Are you determined to make a difference in the world? If so, The University of Texas Permian Basin has an online program that can equip you to make your mark on countless lives. Our programs will prepare you to launch a career in a life-changing field, enable you to advance within an existing career, or lay the groundwork for further education and commensurate career opportunities. 

For some, making a difference in the world means becoming a more impactful educator or nurse. It can also mean serving the public in a variety of roles, including:  

  • Strengthening our democracy and criminal justice system.  
  • Helping steer offenders away from a life of crime and in more productive directions.  
  • Raising awareness and funds for important issues and the organizations that represent them. 

Let’s look at a few online UT Permian Basin programs and some careers in which you can make a genuine difference. 

Online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Exclusively at This UT System Institution)  

As with all bachelor’s degrees, this program begins with a diverse selection of general education courses, providing you with foundational knowledge that will benefit you throughout your life. As you progress through our program, you’ll explore American politics at all levels, judicial politics, and the independent and interdependent functioning of government agencies.  

How you can make a difference with this degree: 

If you use your political science degree as a foundation for law school, as many students do, you can help ensure criminals are no longer able to threaten society and innocent victims receive the restitution they’re due. Continue with an education master’s degree after completing this program and you can cultivate the basic skills needed to excel in generations of students, including those who may have differing needs. 

See potential career paths, a more detailed description, courses, and other information for this program. 

Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Exclusively at This UT System Institution) 

Providing perspective on both theoretical and applied aspects of psychology, this bachelor’s degree program will help you develop highly valued professional skills, including written and verbal communication, research, analytical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.  

How you can make a difference with this degree: 

If you want to give extra support and guidance to those who need it most, this degree can provide a catalyst for careers in counseling, social work, and psychology. Minimum degree requirements may vary. 

See potential career paths, a more detailed description, courses, and other information for this program. 

Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies 

Get an introduction to our criminal justice system that can lead to careers in the field. You’ll delve into all topics related to law enforcement, courts, and corrections, including criminal behavior, juvenile delinquency, terrorism, drugs, and the role of police in society. We use a multi-disciplinary approach that includes classes from other departments closely linked with the criminal justice profession. 

How you can make a difference with this degree: 

As a police officer, you can protect the public from criminal acts and establish strong relationships between law enforcement and the community. As a parole officer, you have the equally important job of making sure that parolees find gainful employment, avoid drugs and reoffences, and otherwise stay on the straight and narrow. 

See potential career paths, a more detailed description, courses, and other information for this program. 

Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration 

Built on a research-based curriculum, this program is ideal for experienced criminal justice professionals who aspire to lead an agency. With the advanced knowledge of a graduate degree, you can also experience greater advancement and earning potential. Many students finish this program in as little as 12 months. A bachelor’s degree is required. 

How you can make a difference with this degree: 

As a first-line supervisor in law enforcement, corrections, or other areas of criminal justice, you can ensure your agency operates ethically, lead the charge for criminal justice reform from within the system, and safeguard your agency and its personnel. 

See potential career paths, a more detailed description, courses, and other information for this program.  

Online Master of Public Administration (MPA) 

This degree can empower you to launch a career or advance within an existing role in the nonprofit or public sector. Through our flexible program, you’ll discover how to contend with the complexities of nonprofit and public sector organizations while keeping them mission-focused. Many students finish this program in as little as 12 months. A bachelor’s degree is required.  

How you can make a difference with this degree: 

Working in public sector management jobs, you can advocate for the needs of the people you serve, ensuring they have access to resources like cleaner water, wider roads, or safer schools. As a nonprofit professional, you can bring greater awareness and support to a variety of social causes, charities, the arts, and other organizations and activities that enrich our lives. 

See potential career paths, a more detailed description, courses, and other information for this program. 

There are countless ways to make a difference in the world. With 40+ online degrees and certificates, UTPB is here to help you. Consider these programs, the difference they can make in your professional prospects, and the difference you can make in the lives of others. Then take the next step!  

Find your program now.