Criminal justice is a competitive career field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts steady growth over the next decade for law enforcement workers — just one of the many careers in the criminal justice field. Some of these jobs will require at least a master’s degree in criminal justice, and there are a number of criminal justice graduate programs from which to choose.
Many to Choose From
By one estimate, there are more than 280 master’s degrees in criminal justice offered in the US. With so many choices, it may be difficult to find the right fit. Time and expense vs. program quality are always concerns. However, the location of the criminal justice graduate program may no longer be a limitation, as some universities, such as Lamar University, offer these degrees online.
Benefits of Earning a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Online
Online master’s degrees in criminal justice provide a number of benefits to the working professional. Convenience is one of the top reasons students cite for taking online courses; since the courses are online, there is no commute. Additionally, your schedule is your own to make, and you can work around more pressing personal or professional responsibilities.
You can also continue to work in the field and gain valuable job experience while pursuing a master’s degree in criminal justice, and you can immediately apply what you learn in the classroom to your job. Theory, tactics and current issues such as race and crime, homeland security, constitutional law and other topics of study apply directly to law enforcement.
Beyond the immediate benefits, you may find that online education is the right learning style for you. Online education allows you to control your learning environment, which can eliminate distractions and facilitate learning in your own home. Introverted students may also find it easier to participate in class discussions online, as opposed to face-to-face.
Given the many benefits of online education, it is not surprising that many are choosing to pursue a master’s degree in criminal justice online.
Learn more about the Lamar University online MS in Criminal Justice program.
Sources:
http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_102.htm
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm
http://oedb.org/ilibrarian/10-advantages-to-taking-online-classes/
