Online Criminal Justice Degrees in Montana

Montana residents can expect an increase in job opportunities over the next several years. The Montana Department of Labor and Industry projects the creation of 5,100 jobs each year through 2025. The Montana Economic Report also projects economic growth for the state, largely due to Montana’s strong broadband telecommunications infrastructure.

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry projects the creation of 5,100 jobs each year through 2025.

According to the report, Montana’s rural broadband providers have invested $250 million into broadband infrastructure over the past several years. For students pursuing an online criminal justice degree, Montana’s telecommunications infrastructure provides reliable access to distance learning programs.

Montana’s economy benefits from the increasing number of students earning postsecondary degrees. A growing number of skilled, college-educated workers leads to higher wages, job opportunities, and overall economic growth. For students pursuing an online criminal justice degree, Montana provides a variety of educational and career opportunities.

Earning an Online Criminal Justice Degree in Montana

For busy students in Montana, online criminal justice degrees provide the flexibility to study anytime, from anywhere. Asynchronous classes allow students to complete coursework at their convenience and to create a schedule that fits their lifestyles. Many online learners work full time or fulfill personal obligations while earning their degrees.

An additional benefit of online learning is the increased educational options. Learners can attend programs throughout the country without relocating. Online students often pursue certificates, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate degrees. Distance programs are also ideal for international students.

When considering whether to pursue a criminal justice degree online, Montana students often consider the increased affordability. Distance learners earning criminal justice degrees in Montana often pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residence, and many schools waive campus fees for online students. Additionally, distance learners typically save on costs such as textbooks and transportation, and the flexible scheduling options allow students to continue working and earning wages while in school.

Accredited Criminal Justice Programs in Montana

When researching criminal justice degrees in Montana, prospective students should be sure to choose an accredited school. Accreditation ensures that an institution meets set standards of quality. Accredited schools are well-staffed and have clear educational objectives. Because accreditation requires regular evaluation, accredited institutions demonstrate a commitment to continual improvement. Accrediting agencies establish their own criteria for accreditation.

The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities awards regional accreditation to Montana institutions.

Individual programs within an institution can receive specialized accreditation in areas such as nursing, law, or business. Regional accreditation applies to the entire institution. Six agencies, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED), grant regional accreditation. The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities awards regional accreditation to Montana institutions.

Attending an accredited institution ensures degrees and credits earned will be recognized by future employers and other institutions. Additionally, only students at institutions with accreditation from an ED-approved agency qualify for federal financial aid. The ED maintains a database of accredited institutions.

Education and Training Requirements for Criminal Justice Professionals in Montana

Employees at the Montana Department of Justice protect the safety and wellbeing of residents. After earning an online criminal justice degree, Montana graduates often pursue jobs with the Department of Corrections, the Division of Criminal Investigation, the Board of Crime Control, the Board of Private Security, and the Office of Consumer Protection.

Positions in the field require extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system in areas including law enforcement; parole, probation, and the court systems; and investigative procedures. Criminal justice professionals should understand the field’s regulations, laws, policies, and terminology. Professionals in the field must also have strong communication skills and the ability to make decisions in high-stress situations. Some criminal justice positions require firearms training.

Many criminal justice careers require postsecondary education. Candidates for some positions need a bachelor’s degree, and advanced positions may require a master’s degree. Some employers mandate additional training or work experience. Candidates with online criminal justice degrees in Montana have a competitive edge when applying to positions that require only a high school education.

Licensing, Registration, and Certification Requirements in Montana

Nongovernmental organizations, such as educational institutions, professional societies, and private agencies, issue certifications. Certifications are voluntary credentials that require periodic renewal. Professional licenses, on the other hand, are issued by state agencies and are typically required to legally work in a specific occupation.

Many criminal justice positions require candidates to have a valid driver’s license, meet physical standards, pass a medical examination, and submit to fingerprint and background checks.

Federal and state governmental agencies require professionals in certain occupations to hold specific licenses. Many criminal justice positions require state licensure; private investigators, security guards, alarm response runners, and firearm instructors must hold licensure from the state Board of Private Security. Candidates for state licensure must submit an application and pass a qualifying exam.

Licensing requirements vary by position and state. For example, candidates for a private investigator license in Montana must have an armed endorsement and commercial general liability coverage. To become a certified firearms instructor, applicants must complete a course and commit to attending a board-certified course each year. Aspiring police officers must hold a certificate from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy or the equivalent from another state and must have firearms training.

Many criminal justice positions require candidates to have a valid driver’s license, meet physical standards, pass a medical examination, and submit to fingerprint and background checks. Because licensing regulations change often, candidates should contact employers directly to verify requirements.

Career and Salary Expectations

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry projects the creation of more than 5,000 jobs per year over the next seven years, including positions in protective and legal services and government agencies. The department projects the creation of 450 jobs per year in the law, public safety, corrections, and security industries, 250 annual openings in the protective service industry, and 130 jobs in the legal services field.

After earning a criminal justice degree online, Montana graduates have access to high-paying careers with potential for advancement. Of the projected annual openings in the criminal justice field, 40 require an associate degree, 15 require a bachelor’s, and 75 require advanced degrees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean hourly wage for protective service occupations in Montana is $21.38, and the annual mean wage is $44,480. The table below highlights common occupations for professionals with criminal justice degrees in Montana.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

In other states and in Montana, online criminal justice degrees can be expensive. Fortunately, students have a variety of financial aid options, including loans, grants, work-study programs, fellowships, and scholarships based on need and merit. Many scholarships are reserved for criminal justice students and for Montana residents. Unlike student loans, scholarships do not have to be repaid, making them an ideal form of funding.

Resources for Criminal Justice Students in Montana

Law Enforcement Agencies in Montana

• Montana Department of Corrections
• Montana Department of Justice
• U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana
• The Division of Criminal Investigation
• Montana Board of Crime Control
• Montana Highway Patrol
• Montana Law Enforcement Academy

Professional Organizations

For students or recent graduates with an online criminal justice degree, Montana professional organizations offer a variety of resources for launching a career in the field. Many professional organizations provide networking opportunities and resources for job seekers. Members have access to national and international professional development events, seminars, and conferences. Professional organizations help members stay up to date on trends and research in their specific area.

Find Criminal Justice Jobs in Montana

• Careers at the Montana Department of Justice
• Department of Labor and Industry: MontanaWorks
• City of Missoula Employment Opportunities
• Montana Job Network
• State of Montana Careers

Which Schools Offer Criminal Justice Degrees in Montana?