Have you been curious about a career in the criminal justice system? Are brochures regarding a criminal justice degree tempting, but you don’t have the time to attend traditional classes? A degree in criminal justice offers some of the most stable and challenging careers in our modern industries; however, if you’re unable to attend a traditional college or university, you may feel this career option is out of your hands. While obtaining a two or four-year degree in criminal justice is a requirement to enter many criminal justice career paths, there are options in exactly how you may obtain this complex education.
Online criminal justice degree programs offer the same caliber of schooling as a traditional “brick and mortar” school, but with greater flexibility, and often, less expensive. While this is a viable option for many, there are several considerations you should keep an eye out when selecting the best online criminal justice degree program. Specialization options exist as well, including the option to earn your guard card online through a series of BSIS approved classes.
Understanding the Difference in Schooling
If you’re interested in getting an online degree, it’s vital that you understand the difference between a traditional on-campus program and a virtual program. Perhaps the only notable difference between an online and on-campus degree program is the scheduling and interactions between students and faculty. Online programs offer significantly greater flexibility in terms of when you actually “attend” a class. Instead of rigid scheduling, online courses are often completed at your leisure, with the only time requirement being assignments and tests.
The Cornerstone of an Online Education – School Accreditation
With seemingly endless “online schools,” it can become difficult trying to interpret the best and most reliable educational institutions. Before ever looking at program options, it’s essential that you double-check the school’s accreditation. It’s essential that the program you choose is accredited by not only your state, but also by the U.S. Department of Education as well as by private accrediting organizations designed to oversee coursework for particular programs.
While there are many “for profit” online training institutions, it seems that the most developed and respected criminal justice degree programs come from “nonprofit” colleges and universities. By selecting a nonprofit college or university, you’re ensuring that all educational materials are produced to actually enlighten your mind, and not the wallets of administrators and institution CEOs.
If you’re wondering whether or not a particular school is worth your time, conduct an online search, or use a school finder app from a company like Security Guard Training Central. If this still does not answer your questions, one of the most effective ways to weed out sub-par schools is by communicating with your State Department of Education. Typically, this organization will provide you with a list of the best colleges and universities that offer online programs. When in doubt, visit a counselor at your local community college or university. Even if they do not offer online programs, they have access to information designed to streamline your hunt.
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