2026 Fastest Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs Ranking in Virginia Beach, VA

What can I expect from a Online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA ?

As a student in Virginia Beach, VA, pursuing an online Criminal Justice degree, you can expect a comprehensive education that prepares you for a career in law enforcement, corrections, and rehabilitation, among other fields. For instance, graduates from Virginia Beach's own Regent University have reported feeling confident and prepared for their careers, thanks to the program's emphasis on practical knowledge and real-world applications. The online program typically covers a wide range of topics, including the history, theory, and practice of criminal justice, as well as the latest advancements in the field. Some of the key aspects of an online Criminal Justice degree program in Virginia Beach, VA, include:

• Accelerated, asynchronous courses that allow students to graduate faster, with classes starting every few weeks and three semesters offered year-round, as seen in the online programs offered by ECPI University.
• Access to online resources and support services, such as virtual classrooms, online libraries, and career counseling, which have been praised by graduates from Tidewater Community College for their effectiveness in supporting student success.
• Opportunities to specialize in a particular area of interest, such as cybercrime or forensic psychology, through elective courses or concentrations, which have been popular among students at Old Dominion University.Many graduates have reported feeling a sense of excitement and fulfillment as they apply the knowledge and skills they gained in their online Criminal Justice degree program to real-world scenarios. For example, a graduate from a Virginia Beach university recalled feeling a sense of pride and satisfaction as they worked with law enforcement agencies to develop and implement effective crime prevention strategies. With the flexibility and affordability of online degree programs, students in Virginia Beach, VA, can pursue their passion for criminal justice and make a meaningful impact in theircommunities. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation for a career in criminal justice, with courses covering topics such as criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and forensic science, all of which are essential for success in this field.

Where can I work with a Online Criminal Justice degree?

As a professor who has mentored numerous students in Online Criminal Justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA, I've seen firsthand the diverse range of career opportunities that await graduates. Many of my students from universities like ECPI University and Tidewater Community College have gone on to work in local, state, and federal government agencies, such as the Virginia Beach Police Department or the FBI's Norfolk field office. For instance, some graduates have shared with me their experiences working as security specialists for private firms, safeguarding assets and employees, while others have found rewarding careers in social services agencies, working with at-risk populations, including juveniles involved in the justice system.

Some of the typical jobs that Online Criminal Justice degree holders can expect to work in include:

• Law enforcement agencies, such as police and detective work, where they can expect a 7% growth in employment from 2020 to 2030
• Private investigation agencies, where they can conduct investigations and gather evidence
• Correctional facilities, where they can oversee individuals who have been convicted of crimes and help them reintegrate into society
• Law firms, where they can work as legal assistants or paralegals, supporting lawyers and conducting research
• Social services agencies, where they can work with at-risk populations and help them access resources and support

I recall one graduate from Regent University who shared with me their experience working as a victim advocate, supporting victims of crime and guiding them through the criminal justice system. Another graduate from Old Dominion University mentioned their work in crime analysis, using data and statistics to identify patterns and trends in criminal activities and assisting law enforcement agencies in solving crimes. These are just a few examples of the many career paths that Online Criminal Justice degree holders can pursue in Virginia Beach, VA. With astrong demand for skilled professionals in the field, graduates can expect a median annual salary ranging from $55,690 to $61,380, depending on the specific job and industry.

How much can I make with a Online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA ?

As a professor who has mentored numerous students pursuing Online Criminal Justice degrees in Virginia Beach, VA, I've seen firsthand the excitement and anticipation that comes with exploring career opportunities in this field. Many of my students at universities like Regent University and ECPI University have asked me, "How much can I make with a Criminal Justice degree?" The answer is, it really depends on the career path you choose. For instance, some of my graduates who have gone on to become Police Officers are earning a mean annual wage of $71,380, with a mean hourly wage of $34.32. Others who have become Correctional Officers are earning a mean annual wage of $54,760, with a mean hourly wage of $26.33.

Some of the most popular career paths for Criminal Justice graduates in Virginia Beach, VA, and their corresponding average salaries, include:

• Police Officer: $71,380 per year, $34.32 per hour
• Correctional Officer: $54,760 per year, $26.33 per hour
• Crime Scene Investigator: $91,610 per year, $44.04 per hour
• Forensic Science Technician: $69,260 per year, $33.3 per hour
• Court Clerk: $46,280 per year, $22.25 per hour

I recall one of my graduates from Tidewater Community College who landed a job as a Crime Scene Investigator and was thrilled to be earning a mean annual wage of $91,610, with a mean hourly wage of $44.04. Another graduate from Old Dominion University who became a Forensic Science Technician was happy to be earning a mean annual wage of $69,260, with a mean hourly wage of $33.3. These examples illustrate the varying salary ranges that Criminal Justice graduates in Virginia Beach, VA can expect, depending on their career choices.

How long does it take to complete a Online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA ?

Completing an online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA can take anywhere from two to six years, depending on the level of degree being pursued. For instance, an associate's degree in Criminal Justice from Tidewater Community College can be completed in as little as two years, with 60-70 credits required for graduation. Some graduates from this program have gone on to work as police officers or correctional officers in the Virginia Beach area, with median salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $60,000 per year. On the other hand, a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University can take four years to complete, with 120-130 credits required for graduation. Key highlights of the bachelor's program include:

• A comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as law enforcement, corrections, and criminology
• Opportunities for internships and hands-on experience in the field
• A strong focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skillsGraduates from this program have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including federal law enforcement, forensic science, and social justice advocacy. Meanwhile, a master's degree in Criminal Justice from Regent University can take two to three years to complete, with 30-40 credits required for graduation. This advanced degree can lead to career advancement opportunities in leadership and management roles, with median salaries ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000 per year. Many graduates from this program have reported feeling a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction in their careers, knowing that they are making a positive impact in their communities. For example, some graduates have gone on to work as program directors or policy analysts, using their knowledge and skills to drive positive change in the criminal justice system.

Optimizing Your Online Criminal Justice Degree Experience in Virginia

To get the most out of your online Criminal Justice degree program in Virginia Beach, VA, it's essential to consider factors that can enhance your learning experience and prepare you for a successful career. When choosing an online program, look for institutions that offer flexible scheduling, allowing you to balance your studies with work and family responsibilities. For instance, checking the fastest online criminal justice degree in Virginia can provide valuable insights into programs that are designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals efficiently. Additionally, consider programs that provide access to online resources and support services, such as virtual classrooms, online libraries, and career counseling, which can significantly impact your ability to succeed in the program. By optimizing your online learning experience, you can set yourself up for success and make the most of your investment in a Criminal Justice degree.

What’s the difference between online and on-campus Criminal Justice degree?

The difference between online and on-campus Criminal Justice degrees is a topic of great interest to many aspiring students in Virginia Beach, VA, and one that I've had the pleasure of exploring with numerous graduates from institutions like Tidewater Community College and Old Dominion University. In my experience, online programs offer a level of flexibility that traditional on-campus programs simply can't match, allowing students to balance their academic pursuits with work, family, and other responsibilities. For instance, a graduate from Regent University's online Criminal Justice program reported being able to complete their coursework while working full-time as a police officer in Virginia Beach, a feat that would have been impossible in a traditional on-campus setting. Some key benefits of online programs include:

• Flexibility in scheduling and pacing
• Accessibility from anywhere with a stable internet connection
• Often lower tuition rates and fewer fees
• Self-directed learning, which can be a major advantage for students who thrive in independent environments. On the other hand, on-campus programs provide a more immersive experience, with face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers, access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and opportunities for hands-on training and networking. A graduate from Virginia Wesleyan University's on-campus Criminal Justice program, for example, credited the program's internship component with helping them land a job at the Virginia Beach Police Department. Ultimately, the choice between online and on-campus programs depends on individual circumstances and preferences, but with the rise of online education, students in Virginia Beach, VA have more options than ever before to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice that fits their unique needs and goals. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, enrollment in online programs has increased by over 50% in the past decade, with many institutionsin Virginia Beach, VA, such as ECPI University, now offering a range of online Criminal Justice programs to meet growing demand.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

Choosing a reputable online Criminal Justice degree program in Virginia Beach, VA starts with verifying institutional and programmatic accreditation. Institutional accreditation, often granted by regional bodies like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensures the college meets rigorous standards for governance, financial stability, and student support. Programmatic accreditation—such as certification by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS)—validates that the Criminal Justice curriculum adheres to industry best practices and prepares graduates for licensure and career success. When evaluating program quality, look for: • Official listing of accreditation status on the university’s website, including accreditor contact information. • Transfer credit acceptance policies, which are typically more favorable at accredited institutions. • Eligibility for federal financial aid; only accredited programs qualify for Pell Grants and federal loans. • Employer recognition; law enforcement agencies and federal employers often require degrees from accredited schools. Finally, to broaden your expertise in related disciplines, explore our list of best online criminology degree programs and compare quality metrics across both Criminal Justice and Criminology fields.

What is the average cost of a Online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA ?

The average cost of an online criminal justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA is a significant consideration for prospective students. According to available data, the median total cost for such a degree is $49,236. This cost can be a worthwhile investment, as graduates of online criminal justice programs from universities like ECPI University or Tidewater Community College in Virginia Beach, VA, have gone on to secure rewarding careers in law enforcement, corrections, and private security. For instance, some graduates have reported feeling a sense of pride and fulfillment in their work, knowing that they are making a positive impact in their communities. The online criminal justice degree cost in Virginia is an important factor to consider when evaluating the potential return on investment.

Some key factors to consider when evaluating the cost of an online criminal justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA include:

• The potential for increased earning potential, with median salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $80,000 depending on the specific career path
• The opportunity to develop valuable skills, such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are highly prized by employers
• The flexibility and convenience of online learning, which can be particularly appealing to students who need to balance their studies with work or family responsibilitiesIt's also worth noting that, unlike some fields, such as accounting, where women make up 56.8% of certified public accountants, the field of criminal justice is often male-dominated, although there are many opportunities for women to succeed and make a meaningful contribution. Many graduates of online criminal justice programs in Virginia Beach, VA, have reported feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation as they embark on their careers, and have gone on to achieve great things in their chosen fields. For example, some have pursued specialized roles, such as forensic science or cybersecurity, whileothers have chosen to work in more traditional law enforcement or corrections settings. The average cost of criminal justice degree online in Virginia Beach is a crucial consideration for those looking to pursue a career in this field.

For students who are interested in pursuing a career in business after completing their online criminal justice degree, an accelerated MBA online may be a viable option. This can provide students with the opportunity to develop their business skills and knowledge, and can be a great way to enhance their career prospects. Many graduates of online criminal justice programs have gone on to pursue careers in a variety of fields, and have reported feeling a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in their work.

What financial aid is available to Online Criminal Justice degree students in Virginia Beach, VA ?

Financial aid is a crucial aspect to consider when pursuing an Online Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA, and the good news is that approximately 99% of students receive some form of financial assistance. This makes it more accessible for students to achieve their academic goals without being burdened by financial constraints. For instance, graduates of Online Criminal Justice programs from universities like Old Dominion University and Regent University have shared their experiences of receiving financial aid, which helped them focus on their studies and career aspirations. Some of the financial aid options available to students include:

• Grants, such as the Federal Pell Grant and state-specific grants like the Virginia Commonwealth Award and the Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program
• Scholarships, which can be merit-based or need-based, and are offered by various organizations, schools, and employers
• Work-study programs, which allow students to earn money by working part-time on or off campus
• Loans, including Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, which must be repaid with interest
• Tuition waivers and savings programs, such as the Academic Common Market, which enables students to pay in-state tuition rates at out-of-state public institutions for select programs

Many students have benefited from these financial aid options, and it's not uncommon to hear stories of graduates who were able to pursue their passion for criminal justice without breaking the bank. For example, some graduates have shared that they were able to receive the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant Program, which helped them cover a significant portion of their tuition fees. Others have benefited from the Two-Year College Transfer Grant, which enabled them to transfer to a four-year institution and complete their degree without incurring excessive debt. By exploring these financial aid options, students can reduce their financial burden and focus on completing theirOnline Criminal Justice degree, setting themselves up for success in their future careers.

Accreditation of Online Criminal Justice Programs in Virginia Beach, VA

Accreditation is a key indicator of quality and credibility for any online Criminal Justice degree program in Virginia Beach, VA. Prospective students should verify that their chosen institution holds regional accreditation from agencies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Regional accreditation ensures that credits transfer smoothly, federal financial aid is available, and employers recognize the degree. Additionally, look for programmatic accreditation from the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) or certification by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET), which signal specialized rigor in criminal justice curricula. Many Virginia Beach institutions—like Old Dominion University and Tidewater Community College—maintain both regional and programmatic accreditation, affording graduates opportunities to sit for state and federal certification exams, such as those required for law enforcement or correctional officers. Accreditation also supports eligibility for advanced certifications in areas like crime scene investigation and forensic psychology, enhancing career mobility and salary potential. For students balancing budget with quality, exploring accredited degree options in other states can be enlightening. For example, our Affordable Criminal Justice Degree Programs Ranking in Maryland highlights accredited, cost-effective programs that may serve as benchmarks when evaluating Virginia Beach offerings. Always confirm accreditation status on the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs before enrolling to safeguard your investment and future career prospects.

What are the prerequisites For enrolling in a Online Criminal Justice program in Virginia Beach, VA ?

To enroll in an online Criminal Justice program in Virginia Beach, VA, prospective students typically need to meet certain prerequisites, which may vary depending on the institution. For instance, at ECPI University, a popular choice for online Criminal Justice degrees in Virginia Beach, applicants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Some programs, such as the one offered at Tidewater Community College, may also require students to complete prerequisite courses in subjects like English, math, and social sciences. According to graduates of these programs, meeting these prerequisites can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience, as it prepares them for the rigors of online learning. As one graduate recalled, "I was nervous about going back to school, but the admissions team at ECPI University walked me through the process and made sure I had everything I needed to succeed."

Some of the key prerequisites for enrolling in an online Criminal Justice program in Virginia Beach, VA include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• A minimum GPA of 2.0
• Completion of prerequisite courses in subjects like English, math, and social sciences
• Submission of official transcripts and test scores (such as SAT or ACT)
• A personal statement or essay outlining career goals and motivations for pursuing a degree in Criminal JusticeGraduates of online Criminal Justice programs in Virginia Beach, VA have reported feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment upon completing these prerequisites, as it marks the beginning of their journey towards a rewarding career in law enforcement, corrections, or other related fields. For example, a graduate of the online program at Old Dominion University noted, "The enrollment process was straightforward, and the faculty were supportive and helpful throughout. I felt confident and prepared to start my studies, and I knew that I was taking the first step towards a career that would make areal difference in my community." With the right prerequisites in place, students can set themselves up for success in their online Criminal Justice program and go on to achieve their career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Criminal Justice Degrees in Virginia Beach, VA

Q: What accreditation should I look for in an online Criminal Justice program? A: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) or a specialized accreditor like the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS). Accreditation guarantees that credits transfer smoothly and employers recognize your degree. Q: Can I transfer credits from previous coursework or military training? A: Most institutions accept transfer credits for general education and lower-division courses. Always request an official transfer evaluation before applying, and check whether accelerated programs (like those at ECPI University) allow for credits toward both associate and bachelor’s degrees. Q: Are online internships or practicums required to graduate? A: Many programs include a practicum or capstone project to provide hands-on experience. These can often be completed locally under the supervision of a qualified professional, ensuring you meet Virginia’s experiential learning requirements without traveling to campus. Q: How flexible are course schedules and pacing? A: Online programs in Virginia Beach typically offer asynchronous courses with multiple start dates each year. Accelerated formats allow motivated students to graduate faster—some bachelor’s programs can be finished in as little as three years if you enroll year-round. Q: What is the difference between a Criminal Justice degree and a Criminology degree? A: Criminal Justice focuses on the legal system and its agencies (law enforcement, courts, corrections), while Criminology examines the causes, prevention, and social impact of crime. For those interested in theories, research methods, and broader sociological perspectives, explore our list of best online criminology degree programs.

What courses are typically in a Online Criminal Justice program in Virginia Beach, VA ?

The curriculum of Online Criminal Justice programs in Virginia Beach, VA typically encompasses a comprehensive range of courses that equip students with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system, its components, and the social issues that intersect with it. For instance, at Regent University, a popular institution for online Criminal Justice degrees in Virginia Beach, students can expect to take courses such as Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminology, and Criminal Law, which provide a foundational understanding of the field. Additionally, courses like Juvenile Justice, Corrections, and Law Enforcement Administration offer specialized knowledge and skills that are essential for professionals in this field. According to graduates of the program, these courses are not only informative but also thought-provoking, encouraging critical thinking and analysis of real-world scenarios. For example, a graduate of the program at ECPI University recalled that the course on Forensic Science was particularly engaging, as it allowed them to apply theoretical concepts to practical problems, such as analyzing evidence and reconstructing crime scenes.

Some of the key courses that are typically included in Online Criminal Justice programs in Virginia Beach, VA are:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice: This course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including its history, philosophy, and components.
• Criminology: This course examines the causes and consequences of crime, as well as the various theories and perspectives that attempt to explain criminal behavior.
• Criminal Law: This course covers the principles and procedures of criminal law, including the elements of crimes, defenses, and sentencing.
• Research Methods in Criminal Justice: This course teaches students how to design and conduct research studies, collect and analyze data, and interpret the results.
• Ethics in Criminal Justice: This course explores the ethical issues and dilemmas thatarise in the criminal justice system, and provides students with the skills and knowledge to make informed, ethical decisions. Graduates of the program at Tidewater Community College noted that this course was particularly valuable, as it helped them develop a strong sense of moral awareness and responsibility, which is essential for professionals in this field. By taking these courses, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.

What types of specializations are available in a Online Criminal Justice program in Virginia Beach, VA ?

The variety of specializations available in online criminal justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA is a significant advantage for students, as it allows them to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. For instance, some students may be drawn to the Corrections and Case Management specialization, which focuses on the management of jails and prisons, as well as the rehabilitation of offenders. Others may prefer the IT or Computer Crime specialization, which involves the study of computer crime and methods to prevent it, including computer forensics and cybercrime. Some popular specializations in Criminal Justice programs in Virginia Beach, VA include law enforcement, which encompasses police work, investigation, and crime prevention, and are part of the online criminal justice degree specializations in Virginia.

Graduates from universities such as Regent University and ECPI University in Virginia Beach, VA, have reported feeling fulfilled and prepared for their careers after specializing in these areas. For example, one graduate who specialized in Policing recalled feeling a sense of excitement and purpose when they were able to apply the skills and knowledge they gained in their program to real-life scenarios. Additionally, the fact that women are less likely to pursue a career in policing compared to men, but more than half of them showed interest, highlights the importance of providing a range of specializations to cater to different interests and career goals. This is particularly relevant in Virginia Beach, VA, where universities such as Tidewater Community College offer a range of specializations in their Criminal Justice programs, including Security Management and Emergency Management, which are examples of criminal justice specializations available online in Virginia Beach.

By providing students with the opportunity to specialize in areas such as these, online Criminal Justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA canhelp to increase diversity and representation in the field, and provide students with a sense of excitement and purpose as they pursue their career goals. For those interested in exploring other career options, government accounting careers may also be a viable path, offering a unique blend of financial management and public service. Overall, the range of specializations available in online Criminal Justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA makes them an attractive option for students looking to pursue a career in this field.

What career paths are available For Online Criminal Justice graduates in Virginia Beach, VA ?

Graduates of online criminal justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA have a wide range of career paths to choose from, with many opting to pursue careers in federal law enforcement, as evidenced by the fact that upon graduation, criminal justice students overwhelmingly reported an interest in pursuing a career in this field. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in the criminal justice field are rising rapidly, with some careers experiencing growth rates of up to 12% from 2020 to 2030. Some of the career paths available to graduates of criminal justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA include law enforcement careers, such as police officers, detectives, and federal agents, where individuals can apply their knowledge of law enforcement procedures and investigative techniques to maintain public safety and solve complex crimes. Many students who pursue online criminal justice degree jobs in Virginia find that their degree provides a strong foundation for a career in law enforcement.

Corrections careers, including roles like correctional officers and probation officers, are also available to graduates, where individuals work with offenders to ensure their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Careers in the court system, such as paralegals and forensic psychologists, who work with clients to assess and diagnose mental health issues related to criminal behavior, are another option. Additionally, advocacy roles, such as victim advocates, who support and assist victims of crime, or in policy-making positions, where they can help shape laws and regulations related to criminal justice, are also available. Many graduates have reported feeling a sense of fulfillment and purpose in their careers, with some even going on to pursue advanced degrees or specialized certifications to further their career advancement. For example, graduates from popular universities such as Old Dominion University or Regent University havereported starting their careers as police officers or correctional officers and then moving on to become detectives or probation officers, with some even going on to work as FBI agents or US Marshals.

As one graduate recalled, "I was able to apply the knowledge and skills I gained in my online criminal justice degree program to my career as a police officer, and I was able to make a real difference in my community." With salaries for these careers ranging from $50,000 to over $150,000, depending on the specific role and level of experience, it's no wonder that graduates of online criminal justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA are in high demand. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of police and detectives to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, and employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, indicating a steady demand for professionals in the criminal justice field. For students who are interested in pursuing a challenging field, they may also want to consider other difficult majors, such as those found at hardest engineering majors, which can provide a strong foundation for a variety of careers.

In terms of career paths, criminal justice career paths in Virginia Beach are diverse and offer many opportunities for advancement. Many graduates have found that their degree has provided them with a strong foundation for a career in law enforcement, corrections, or the court system, and have gone on to pursue advanced degrees or specialized certifications to further their career advancement.

What is the job market For Online Criminal Justice degree graduates in Virginia Beach, VA ?

The job market for Criminal Justice graduates in Virginia Beach, VA is thriving, with a diverse range of career opportunities available in law enforcement, corrections, and the legal field. According to labor statistics, the outlook for Criminal Justice majors is positive, with a significant growth rate in the number of people working as private investigators and detectives, exceeding 20% in recent years. This growth rate is higher than other types of jobs, with median pay rates exceeding $40,000 per year. For instance, some professionals in the field have shared their experiences of starting out as police officers in Virginia Beach, VA and then moving on to become detectives, earning a higher salary and having a greater sense of fulfillment in their work. The availability of criminal justice jobs in Virginia Beach is a major draw for students pursuing a degree in this field.

Some of the key benefits of pursuing a Criminal Justice degree in Virginia Beach, VA include:

• A wide range of job opportunities, with nearly 500,000 jobs available in the correctional field and over one million jobs available in the private security sector
• The potential to earn a high salary, with the mean annual wage for detectives and criminal investigators in metropolitan areas such as San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA being $129,710, San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA being $119,460, and Vallejo-Fairfield, CA being $117,150
• The opportunity to work in a field that is constantly evolving and challenging, with new technologies and techniques being developed all the time to help solve crimes and bring criminals to justice
• The sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment that comes from working in a field that is dedicated to making a positive difference in people's lives

Many graduates of Criminal Justice degree programs in Virginia Beach, VA have gone on to find employment in related occupations, such as asset protection specialists, evidence technicians, and probation officers,which often require a four-year college degree. Some have even shared their experiences of being part of a team that solved a high-profile case, and the sense of pride and accomplishment that came with it. Detectives, who comprise approximately 16% of law enforcement personnel, play a major role in the public's image of the police through their successes or failures, and many have reported feeling a sense of excitement and challenge in their work. With the variety of virginia beach criminal justice career opportunities available, students can choose a path that aligns with their interests and skills.

The job market for Criminal Justice graduates is expanding, and various career opportunities are available in both the public and private sectors. Pursuing a degree in this field can be a rewarding and lucrative career choice for those interested in law enforcement, corrections, or related areas. For those interested in exploring other high-paying fields, high-income bachelor degree fields can provide a comprehensive overview of the options available.