Online degree programs have made earning an associate criminal justice degree easier than ever before. Students can now attend classes at any time from any place while maintaining professional and personal responsibilities. Many online degree programs, however, do not deliver the quality of education students expect. Any associate criminal justice degree checklist of considerations should include these 7 questions:
1. Is the Associate Criminal Justice Degree Accredited?
The school offering the associate criminal justice degree should be accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. It should also be a member of one of the six regional associations of colleges and schools. For example, the University of Phoenix is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. This is the same system that accredits schools like Harvard, Yale, and state universities.
2. What is the Focus of the Associate Criminal Justice Degree Curriculum?
Because an associate criminal justice degree is a foundational program, the curriculum should provide a broad overview of the criminal justice system. It should also teach professional skills that prepare the student for a practical career.
3. What are Alumni of the Associate Criminal Justice Degree Doing?
An associate criminal justice degree should prepare students to enter positions in the following areas:
- Law enforcement.
- Corrections. Probation.
- Government.
- Private security.
The degree should also count towards at least part of a bachelor of science in criminal justice.
4. Who Teaches the Associate Criminal Justice Degree Classes?
Associate criminal justice degree classes should be taught by knowledgeable professors. Professors should also have practical experience in criminal justice.
5. What Types of Financial Aid are Available to Students in the Associate Criminal Justice Degree Program?
Associate criminal justice degree programs should offer a variety of financial aid options. For example, the University of Phoenix Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program accepts several forms of federal and state financial aid, employer reimbursement, and low interest-rate loans.
6. How Long does it take to Complete the Associate Criminal Justice Degree?
This associate criminal justice degree checklist consideration is important for career and financial planning. How many credits are required to complete the degree, and how long does that typically take? For example, the University of Phoenix Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice requires 60 credits, which can be completed in 20 months. Some students complete the program in even less time by transferring previously earned credits.
7. What is the Credit Transfer Policy for the Associate Criminal Justice Degree?
Previous criminal justice education can significantly speed the process of earning an associate criminal justice degree. Find out if previously-earned credits are counted towards the degree requirements. The University of Phoenix accepts most credits that have been earned with a C- or better.
With the right features, an associate degree in criminal justice online can be the perfect route to career advancement. To request more information about the University of Phoenix Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, prospective students are encouraged to submit this information request form. Additional links to criminal justice online and campus-based programs are available through College-Pages.com, the leading education and career resource website.