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Home | Online Degree Programs |
Law & Criminal Justice |
Law Enforcement Degree
Study criminal psychology, law, police operations and more
Crime scene investigation sounds exciting, but it requires the skills and training of a law enforcement professional. To learn these skills, many students pursue a degree in law enforcement. Law enforcement majors learn how to handle evidence, witnesses, and other elements of a crime scene. They learn to work within the confines of the law to determine who is responsible for a crime and how bring him or her to justice.
A law enforcement major gains the knowledge necessary to pursue a career in law enforcement. Many law enforcement majors become police officers, but others may take positions in security, the court system, and private investigation. Courses in criminal psychology, law, and police operations help prepare law enforcement majors for the world of criminal investigation.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2004, police officers earned an average annual income of $46,180, and security guards earned $22,070. Private detectives earned $36,330. Careers in law enforcement are expected to increase from 2002 to 2012. Jobs for police officers are expected to increase 24.7%, and jobs for security guards are expected to increase 31.9%. The percentage of private detective positions is expected to increase 25.3%.
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Law Enforcement Online Degree Programs
U.S. citizens depend on police officers and law enforcement professionals for protection of life and property. In this stressful but rewarding career, most law enforcement officers work a 40-hour week, although unusual hours and frequent relocation are common. Some of the areas in which law enforcers work are:
- Uniformed police officers
- Detectives
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- U.S. Marshals and Deputy Marshals
- State Bureau of Diplomatic Security
- Department of Homeland Security
- Customs Inspectors
- U.S. Secret Service
All law enforcement candidates have to meet specific age requirements, as well as physical and personal standards. They must have least a college education and undergo rigorous physical and psychological training and a probation period. Graduate education is often a requirement for promotions and advancement in most services.
The opportunity to serve and protect the public attracts many to this challenging job, which requires honesty, sound judgment, integrity, and a sense of responsibility. The pay scales vary from about $27,000 to $112,000 per year, depending on your training, location, and expertise. In addition, there are usually generous benefits and perks, especially when your employers are government entities.
Our Featured Education Partners:
Bellevue University
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BS in Investigation
The Bachelor of Science in Investigations is designed to help prepare individuals for careers in Loss Prevention, Anti-Money Laundering, Federal Law Enforcement, Corporate Security, Insurance Fraud, Security Control and other areas related to security in both the public and private sectors.
Bellevue University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Learn more about programs at Bellevue University.
Ashford University
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BA/Social & Criminal Justice
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BA/Social Science - Criminal Justice
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Organizational Management - Criminal Justice
Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS).
Learn more about programs at Ashford University.
American InterContinental University Online
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Associate's (AABA) - Criminal Justice Administration
AIU's online Criminal Justice Administration Associate degree program combines the real-world business skills taught in our university's AABA degree program and applies them to specific knowledge of the field of criminal justice. Students will be taught to apply management techniques in criminal justice organizations and security situations as well as learn to solve administrative problems and articulate the functions of each component of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, the courts system and corrections. Students who complete the AABA in Criminal Justice Administration will have acquired an up-to-date knowledge that can prepare them to pursue interesting jobs such as Campus Security Coordinator, County Clerk, Social and Human Services Assistant, Security Dispatcher, Peace Officer Trainee and many other in-demand professions. -
Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science
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Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement
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Bachelors' of Science in Criminal Justice
The AIU Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is specifically targeted towards current law enforcement professional looking to climb the ranks or students considering a career change to the rapidly expanding field of Criminal Justice. The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice can provide students with a superb foundation in some of the most interesting aspects of the industry including criminology and the causes of crime, and typologies and victims. Best of all, courses are taught by experts in the Criminal Justice field who bring their significant knowledge and expertise to each course.
American InterContinental University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Learn more about programs at American InterContinental University Online.
Kaplan University
The Kaplan University School of Criminal Justice offers the following online law enforcement degree programs:
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A.A.S. in Criminal Justice
As a graduate of this program you may qualify for entry-level employment in police departments, sheriffs departments, or other law enforcement offices, as well as in jails, prisons, juvenile detention facilities, or private-sector security. You can focus on an area of study that best fits your career and educational goals. Courses include: Introduction to Corrections; Juvenile Delinquency; and Critical Issues in Corrections. -
A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections
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A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
If you want to work in the criminal justice field, this degree will prepare you to find the job you want. The program provides a solid foundation in the areas of law enforcement, courts, corrections, and security. It also provides a liberal arts knowledge base and the technical skills required in specialized employment areas. Courses include: Criminal Investigation; Police Operations; and Criminal Evidence. -
A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Private Security
Students looking to complete a two-year degree as a base for a bachelors degree as well as people seeking entry-level employment in the criminal justice field should consider this program. Students accepted to the degree program often transfer their experience in criminal justice work for academic credit. Courses include: Private Security; Criminal Evidence; and White-Collar Crime. -
A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies
If you want to advance your career or make a career change by entering the legal profession, the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies will give you the advantage you need to attain the position you want. This program teaches you to communicate effectively within the legal environment, synthesize important concepts from specialized legal areas, demonstrate ethical decision-making skills, and develop effective legal research methods. Comprehensive study in areas such as civil litigation, contracts, legal research, and criminal law will prepare you for diverse career opportunities in the field. -
Advanced Start B.S. in Criminal Justice
If you have your associate's degree, the advanced start program can help you earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in as little as 12 months. This innovative program combines the career-oriented focus of a two-year degree with the academic curriculum of a four-year program, giving you the flexibility of joining the workforce while pursuing your lifelong goals. This bachelor's degree program prepares you with the knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking, and technical competencies required by careers in criminal justice. -
Advanced Start B.S. in Legal Studies
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Advanced Start B.S. in Paralegal Studies
If you have your associate's degree, our advanced start program can help you earn a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies in as little as 12 months. This innovative program combines the career-oriented focus of a two-year degree with the academic curriculum of a four-year program, giving you the flexibility of joining the workforce while pursuing your lifelong goals. This program prepares you with the knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking, and technical competencies required in the modern workplace. You can personalize your education to fit your needs by selecting a particular area of study: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Office Management, and Personal Injury. -
B.S. in Criminal Justice
If you are seeking to advance your career in law enforcement, private security, or corrections or to pursue entry-level opportunities, the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program will help you meet your career goals. This degree provides you with a solid foundation in criminal justice and a broad liberal arts education. The baccalaureate program is designed to combine 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, or juvenile justice facilities. -
B.S. in Criminal Justice/Computer Crime
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Crime Analysis
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Crime Scene Investigation
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Forensic Psychology
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Fraud Examination
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Homeland Security & Counterterrorism
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice
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B.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Prepare to start or advance a career in the police department or criminal investigations. Examine the roles, responsibilities, issues, and trends related to contemporary law enforcement organizations. This emphasis area also explores evidence and proof. Learn about trial proceedings, constitutional concepts, and criminal case law. As a graduate you may qualify for advanced positions within police departments and other law enforcement agencies. Courses include: Criminal Investigation; Police Operations; Criminal Evidence; Family and Domestic Violence; and Courtroom Presentation of Scientific Evidence. -
B.S. in Criminal Justice/Private Security
Learn techniques behind search, seizure, and discovery to help start or advance a career in security with companies, computer firms, retail stores, and schools. This emphasis area concentrates on collecting evidence and investigation. As a graduate you may qualify for employment in private security agencies, law firms, and corporate investigation departments. Courses include: Private Security; Criminal Evidence; White-Collar Crime; Organized Crime; and Administering the Business of Security. -
B.S. in Legal Studies
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B.S. in Legal Studies/Health Care
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies
If you want to pursue or advance a career as a paralegal, the Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies program will help you meet your career goals. This program provides a solid foundation in the law and paralegal skills, including litigation preparation, document supervision, and legal research. Graduates may pursue career opportunities or job advancement in a legal environment such as a private law firm, corporate law department, or local, state, or federal agency. You will gain research and analytical skills along with technical competencies in specialized areas of law. -
B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Alternative Dispute Resolution
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Corporate Law
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Employment Law
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Family Law
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Legal Technology
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Personal Injury
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Real Estate Law
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B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Social Security Law
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B.S. in Paralegal/Office Management
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Master of Science in Criminal Justice
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Masters of Science in Legal Studies
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MSCJ/Corrections
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MSCJ/Global Issues in Criminal Justice
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MSCJ/Law
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MSCJ/Leadership/Executive Management
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MSCJ/Policing
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Pathway to Paralegal Certificate
If you already have an associate's or bachelor's degree and want to seek entry-level employment opportunities in the legal profession, the Pathway to Paralegal Certificate is a valuable stepping stone toward your professional goals. This certificate program helps you increase your knowledge of the paralegal profession and provides an overall understanding of the American legal system. Students will study the civil litigation process, including fact gathering and investigation, case management and strategy, pleadings, motions, trial preparations, trial procedures, and posttrial procedures. You will also learn how to conduct legal research, appraise and evaluate legal sources, and incorporate these into relevant legal arguments.
Kaplan University is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Learn more about programs at Kaplan University.
Colorado Technical University Online
With CTU Online, you can earn a career-accelerating Bachelor's degree on a flexible study schedule that fits your busy lifestyle. CTU Online offers the following online criminal justice degree with a certificate in law enforcement:
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Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
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Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice (ASCJ)
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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice can earn four resume-building Professional Certificates on their way to graduation including: Corrections Technician. This certificate will equip the correctional staff worker with essential knowledge and skills appropriate for any type of correctional system work, from the juvenile correctional setting to working with violent adult offenders in maximum-security facilities. You will also explore the supporting programming in community corrections and the interplay of the two systems as used by judges and court services. -
Master of Science in Management - Criminal Justice
Colorado Tech Online is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Institutions of Higher Learning.
Learn more about programs at Colorado Technical University Online.
Adirondack Community College Adirondack Community College offers an online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Police Science. This curriculum is designed to prepare the student for transfer to a four year college or entry into the enforcement field. It will also serve to upgrade those already employed. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges.
American Public University The American Public University offers an Associate of Arts in General Studies with a concentration in Law Enforcement through distance learning. Accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council.
Fort Hays State University Fort Hays State University offers a Law Enforcement Certificate through distance education. Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Indiana State University Indiana State University offers both a basic and an advanced Undergraduate Certificate program in Law Enforcement through distance learning. Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Ottawa University Ottawa University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Law Enforcement Administration through distance education. Accredited by the North Central Association of College and Schools.
University of Leicester, UK University of Leicester offers a Master of Science in Police Leadership and Management through distance education.
Vincennes University Vincennes University offers an Associate of Science in Law Enforcement through distance education. Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
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Bellevue University
Ashford University
- BA/Social & Criminal Justice
- BA/Social Science - Criminal Justice
- Organizational Management - Criminal Justice
American InterContinental University Online
- Associate's (AABA) - Criminal Justice Administration
- Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice - Forensic Science
- Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement
- Bachelors' of Science in Criminal Justice
Kaplan University
- A.A.S. in Criminal Justice
- A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections
- A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
- A.A.S. in Criminal Justice/Private Security
- A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies
- Advanced Start B.S. in Criminal Justice
- Advanced Start B.S. in Legal Studies
- Advanced Start B.S. in Paralegal Studies
- B.S. in Criminal Justice
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Computer Crime
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Crime Analysis
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Crime Scene Investigation
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Forensic Psychology
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Fraud Examination
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Homeland Security & Counterterrorism
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Juvenile Justice
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
- B.S. in Criminal Justice/Private Security
- B.S. in Legal Studies
- B.S. in Legal Studies/Health Care
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Alternative Dispute Resolution
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Corporate Law
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Employment Law
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Family Law
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Legal Technology
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Personal Injury
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Real Estate Law
- B.S. in Paralegal Studies/Social Security Law
- B.S. in Paralegal/Office Management
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Masters of Science in Legal Studies
- MSCJ/Corrections
- MSCJ/Global Issues in Criminal Justice
- MSCJ/Law
- MSCJ/Leadership/Executive Management
- MSCJ/Policing
- Pathway to Paralegal Certificate
Colorado Technical University Online
- Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
- Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice (ASCJ)
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
- Master of Science in Management - Criminal Justice
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Related Degrees & Courses
- Forensic Science Degrees
- Homeland Security Degrees
- Public Safety Management
Law Enforcement Careers & Programs
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