Do television shows like CSI and Law & Order interest you? Does the idea of maintaining order and justice in society appeal to you? Have you considered pursuing a career in criminal justice? If so, there are many options for obtaining an online degree in criminal justice.

Criminal justice degree programs are offered at levels from Associate's degrees to Doctorates. With each additional level of degree earned, you acquire qualifications for more prominent positions. The variety of programs and breadth of concentrations means that there are options for those seeking a new career in criminal justice as well as those seeking to improve their current career.

Associate's and Bachelor’s degrees prepare students for jobs in local or state levels, often as police officers. Beyond that, Bachelor's degrees open up positions in private law enforcement, smaller management positions, or even forensics.

Master's degrees require the previous completion of a Bachelor's degree and further augment the student's understanding of the criminal justice system. Careers in higher levels of management, criminal psychology, or even the FBI require a Master's degree.

If you wish to further enhance your career options, a PhD in criminal justice is also attainable. There are, however, fewer choices of degree programs at this level. The doctorate degree opens up higher-ranking options in higher education, research, and consulting.

These degrees are all available online, at accredited colleges and universities. An online education allows you to continue working at your current job while studying. This means that you can change careers without losing your source of income, or advance your own career without losing valuable work experience. Furthermore, distance learning allows you to gain your degree from where you are. There is no need to travel to and from a physical campus- saving you time and money.