Why Choose An Associate’s Degree In Criminal Justice

By Author: William Hauselberg
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If you have a passion for justice and upholding the law, careers in criminal justice are for you. A 2 year criminal justice degree can prepare you for a meaningful career protecting and serving citizens and making a difference in your local community.

Why a Two Year Degree?

But why choose a 2 year degree? There are a number of advantages associated with two year college degrees versus 4 year bachelor’s degrees. Completing a degree program in half the time means you will enter the field 2 years sooner. Entering the field sooner means earning a steady paycheck sooner, establishing yourself in the field sooner, and making faster strides toward climbing the ladder in your chosen field. 2 year college degrees are also financially beneficial in that half the coursework means a much lower overall cost for your education. And should you choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree later down the line, the credits you earn in your 2 year program are transferrable.

Admissions requirements include either a high school diploma or GED, and applicants must pass a required background check.

Criminal Justice Coursework

Some ...
... of the coursework required to earn an associates degree in criminal justice include Criminology and Criminal Justice, Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security, Juvenile Justice, Modern Corrections Issues, Principles of EOC/Dispatch, Report Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals, and Security and Loss Prevention. Colleges that offer 2 year criminal justice programs also provide the option to complete some or all of your coursework online. Online classes give you the opportunity to complete your coursework at home and on your own time. This is especially advantages for students who wish to maintain their current work or personal schedule while earning their degree.

The coursework and training required in order to earn an associate's degree in criminal justice will also prepare you for Act 235 certification. This certification provides training and licensing of criminal justice professionals including watch guards, protective patrolmen, detectives, and criminal investigators to carry and use lethal weapons. Through a partnership with a local shooting academy, you can earn your Act 235 certification to use firearms as a condition of your employment.

Graduates who hold an associates degree in criminal justice can find work in corrections facilities, state and federal courts, detective units, private security companies and more.

Hands-on training through internship opportunities will give you the chance to put your skills to work and network with professionals in the field to better prepare you for your new career immediately upon graduation.

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