Types of Online Criminal Justice Degrees

If you’re interested in working with the police department, court system, or even the department of homeland security, there is an applicable online criminal justice degree that can provide the training and education to equip you for a strong career. The field of criminal justice encompasses a wide range of potential career options, and with a certified online degree, your chances of landing a job are greatly increased. In law enforcement, many individuals pursue careers as police officers, detectives, or corrections officers. Other popular careers in the court system include paralegals and court reporters, both of which can be attained through earning a criminal justice degree.

What are the benefits of a career in criminal justice?

Careers in criminal justice are much less affected by economic slumps or downturns than other professions. In fact, the demand for criminal justice professionals can actually increase during times of economic duress; so job security is strong. If you plan on or are even considering pursuing a law degree a good place to start is with criminal justice. Not only does it familiarize you with the processes of the justice system, but it also gives you the added benefit of seeing how things work as you iron-out any career uncertainties you might have.

What online degrees are available right now?

There is a degree for every aspect and facet of criminal justice spanning from law enforcement and the justice system to investigation and corrections. These degrees will prepare you for fieldwork and are largely based on analytical and statistical problem solving as well as tactics.

• Forensic Sciences
• Law Enforcement
• Public Safety Management
• Security
• Corrections
• Court Reporting
• Criminal Justice Administration
• Homeland Security
• Legal Studies
• Paralegal/Legal Assistant
• Crime Scene Investigation

The salaries of the potential careers associated with these degrees range from moderate to very high paying. It was reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics that in 2008 criminal justice professionals earned between $49,421 and $113,930 per year.

Regardless of the type of criminal justice degree you ultimately decide to pursue, having a degree in this subject will afford you many opportunities and diverse career options. It is not uncommon for those that have received a degree in law enforcement to pursue work with the police force; often times, after working as a police officer for a number of years an individual may consider pursuing criminal law and becoming a prosecuting attorney. Unlike other career fields, criminal justice is very adaptable, and once you have attained one particular degree you are not necessarily bound to it forever. There are endless possibilities within the field of criminal justice ranging from federal agencies to local state governments, and from social work to police work.