Earning an online degree through criminal justice programs in West Virginia can prepare students for many jobs, including patrol officers and detectives.
In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates about 68,500 job openings will occur each year over the next decade for police and detectives.
But that's only one path a graduate with an online degree in criminal justice can choose.
There are many other public and private sector jobs available. These include intelligence analysts, security guards and supervisors, forensic science technicians, and game wardens.
If you're interested in a challenging yet rewarding career in one of these fields, you'll want to consider earning a high–quality online criminal justice degree.
Top Online Criminal Justice Programs in West Virginia
Students have access to quality online criminal justice programs in West Virginia.
1. Wheeling University
Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice through Wheeling University's online program. Its criminal justice program is one of the few that the small private university offers online.
This Catholic institution is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The university provides significant financial aid through need and merit–based opportunities.
The program is rooted in developing students' speaking, writing, and critical thinking skills. There is also a focus on ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the courts and law enforcement systems.
Other Online Criminal Justice Programs to Consider
2. Eastern Kentucky University
Students can prepare for a career fighting crime and protecting communities by developing a deep understanding of the criminal justice system at Eastern Kentucky University.
The university offers a fully online bachelor's program in criminal justice through a 120–credit hour program. It also offers affordable tuition and financial aid to assist students.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has accredited Eastern Kentucky University.
3. University of Maryland Global Campus
UMGC, which is part of the University of Maryland System, is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Its online Bachelor of Science program in criminal justice prepares students for careers in law enforcement agencies and command roles throughout the criminal justice system.
Students can take all of the program courses online or take select courses in a hybrid format while working to fulfill the 120–credit hour program.
A Public Safety Student Association is available for students and alumni to join.
The school also has a chapter of Pi Gamma Mu, an honor society that invites high–achieving social sciences students to become members.
4. Penn State World Campus
Penn State's online campus offers students a high–quality bachelor's degree in criminal justice through a fully online program.
This university, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, is widely regarded for its robust online program offerings.
The online criminal justice program is designed to give students ample experience in criminal justice theory and application to prepare them for local, state, federal, or private employment.
5. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science degree in criminology and criminal justice.
The program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the causes and consequences of crime, and how the criminal justice system manages crime.
The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers scholarship opportunities and other potential financial aid.
FAQs about West Virginia Criminal Justice Degree Programs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about criminal justice programs in West Virginia.
Why Should I Get an Online Criminal Justice Degree?
Getting an online criminal justice degree can provide you with skills and knowledge that better prepare you for a successful career in the industry.
By pursuing a degree online, you'll have the flexibility to complete your studies while fulfilling other responsibilities.
Is a Degree in Criminal Justice Hard?
An online degree in criminal justice can be challenging. Students typically will need to earn 120 or more credits to complete their degree, and doing so requires commitment and hard work.
Does Criminal Justice Require a Lot of Math?
Math is required as a general education requirement in most online criminal justice degree programs.
Depending on the job you pursue within criminal justice, you may need to use math skills as part of the performance of your daily duties.
What Makes the Most Money With a Criminal Justice Degree?
Federal agents, detectives, and investigators command the highest average pay among all police and detectives, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Their average pay ranges from about $107,000 to $116,000, depending on the specific role and division.
Start Your Criminal Justice Degree Program in West Virginia
Let us help you learn more about criminal justice programs in West Virginia. Contact Best Accredited Colleges today to explore more online learning and other degree opportunities.
