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As many of us know all too well, time management is deceptively difficult to master. Ostensibly, it seems it should be pretty easy — but, as we realize when we find ourselves deep in the midst of a project, maintaining a high level of efficiency and sticking to a precise schedule can be tricky.
The importance of time management for students cannot be overstated, but for online learners trying to balance school, work, family, and personal obligations, the task is often a daunting one. To help make it simpler and more attainable, so that scholars can work more productively, let’s examine various time management tips, strategies, best practices, and tools that can quickly be adopted as good habits.
Prepare for Success
Set up a dedicated study space
Learning from home on your own schedule allows for great flexibility, but it comes with the challenge of finding an optimal workspace. The comfort of your sofa makes it an attractive option, but it’s also strongly associated with leisure and television-viewing in your mind, which can make it difficult to get work done in that spot.
Having a designated quiet study space is an essential part of all successful online learning strategies. It gives you a clear separation between your school and personal lives, reducing distractions and allowing you to maintain a productive mindset. Even if you live in a studio or one-bedroom apartment and have to create a makeshift study area with a portable divider and a foldable desk, it will help you concentrate better.
Particularly in situations like that, a pair of headphones can go a long way — especially if they have noise-canceling capability. Wherever you learn, make sure you have a reliable internet connection, so you won’t have to deal with many interruptions or a lot of lag when working on your computer.
Routinely practice self-care
Fatigue, illness, and negative feelings such as stress and worry can all lead to procrastination. Even when you’re not putting off your schoolwork, these factors make it difficult for you to concentrate and be productive, significantly increasing the amount of time it takes to complete assignments. Considering the great importance of time management for students, it’s crucial to take care of yourself by eating nutritious meals, exercising on a regular basis, and getting enough sleep, which will improve your focus, energy level, and mood.
Meditation is another practice that makes time management easier by refreshing you mentally and physically, allowing you to stay calm, increasing your awareness, and expanding your capacity to resist distractions. It reduces stress and anxiety, so that your mind is less preoccupied with worries and better able to devote its resources to focusing on the task at hand.
By making you more aware of your thoughts and behaviors, meditation allows you to make fewer mistakes, which means you save the time that would ordinarily be spent correcting those errors. It also enhances willpower and boosts energy levels, increasing your ability to stay motivated and committed to your goals, even when the days are long and distracting or difficult thoughts and stimuli are present.
Perhaps most importantly, meditation helps you be more mindful in the present moment, rather than losing time as your thoughts vacillate between the past and future. The practice trains you to completely focus on whatever you are doing at each point in time, even if it’s just a mundane task, so that you develop great skill in quieting your mind, observing yourself, and giving your full attention to each action in the moment.
Identify & Minimize Time-Wasting Activities & Distractions
Determining the behaviors, actions, and external factors that cause minutes and hours to be wasted, and then greatly reducing the time spent on those things, may be the most important of all time management tips.
Resist the pull of your phone
For many people, the source of the problem is their smartphones, which are almost always close by and provide instant access to endless distractions. If you’re tempted by Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube, avoid getting sucked into time-consuming scrolling or video-watching sessions by turning off notifications and logging out of the apps on your phone.
Simply having to enter your password each time you want to access your social media feeds or watch “just one” video can be enough to make you stop for a second, reflecting on whether or not you should be spending time on that activity at the moment.
As a second layer of protection against time-wasting, you can make your passwords more complex and not commit them to memory; rather, write them down in a notebook somewhere, so that you have to get up and go find them before you can log in and view or post content. Unless you’re powerfully motivated to engage with social media or YouTube at that time, you’re unlikely to do that, which means you’ll successfully stay on task instead.
And remember that it’s not just the apps on your phone that can interrupt you and impair your concentration and productivity: receiving calls and texts can be just as disruptive. Consider setting up calls to go straight to voicemail and hiding alerts for text messages during your study sessions.
Turn off the TV
It’s well known that you shouldn’t indulge in televised entertainment while you’re supposed to be studying or working — but how about the news or an educational show? It’s easy to rationalize leaving the TV on in those cases: you tell yourself that it’s just there in the background; you’re just casually listening, and there’s a good chance you’ll learn something valuable.
But dividing your attention between coursework and TV is a recipe for wasted time and lost productivity. And while any TV program will increase your level of distraction, having the news on may actually harm your time management further, due to the amount of anxiety-inducing content to which you’ll be exposed. Keep the two activities separate: for example, watch TV as a reward during a scheduled rest period after an hour or two of hard work.
Avoid multitasking
Doing two or more tasks concurrently sounds great in theory, especially to busy online college students — after all, what could be more efficient than that, right? But in reality, the end result of this approach is usually that each task takes longer to complete and is not done as well.
As the American Psychological Association has reported, studies have found that multitasking, especially when done to a heavy degree, has a detrimental impact on productivity. Our brains were designed to concentrate on one activity at a time, and that’s how we typically do our best work.
Structure Your Study Time
Time block
One of the most successful online learning strategies for time management, time blocking involves segmenting your day into chunks, typically by the hour or half-hour, and dedicating each chunk to a work-related task or break. This technique works well because it is straightforward and flexible: should you need more time to complete a task, you can simply devote a second block to it and adjust your schedule for the rest of the day accordingly. It’s also an effective way to establish and maintain a study routine from day to day, which can be especially challenging for those who work from home.
To prevent boredom due to following the same schedule for many days, you can divide bigger, more time-consuming projects into smaller blocks and fit other tasks and short breaks in between them. Make sure that your breaks feature a healthy balance of rest and fun, which can sometimes be combined in the same activity, such as a leisurely nature walk.
Get work done before deadlines
Stay well ahead of deadlines as you’re studying or doing projects. This is especially important for partner or group assignments in which you have to work with multiple people to coordinate meetings and contributions. Often, you don’t know exactly how long the work is going to take, so don’t fall prey to procrastination and be forced to rush at the end.
Pretend that the deadline is a different date significantly earlier than the real one, and keep yourself on pace to complete the work by that day. Then, if the assignment takes longer than anticipated, you have given yourself a buffer and don’t need to stress or stay up all night to finish in time.
Pick the best time to study
Most students have higher levels of energy and motivation during specific times of the day or night. Perhaps you are most focused and inspired early in the morning after a cup of coffee or two; or maybe you find that you can get work done more effectively late in the evenings, once the other stressors and obligations of the day are behind you.
Whenever it is, find that window of greatest alertness and cognitive functioning, and try to get your most difficult tasks done during that time; save the easier assignments for those periods when you feel your mental acuity and energy waning.
Use Time Management Tools to Your Advantage
Get organized
There are myriad organizational tools available to help you with time management. 1Password provides a simple method of storing, managing, and using strong passwords, enabling you to log into websites and securely fill out forms with just one click.
With Evernote, you can keep your notes, to-do list, and schedule all in one convenient place. Additionally, create and assign tasks with deadlines, flags, and reminders to ensure everything gets done on time. The resource also gives you the ability to scan vital documents to eliminate clutter and find records and communications more quickly.
Another effective tool to keep you organized is RescueTime, which helps you find periods of time in between scheduled tasks and meetings when you can fully focus and get work done. Its recommendations are tailored based on your agenda and the daily focus goals you indicate. The program also keeps track of how much time you have left in the current task or meeting and offers insights and coaching to help you improve your time management skills.
Plan
A creative resource for visual brainstorming, MindNode assists you in capturing your thoughts, organizing them, and transforming them into a clear mind map. You can utilize various themes and styles to match your preferences and easily keep related thoughts and details connected. MindNode also lets you keep track of your progress on various tasks.
Pocket ensures you can stay focused on the assignment at hand without missing out on the other things you come across along the way. This tool allows you to save and curate articles, videos, and stories from any publication, webpage, or app for later consumption whenever you have the time. Content is accessible both online and offline on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
With ZenDay, you have access to a calendar and to-do list featuring a three-dimensional timeline, instead of the traditional vertical list format. Tasks “float” within the interface, and ZenDay conveniently and automatically reschedules them into open time slots in your agenda. The program also uses a color-coded system and changes the hues of tasks that are nearly due or overdue, so you can easily keep track of your priorities and act on them.
Be productive
Try brain.fm for a unique approach to getting in the zone. This resource uses science to create music that affects your brain in ways that support greater productivity. It utilizes technology to promote strong neural phase-locking for more focused, coordinated cognition, while removing the distractions in the sound.
If you’re often drawn by the siren call of websites unrelated to your work, Cold Turkey may be a good solution. It gives you the ability to block everything from particular sites and applications to virtually the whole internet. Once put in place, its blockades are next to impossible to remove until the designated time period is over.
Are you a fan of the pomodoro technique? This is the practice of studying in fairly short bursts of 25-30 minutes, using a buzzer or alarm to alert you to the end of each session and then taking a short break of two to three minutes before starting the next one. Once you’ve completed four cycles, you take a longer break to refresh yourself further. The rationale is that the sessions are long enough to let you get some work done but not so long that they feel tiring, overwhelming, or unpleasant. If this sounds appealing, try focus booster, which puts the technique to digital use, offering insightful time tracking and helping you stay laser-focused to work efficiently for 25-minute stretches. View your progress and rhythm on the dashboard to help you improve over time.
Schedule
With Any.do, you can organize your tasks, lists, and reminders in one intuitive app that will sync this content across your devices. With its flexible calendar and smart reminders, including location-based notifications, you can reliably keep track of all work and personal events and obligations in the same space. Additionally, the app integrates seamlessly with other calendars, such as Google, iCloud, and Outlook.
Take time-tracking to the next level with Toggl, a tool that offers a multitude of ways to achieve that goal. One-click timers work across laptop, desktop, and mobile platforms, with automatic syncing. Background tracking uses a timeline to track time spent on every application you engage with for more than 10 seconds. Calendar integrations let you assimilate your other calendars, e.g., Google or Outlook, into the Toggl app and start tracking time for events scheduled on those. The resource also gives you insightful, customizable reports.
For partner or team assignments, Avaza is a great way to collaborate on, manage, and discuss projects. The tool allows you to quickly switch from Kanban to Gantt to List views; visualize, filter, and group tasks in one or multiple projects; and complete budgeting and billing flexibly. Avaza also makes it easy to manage the resources dedicated to each project and offers drag-and-drop scheduling and editing of tasks.
Take Control of Your Future
Now that you understand more about successful online learning strategies and the importance of time management for students, are you ready to use these tips, techniques, and tools to further your education and advance your career?
Explore Concordia University St. Paul’s online programs here and discover the opportunities that await you. With associate, bachelor, and master degree programs, as well as certificates, CSP offers something for every learner, wherever they may be on their educational path.
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For busy people trying to juggle work and family obligations, the thought of getting a college education may feel overwhelming or even unattainable. But more and more students are finding peace of mind in the knowledge that this problem has a viable solution: online learning.
“Online education isn’t only for folks who are super well-versed in technology or got straight As when they were in previous programs; it’s not even just for those who have prior experience with college,” says Corey Long, Associate Director of Retention, who works with the advising team at Concordia University, St. Paul and has served in the higher education field for the past seven years. “We can definitely work with and support any student.”
Long’s considerable experience in the online learning space has given her a lot of insight into how to be successful as an online student. Below, we share some of this wisdom, covering the strategies, techniques, tips, and traits that can aid prospective college learners in their goal to not only survive online classes, but to excel in them.
What Are the Keys to Online Success?
Being Proficient in Basic Computer Skills
While one need not be an IT wiz to thrive in online schooling, it does help to have some experience and familiarity with technology. Long explains that it’s not necessary to know the ins and outs of a specific learning management system (LMS), but it’s useful to know the basics of using a computer and internet-based programs and tools, as well as to be able to follow directions well.
Using Resources and Asking for Help
Another part of knowing how to be successful as an online student is actively using available resources, including tech support, advisors, and instructors. “Online learning can feel really isolating sometimes,” Long notes. “We often see that the learners who need the most assistance aren’t asking for it, even though it’s available. It’s crucial not to get lost in the abyss, so to speak, and instead, reach out and ask for help. There are all kinds of resources here for students.”
If scholars don’t understand an assignment, they should tell their professors and ask for clarity. If they need more intensive help, tutoring is accessible. Perhaps they’re unsure of a policy — they ought to ask their advisor for an explanation.
In all of these cases, in addition to allowing students to get the support they need, the interaction with other people will allow them to feel a greater sense of community and know that they’re not alone on their journey.
Forming Study Groups
If online learners want to find study buddies, they’d be wise to reach out to their peers in their classes and schedule some time to work together. “I’ve even heard of students who live in the same city meeting in person to study once a week,” Long reports. “The fact that it’s online school doesn’t mean there aren’t ways for students to physically gather, especially if they live in or near the city where their college’s campus is located. And, as we know from our research, that tends to be the case.”
Like interacting with instructors, tutors, and advisors — but typically, to an even greater degree — being part of a study group lets students feel that they belong to a community. When they can meet their fellow learners in person, even just occasionally, that feeling grows stronger.
Having a Good Support System
“School is going to take up a lot of time for a student,” Long says. “One class can be anywhere from 10 – 20 hours a week, so you’ve gotta have folks that can give you the space and time you need. If you’ve got a big family, have them give you a couple hours a day for you to do school work. Friends can help support you as well, if you need to talk through a tricky assignment or you need someone to bring you food during the week.”
All of that can make a big difference in a college student’s studies. Everyone needs support from time to time; humbly recognizing that and then putting said support to productive use is among the most successful online learning strategies one can employ.
Preparing Effectively for Classes
The importance of physical and mental readiness cannot be overstated in an examination of how to be successful as an online student. “Making sure to do prep work before classes start can help a lot,” Long adds. “Getting all textbooks ordered a minimum of two weeks before classes start, or earlier if possible, is best. Students should also make sure to register for courses as soon as possible, so they’re not stuck scrambling to sign up. And then, a week before classes start, it’s a good idea to log in, take a look at the syllabus, and get a sense of what each class is going to look like.”
Long also strongly recommends that students talk with a financial aid planner well ahead of time to ensure they have all of their billing pieces set up. By taking care of all of these things in advance, students won’t have to rush to do them when the term starts; instead, they’ll just be able to focus on their classes.
Being Self-Motivated
Discipline, drive, and the willingness to hold oneself accountable are standout characteristics of a person who understands how to be successful as an online student. “Folks who are pretty self-motivated and don’t necessarily need to be told what to do all the time are well-suited to online learning,” Long states. “It’s pretty self-paced and asynchronous most of the time. So, being able to take a syllabus, build your own study schedule, set intermediary goals, and work towards completing assignments can really help you avoid the problem of getting to the last minute and still having a lot left to do.”
When it comes to successful online learning strategies, there’s arguably nothing more crucial than staying inspired by remembering the reasons why one is working hard to complete an online learning program. It may be to earn a big promotion at the office, land a better job at a different company, transition to a new career altogether, or show one’s children how to follow through and persevere in the pursuit of their goals and dreams.
Getting an education is a big investment of time and effort, so being able to mentally return to that “why” will help significantly. “That’s what we on the advising team like to do in our first conversations with students,” Long says. “We dig into why they’re going back to school, so that, when times get tough and they’re buried in tests and assignments, we can remind them.”
Developing a Growth-Oriented Mindset
Online education is a process, and it takes time to become at ease with it. So, having the right mentality regarding that is another one of the most successful online learning strategies. “Students need to be okay with being a little uncomfortable at the beginning, knowing that learning is a skill and that it takes a little time to flex those mental muscles and get used to the routine. So, understanding that a greater level of comfort will come and just being willing to stick with their studies are keys to success.”
Especially if people haven’t been in school for 10 or 15 years, which is often the case with online learners, nervousness is quite common in the beginning. But as long as they are open to taking advice, adapting as they learn, and sometimes adjusting their expectations, they will benefit greatly from the growth they experience in the educational process.
Planning and Managing Time Well
One of the most important parts of how to be successful as an online student is knowing how much time one has available to devote to one’s studies — and how to efficiently divide up and manage that time.
“It’s helpful for students to have a good understanding of what they will have going on in their lives for the two to three years in their programs,” Long explains. “It’s hard to plan that far out. But having a sense of how busy they’re going to be and how long it’s going to take to get all their schoolwork done is good; that will allow them to strike that balance between taking a full course load all at once or doing it a little more slowly and spacing it out.
And that’s part of the beauty of online learning: students can sometimes have that flexibility. Maybe when they start out, they have the time to do two courses at once; then life happens, and they can adjust their schedules to decrease the number of classes, take a break, or do whatever they need to in order to fit what they have going on outside of school.”
In some online education programs, the curriculum is set, and students follow it and take all the same classes in order as part of a cohort. However, there are other programs that afford learners more freedom of choice in terms of which courses they take at which time. In these cases, one of the other successful online learning strategies is planning one’s schedule in the proper way to end up with the right mix of general education and major requirements each semester. That way, students ensure that they are keeping track of and meeting all of the criteria for their programs, while keeping their workload manageable.
Experimenting With Various Techniques
“Different study methods are going to work well for different students,” Long states. “One person might do really well taking lots of handwritten notes and re-watching full lectures, while another might do better just listening and reading in spurts of 10 minutes here and there as they’re absorbing information.”
She recommends that learners try out a few things and see what works best for them personally. And if they’re struggling, they should talk to their instructors and explain that they have experimented with those techniques or strategies, but they’re still not grasping the material. Then, their teachers can either assist them in using those methods more effectively or suggest alternate methods that may be more conducive to their understanding, based on the teachers’ experience in seeing what has worked for other students in the past.
Studying in a Dedicated Space
No discussion of successful online learning strategies would be complete without a mention of the benefit of creating a space designated specifically for studying. “Even if it’s just a corner in a room where a student has their desk, books, and notes, it really helps to have that space to get in the zone,” says Long. “It makes sure that their brain is in schoolwork mode whenever they are in that spot.”
Having headphones, especially if they’re noise-canceling, is a great way to drown out distractions and stay focused. For students who live in studios or one-bedroom apartments, it might be best to set up a portable standing divider to keep their eyes from straying towards the television or other visual distractions during study time.
Celebrating Small Victories
“Earning a college degree requires spending a big chunk of time concentrated on that work,” Long remarks. “If a student is just focused on graduation as their goal, that’s going to feel really far away, so it’s important to celebrate the little wins along the way, too.” The first paper, first test, and first course finished are all great little milestones to recognize. Doing so will enable learners to feel a continual sense of pride in their achievements throughout the duration of their studies, which will help motivate them during challenging times.
Taking Care of Oneself
In her own college experience, after a couple of years, Long learned that it was really important to schedule non-school time as well. “Even if it was just two hours to sit and read a book for fun, or veg out and watch Netflix, giving myself those little self-care breaks was critical.” She advises that all online students do the same to avoid getting burnt out from hard work and stress.
Long also instituted a rule for herself that every learner can probably get behind: “I had a strict ‘no-homework Friday’ policy. So, the rest of the week was a lot more school, and after I finished classes on Friday, that was my evening to do whatever I wanted.” It also extends the weekends, which is never a bad thing.
Ready to Succeed as an Online College Student?
If you’re prepared to take the next step, explore Concordia University, St. Paul’s online programs. With associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees as well as certificates available in various fields, CSP has an option to suit you, wherever you are in your journey.
For more information on how to be a successful online student, explore our related Online Learning Guide.
About Corey Long
Corey Long manages the online academic advising team at Concordia University, St. Paul. She graduated with degrees in history and political science from the University of Louisville and has worked in higher education for over seven years. Prior to entering this field, Corey worked in the nonprofit realm, focusing on the areas of youth development and immigrant and refugee education.
Through direct work with students at all levels, she has gained a strong understanding of academic advising, student interaction, and engagement, and the role education can play in improving lives. Her passion for continuous learning and development stands at the forefront of her day-to-day work with students.
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Complete the form to learn more about this program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are you interested in one of CSP Global’s programs? Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about time to completion, accreditation, tuition and fees, admissions, and more. If applicable, you can also learn more about licensure, concentrations, or specializations offered in the program. Get more information about any online program or contact an enrollment counselor at (855) 641-2525 with further questions.
Yes, this degree program follows a cohort model. You will move through the program with the same group of students.
There are 12 required courses in the program. Learn more about the coursework required.
The master’s program has three start dates throughout the year, in January, May, and September.
The program costs $475 per credit hour.
At this time, our online program is offered only as a full-time program.
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Complete the form to learn more about this program.
- Duration 1 year
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The Graduate Certificate in Trauma, Resilience, and Self-Care Strategies consists of 15 credit hours. Our career-connected curriculum features courses that explore trauma and stressor-related disorders, the impact of trauma on the developing brain, and the behavioral health aspects of trauma. Each class is taught by two professors from different human services fields to ensure a unique, multidisciplinary perspective.
CurriculumProgram Outcomes
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To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Trauma, Resilience, and Self-Care Strategies program from Concordia University, St. Paul, you’ll need:
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At CSP Global, you’ll have support from industry-experienced faculty who will offer guidance and answer your questions as you earn your human services certificate online. It’s yet another way the online format mimics the experience of studying on campus.
With over 25 years of experience and more than 40 online programs, CSP Global is a pioneer in online education. As part of our diverse online community, you’ll receive a liberal arts education guided by Lutheran principles. The career-connected curricula, flexible learning options, and alumni connections available at CSP Global mean you’ll graduate ready for success. We are committed to delivering online programs with the same quality as our on-campus learning.
Online ExperienceCSP Global is committed to initiatives that keep college affordable. In addition to financing your education with federal student aid and private loans, you will be eligible for a tuition discount offered to online students (this limits eligibility for institutional scholarships). Transfer students could receive $2,000 or more through transfer partnerships and transfer student awards. CSP Global is also a Military Friendly® institution. An enrollment counselor can help you apply for financial aid.
Tuition & AidFrequently Asked Questions
Are you interested in one of CSP Global’s programs? Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about time to completion, accreditation, tuition and fees, admissions, and more. If applicable, you can also learn more about licensure, concentrations, or specializations offered in the program. Get more information about any online program or contact an enrollment counselor at (855) 641-2525 with further questions.
Yes, the program is HLC accredited.
We require a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Learn more about admissions requirements.
The certificate will prepare you with the training necessary to work with individuals and groups experiencing trauma or impacted by toxic stress exposure. The skills you learn will allow you to bridge the gap between the impact of trauma and other aspects of a client’s interpersonal and social functioning.
No. Your coursework can be completed 100% online.
At this time, our online program is offered only as a full-time program.
The total cost of the program is $7,125, not including fees and other expenses.
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First-Line Supervisor/Manager of Police and Detectives
$75,043/year
Oversee police officers and detectives. In this role, you’ll lead the department and be responsible for schedules, training, and support of your staff.2
Prison Warden
$88,237/year
Manage all activities at a prison. In this role, you’ll serve as the top correctional officer and assume responsibilities across safety and security, policies, staffing, and more.3
Other positions you could qualify for with your master’s in criminal justice degree online:
- Border patrol supervisor
- Correctional officer supervisor
- Criminal investigator
- Detective
- Emergency management director
- FBI agent
- Loss prevention manager
- Police chief
- Police sergeant
- Security manager
- Supervising probation officer
- U.S. Marshall
Request More Information
By filling out the form, you’ll:
- Gain access to a dedicated enrollment counselor who is ready to answer all of your questions.
- Take one more step towards achieving your career goals.
Fill out the form to receive more information!
Program Outcomes: Advance Your Skills and Knowledge in Criminal Justice
In the master’s in criminal justice degree program, you’ll:
- Use criminal justice principles and analytical tools to strategically manage a criminal justice agency.
- Exhibit ethical decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Identify and adapt to legal issues in the evolving criminal justice field.
We’re Committed to Your Success
In the 2021 SkillSurvey Career Readiness® rankings, CSP Global was ranked in the Top 10 “Career Ready” Institutions and Top 10 “Career Ready” Feedback for First-Generation College Students. The SkillSurvey rankings reflect over 170 partner institutions whose students received evaluator ratings following an internship, co-op, or other work-related experience.
Support Beyond Your Graduation Date
In addition to the high-quality education you’ll receive at CSP Global, you’ll benefit from a wide range of support during your time as a student that will extend throughout your professional journey as an alumnus. That’s part of how 94.5% of CSP Global graduates receive job offers within one year of graduation.
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Start or Advance Your Career in One of Many Fields
- Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists earn $54,290/year.1
- Private detectives and investigators earn $50,510/year.2
Earning your criminal justice degree online allows you to achieve your goals in a flexible environment. When you graduate, you’ll be prepared to start or advance your career in fields like law enforcement, corrections, probation, parole, private security, and law. You could also continue to graduate school.
Discover a well-rounded education that can help you succeed — regardless of your background and area of interest. This program fits the education needs of aspiring law enforcement professionals in many locations, including Minnesota, Texas, and California.
Police Officer or Detective
$65,170/year
Protect lives and property or gather facts and collect evidence for possible crimes. In either one of these roles, you’ll play a focal role in law enforcement.3
Correctional Officer or Bailiff
$45,300/year
Oversee people who have been arrested or courtrooms. In either one of these roles, you’ll enhance safety in crucial parts of the criminal justice system.4
Other positions you could qualify for with your criminal justice degree:
- Crime scene investigator
- DEA agent
- FBI agent
- Fish and game warden
- Private security guard
- Secret Service agent
- U.S. Marshall
Request More Information
By filling out the form, you’ll:
- Gain access to a dedicated enrollment counselor who is ready to answer all of your questions.
- Take one more step towards achieving your career goals.
Fill out the form to receive more information!
Program Outcomes: Enhance Your Knowledge of the System
In the online criminal justice degree program, you’ll:
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of the criminal justice system.
- Analyze complex situations and make ethical decisions while maintaining moral sensibility.
- Exhibit knowledge of the roles of the federal, state, local, and international aspects of the criminal justice system and how they integrate together.
We’re Committed to Your Success
In the 2021 SkillSurvey Career Readiness® rankings, CSP Global was ranked in the Top 10 “Career Ready” Institutions and Top 10 “Career Ready” Feedback for First-Generation College Students. The SkillSurvey rankings reflect over 170 partner institutions whose students received evaluator ratings following an internship, co-op, or other work-related experience.
Support Beyond Your Graduation Date
In addition to the high-quality education you’ll receive at CSP Global, you’ll benefit from a wide range of support during your time as a student that will extend throughout your professional journey as an alumnus. That’s part of how 94.5% of CSP Global graduates receive job offers within one year of graduation.
Sources
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm.
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/private-detectives-and-investigators.htm.
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm.
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/correctional-officers.htm.
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If you are interested in a career in law enforcement and are seeking a career working in a courtroom, you may consider becoming a bailiff. This career is ideal for those who are courteous, accommodating, and have strong attention to detail, good interpersonal skills, and sound knowledge of courtroom procedures.
What Does a Bailiff Do?
A bailiff is an officer of the courtroom, and the role is an important one. He or she provides security for all parties, including judges, plaintiffs, defendants, and juries. It is the job of a bailiff to impose all courtroom policies, keep disturbances to a minimum, and to execute the judge’s orders. For example, if a judge decides someone needs to be removed from the courtroom, the bailiff must escort that person out and even restrain them if needed.
Bailiffs prevent the jury from having contact with the public, going as far as to escort them from site to site. Other job responsibilities include:
- Opening and closing court by announcing the judge’s arrival and departure.
- Securely handling evidence.
- Swearing in witnesses.
- Organizing files and paperwork for the judge.
- Inspecting the courtroom for hazards and weapons.
- Guarding jurors sequestered overnight in hotels.
- Providing security or medical emergency services.
What Is a Bailiff’s Salary?
While the salary of a bailiff will vary based on location, years of experience, and other factors, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that the median annual salary for this career is $44,400. However, the number of job prospects for bailiffs isn’t exactly ideal. Although there is a need to replenish bailiffs who move on to different occupations or retire, employment is expected to decline 7% from 2018 to 2028.
Depending on work performance, there are promising advancement opportunities. For example, successful bailiffs who work for a bailiff firm may find it possible to be promoted to the position of senior bailiff, assistant manager, and manager.
What Is a Bailiff’s Workplace Environment?
Many bailiffs spend the majority of their working hours inside the courtroom. However, some of their time will be spent escorting and guarding jurors or transferring documents. Some bailiffs may choose to work in prisons or jails, but these environments are much more challenging. Most bailiffs would agree that working in a judicial setting with the general public is highly preferable over working within a jail.
How Do I Become a Bailiff?
While many bailiff positions only require a high school education, candidates who possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree will find their employment opportunities vastly improved. Coursework in criminal justice, law enforcement, and civil rights will provide a strong foundation, as well as experience in the courtroom and/or law enforcement.
Additional qualifications may include CPR certification or first aid training. Some courts even require bailiffs to undergo firearm training and learn to use chemicals like pepper spray.
In addition, some places of employment have age requirements for new bailiffs (21 years of age or older is a common requirement), and all require a valid driver’s license. It’s also typical for a candidate to be required to undergo (and pass) a background check, meaning he or she must have a clean criminal record.
Earn a Degree in Criminal Justice to Become a Bailiff
With the right online degree program, you can gain the expertise you need to succeed as a bailiff. Concordia University, St. Paul offers two criminal justice programs that focus on the history and modern issues within the field: a B.A. in Criminal Justice and an M.A. in Criminal Justice Leadership. Both programs are designed for adult students, as they provide the flexibility to fit your studies into your busy schedule.
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It is the duty of a compliance officer to perform regular inspections or audits to make sure specific laws and policies under their charge are being met. In other words, they ensure that companies, governing bodies, and organizations are acting in accordance with internal policies and regulatory restrictions.
What Does a Compliance Officer Do?
Compliance officers are responsible for making sure that their organization is compliant with laws and regulations, such as requirements for licensing. They gather and evaluate information and present their findings to leadership or a governing body. Based on their discoveries, they make recommendations for improvements.
Many compliance officers work for the federal government, and the rest are employed in a wide range of industries, including health care and transportation. They may be hired to enforce food safety regulations or ensure protective measures for the environment are being taken. Fire inspectors, licensing examiners, equal employment opportunity officers, and transportation system inspectors are a few job titles one can expect to assume as a compliance officer
It’s common for a compliance officer to work for an agency or a company contracted to provide compliance work; therefore, his or her physical work environment will vary based on the company or organization they are reviewing or auditing. Working conditions can range from reviewing documents in a comfortable office to off-site fieldwork on an oil rig in the middle of the sea. Many find this fluctuating job-to-job environment one of the most exciting aspects of the career.
How Much Do Compliance Officers Get Paid?
Because compliance officers can be employed in so many different industries, and due to other factors like years of experience and the size of the company for which they work, the salary of compliance officers will vary immensely across the board. Keeping that in mind, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that compliance officers in general earn a median salary of $68,860.
How Do I Become a Compliance Officer?
To become a compliance officer, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree. Specific job requirements vary by industry. This diversity of employer type and employer needs creates the requirement for extensive specialized training and education in the industry for which the officer works. Many positions require certification, and continuing education to stay current on laws and regulations is also sometimes required.
Compliance officers must be strong leaders, writers, and public speakers with communication and ethical decision-making skills. Due to the confidential nature of the work of a compliance officer, integrity will also take someone far in this occupation.
Gain the Skills to Become a Compliance Officer
As compliance officers can work in a variety of industries, you should have a background in the industry in which you want to be employed. To learn more about the various laws and regulations that affect your desired industry, Concordia University, St. Paul offers numerous online degree programs. Choose from areas such as business, criminal justice, and health care administration. All of our programs offer a flexible online format that allows you to complete your coursework whenever and wherever is right for you.
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Corrections counselors are often the first people to give advice and guidance to criminals. Also called correctional treatment specialists, they help criminals become productive members of society by addressing actions that the offender can take to avoid breaking the law again.
What Does a Corrections Counselor Do?
Corrections counselors work with criminals to cultivate strategic rehabilitation, training, and education plans that help them earn a GED or enroll in college classes. This critical planning helps offenders acquire the knowledge and skills they need to get jobs and reenter society. Corrections counselors may also work with social service agencies to provide mental health or substance abuse treatment.
Specific job duties for corrections counselors include:
- Imposing rules and keeping order within jails or prisons
- Overseeing behaviors of inmates
- Inspecting facilities, including cells, to ensure they meet sanitary standards
- Searching inmates for contraband
- Compiling reports on inmate conduct
Almost all corrections counselors work for state and local governments in prisons and jails. Daily work conditions change frequently, and counselors should be prepared to work both indoors and outdoors. Some jails and prisons are temperature controlled and clean; others lend to more unpleasant working conditions in that they are old, overcrowded, hot, and noisy.
Being physically fit is important for corrections counselors, as some are required to stand on their feet for long periods of time. It’s typical for a corrections counselor to work an eight-hour day, five days per week, but they will be expected to work in rotating shifts due to jails and prisons needing round-the-clock attention.
How Much Do Corrections Counselors Get Paid?
The salaries of corrections counselors from state to state will vary. Factors like experience and size of the department for which a person works also come in to play. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for correctional treatment specialists is $53,020 as of May 2018.
Employment for this career is expected to grow 6% through 2026, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. With mandatory sentencing guidelines undergoing changes in most states, the number of prisoners being released from correctional facilities into counseling programs is on the rise.
After a period of service as a corrections counselor, successful counselors can look to advance to other careers. This includes being promoted to a correctional sergeant or into supervisory or administrative positions, such as warden.
How Do I Become a Corrections Counselor?
A bachelor’s degree is required to become a corrections counselor. Coursework in psychology and social work will make a candidate more attractive in the eyes of a potential employer. Having experience as a substance-abuse counselor or social worker can also increase a person’s chances of being hired.
Newly hired corrections counselors must complete training at the facility where they’re employed, followed by a certification exam. Candidates must also submit to drug testing and complete a background check.
Earn the Right Credentials
To open the doors to become a corrections officer, you can earn a degree in criminal justice. Concordia University, St. Paul offers an online B.A. in Criminal Justice and an online M.A. in Criminal Justice Leadership. Both programs explore historical and contemporary issues that have affected the criminal justice system, ethics, and more. Designed for the busy adult student, our online programs feature a flexible format that allows you to study when it’s most convenient as you learn from faculty who are experts in the field.
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A career in the criminal justice field allows you to help others, serve your community, and make a difference. However, when you’re deciding to go back to school to study criminal justice, it is important that you keep your investment in mind. You may not think that criminal justice programs can lead to a high-paying career, especially at the bachelor’s degree level. However, there are more high-paying criminal justice jobs than you think.
Continuing your education is an investment. For that reason, you should know how to make your degree work for you, in terms of both job satisfaction and financial reward. These criminal justice jobs have high salaries and give you the chance to help others in your day-to-day work.
10 High-Paying Criminal Justice Jobs
Private detective and investigator: $50,090
These professionals collect evidence and facts through interviews, observation, and research to assist in arrests. Detectives can be licensed or unlicensed, depending on the employer. Most private detectives and investigators work for task forces, police agencies, private firms, or individuals and can specialize in disciplines like forensics, fraud, or homicide. You should have at least a bachelor’s degree to become a private detective and investigator.
Security manager: $65,600
Security managers work in the private sector, so this career is ideal if you are interested in criminal justice outside of the government. They are in charge of security management detail for commercial buildings and complexes. These professionals are often employed by independent security firms or private companies. A bachelor’s degree is recommended for a career as a security manager.
Police officer: $63,380
These criminal justice professionals are directly involved in controlling crime in their communities. They respond to calls for service, patrol, and investigate minor crimes and traffic crashes, among other duties. Police officers also work with investigators and other law enforcement professionals to prevent future crimes from taking place. You need at least a bachelor’s degree to become a police officer.
Fire investigator: $60,200
Fire investigators work for local fire and police departments and investigate arson and suspicious fires. They are also specially trained and have investigation and law enforcement responsibilities. Fire investigators respond to calls at fire scenes, write reports, prepare warrants, and make arrests based on the findings of their investigations. To enter this role, you should have a bachelor’s degree.
Fish and game warden: $57,710
Also known as conservation officers, fish and game wardens enforce laws that pertain to environmental protection and conservation. They perform the functions of wildlife and marine patrol officers. They also deal with hunters, boaters, fishers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts to make sure that wildlife and nature are safe. A bachelor’s degree is required to become a fish and game warden.
Corrections officer managers and supervisor: $63,340
Supervisors and managers in the corrections system are responsible for the daily workings of their staff. These professionals have often previously held corrections officer positions. They work in prisons and jails to ensure the efficiency of operations and the safety of the officers and inmates they supervise. Typically, you need at least a bachelor’s degree to become a corrections officer manager or supervisor.
Criminal justice educator: $61,900
These post-secondary instructors teach courses in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement administration. Criminal justice educators can be teachers who engage in classroom instruction or conduct research. A master’s degree in criminal justice is required for this career.
Forensic science technician: $58,230
These professionals assist with criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. They work at crime scenes and in laboratories. They take photographs of crime scenes, make sketches, preserve evidence for crime labs, and reconstruct crime scenes. Forensic science technicians also assess potential links between suspects and crimes and conduct chemical, biological, and microscopic tests. A bachelor’s degree is required for this profession.
Criminal profiler: $57,300
Also known as forensic psychologists, criminal profilers provide descriptions of suspects, including generalities like age, race, and geographic location, as well as specifics like personality traits and behavior patterns. To become a criminal profiler, you need a master’s degree in criminal justice or psychology.
Intelligence analyst: $68,400
Some of the highest-paid law enforcement professionals are those working behind the scenes. Intelligence analysts make sure that evidence is correctly processed and analyze data to solve cases. Some of these professionals work at the state and local level, but most are employed by the federal government. A bachelor’s degree is required to become an intelligence analyst.
All salary information is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale.
Prepare for a High-Paying Criminal Justice Job
Having the right knowledge, skills, and experience can help you land a high-paying job in the criminal justice field. With an online degree from Concordia University, St. Paul, you will gain a deeper understanding of how the field works. CSP offers a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership, and a Master of Arts in Human Services with an emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health. Designed for busy adult students who require flexibility while earning their degree, our programs will help you advance your career.