Criminal Justice Degree Options Online
If you're thinking of a career in the criminal justice field and are looking for online criminal justice degree programs, it's comforting to know that you can earn multiple degrees online and in the comfort of your own home. With a degree in criminal justice-everything from an associate degree to a master's degree-you can easily get a profitable job in your desired field.
Associate Criminal Justice Degrees
Criminal justice has become the most popular subject in the country for associate degree programs. When you enroll in a degree program, you will learn the basics in criminal justice, law, writing for investigations and law enforcement.
Degree specifics
Associate degrees can be completed within two years. During your criminal justice associate degree program, you will be given information dealing with a variety of criminal situations and areas, such as juvenile court systems and institutions, correctional institutions and general information on court systems. Specific courses you may take include:
- Criminal Law
- Law Enforcement Operations
- State and Federal Court Systems
- Writing for Investigations
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Report Writing
- Juvenile Justice
- Security Management
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice
If you're interested in learning more about the justice system and think you would enjoy working as a security guard, county clerk or in another related field, you might want to consider earning your bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Students learn everything from conflict management skills to gaining an understanding of the innermost workings of the U.S. government.
Degree specifics
Students seeking online Bachelor of Science degrees in criminal justice must complete certain courses before becoming eligible for graduation. You can expect to take some of the following:
- Law and Ethics
- Time Management
- American Government and Politics
- Intro to Judicial Process
- Homeland Security Regulations
- Speech and Debate
Masters Degree in Criminal Justice
An MS in Criminal Justice will broaden your perspective and prepare you to advance in your career. With this degree, you increase your eligibility for leadership positions like deputy chief, police chief or FBI agent.
Degree specifics
If you fulfilled all prerequisites through your bachelor's program, you can complete your master's degree in about two years. A master's in CJ concentration program highlights the association between the law and the field of criminal justice. Possible courses may include:
- Criminal justice - advance topics
- U.S. Supreme Court
- Criminal procedure
- Criminal cases and evidentiary issues
- Comparative systems of criminal justice
- Complex investigations and specialized criminal statues
- Policy and employment law
Enhance Your Criminal Justice Education With Certifications
- Corrections Certificate: If you want to pursue entry-level positions in a corrections facility or want to advance in your current corrections career, an online Corrections Certificate program may provide you with the necessary skills and credentials.
- Crime Scene Technician Certificate: You will learn about locating, collecting and analyzing evidence to be used in court, as well as how to identify the boundaries of a crime scene and search for forensic evidence.
- Management and Supervision Certificate in Criminal Justice: Gain the foundational knowledge to become an effective manager or supervisor in the criminal justice field.
- Private Security Certificate: Students wishing to enter the private security field will benefit from this certificate. Coursework involves topics and real-life experience in criminal investigation, fraud examination, security management and more.