Thinking of getting an online degree in criminal justice? Here's what you should do

Convenient, affordable and career-focused; an online degree may be the shot in the arm you need to advance your criminal justice career.

Lexington County, SC 08/18/2025 - If you have ever thought about a career in law enforcement, the court system or any other aspect of public safety, a criminal justice degree can be a door opener. And the best part? You don't have to pack your bags and rip up your roots to achieve it.

With flexible online degrees, like the one offered by Appalachian State University, individuals right here in Lexington County can earn their degree at their own pace, in comfort from home, coffee cup by your side, dog underfoot, maybe even with the washer running in the background.

What exactly is a criminal justice degree?

Criminal justice is actually all about studying the laws, processes and people that keep our communities safe. When you learn this field, you're being exposed to a mixture of topics like:

• Criminal law and procedure.

• Policing and corrections.

• The court system.

• Criminology.

• Ethics and justice.

• Research methods.

  
  

You'll also learn about the big picture; how crime impacts society, how justice agencies cooperate and what can be done to prevent crime from being committed in the first place. It's an excellent blend of applied learning and academic study that prepares you for all types of careers.

And don't worry, you won't have to become a police officer if that's not your job. This degree will prepare you for all kinds of jobs in law enforcement, legal aid, public policy, cyber security and even government agencies.

Looking for an online criminal justice degree in the Carolinas?

If you’re thinking seriously about starting your journey in this field, Appalachian State University offers a fully online criminal justice degree designed for busy adults. Their website onlineprograms.appstate.edu breaks everything down in an easy-to-navigate way.

You'll notice details on the curriculum, admissions, transfer credits and what makes their program unique, including flexible scheduling, faculty specialists and transfer-friendly options. It's one of the better options if you require an online criminal justice degree in the Carolinas, and it's backed by a well-established public university with a background in supporting students to be successful online as well as in the classroom.

Why do it online

Let's be real. Life is crazy. Between work, family and just making it through the daily, returning to school can feel like climbing Mount Everest. But getting your criminal justice degree online makes it a whole lot easier. Here's why:

You set the pace

Online courses are designed with life in mind. That is, you can hear lectures after work, read on the weekends or submit assignments during nap time. It's learning on your schedule, not theirs.

Learn from the best, no matter where you are

You don't necessarily have to be near a big university to enjoy experienced instructors. The majority of online degrees (like Appalachian State's) are taught by the same professors who teach on campus. They bring real-world know-how and scholarly expertise into every class.

No commute, no problem

Come on, dealing with Lexington County traffic can be a pain. Taking online classes allows you to bypass the time and gas money that you would have spent traveling to campus. Just sit down and get started.

Save some cash

Online degrees are less expensive, and you don't have to spend money on housing, parking and eating out, just to name a few. And with in-state tuition and scholarship funds, it's cheaper than you might believe.

Careers you can pursue with a criminal justice degree

One of the best things about this degree is its versatility. Whether you're starting out or changing careers, a criminal justice degree can lead you to some fascinating destinations, including:

• Police officer or sheriff's deputy.

• Probation or parole officer.

• Crime scene investigator.

• Corrections officer.

• Court clerk or legal assistant.

• Federal agent (FBI, DEA, Homeland Security, etc.).

• Private security or corporate loss prevention.

• Emergency management.

• Victim advocacy and social services.

  
  

And that’s just the beginning. Some grads even go on to law school or grad school in criminal justice, public administration or social work.

What about transferring credits?

Excellent question. A lot of folks in Lexington County have some college under their belt already, whether that's through Midlands Tech or elsewhere. The good news is that a lot of online degrees, including App State's, are highly transferable. You may have more credits toward a degree than you think.

They'll look at your past coursework and assist you in developing a plan that makes sense so you're not duplicating courses you've already done.

Final thoughts: Is an online criminal justice degree right for you?

If you have an interest in justice, an interest in how our systems of law function and a need to assist in making your community safer, then yes, this could be an ideal fit.

Online learning isn’t for everyone. You’ve got to be self-motivated, organized and comfortable managing your own schedule. But for a lot of people, especially busy adults in Lexington County, it’s the perfect way to balance education with everything else life throws your way.

So, whether you're simply window shopping your options or ready to begin, take a look at what schools like Appalachian State offer. Your future in criminal justice could be just a few clicks away.

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