The Fastest Way to Earn a Criminal Justice Degree Online
Are you looking to jumpstart your career in criminal justice? An accelerated online criminal justice degree program might be the perfect solution. These fast-paced programs allow you to earn your bachelor’s degree in as little as 15 months, getting you into the workforce sooner.
What is an Accelerated Criminal Justice Degree?
Accelerated criminal justice degree programs are designed to help students complete their bachelor’s degree at a faster pace than traditional on-campus programs. They achieve this in a few key ways:
Shorter Course Lengths
Instead of the standard 15-week semester, accelerated programs offer courses that are 8-10 weeks long. This allows you to take more classes per year and graduate sooner.
Credit Transfers
Many accelerated programs accept a high number of transfer credits, whether from previous college coursework, military experience, or professional certifications. This reduces the total number of credits you need to earn your degree.
Flexible Online Format
Online delivery gives you the freedom to study on your own schedule, without having to commute to a physical campus. This makes it easier to balance your degree with work and other commitments.
The Fastest Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs
So which schools offer the quickest path to a criminal justice bachelor’s degree? Here are some of the top options:
1. University of Oklahoma
- Program: BS in Criminal Justice
- Time to Complete: As little as 18 months
- Key Features:
- 8-week online courses
- Transfer credit accepted
- Focuses on law enforcement skills
The University of Oklahoma’s accelerated online criminal justice program stands out for its rapid 18-month completion time. Students take 8-week courses and can transfer in credits to speed up the process. The curriculum emphasizes practical law enforcement skills like forensic science and the justice system.
2. Ball State University
- Program: BS in Criminal Justice and Criminology
- Time to Complete: As little as 1 year
- Key Features:
- Requires only 30 credits at Ball State
- Credit for military service and exam scores
- Recognized by U.S. News & World Report
At Ball State University, you can earn your criminal justice bachelor’s degree in as little as a year. The program allows you to transfer in the majority of your credits, with just the final 30 credits needing to be completed at Ball State. They also offer credit for military experience and exam scores.
3. Norwich University
- Program: BS in Criminal Justice
- Time to Complete: As little as 2 years
- Key Features:
- 100% online format
- 8-week course sessions
- Concentrations in Law Enforcement, Corrections, and Homeland Security
Norwich University’s accelerated online criminal justice degree can be completed in just 2 years. The program features 8-week courses and a 100% online delivery, giving you the flexibility to study on your own time. You can also choose from concentrations in Law Enforcement, Corrections, or Homeland Security to tailor your degree.
4. University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Program: BS in Criminal Justice
- Time to Complete: 1-3 years
- Key Features:
- Asynchronous online courses
- 6, 8, 10, 12, or 15-week sessions
- Option to earn a bachelor’s + master’s in 5 years
The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers an online criminal justice bachelor’s degree that can be completed in as little as 1 year, or up to 3 years at a more moderate pace. Their flexible course schedule includes 6 to 15-week sessions, and they even have an accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s program for those who want to earn both degrees in under 5 years.
Benefits of an Accelerated Criminal Justice Degree
So why should you consider an accelerated online criminal justice program? Here are some of the key advantages:
Faster Entry into the Workforce
By earning your degree in 15-24 months instead of the traditional 4 years, you can start your criminal justice career much sooner. This allows you to begin building experience and earning a salary earlier.
Cost Savings
Accelerated programs typically cost less overall than a standard 4-year degree, since you’re taking fewer courses and paying tuition for a shorter period of time.
Flexibility for Working Professionals
The online, self-paced format of accelerated programs makes it easier to balance your studies with a full-time job or other commitments. You can earn your degree without having to quit your current position.
Diverse Career Opportunities
A criminal justice degree can open the door to a wide range of careers, from law enforcement and corrections to homeland security and forensics. The skills you gain will be valuable in both the public and private sectors.
How to Choose the Right Accelerated Program
When selecting an accelerated online criminal justice degree, be sure to consider factors like:
- Program Length: Look for programs that can be completed in 15-24 months.
- Credit Transfer Policies: Ensure the school accepts a high number of transfer credits to maximize your progress.
- Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by organizations like the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Concentrations: Decide if you want to specialize in an area like law enforcement, corrections, or homeland security.
- Reputation: Research the school’s rankings and reputation in criminal justice education.
With the right accelerated program, you can get the criminal justice degree you need to launch an exciting new career path. Start your search today and take the first step towards your dream job in this vital field.