charge membership fees but provide access to networking opportunities, job boards, and other valuable industry information. They can also help students find scholarships to reduce their education costs.
High-Quality Education
Online criminal justice programs use the same professors and materials as traditional on-campus degrees, but students can still expect to work hard. Many bachelor’s programs include a capstone project or internship that puts students in real-world situations with law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, and courts. In addition, some schools help connect students with internships that offer hourly compensation or a stipend.
Online students can also apply for federal financial aid to help cover tuition. However, prospective students must research schools and ask about their accreditation status, which can affect course credit transferability and eligibility for federal aid. Sometimes, a national-accredited school may have lower tuition rates than a regionally-accredited one. Private scholarships are also available.
Personal Growth
The career options with a criminal justice degree range from crime prevention to paralegal jobs and graduate school. If you choose an online program, your coursework will be structured in a way that supports the flexibility of your schedule, though it may require more self-motivation to complete assignments and take tests at home. Some online criminal justice programs offer concentration offerings that help you tailor your education to match your career goals. You can usually select a concentration at the bachelor’s degree level, although some master’s and doctorate degrees also allow you to do so. Aside from the obvious benefits of getting an undergraduate degree, many students find that earning a criminal justice degree creates more job opportunities and raises their earning potential, regardless of whether they’re already working in the field or are hoping to land a law enforcement or security position. Plus, many scholarships are available for online criminal justice students.
Job Opportunities
Education plays a significant role in career advancement and salary in criminal justice. While years of experience may also play a role, those with college degrees often earn more money and enjoy more meaningful opportunities for promotion. Individuals interested in career advancement in criminal justice can pursue certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Those who wish to obtain specific expertise in the field can even choose to complete a master’s degree in criminal justice. For those interested in the whole college experience, some online criminal justice degree programs offer the opportunity to live on campus and take classes that combine on-campus and online learning. These students can pursue their dreams of becoming part of the college community while juggling other responsibilities at home and work. Accessing lectures and course materials from anywhere worldwide is one of the most beneficial aspects of an online criminal justice degree program.