Best Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs

 

You will save money by completing your degree online. Parking, transit, and lodging are all less expensive. A few universities provide financial aid and reduced tuition for distance learners who attend online.

Starting out with, online courses usually provide ease and flexibility. Studying at your own pace is possible from any location with an Internet connection.

This allows you to balance work, family and your education. Many schools also offer accelerated programs so you can finish faster.

You'll have access to the same high-quality curriculum and resources as on-campus students.

An online criminal justice degree prepares you for various careers like police officers, paralegals, forensic scientists, homeland security specialists, and probation officers.

With technology today, online students can participate fully in discussions, collaborate on group projects and build relationships with professors and peers.

Top Online Schools Offering a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

If you're interested in studying criminal justice, some of the top online programs are offered by schools like:

1. American Public University System

APU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program with concentrations in homeland security, law enforcement, corrections, and forensic science.

They aim to provide students with a broad understanding of the criminal justice system and practical skills.

2. Liberty University

Liberty's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program provides a Christian-based education focused on leadership and ethics.

They offer concentrations in crime scene investigation, homeland security, juvenile justice, and strategic intelligence.

3. University of Cincinnati

UC's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in criminal justice theory and practice.

They focus on areas like law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, and homeland security.

4. Grand Canyon University

GCU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies with a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation.

GCU aims to prepare students for careers as crime scene investigators, forensic scientists, and criminal profilers.

5. Southern New Hampshire University

SNHU's online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program focuses on areas like law enforcement, legal studies, corrections, and homeland security.

SNHU allows students to transfer up to 90 credits and offers generous financial aid and scholarships.

An accredited degree from a reputable school can help prepare you for various career opportunities in the criminal justice field.

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What Will I Learn When Studying Criminal Justice Online?

Studying criminal justice online offers a wide spread of benefits. Coursework typically covers the three main branches of the criminal justice system which includes:

1. Law enforcement

You'll learn about the role of police in society, police procedures, and technology used in policing like forensics.

2. Courts and law

Classes examine the judicial system, types of laws, roles of legal professionals like lawyers and judges, and the trial process.

3. Corrections

You'll explore the role of jails, prisons, and probation/parole in punishing and rehabilitating offenders.

In addition to the basics, many schools offer concentrations or specializations so you can focus on areas that interest you, such as:

Homeland Security - Covers terrorism, disaster response, cybersecurity, and border control.

Forensic Science - Focuses on using scientific methods to investigate crimes.

Leadership and Management - Develops skills for managing teams and organizations in criminal justice.

Juvenile Justice - Examines the juvenile legal system and strategies for preventing and dealing with juvenile delinquency.

Victim Advocacy - Focuses on assisting and advocating for victims of crimes.

Skills You'll Gain With an Online Criminal Justice Degree

An online bachelor's degree in criminal justice provides a strong knowledge base in areas like:

1. Law and legal studies. You'll develop a solid understanding of criminal law, legal procedures, and the judicial system.

2. Research and analysis. Criminal justice programs emphasize developing research, critical thinking, and analytical abilities.

3. Communication. You'll improve your written and verbal communication skills, which are essential for jobs in law enforcement and the legal profession.

4. Diversity training. Criminal justice programs often incorporate coursework on cultural diversity, bias, and ethics.

5. Technical skills. Some programs offer opportunities to develop technical and computer skills relevant for criminal justice careers.

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FAQ's About Online Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degrees

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:

What kind of jobs can I get with an online criminal justice degree?

There are many exciting career options with a criminal justice degree, such as:

1. Police officer or sheriff

2. Paralegal or legal assistant
3. Correctional officer
4. Probation officer
5. Private investigator
6. Security guard
6. Border patrol agent

How long does it take to complete an online bachelor's in criminal justice?

Most online criminal justice bachelor's degrees take around 3 to 4 years of full-time study to complete, depending on factors like the school, program, and number of credits transferred.

How much does an online criminal justice bachelor's degree cost?

The average cost of an online bachelor's in criminal justice in the U.S. is $30,000 to $50,000. However, costs vary significantly between schools.

Is an online criminal justice degree worth it?

Yes, an online criminal justice degree can be very worthwhile.

Will my credits transfer to another school?

Transferring credits depends on factors like the specific schools and programs involved.

Credits from accredited schools are more likely to transfer. Check if the schools you're interested in are accredited.