The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's reputation as a leader in distance education has been recognized again, as Online School Report noted the criminal justice program as one of the Best Online Master's Degrees in Criminal Justice in the country.

The UW-Platteville Master's Degree in Criminal Justice program is uniquely designed to provide foundational knowledge in criminal justice systems, operations, and law for career mobility in the field. Students also gain skills in organizational management, problem-solving, communications, and research. The master's program has three distinct emphases, designed to advance one’s knowledge and open the door to new opportunities: Criminal Justice Theory, Criminal Justice Management, Victim and Offender Services.

"Our Master's Degree in Criminal Justice degree provides a solid foundation for those students interested in advance careers in the law enforcement, private security, or human service fields," said Dr. Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller, program coordinator for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice. "Importantly, with this earned degree, a career in one field can transition into the other."

The program's focus on affordability and student success has been lauded by other organizations as well, including recent accolades from Grad School Hub and Best Value Schools. There are many reasons for the program's success, but a defining factor has been its dedication to serving nontraditional and online students.

"Careers in criminal justice are many and continue to grow. In the current economic climate, job opportunities in advanced law enforcement, corrections, and human services positions are competitive," said Dr. Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller. "Departments tend to look for people with a military background or other prior leadership experience. Candidates with master's degrees stand out."

This sentiment is reinforced by the instructors, who fully realize the value of what an online education and master's degree can do for one's education and career.

"What I like about distance education is that it serves working adults, people who are already working in the profession," said Dr. Patrick Solar, a professor in the program. "The master's program is a great way to acquire the skills and knowledge that are necessary for the real-life aspects of a management position. A degree says something about us. Our willingness to advance ourselves, our willingness to work, our ability to meet deadlines, or to engage in self-initiated activities. All of those are positive attributes if you're going to advance to supervisory and upper management."

Data shows the program has also been a sound investment for those who have earned the degree. In fact, of the more than 400 graduates since 2019, an estimated 75-80% are working in supervisory and management positions.

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree program was first offered at UW-Platteville in 1997 and has proven to be a vital part of the graduation education offerings. The 100% online program provides students with the flexibility to earn a degree at their own pace. To learn more about a Master's of Science in Criminal Justice, check out the program's webpage. This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it are standing by to answer all of your questions.

ETM Insights is a sponsored section of EvidenceMagazine.com