The area of criminal justice encompasses a huge number of various career paths and positions of employment, such as law enforcement, security, policing, and corrections. This coursework drastically enhances the knowledge, skill, and understanding of working professionals, as well as individuals who are new to the discipline.
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- Best Online Schools for Associate of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
- SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
- INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
- LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
- ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE
- FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY
- GENESEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
- ASHLAND UNIVERSITY
- BAY STATE COLLEGE
- BOSSIER PARISH COMMUNITY COLLEGE
- COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
- HODGES UNIVERSITY
- COLUMBIA COLLEGE
- PARK UNIVERSITY
- EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
- LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY
- Frequently Asked Questions
Criminal justice is a crucial aspect of world economies everywhere. Quality, compassionate, intelligent, and well-educated professionals are much needed to fill these crucial positions.
If you would like more information, please take a look at this: Criminal Justice Career, Salary and Degree Guide
For additional degree options: Top 20 Online Schools for Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs, Best Online Bachelor’s of Science in Criminal Justice Degree Programs, and our choices for the Top Online Master’s of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
Best Online Schools for Associate of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
OnlineSchoolsCenter.com has collected the most relevant data regarding online universities and colleges from various highly respectable sources. In addition, our rankings were researched and composed according to the following credentials:
- Programs offering interactive and innovative 100% online Associate degree programs in Criminal Justice,
- Well-rounded Associate degree programs highlighting policies, procedures, and practices of Criminal Justice,
- Prestige and notability as an online school according to reputable journalistic and academic resources, as well as, student reviews,
- Hands-on field experience opportunities,
- Programs that focus on the ethics and legalities of Criminal Justice,
- Combines Criminal Justice theory and practical applications,
- Reviews listed on accredited resources reporting online retention rates of less than 50%,
- Ease of transfer course credits into a Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree program.
To locate a program that fits your personal needs, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose to list the very Best Online Associate of Criminal Justice Degree Programs in no specific order.
If you would like to gain a deeper understanding, please see our Methodology page for more information.
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SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
Online AS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
This online school is one of the most outstanding in the nation, and perhaps the world over. Of the plethora of online Associate of Criminal Justice Degrees available today, this program stands out as one of the absolute best. Students completing this curriculum gain a better understanding of criminology and law enforcement and can choose from an exciting array of coursework.
Campus Location: Hooksett, NH
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school or GED transcripts. Applicants must also contact an admissions professional.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Ethics and the Criminal Justice Leader
- Judicial Administration
- International Criminal Justice
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this program have a firm understanding of the American justice system and are ready to begin their careers or enter into prominent bachelor’s degree programs. Students at SNHU are not only well-educated, as alumni, but they also have the support of a dedicated educational institution and are a part of a strong network of colleagues, peers, and faculty members.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
Online AS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
The Indiana Wesleyan online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice focuses on communication skills, the problems facing criminal justice officials, and the increasingly important field of Homeland Security. A wide and stimulating variety of coursework gives students the opportunity to gain diverse perspectives on the field.
Campus Location: Marion, IN
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 74%
Acceptance Rate: 72%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application as well as high school or GED transcripts and those from any accredited undergraduate institutions attended. TOEFL scores are required from students who use English as a second language.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Leading Change in the World
- New Testament Survey
- Modern Police Problems
Degree Outcomes:
IWU’s unique and exciting Bridge Program gives graduates of this program the opportunity to enter directly into a Bachelor’s degree and immediately continue their education. Graduates speak very highly of this program’s ability to instill strong communication and people skills. Alumni have gone on to climb the ranks of law enforcement, and other areas relating to the discipline.
LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Liberty University is another of America’s most superb online schools, that has been recognized innumerable times for its distinctive distance degrees. The Associate of Criminal Justice prepares students for a wide variety of criminal justice fields, during which they acquire appropriate tools for leadership and management.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Retention Rate: 84%
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school or GED transcript as well as those from any accredited undergraduate institutions attended, and a completed High School Self-Certification form.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Judicial Process
- Criminology
- Criminal Law
Degree Outcomes:
Ranked as one of the best online criminal justice programs for vets, this coursework is guaranteed to direct career paths to positions of responsibility, comfortable wages, and fulfillment. Graduates who have this program have gone on to work in administration, casework, corrections, counseling, juvenile justice, victim advocacy, and much more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Online Associate in Law Enforcement Technology
Program Standouts:
This online school offers an Associate in Law Enforcement Technology that prepares students for various Criminal Justice professions. The coursework emphasizes a combination of Criminal Justice theory and practical application necessary for successful employment.
Campus Location: Albany, GA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 57%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age and must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, and proof of lawful presence in the United States. Applicants must also submit ACCUPLACER, COMPASS, ASSET, SAT or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Principles of Law Enforcement
- Ethics and Cultural Perspectives—Criminal Justice
- Private Security
Degree Outcomes:
This degree program is well-suited for entry-level individuals, as well as those with professional experience in the industry, wherein it will build upon past knowledge and enhances career potential. Entry-level students will be prepared to pursue opportunities in corrections, security, investigative, and police administration fields.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALBANY TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN LAW ENFORCEMENT TECHNOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM
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FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Online AA in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Florida Tech’s online Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice particularly excels in areas of crime prevention, homeland security, and court administration. As one of the nation’s premier online schools, FIT provides superlative coursework and some of the nation’s finest faculty members who instruct a diverse selection of coursework.
Campus Location: Melbourne, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 80%
Acceptance Rate: 63.5%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school or GED transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Correctional Systems
- Substantive Criminal Law
- Research and Computer Literacy
Degree Outcomes:
Whether graduates are instructed in working with police, courts, or corrections, this degree leads to a multitude of different career options. This degree is especially useful for individuals pursuing positions such as police officers, court administrators, private security, crime scene investigator, youth caseworker, and probation officer.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA TECH’s ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS (AA) IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
This online school offers several unique options in pursuing a career in the field of criminal justice, and, depending on an individual’s personal interests, will be able to pursue various career paths. The Law Enforcement Track prepares students to enter directly into positions of law enforcement with experience and knowledge.
Campus Location: Columbus, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 61%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school or GED transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- AAS in Criminal Justice
- AAS in Probation and Supervision
- Law Enforcement Academy Track
Degree Outcomes:
Students exiting these programs demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively within all aspects of the criminal justice systems, particularly in the areas of enforcement, education, and community relations. Alumni have a working knowledge of legal, procedural, and theoretical fundamentals of the Criminal Justice System.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COLUMBUS STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE’s DEGREE PROGRAM IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE
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CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY WISCONSIN
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Concordia University is another of the country’s online colleges that is quickly building a strong reputation for some of the finest programs available. Students and graduates alike speak very highly of these distinctive degrees, and the Associate of Criminal Justice supplies a focus on the analysis of critical issues in the law enforcement field through coursework that has a Christian foundation.
Campus Location: Mequon, WI
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 63.2%
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 or GED scores, and SAT/ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Substantive Criminal Law
- Juvenile Theory
- Intro to Courts
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this online program have gone on to work as probation and parole officers and supervisors, court administrators, criminal justice coordinators and instructors, and intelligence analyst supervisors. Alumni demonstrate knowledge of public-sector management and the ability to utilize ethical decision making.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATES OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
This online school provides an Associate of Criminal Justice curriculum that is crafted by highly experienced faculty members and offers insight into forensics, investigation, homeland security, and social issues facing law enforcement today. This degree gives students both the credentials and the skills needed for success in a challenging field.
Campus Location: Campbellsville, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 68.6%
Retention Rate: 66%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts or GED scores, and SAT or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Fundamentals of Homeland Security
- Juvenile Delinquency
- Probation and Parole
Degree Outcomes:
One of the strongest aspects of this coursework is real-world preparation, in which students experience a wide variety of benefits, such as a foundation of knowledge of modern criminal justice concepts and trends. Student and career resources at Campbellsville University help graduates jumpstart their careers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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GENESEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Online AS or AAS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
It is Genesee Community College’s goal to align online Criminal Justice students with satisfying careers in a growing field. GCC offers a wide range of student support services that dedicatedly guide each student toward a successful academic and professional career.
Campus Location: Batavia, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; National Association of the Education of Young Children
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 56%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school transcripts or GED scores.
Program Options:
- AS in Criminal Justice
- AAS in Criminal Justice
- Certificate in Criminal Justice
Degree Outcomes:
There are a huge number of areas that Criminal Justice graduates enter into upon leaving the program, including fire investigators, bailiffs, sheriffs and deputies, loss prevention managers, police patrol officers, forensic science technicians, and much more! A detailed list of these career opportunities can be found on their website.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GENESEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROGRAM
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ASHLAND UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Ashland University’s online Associate of Criminal Justice has a strong focus on the policies and practices of the various criminal justice system components. The coursework is particularly flexible for working around busy working schedules for adult learners.
Campus Location: Ashland, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 73.5%
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school transcripts or GED scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Courts and Justice
- Criminal Investigations
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Procedure
Degree Outcomes:
Some of the positions of employment occupied by Ashland graduates include detective and private investigator, police officer, paralegal, and probation officer. Ashland University is dedicated to helping students find the best career options available that offer the most opportunities and the best pay scale.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ASHLAND UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAM IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE
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BAY STATE COLLEGE
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Bay State College’s online Associate of Criminal Justice degree program provides hands-on experience through challenging coursework and real-world internships. Classes are instructed by professors who bring worlds of experience and information to the online classroom.
Campus Location: Boston, MA
Accreditation: New England Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 44.2%
Retention Rate: 48%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application and official high school transcripts or GED scores. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions professional.
Sampling of Coursework:
- The function of Police in Modern Society
- Civil Rights Liberties
- Criminal Investigation and Procedure
Degree Outcomes:
There are a huge number of opportunities available within this online program that provide students with outstanding comprehension of essential techniques, strategies, and skills in criminal justice. The Inside Out Prison Exchange Program, for example, brings incarcerated students and outside students together in a local prison setting. In this way, graduates have a huge understanding of the field!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BAY STATE COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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BOSSIER PARISH COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Online AAS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Bossier Parish Community College offers its online Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice in an accelerated 12-month format. The curriculum includes an option to concentrate coursework in the Medicolegal Death Investigation for those who are planning a career in the investigative aspects of law enforcement.
Campus Location: Bossier, City, LA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts or GED scores, and SAT or ACT scores.
Program Options:
- Medicolegal Death Investigation
- General Degree Program
Degree Outcomes:
Despite the area in which a student chooses to concentrate their coursework, graduates of this program have the ability to utilize skills required for entry-level positions, as well as the ability to comprehend, evaluate, and synthesize complex information related to their area of expertise.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOSSIER PARISH COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
The Associate of Criminal Justice from Colorado Christian University is a strong curriculum that offers a Christian worldview. The program offers a focus in criminal justice, ethics, criminal courts, corrections, criminology, and juvenile justice.
Campus Location: Lakewood, CO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school or GED transcript as well as those from any undergraduate institution attended, and a copy of a state-issued photo ID.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Criminology
- Criminal Courts
- Foundations of Justice
Degree Outcomes:
This coursework prepares graduates for various criminal justice fields, such as law enforcement, paralegal work, transportation security, private security, and computer forensics. Alumni can also approach their work with the same biblical tenets that were involved in their academic careers.
LEARN MORE COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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HODGES UNIVERSITY
Online AA in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Coursework in Hodges University’s online Associate of Arts (AA) in Criminal Justice is logically structured to provide a smooth transition to a bachelor’s degree in a similar area of study. The curriculum covers all of the most major topics such as policing, corrections, the courts, forensic, crime theory, and more.
Campus Location: Naples, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 57.9%
Retention Rate: 48%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts or GED scores, an admissions essay, a copy of a valid form of identification, and financial aid documentation. Applicants must also complete an admissions interview.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Computer Applications
- Corrections
Degree Outcomes:
This program provides preparation in areas such as law enforcement, law, and the courts, corrections, fences science, private investigation, and corporate and private security. This program provides a great foundation for graduates who wish to carry on their education in an undergraduate degree.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HODGES UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS (AA) IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Online AS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Columbia College is well-known for its outstanding online degree programs and offers an equally outstanding Associate of Science (AS) in the Criminal Justice Administration program, as well as an Associate in Fire Service Administration program. Each curriculum integrates interdisciplinary perspectives to train students in the most thorough way possible.
Campus Location: Columbia, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 92.6%
Retention Rate: 68%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts as well as those from any undergraduate institutions attended, and financial aid documentation.
Program Options:
- Associate in Criminal Justice Administration
- Associate in Fire Service Administration
Degree Outcomes:
Despite the program in which a student chooses to major, graduates of Columbia College gain an in-depth foundation within the areas of criminal justice and emergency management, setting them up for a fantastic career in either or both disciplines. Graduates are supported by a stupendous network of colleagues and career resources.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COLUMBIA COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION
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PARK UNIVERSITY
Online AS in Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
This online school’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Administration provides a comprehensive understanding of the complete criminal justice system within the United States. There are three areas of concentration in which students can focus their curriculum to further suit their interests.
Campus Location: Parkville, MO
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Retention Rate: 44%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts and GED scores, and ACT and/or SAT scores.
Program Options:
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections
- Security
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this program are prepared for any and all entry-level positions of employment within the area of criminal justice. Alumni have a well-founded understanding of the theoretical, philosophical, and practical perspectives of the discipline.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PARK UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE ADMINISTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM
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EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
Eastern Kentucky University is another of the country’s online schools that is quickly gaining notoriety. The program offers accelerated coursework and personalized plans for individual students. The curriculum is well-reviewed by reputable journalistic resources as one of the best in the country.
Campus Location: Richmond, KY
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 87.4%
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts as well as those from all accredited colleges and universities attended representing an exemplary GPA, ACT and/or SAT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Police, Order, Maintenance, and Crime
- Ethical Decisions and Police
- Social Forces and Policing Society
Degree Outcomes:
The Associate in Police Studies is designed to prepare students to quickly and successfully enter the policing profession or meet based education requirements for current officers seeking promotions. Graduates are well-prepared to enter into the police force or complete a bachelor’s degree.
LEARN MORE ABOUT EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE CRIMINAL JUSTICE ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
LeTourneau University is another of America’s more popular online schools and offers an Associate of Criminal Justice that provides a foundational knowledge of the criminal justice system. Coursework is delivered in a flexible, accelerated format and strongly establishes an individual’s career in the discipline.
Campus Location: Longview, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 82%
Acceptance Rate: 47.1%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school or GED transcript, and SAT and/or ACT scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Criminal Law
- Criminology
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this degree program are prepared to enter into professions such as police officers, probation officers, homeland security specialists, and more! In a field that is in constant need of high equality individuals, LeTourneau University generates outstanding professionals in criminal justice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LETOURNEAU UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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LANIER TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Online Associate of Criminal Justice
Program Standouts:
This online school’s associate degree program provides learning opportunities that develop academic, occupational, and professional knowledge and skills required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. The program emphasizes a combination of criminal justice theory and practical application necessary for successful employment.
Campus Location: Oakwood, GA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Retention Rate: 61%
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts as well as those from any undergraduate institutions attended, and SAT and/or ACT, ACCUPLACER, ASSET, COMPASS, CPE scores.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Ethics/Cultural Criminal Justice
- Criminal Law/Criminal Justice
- Constitution Law for CRJU
Degree Outcomes:
Many graduates who are working professionals will see their careers massively benefited in the completion of this program. Not only does it enhance diverse opportunities in corrections, security, investigation, and police administration fields, it also prepares students for challenging undergraduate programs to further refine their knowledge and skills.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LANIER TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I earn an online Associate degree in the field of Criminal Justice? Yes, let’s explore why…
What better way to serve your community than to become a protector of it! By earning an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) or an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in the field of Criminal Justice, you can pursue a career in law enforcement, court reporting, or as an investigator, among many other options.
Also, if convenience and flexibility are essential to you, online associate degree programs are readily available. If you would like to enter the workforce immediately upon completion of your program, you may want to earn the A.A.S. degree, as it will focus on the technical skills needed to gain an entry-level position right away. If you intend to further your education in criminal justice, you should consider the A.S. degree, allowing you to transfer your credits into a bachelor’s degree program.
Your online Associate of Criminal Justice degree program will offer you a wide array of coursework to assist you in your career, such as the laws and ethics related to our American justice system. You’ll learn about the process of corrections, criminal procedures, and gathering evidence. If you wish to specialize, you can focus on juvenile justice, criminal investigating, or law enforcement.
What careers are available in the field of Criminal Justice?
If you aspire to pursue a career in criminal justice, your online associate degree in this specialty will serve you well. Associate programs are designed to teach you a wide array of skills, ranging from court administrative positions to policing the streets in your own community.
Upon graduation, you will qualify for positions, such as a police officer, court reporter, security officer, investigator, paralegal, or perhaps as a correction or probation officer. As a police officer, additional training may be required.
Typically, if you would like to receive a management position in any of the above positions, you will need to earn your online Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice degree. With your additional accolade, you can expect a larger salary to go with your title in a leadership role.
Can I make a lucrative living with an online Associate of Criminal Justice degree?
Most everyone can agree that those who keep us safe, such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders, do not get paid enough considering the risks they take; however, with their huge hearts, they work tirelessly to protect us anyway. It takes a special sort of person to fill these critical positions!
Salaries for law enforcement officers and detectives depend on a variety of factors, such as the size and population of the territory they are protecting, as well as, years of experience, educational degree, and state and local budgets. The BLS in May 2019 reported the average salary of $65,170 per year, with the highest 10% earning upwards of $109,620 annually, for law enforcement personnel.
Although in some areas crime has declined, the field of law enforcement is still expected to increase by 5% between 2019 and 2029. Is this a high-risk job? You bet it is! Quite naturally, high injury rates are reported when dealing with criminals, as well as, death.
Correctional officers and bailiffs are generally paid $45,180 annually. A legal assistant or paralegal earns approximately $51,740 annually, and a court reporter can receive upwards of $60,130 per year in an administrative position, all according to the BLS as of May 2019.
Only you can decide if the average salary provided in law enforcement is worth the risks involved. However, if you wish to stay out of harm’s way, administrative positions also play a critical role in this field, as well. Choose a career that is right for you and your family!
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