Dreaming of a career that makes a real difference? The public sector offers endless possibilities, from shaping policy in government to supporting communities through nonprofit work. No matter where your passion lies, the right credentials can unlock your path. We’re here to guide you through the online degree programs that will help you launch or elevate your public service career—on your schedule, wherever you are.
No matter what stage of a public sector career you may be in—aspiring to enter the field for the first time or ready to advance within your current role—The University of Texas Permian Basin has an online program that will prepare you to take that next step. Each of our programs enables you to maintain your professional and personal commitments with 24/7 online access from anywhere in the world.
Let’s look at 3 of these programs and related positions now.
#1 Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies
One of the top public service degrees to consider is a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice studies. Through a mix of theoretical learning and practical application, this degree explores the various components of our criminal justice system and includes a broad range of general education courses to expand your knowledge of math, English, history, communication, and politics. If you’re considering a career in the criminal justice field, this type of bachelor’s degree provides an ideal starting point.
Build a foundation for a fulfilling career and life.
Empower yourself to help reform the criminal justice system from within.
#2 Online Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration
If you’re looking for a public service degree that builds on your experience and prepares you for advancement, a master’s in criminal justice administration is a smart next step. Once you’ve earned a criminal justice-related bachelor’s degree and begun a criminal justice career, a master’s degree program can provide the advanced knowledge and credentials that many agencies require for promotion to leadership positions with higher earning potential.
Take part in a program ranked #5 in the nation for Best Law Enforcement Administration Graduate Programs by bestaccreditedcolleges.org.
Get started faster with no GRE requirement.
Graduate with no thesis requirement.
Empower yourself to help reform the criminal justice system from within.
Complete your degree in as little as one year.
#3 Master’s Degree in Public Administration
If you’ve earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and have three or more years of full-time professional work experience, you can also pursue a public sector career by earning a master’s degree in public administration. This program is designed to help aspiring public and nonprofit professionals begin a career or move up to a more rewarding new phase of their current career.
Tailor your studies toward your specific area of interest.
Graduate with no thesis or internship requirements.
Finish your degree in as little as one year.
Get a High-Quality Public Service Degree Without the High Price Tag
All of these programs feature the same rigorous curriculum used in campus-based classes and are taught by the same field-experienced faculty. High quality doesn’t translate to high cost, however. Our competitive tuition rates are among the most affordable available from any regionally accredited university of our stature.
Boost Your Earning Power With a Public Service Degree
University degrees offer the potential for greater earnings and job security, according to data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Bachelor’s degree holders’ median earnings are approximately 38% higher than those of associate degree holders and 48% higher than those who have not yet earned a college degree. Master’s degree holders earn about 18% more than bachelor’s degree holders. BLS data also shows that as an individual’s education level rises, their likelihood of unemployment decreases. The financial benefits of earning an undergraduate or graduate degree are considerable!
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