There are many ways to go about entering the world of criminal justice. Two of the most common ones are through getting either an associate degree or a bachelor’s. Classes will be similar in both programs, with associate degree program classes being solely focused on a criminal justice based curriculum.
Learn more about what both degrees entail, along with the knowledge and skill sets developed in criminal justice programs.
Also check out: How Much Do Criminal Justice Programs Cost?
Criminal Justice Associate Degree
Entering the criminal justice field with an associate degree is quicker and more affordable than getting your bachelor’s. Associate degree programs in criminal justice tend to take about 2 years to complete. Classes in these programs are strictly based on the criminal justice curriculum, without other electives like English or math.
Classes in a Criminal Justice Program – Associate Degree
Some of the classes you may take for your associate degree in criminal justice include but are not limited to:
- Intro to Criminal Justice
- Criminal Investigation
- Criminal Law
- Juvenile Justice
- Corrections
- Criminal Justice Writing and Communication
You might also have the option to take classes on more specialized subjects including forensics, victimology, cybercrime and cyber security, ethics, drug-related crimes, behavioral science, and more. Toward the end of these programs, many students will also be required to complete a capstone project to demonstrate their working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree
While earning your bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can be more costly up front and take longer to complete, it can make you more eligible for career advancement. Bachelor’s degree programs generally take 4 years, and will also involve students taking prerequisite courses in addition to criminal justice classes.
Classes in a Criminal Justice Program – Bachelor’s Degree
Getting your bachelor’s degree in criminal justice will generally involve taking the same classes students seeking associate degrees do. In addition to these classes, however, you will have prerequisite courses to take like math and English.
You’ll have the opportunity to choose some electives, as well. Electives that could enhance your knowledge of criminal justice include but are not limited to:
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Public Speaking
- Computer Science
- Foreign Language
Like students earning associate degrees, you might also have the opportunity to specialize in certain areas. Although getting a bachelor’s isn’t necessary to enter the field of criminal justice, there are a few reasons some students opt for bachelor’s degrees.
First, earning your bachelor’s may increase your earning potential and help you stand out in the job market. Another reason many opt for a bachelor’s is that the additional education can lead to career advancement opportunities that an associate may not provide.
Schools with Excellent Criminal Justice Programs
Looking for a school near you? We can help. We’re partnered with some excellent schools offering criminal justice degrees across the country. Some of these schools are listed below.
- Keiser University
- Remington College
- Miller-Motte College
- Rockford Career College
- South University
- UEI College
Looking for more great schools? Search through our complete list of partner colleges here!
Which Should You Go For?
At the end of the day, the decision to get your bachelor’s degree or associate mainly depends on your preferences, your career goals, your budget, and any financial assistance you qualify for. Both degrees are geared towards providing a comprehensive education and a thorough insight into criminal justice careers.
Get started by finding a school with great criminal justice programs near you!
