criminal justice degree onlineFor those drawn to criminal justice, the words “To Protect and To Serve” hold special meaning. They are a call to service. They mean you want to make a difference.

There are many ways to answer that call. A diversity of options has opened the possibilities for all who seek a meaningful career in criminal justice.

 

Criminal Justice Training Is Not "One Size Fits All"

Once you have made the decision to pursue a career in criminal justice, you will find that all of the career paths have one common denominator: they require serious applicants to prepare themselves. At a minimum, most agencies and corporations require staff in their security or law enforcement divisions to have a solid understanding of the operational, legal and management aspects of criminal justice.

Training is available through community colleges, state universities and online colleges and universities, but of course, some are better than others. It's important to make a selection that will fully prepare you and not waste time and money.

Offering flexibility and cost savings, online training has some advantages. The ability to work a full-time job while studying is important to many, but keep in mind these five points when selecting an online criminal justice degree program:

1. All Online Programs Are Not the Same

Select an accredited online course. A good source for verifying accreditation is the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Post-secondary Educational Institutions and Programs. Training from non-accredited institutions can be worthless in the real job world.

2. Check the Curriculum

The program should offer a wide curriculum. Some are designed to meet only the needs of one particular function, such as police officer or corrections officer.

A good online course will offer a wide range of classes that fill the requirements of most criminal justice careers. Beyond police operations, these include advanced studies, such as:

  • Criminal law
  • Criminal justice ethics
  • Crime scene management
  • Control and security of evidence
  • Terrorism
  • Private security issues and law
  • Corrections
  • Managing conflict

Expanded curricula can expand your career opportunities. Homeland security, investigations, corporate security and other avenues could open up for those with the right training.

2. Degrees Make a Difference

Increasingly, law enforcement and private security agencies require an associate's or bachelor's degree (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics). If you are seeking a career in a federal agency, a bachelor's degree is mandatory.

The professional with a bachelor’s degree has demonstrated a commitment to the criminal justice field that opens additional opportunities. Upward advancement and mobility in assignments are enhanced by increased levels of training and certification.

Ensure that your online study selection offers an accredited degree program.

3. Self-Motivation Is The Key To Success When Studying Online.

It can be an exciting field of study, but students must understand the commitment in time and effort. Criminal justice courses require study and assignment preparation just as other college-level courses.

While online courses offer flexibility, dedication and diligence are necessary. Study and course work must be completed. If you are willing to make the same commitment to online training that you would to a college classroom, then you almost positively have the necessary motivation. Remember, the sacrifice of time and effort will be well worth it.

4. Not Street Ready

Keep in mind that your online degree does not make you “street ready.” You are still a rookie, so don't be frustrated!

Entry-level criminal justice positions are periods of continued training. Using the skills and knowledge you have acquired, you will be immersed in the real-life application of those principles. Understand beforehand that you are building on your knowledge base and learning to deal with complex social and criminal issues while gaining experience. This will enhance the post-graduation period, rather than make you feel you have gone back to school. Use your online study to prepare mentally for the real-life experiences that you will have.

5. Career Opportunities

Online training in criminal justice may open your eyes to other areas that you have not considered. Homeland Security, FBI, Border Patrol, private investigation, corporate security, and fraud investigation all seek new candidates every year. Your degree will give you a point of entry and access to a number of criminal justice career paths you may not yet have considered.

Ready to Make A Difference?

Are you looking for an industry that offers a wide variety of career paths? Contact ECPI University for information on earning your Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in as little as 2.5 years through our year-round curriculum. An associate’s degree is also available at select locations and can be yours in 1.5 years. Change your life—answer the call to “Protect and Serve.” It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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