Online Criminal Justice Administration Degree

Criminal Justice Administration Degree Overview

Listed below are colleges and universities that offer online degrees, certificates, and diplomas in the major of Criminal Justice Administration and a detailed list of the programs offered. Tuition, financial aid, course offerings, online classes, adult education, and distance learning options are available by request.

Criminal Justice Administration Career Outlook

A Need for Evidence

In 2007, there were well over 12,000 people employed in various fields of forensics. Competition is tough for a job in this popular field, but employment opportunities are predicted to rise, as the judicial system is in constant need of evidence analysis.

Also, as DNA testing is becoming solidified as the best kind of examination, more people are needed in this field. DNA forensics is a good choice when determining what exactly you want to do with your career.

Note: Be aware that employees will probably require background testing and drug testing.

Criminal Justice Administration Salary Information

The median annual wage in 2007 for forensics specialists was about $47,000 a year. Starting salaries will be anywhere from $20,000-$40,000 a year. With a more advanced degree, or by directing lab work, you can expect a salary upwards of $80,000.

Your salary could increase if you have computer experience, or technological know-how. There is a lot of forensic research done by machines in this day and age, so you could put yourself a step ahead by gaining knowledge of these things prior to entering the field. Some machines identify chemicals or drugs, computer programs analyze records, and other technology is used.

Though an advanced degree can help you earn more, those in the forensic field say that sometimes not specializing in any one area is actually beneficial when it comes to job opportunities.

Criminal Justice Administration Required Job Skills and Knowledge

Forensic Science can be defined as the application of the laws of nature to the laws of man.

This is what one man said in a journal of forensic sciences, and it is true. Forensics is all about the sciences, so be ready for science classes in college.

You will need at least a bachelors degree to be successful in the field of forensics. If you want to be an expert that many judges and people turn to for advice, you will need a PhD in a specialized field of your choice.

Here are some of the classes you will be taking:

• Math
• Science
• Biology
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Quantitative analysis (research methods)
• statistics
• Writing Skills

Many who work in the field have a degree other than forensic science. Chemistry, biology, physics, and physical anthropology are also good preparation majors for a career in forensics. Lab experience in college is vital.

You will need to develop good problem solving skills if you want to be recognized as a good forensics expert.