Online bachelor degree programs in criminal justice

Truth, justice, and the American way--have you been looking for a career that allows you to uphold these values? Do you want to help protect the rule of law and serve others? If so, a career in criminal justice may be the right choice for you.

Campus and online bachelor's degree programs in criminal justice: What to expect

For the first two years of campus and online bachelor's degree programs in criminal justice, students take general education, or core courses, such as the following:

• Criminal psychology
• Social work
• Communication
• Sociology
• Research methods
• Law enforcement
• Judicial process

In the last two years of criminal justice administration degrees or similar undergraduate programs, the student takes advanced courses in legal studies, law enforcement, security and corrections, forensics and investigation, victims of crime, computer crime, juvenile justice, terrorism and homeland security.

Criminal justice administration degrees: Career outlook

With a campus or online bachelor's degree in criminal justice, there are numerous career paths from which to choose, depending on your interests and specialization. The following are some common careers and salaries for criminal justice majors, provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Police officers help to protect lives and property of others. They can work for local, state or federal agencies. Mean annual salary for May 2009: $55,180.


• Detectives perform investigative duties, collect evidence and gather facts for cases. They write detailed investigative reports and appear as witnesses in court, when necessary. Mean annual salary for May 2009: $65,860.


• Fish and game wardens enforce the laws regarding fishing, boating and hunting. They patrol hunting and fishing areas to ensure that sportsmen possess the necessary licenses and are safely using boats, guns, and other equipment. They also conduct rescue operations, investigate accidents and complaints. Mean annual salary for May 2009: $54,950.


• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents are the principal investigators for the federal government. They are responsible for investigating more than 200 categories of federal law and conducting sensitive national security investigations. Mean annual salary for May 2009: $73,170 .


• Department of Homeland Security law enforcement officers work to enforce the laws with the border patrol, immigration and customs enforcement. The Secret Service division provides protection to public official such as the President. Mean annual salary for May 2009: $51,060.

If you are interested in working in a criminal justice career at the local level, the job outlook is favorable. For criminal justice positions at the state or federal level, expect fierce competition. A high grade point average and an internship in one of the organizations for which you would like to work, can help you get an edge on the competition.

Another advantage you have is the research that WorldWideLearn has already done for you. In our Guide to College Majors, you can find in-depth information about undergraduate majors in law and criminal justice, homeland security, law enforcement, crime scene investigation, economic crime and more.

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