Continuing your education with an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies is a great way to begin a career in law enforcement, legal aid, or public safety. Available undergraduate degrees in criminal justice and legal studies include associate's degrees, professional certificates, and bachelor's degrees. Depending upon how far you go in your education, you can qualify for a wide variety of positions with excellent pay when you earn an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies.
Undergraduate degrees in criminal justice and legal studies take between one to four years to earn. With an undergraduate degree you can gain excellent knowledge of criminal justice or the law and qualify for a wide variety of positions. Undergraduate programs in criminal justice and legal studies are exceptionally popular because of the exciting career opportunities that they lead to. With an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies you can expect to make over $30,000 per year in an entry-level position. Plus, if you choose to continue your education and go on to earn a graduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies your earning potential will only increase and you'll be able to qualify for even more jobs. If you've always had an interest in crime scene investigation, law enforcement, or the law, then an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies could be the perfect choice for you.
A wide array of career options is available to people who earn professional certificates, associate's degrees, and bachelor's degrees in criminal justice and legal studies. The following are just some of the most popular careers available to people with undergraduate degrees in criminal justice or legal studies:
Undergraduate programs in criminal justice and legal studies are available at a wide variety of community colleges and undergraduate universities. You can also earn a professional certificate, an associate's degree, or a bachelor's degree through an online accredited program. Online programs have the benefit of allowing you to schedule your classes around your work or other commitments. They also offer flexibility in the time you can take to complete a course. Once you've earned an undergraduate degree in criminal justice or legal studies through an online program, you'll have all the skills you need to land a job with great pay in the fields of criminal justice or law.
The Associate of Arts degree program with a concentration in Criminal Justice focuses on policing practices, corrections, the criminal court system and juvenile justice. Students take a comprehensive look at these topics through interactive assignments that not only develop their critical-thinking skills, but also enable them to recognize the functions of the criminal justice professions within their communities.
Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice degree online from Ashford University to enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system and the impact social issues have on maintaining a just society. Investigate both the social and legal sides of criminal justice, from forensics and psychology to crime prevention and terrorism. Be an instrument for change when you choose this degree program to better understand the legal and social forces that shape American culture.
Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice degree online from Ashford University to enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system and the impact social issues have on maintaining a just society. Investigate both the social and legal sides of criminal justice, from forensics and psychology to crime prevention and terrorism. Be an instrument for change when you choose this degree program to better understand the legal and social forces that shape American culture.
Augment your Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice degree with a specialization in Forensics. Examine and understand principles of criminal liability and the acts, mental state, and attendant circumstances that are central ingredients in crimes against society, persons, or property.
Work to protect America. With your Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management degree earned online from Ashford University, you gain a broad view of homeland security and emergency preparedness at the federal, state, and local levels. In the post-911 era, the US government created the Department of Homeland Security, which prepares for, prevents, and responds to domestic emergencies. With this degree program, you will transcend a single discipline to consider counter-terrorism, planning for natural disasters, and terrorism response. Your interdisciplinary courses include ethics, international relations, cybercrime, and an emphasis on American government and the United States Constitution. This program also includes a strong research and writing component.
Earn your Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice degree online from Ashford University to enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system and the impact social issues have on maintaining a just society. Investigate both the social and legal sides of criminal justice, from forensics and psychology to crime prevention and terrorism. Be an instrument for change when you choose this degree program to better understand the legal and social forces that shape American culture.
Expand your Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice degree with a specialization in Corrections Management. Analyze the philosophies and laws of punishment and sentencing as well as key Supreme Court case decisions specifically pertaining to the constitutional rights of those incarcerated in an American correctional facility.
The B.S. in Criminal Justice program is designed to help you gain the skills and knowledge to prepare for a career in law enforcement, the justice system, corrections, homeland security, and social services. The program blends contemporary theory on the nature, extent, and cause of crime with the study of national and international criminal justice practices. Learning is supported through coursework and a final capstone project. Plus, the program uses the latest interactive media, including lifelike, computer-generated scenarios from crime scenes.
You will apply criminal justice theories to current issues as you gain perspective in three vitally important areas:
Accelerate Into Master's (AIM)
Transition from a bachelor's degree to a master's degree in less time with Walden's Accelerate Into Master's (AIM) degree option. AIM offers high-achieving undergraduate students an opportunity to take as many as five graduate-level courses in their undergraduate coursework. Upon completion, credits from these courses can be applied toward a master's degree. With the AIM degree option, you can earn your master's degree in as little as one year, depending on your individual progress and degree program.
The B.S. in Criminal Justice program is designed to help you gain the skills and knowledge to prepare for a career in law enforcement, the justice system, corrections, homeland security, and social services. The program blends contemporary theory on the nature, extent, and cause of crime with the study of national and international criminal justice practices. Learning is supported through coursework and a final capstone project. Plus, the program uses the latest interactive media, including lifelike, computer-generated scenarios from crime scenes.
You will apply criminal justice theories to current issues as you gain perspective in three vitally important areas:
Accelerate Into Master's (AIM)
Transition from a bachelor's degree to a master's degree in less time with Walden's Accelerate Into Master's (AIM) degree option. AIM offers high-achieving undergraduate students an opportunity to take as many as five graduate-level courses in their undergraduate coursework. Upon completion, credits from these courses can be applied toward a master's degree. With the AIM degree option, you can earn your master's degree in as little as one year, depending on your individual progress and degree program.
The B.S. in Psychology program provides you with a broad understanding of psychology and its relevance in today's increasingly diverse and global society. You will apply psychological theories to current issues in psychology as you gain perspective in three vitally important areas: social awareness, responsibility, and civic engagement; cross-cultural competence; and evidence-based decision-making in an information-rich world. Take up to 70 percent of your courses in psychology or choose elective courses from other majors.
Concentrations
Accelerate Into Master's (AIM)
Transition from a bachelor's degree to a master's degree in less time with Walden's Accelerate Into Master's (AIM) degree option. AIM offers high-achieving undergraduate students an opportunity to take as many as five graduate-level courses in their undergraduate coursework. Upon completion, credits from these courses can be applied toward a master's degree. With the AIM degree option, you can earn your master's degree in as little as one year, depending on your individual progress and degree program.
The B.S. in Criminal Justice program is designed to help you gain the skills and knowledge to prepare for a career in law enforcement, the justice system, corrections, homeland security, and social services. The program blends contemporary theory on the nature, extent, and cause of crime with the study of national and international criminal justice practices. Learning is supported through coursework and a final capstone project. Plus, the program uses the latest interactive media, including lifelike, computer-generated scenarios from crime scenes.
You will apply criminal justice theories to current issues as you gain perspective in three vitally important areas:
Accelerate Into Master's (AIM)
Transition from a bachelor's degree to a master's degree in less time with Walden's Accelerate Into Master's (AIM) degree option. AIM offers high-achieving undergraduate students an opportunity to take as many as five graduate-level courses in their undergraduate coursework. Upon completion, credits from these courses can be applied toward a master's degree. With the AIM degree option, you can earn your master's degree in as little as one year, depending on your individual progress and degree program.
An accredited Paralegal Associate's degree from Rasmussen College will prepare you for a successful and fast–paced career in the field of law. Paralegals, also called legal assistants, continue to assume a growing range of tasks in the Nation's legal offices and perform many of the same tasks as lawyers. Paralegals are focused and detail–oriented, have the ability to communicate information and ideas clearly, enjoy substantial research, and possess an ability to deal with people in stressful environments. The Paralegal curriculum at Rasmussen College has been designed to instill you with the skills, knowledge, and strategies you need to attain a position, stand out and excel in your new career as a Paralegal.
The demand has never been a higher for skilled professionals in the Criminal Justice field. Rasmussen College offers a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Client Services/Corrections, which is designed for anyone who is interested in working as Probation, Parole, or Corrections Officers, or in administrative positions at detention centers.
If you are ready to get started in the field of Law Enforcement, an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice will get you ready to serve your country and community. In this specialization, you will study investigation techniques and how to efficiently work with other officers and coworkers.
One way to help prevent crime is to understand why crimes are committed. You will delve into courses that teach you about the psychological reasoning behind premeditated acts. Your understanding of psychology and how it relates to criminal justice will help prepare you for a career where you can change the lives of many people. Your courses will prepare you to better understand criminal and deviant psychology. Criminal minds can be complicated and your degree will help you understand what drives these individuals to commit crimes. Your courses online or on campus will be led by instructors with vast knowledge of the subject matter and real world experiences. A specialization in Psychology will help you focus on the internal factors of why crimes are committed. Your study of psychology as it relates to criminal justice will allow you to look at the justice system from a different perspective. Your ability to apply what you learned will help you understand the criminal thought process.
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is designed to provide you with a solid foundation in criminal justice and a broad liberal arts education. The Web-based baccalaureate program combines the professional skills of specialized areas of criminal justice with research and analytical skills. As a graduate of this program, you may seek opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, probation, parole, fraud investigation, or juvenile justice facilities.* You can further specialize your degree by pursuing one of the following emphasis areas: computer crime, corrections, crime scene investigation, forensic psychology, homeland security, juvenile justice, or law enforcement. *Kaplan University's programs are designed to prepare graduates to pursue employment in their field of study, or in related fields. However, the University does not guarantee that graduates will be placed in any particular job, eligible for job advancement opportunities, or employed at all. Additional police academy training may be required for law enforcement jobs.
Study techniques for locating, collecting, and analyzing crime scene evidence used in courts of law. Identify boundaries of a crime scene and review the principles of searching the crime scene for specific types of evidence, identifiable forensic material, and other items of evidentiary value. As a graduate, you may qualify to pursue a crime investigation position in a law enforcement organization.* *Kaplan University's programs are designed to prepare graduates to pursue employment in their field of study, or in related fields. However, the University does not guarantee that graduates will be placed in any particular job, eligible for job advancement opportunities, or employed at all. Additional police academy training may be required for law enforcement jobs.
Grand Canyon University's Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies prepares students to enter careers in law enforcement, governmental and private agencies, research, social work, political science, and a variety of other fields. Graduates will be able to describe the components of the justice system from a systems perspective, including function, organization, issues, practices, and interrelationship of law enforcement agencies, the courts, and the corrections system.
Prospective students should have some previous college experience.
Grand Canyon University's Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Emergency Management program is a bachelor's degree completion program that provides a theoretical and applied approach to the professional education of students, while ensuring relevance to the homeland security and public safety industries. The program emphasizes the fundamentals of emergency management while providing an interdisciplinary course of study in the skills and practices of emergency planning and management. Candidates for the degree include those working in or desirous of working in one of several fields, including emergency management, fire protection, emergency medical response, law enforcement, environmental health and safety, and other related fields. The program highlights the application of research methodology; the utilization of communication skills at the personal, professional, and public level; and the development of professional skills and knowledge in the fields of public safety and emergency management. Prospective students should have some previous college experience.
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program may provide students with the skills necessary to maintain law and order; protect life and property; and conduct administration, planning, and research services. It is designed to help prepare students for entry-level opportunities in corrections, probation, immigration or security administration.
The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice program may provide students with the skills necessary to maintain law and order; protect life and property; and conduct administration, planning, and research services. It is designed to help prepare students for entry-level opportunities in corrections, probation, immigration or security administration.
The Associate in Science in Criminal Investigations program teaches the fundamentals of crime scene investigation science and theory. Subjects taught include but are not limited to criminalistics, fingerprints and latents, crime scene photography, technology crimes, collecting and presenting audio and visual evidence, and biological evidence.
The Bachelor of Science in Paralegal program prepares graduates for more advanced work in law offices or corporate legal departments under the direction of an attorney. The curriculum introduces students to a wide range of legal topics such as contract law, litigation and criminal law, and expands into such areas as international law, worker's compensation, employment law, higher-level research and writing skills, advanced tort law and more.
The online bachelor's degree in paralegal studies prepares graduates for employment in attorney's offices, courtrooms, corporations, insurance companies, governmental offices and banks. This paralegal degree online provides knowledge of legal office procedures, delivery of legal services, legal research and writing and paralegal training in professional skills, general education, and technical competencies.
With the online paralegal degree from Virginia College, you can enter a skilled and prestigious profession, and one in which job growth is expected.
This online bachelor degree program in paralegal studies is designed for those who require a degree for entry into the workforce or for advancement in a current position. It is especially helpful for those who may have accumulated credits toward a paralegal degree or who may already hold an associate degree in paralegal studies.
Earning an associate degree in Criminal Justice can prepare individuals for career opportunities in corrections, private security, or law enforcement agencies in many states. With additional Police Officer Standards and Training (POST), the associate degree credential may enhance a candidate's qualifications for selection to become a peace officer in other states. The curriculum will examine current practices and influences on the American criminal justice systems and how the three branches of the government intertwine to enact, enforce, and uphold the laws of the land. Learners will also examine criminal investigation techniques, juvenile delinquency, the biological and psychological theories of crime and criminal behavior, and the future direction of public policy.
Earning an associate degree to become a Paralegal can prepare learners for a career assisting attorneys in their practices. Paralegals conduct legal research, prepare court documents, interview clients, and evaluate cases based on significant factors. Students can also choose to focus in areas such as real estate, bankruptcy, or criminal law to help them pursue more specific career options.
Earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice can prepare individuals for career opportunities in corrections, private security, or law enforcement agencies in many states*. The curriculum will examine current practices and influences on the American criminal justice systems and how the three branches of the government intertwine to enact, enforce, and uphold the laws of the land. Learners will also examine criminal investigation techniques, juvenile delinquency, the biological and psychological theories of crime and criminal behavior, and the future direction of public policy.
*Employment as a law officer may require additional training as determined by state agencies. Our program advisors can help identify such training. The bachelor's in criminal justice degree from GU/MSB does not fulfill requirements in Minnesota, however, it does fulfill those of many other states.
Individuals who earn a bachelor's degree in Paralegal studies will acquire the skills and knowledge that can set them apart and distinguish them from other candidates because of the thorough and comprehensive education they receive in our program. Learners will discover and use the various research methods available, how to evaluate each case based on specifics of the case, understand and prepare documents for specific purposes, and the legal processes and principles that are used in a particular area of law. Students can also choose to focus in areas such as real estate, bankruptcy, or criminal law to help them pursue more specific career options.
Students in the criminal justice associate degree program at Westwood can choose from many paths including options in corrections and private security. The hands-on instruction by industry professionals provides:
•focus on writing and communications to enhance reporting skills needed to succeed in criminal justice professions
•course content based on current issues and trends in the field, including perspectives on the high ethical standards expected of criminal justice professionals
•exposure to policing, corrections, juvenile justice and other key topics
Program names, course topics and outcomes may vary by location. Please speak with a Westwood College admissions representative for full program details.
In this bachelor's degree program you'll enjoy interactive classes taught by industry professionals who will help you acquire:
•a broad-based understanding of the criminal justice field
•exposure to criminal law, juvenile justice and domestic violence
•writing and communications courses to enhance reporting skills needed in many criminal justice professions
Program names, course topics and outcomes may vary by location. Please speak with a Westwood College admissions representative for full program details.
With this bachelor's degree program you can have a positive impact on your community. Our faculty of professionals who work in the field will guide you through:
•an in-depth review of correction-related issues such as correctional environments, law, administration and counseling
•coursework that utilizes written and communications skills to prepare for writing reports and interviewing
•a discussion of the high ethical standards expected of criminal justice professionals
Program names, course topics and outcomes may vary by location. Please speak with a Westwood College admissions representative for full program details.
In this bachelor's degree program you'll acquire skills necessary to launch your career in criminal justice. In interactive classes taught by industry professionals you'll be exposed to:
•an in-depth review of investigation-related issues such as crime scene investigation and digital and white collar crime
•writing and communications courses to enhance reporting skills needed in many criminal justice professions
•investigative techniques that can be applied to a wide variety of career choices in this field
Program names, course topics and outcomes may vary by location. Please speak with a Westwood College admissions representative for full program details.
The AIU Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) degree program offers a dynamic curriculum focused on current technology trends and applications designed to help students learn how to evaluate emerging technologies in the application of appropriate information systems to manage and achieve organizational goals and objectives. By studying key topics in Digital Investigations to complete the upper division's core specialization requirements, AIU gives you the opportunity to gain a fundamental understanding in digital and network investigations as you pursue your interest in opportunities involving the detection and prevention of computer crime.
The AIU Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) degree program combines the required General Education courses that can provide liberal arts foundation with specialized coursework designed to give students a professional education in the criminal justice field, with particular emphases in policing, courts, criminology, corrections, juvenile justice, homeland security and the field of forensic science. By studying key topics in Corrections and Case Management to complete the upper division's core specialization requirements, AIU gives you the opportunity to focus your interests on the acquisition of industry-specific knowledge and skills common to criminal justice professionals.
The AIU Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) degree program combines the required General Education courses that can provide liberal arts foundation with specialized coursework designed to give students a professional education in the criminal justice field, with particular emphases in policing, courts, criminology, corrections, juvenile justice, homeland security and the field of forensic science.
The goal of the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is to provide a well-rounded overview of the entire criminal justice system. Students can learn about criminal investigation, the impact of drug usage on crime, probation and parole. A choice of electives offers them the opportunity to delve into areas of particular interest, such as crime victim studies and issues of cultural diversity.
The Associate of Science in Legal Studies Degree at Post University prepares students to work as a member of a professional team delivering legal services. Students become familiar with the American legal system, including federal and state courts, statutes, codes, and treaties as well as with legal theory and its practical applications in various disciplines.
The emphasis is on learning by doing.
Paralegal programs include general courses on the law and legal research techniques; courses covering specialized areas of the law such as civil litigation, family law, contracts, and criminal law. Students can also do internships in which they gain practical experience by working for several months in a law office, corporate legal department, or government agency. This experience is an asset when seeking a job after graduation.
Students learn to handle legal problems logically and communicate, both orally and in writing, their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. Paralegals must understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support is increasingly important.
The paralegal profession is expected to rank among the 20 fastest growing occupations in the economy as employers recognize that paralegals perform many legal tasks for lower salaries than lawyers. Not all legal work requires a law degree.
You will study in highly interactive, small classes in 8-week accelerated modules. Our faculty will actively engage you in a high quality and relevant curriculum that prepares you to enter a rewarding career in the legal field.
Post University graduates may become:
The Post University Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree program provides a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes creative thinking and writing skills while developing an understanding of the criminal justice system.
Post University's Criminal Justice degree program will prepare you to take positions in local, state, and federal justice systems. You will take a variety of courses covering a diversity of relevant areas such as, forensic science, criminal procedure, criminal law, and ethics and discretion in criminal justice.
The Criminal Justice degree program provides an excellent education for those entering a criminal justice career and those who are seeking to advance their current careers within their department or agency.
With Post University Online, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree entirely online, with no commuting or interruptions in your current career.
You will study in highly interactive, small classes in 8-week accelerated modules. Our faculty will actively engage you in a high quality and relevant curriculum that prepares you to enter a rewarding career in criminal justice fields.
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice graduates can pursue careers as:
Post University's bachelor's degree in Legal Studies will prepare you to start a career in the legal field as a paralegal, prepare you to excel in new positions within your current organization, or enter law school or graduate school.
Paralegal Career
Paralegals are found in all types of organizations, but most are employed by law firms, corporate legal departments, and various government offices. Jobs in this field are expected to among the fastest growing careers according to the US Department of Labor.
Paralegals perform legal research, prepare briefs of researched cases, compose letters to clients and draft legal documents, interview clients and digest depositions, and assist attorneys in trial preparation.
Law School
You may enter law school with any bachelor's degree. This program offers a thorough grounding in honest decision-making as it explores the relationship of the legal system to business, government and society. It provides an excellent foundation and preparation for law school.
The program is broad-based and allows a student to study subjects such as economics; state, local and national government; and patents, trademarks and copyrights. You will develop writing and communication skills necessary for success in law school and the legal profession.
You will study in highly interactive, small classes in 8-week accelerated modules. Our faculty will actively engage you in a high quality and relevant curriculum that prepares you to enter a rewarding career in the legal field.
Post University graduates can become:
The Paralegal Studies program at Daymar College Online will teach students how to prepare legal reports and documents, including briefs, pleadings, and contracts. Learners will also practice how to conduct legal research and cite sources appropriately for reference. Opportunities for careers can be found in a private law office or in the legal department of a corporation, business, insurance company, bank, real estate office, or home healthcare agency.
*Paralegals must work under the supervision of a licensed attorney and may NOT provide legal services directly to the public.
If you're interested in a career that allows you contribute to the country's criminal justice system, Daymar College Online's Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration can help you reach your goals. The courses within this degree program maintain a dual emphasis on both the study of crime and justice within the American legal system.
At Daymar College Online, you can build in-depth knowledge about topics that are increasingly important to the criminal justice system. Our programs emphasize the importance of diversity, ethical treatment and community involvement. Whether you are most interested in working with law enforcement, the courts or the corrections system, the skills you gain at Daymar College Online can help you make it happen.
Graduates of our Criminal Justice Administration program can be prepared to pursue career paths such as:
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