Enrolling in an online CSI degree program can be a great way to enhance your credentials and advance your career in the criminal justice field. These programs offer the same high-quality curriculum as traditional classroom-based programs, providing you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel as a crime scene investigator. Additionally, online programs offer the flexibility to balance work and family responsibilities while obtaining your degree.
In this article, we will explore the 15 best online CSI degree programs according to Bachelor’s Degree Center’s rankings. These programs were evaluated based on factors such as tuition cost, student satisfaction, and salary potential. Let’s dive in and discover the top online CSI degree programs.
**1. Purdue University Global**
Purdue University Global offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in crime scene investigation. This program provides students with a strong foundation in the criminal justice system and emphasizes applied research methods to evaluate evidence. Purdue University Global encourages students to gain hands-on experience through internships. They also offer multiple starting dates for students in the CSI program.
**2. Florida International University**
Florida International University offers a Bachelor of Science in Crime Science that focuses on research, crime mapping, and forensic science. This program ensures that students have a strong foundation in the sciences behind forensics and are able to evaluate and draw conclusions based on evidence. Additionally, Florida International University takes an international approach to CSI studies, requiring students to take foreign language courses and complete global learning courses.
**3. Excelsior College**
Excelsior College offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that emphasizes the role of law enforcement and measures to prevent corruption within it. This program focuses on psychology, sociology, and criminology theories before teaching students the practical application in law enforcement roles. Excelsior College offers credit for military experience and is a military-friendly school.
**4. Portland State University**
Portland State University offers a Criminology degree that provides students with the skills and theories to evaluate criminal behaviors and address the underlying causes. This program emphasizes criminology as it applies to the individual, family, and societal factors of the person committing the crime. It also offers the flexibility to transfer credits into the program to speed up the degree completion process.
**5. Maryville University**
Maryville University offers a Criminology degree program with a strong focus on the criminal justice system and modern technology used in criminal justice. They require students to complete a practicum in their senior year to gain hands-on experience in the field. Additionally, Maryville University offers small class sizes and a student-to-teacher ratio of 14 to one.
These are just a few of the top online CSI degree programs available. Other notable programs include the University of Cincinnati, Norwich University, Western Carolina University, Roosevelt University, Utica College, Liberty University, Champlain College, Hampton University, Salem University, and more.
If you’re considering a career as a crime scene investigator, it’s important to have the necessary qualifications. Being observant, having problem-solving skills, strong communication abilities, and tenacity are key traits for a successful investigator. Additionally, a desire to continue learning is crucial in staying updated with the latest techniques and technologies.
While some crime scene investigators may not need a degree depending on their work experience and education in other fields, having an online CSI degree can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the job effectively. These degrees typically cover forensics, interviewing skills, photography, scene management, and other important topics.
In conclusion, pursuing an online CSI degree is a convenient and flexible option for individuals looking to enhance their careers in crime scene investigation. The top programs mentioned in this article offer rigorous curriculum, hands-on experience opportunities, and the necessary skills to succeed in this field. Consider your interests and career goals when choosing an online CSI degree program, and start your journey towards becoming a crime scene investigator today.
