How to choose a bachelor's in criminal justice

Do you want a career related to criminal justice, such as policing, crime scene investigating, working in correctional services, drug enforcement, or one of many other fields? Then pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice may be a good fit for you.

Learn about what factors to consider when choosing a bachelor's in criminal justice program so you can find the one that best aligns with your academic and career goals.

Guide to choosing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice

There are certain factors that you should think about when choosing a bachelor's in criminal justice program.

Accreditation

It's important to make sure that the institution at which you want to enroll in a criminal justice bachelor's program has accreditation from an institutional accrediting agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). This ensures not only that the school you may be thinking of attending can provide a quality education but also that, should you need to transfer to a different school, your credit hours will transfer over as well.

Additionally, only colleges and universities accredited by a national organization recognized by the ED can receive federal grants and loans for their students.

It's also advisable to check if the program is endorsed by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS).

Prestige and reputation

Reputation, both of the program and institution, is important. Research and make inquiries about specific programs to get more information.

Schools and programs with good reputations tend to provide the highest quality education. Also, if you think you might want to apply to law school after your criminal justice degree, having your bachelor's degree from a school with a strong reputation may make you more competitive.

Program culture and composition

There are both bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS) programs in criminal justice. The difference between a BA and BS criminal justice program depends on the specific institution.

However, generally speaking, BA programs may have more of a liberal arts focus. BS in criminal justice programs, on the other hand, tend to have more of a technical focus. For example, a BS in criminal justice may offer the chance to learn about the science of forensics.

Many criminal justice students like to get practical workplace experience (for example, through an internship). If you'd like the chance to do an internship, look for a bachelor's program that offers that opportunity or requirement.

Flexibility

If you want to study in person, location can be a limiting factor in which criminal justice program you choose. On the other hand, if you decide to do your degree online, you can choose from a wide range of online bachelor's degree programs.

Another advantage of online study is that it is usually more flexible than in-person learning. You may be able to more easily complete your degree online on a part-time basis, taking your classes around your personal schedule so that they fit in with your other responsibilities.

Online study is also attractive in that you can complete a program at a distant school without having to move or commute.

Explore bachelor's degrees in criminal justice

Are you ready to begin your career in the wide world of criminal justice? Then check out edX's online courses and programs in criminal justice and get started today.