Easiest Law Enforcement Degree Programs & Courses

If you want to have a career in law enforcement, your first step is to earn a degree in criminal justice. Criminal justice is the study of law in the United States and solving legal issues while improving the justice system.

To improve the is into your professional career, you may be wondering which options you have for the easiest degree in law enforcement.

This article will discuss the different types of bachelor's degrees available and how you can achieve them. Plus, will also include different steps towards attaining these degrees, and the colleges with the best options.

Easiest Criminal Justice Degrees

For students who want to begin their professional career in law enforcement, the best degree options are as follows.

Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

An associate degree in criminal justice is typically offered through a community college and takes between one to two years to complete. Most colleges offer in-person and remote learning options, giving students the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world.

One possible disadvantage of the associate degree is that it is considered an entry-level degree and may only apply to individuals just starting in their careers. To be considered for promotion or other roles, students may want to consider a four-year college.

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

A bachelor's degree takes three or more years to complete depending on how many classes are taken during the year and if the student opts in for summer courses.

Most students complete bachelor's degrees within four years and can complete their coursework in person or online. A Bachelor of Arts usually includes elective courses within the liberal arts.

To graduate, students may need to complete criminal justice coursework that focuses on:

• history
• communications
• humanities

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

A Bachelor of Science is similar to a Bachelor of Arts, the only difference being the elective courses required to graduate. With an emphasis on science, students completing this program may need to complete courses in science or math.

For those interested in criminal justice, elective coursework in forensic or computer science may be best applicable.

Best Colleges for an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

Here are some colleges that offer associate degrees in criminal justice:

• Valencia College
• Purdue Global
• Keiser University
• Saint Leo University

Best Colleges for a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

If you're interested in obtaining a degree, with an emphasis on liberal arts courses, then these are the best in-person, hybrid, and online programs for a Bachelor of Arts in law enforcement.

1. University of Massachusetts Global

This fully online program through the University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) lays the groundwork for students who want to fully understand the criminal justice system.

This particular degree program, is local, state, and federal law enforcement. It's a well-rounded program for students who are interested in corrections, courts, Homeland Security, and victim advocacy.

Plus, there is a minor in criminal justice available for undergraduate students interested in another bachelor's degree in a different area of study.

2. Hilbert College Global

Hilbert College has an entirely online degree program through its global campus and is accessible to students worldwide. Because this field encompasses multiple disciplines like law, sociology, and political science, Hilbert College combines all focus areas into its four-year degree.

Students can choose between either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science, depending on the elective courses they prefer to take.

3. American Military University

The online Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice is available through the American Military University School of Security and Global Studies. This program is particularly cost-effective.

American Military University doesn't require an application fee and doesn't charge for a transfer credit evaluation. Textbooks and e-books are relatively low-cost and 72% of their graduates leave with no student loan debt.

4. Seton Hall University

The College of Arts and Sciences through Seton Hall University offers a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice. Upon completing this program, students will be able to understand the complete framework of the American criminal justice system.

This program is especially effective for those interested in entering law enforcement because of its well-rounded and directed approach to criminal behavior.

Many criminal justice majors go on to obtain internships through the US Department of Homeland Security, the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, and the Superior Court of New Jersey.

5. Monmouth University

Monmouth University offers a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice that teaches core subjects related to law enforcement. Students can expect to get a full understanding of:

• criminal law
• criminology
• a complete introduction to criminal justice

Monmouth is a great starting point for students interested in moving on to law school and working with prosecutors' offices.

Best Colleges for a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Alternatively, if you have more of an interest in the sciences, a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice may be the best fit. Here are the best options for colleges that offer these programs.

1. Bridgewater State University

Located in Massachusetts, Bridgewater State University offers over 100 areas of study within a short distance from Boston and Providence.

This college offers a variety of hybrid courses making it easy for students to learn online and on their campus. Among their most popular program is criminal justice, which gives students great insight into working within law enforcement.

Because of its strategic location between to capital cities, students have internship options within Boston and Providence.

2. Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice completely online. Students deep dive into contemporary social issues while learning the essentials of the criminal justice system.

This program has 127 total credits and is offered in an accelerated cohort format. For students who are enrolled in the military, Bellevue University also offers discounted pricing.

3. Lasell University

Lasell University offers criminal justice majors within their school of humanities, education, justice, and social sciences. Students enrolled at Lasell are well-equipped for careers in:

• law enforcement and public safety
• crime prevention
• domestic violence
• gang interventions
• probation and corrections

Graduates will have learned the criminal justice system's role in society and how to apply it morally and ethically.

4. Liberty University

Liberty University is a popular online university that offers convenient remote programs for students. The online criminal justice degree can be completed within 120 hours and consists of eight-week courses.This format makes it easy for students to break up their semesters and work around busy working schedules.

5. University of South Carolina

The Palmetto College at the University of South Carolina offers a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice. Throughout their four years, students will develop critical thinking, communication, writing, and analytical skills from their coursework.

They'll receive hands-on training that includes the study of crime courts policing and corrections. This program lays the educational framework necessary for a successful career in law enforcement.

Find the Easiest Degree in Law Enforcement Today

A professional career in law enforcement starts with a degree in criminal justice. Professionals in this field go on to complete successful and fulfilling careers bettering the lives of American citizens.

Find the best colleges available and the easiest criminal justice degrees for you by checking out Learn.org today.