Ohio's Best Criminal Justice Schools and Programs
A student interested in a career in the field of criminal justice has many options from which to choose. From police work to law to security, the field is full of varied and interesting career options – and there are as many programs as there are career paths. The top criminal justice programs in the state of Ohio are known for their high student success rates and the quality of their staff and curriculum, whether a student is looking for an online school, traditional campus experience or certification programs.
Top Ohio Criminal Justice Schools
OUR METHODOLOGY+
To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria:
- Accredited at the institutional level
- Private nonprofit or public school
- Minimum of 1 bachelor's or master's degree in subject area for 4-year schools
- Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools
Schools were then scored on factors such as:
- Cost & Financial Aid
- Number and variety of program offerings
- Student-teacher ratios
- Graduation rates (4-year schools only)
- Placement and support services offered
- Academic/Career counseling services
- Employment services
- Loan default rates
These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program.
Whether a student is looking for small class sizes, specific concentrations, or low tuition, this convenient ranking tool makes it simple to compare criminal justice schools in Ohio. By starting the search here, students save themselves the frustration of a prolonged search weeding through websites for admission statistics and costs for various criminal justice programs around the state. Check out the top criminal justice schools and programs for 2017 below.
Top Bachelor Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
These rankings include
#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Miami University
Oxford, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Miami University. The Oxford-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.
The college connects students with peers, faculty, and staff across campus-based and remote learning communities. Students in the criminal justice program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study, and they gain practical knowledge.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.
The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the cost of college manageable. Students receive an average financial aid package of $10,240.
#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
University of Akron
Akron, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus, the University of Akron supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Students can choose from 143 in-person bachelor's degree programs and one remote program. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Students access foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Students receive guidance throughout their program through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding toward their educational expenses. The college notes that 96% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Ashland University
Ashland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate students can benefit from a flexible, thorough education at Ashland University. Learners can study from the comfort of their home or on the college's campus. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Learners studying in person and online benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.
Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Throughout their studies, learners can work with career services and academic advising to receive further guidance.
To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 99% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Tiffin University
Tiffin, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Tiffin University, a private college in Ohio, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Enrollees can choose from 55 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across 18 degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their program.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards.
#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Youngstown State University
Youngstown, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Youngstown State University offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Enrollees can choose from 122 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across six degree programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees can access rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding toward their educational expenses. On average, students receive $6,945 in financial aid.
#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Ohio Northern University
Ada, OH - 4 years
- Campus
Ohio Northern University, a private college in Ada, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. Learners can choose from in-person and online bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled, and they can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their program.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Defiance College
Defiance, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Defiance College is a private school offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. The institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.
Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community. Criminal justice students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Learners can customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners further benefit from access to institutional resources, such as academic advising and career services.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. The institution boasts that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.
#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cedarville University is a private college offering hybrid education in Ohio. To date, the college offers 75 in-person bachelor's programs. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services throughout the duration of their degree programs.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The college boasts that 100% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Union Institute & University
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Union Institute & University offers numerous bachelor's degree programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. The college supports 14 bachelor's programs, with all of them enabling fully remote study. Online and on-campus modalities support rigorous study and connect students with premier faculty and supportive learning communities.
Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field of choosing. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their curriculum. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards.
#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
University of Toledo
Toledo, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus, the University of Toledo supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Learners can enroll in one of 115 campus-based bachelor's programs or opt for remote study across 10 subject areas. Enrollees connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments or virtual classrooms.
Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout the course of their education.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities, and they can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $6,964, with 95% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.
#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
University of Findlay
Findlay, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus, the University of Findlay supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. The college offers 78 bachelor's programs, with one enabling fully remote study. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their program.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework. Enrollees can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their program, including career services and academic advising.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding toward their educational expenses. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Urbana University
Urbana, OH - 4 years
- Campus
From its main campus, Urbana University supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Learners can choose from in-person and online bachelor's degree programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can customize their program by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can also choose elective classes. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid.
#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its main campus, the University of Cincinnati supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Located in Ohio, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.
Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. Of all enrollees, 75% receive financial aid.
#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bowling Green State University, a public college in Ohio, provides flexible study options for undergraduate students near and far. The public college offers 147 bachelor's degree programs, eight of which are fully remote. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their subject field. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $6,744.
#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Lourdes University
Sylvania, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Lourdes University's in-person and online degree offerings. Enrollees can choose from one of 24 bachelor's degree programs.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. At the college, 99% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#16 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Kent State University
Kent, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kent State University, a public college in Ohio, provides flexible learning options for undergraduate students near and far. Enrollees can choose from 112 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across two degree programs. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.
Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The institution reports that 96% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.
#17 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. To date, the school offers 62 bachelor’s programs, with six online degree options.
Whether learning in person or online, students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. Students in the criminal justice program complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Learners also have the option to pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.
Students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other support resources.
Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other educational funding.
#18 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Ohio Christian University's in-person and online degree offerings. Enrollees can choose from 22 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across 11 degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future career. Students can work with an academic advisor to customize their degree and declare minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Depending on their eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding toward their educational expenses.
#19 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
Bluffton University
Bluffton, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking a flexible education can explore Bluffton University's in-person and online degree offerings. Enrollees can choose from 46 bachelor's degree programs.
Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their program. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. Learners can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. At the college, 100% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.
#20 Criminal Justice Schools in Ohio
University of Mount Union
Alliance, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Undergraduate learners seeking competitive study should consider one of University of Mount Union's bachelor's programs. Enrollees can choose from 59 bachelor's degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.
Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can customize their program by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and they can also choose elective classes. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid.
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OHIO'S MOST PROMINENT CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS
Students who hope to make the most of their college experience will also want to keep in mind what careers are available in the local area and what to expect in terms of annual salary. Criminal justice students will find a variety of opportunities in Ohio, dependent on what degree certification level he or she attains.
Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers
- Total Employed in Ohio
24,210 - Median Salary in Ohio
$57,410 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Academy Program
Correctional Officer
- Total Employed in Ohio
12,940 - Median Salary in Ohio
$43,210 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Certification
Compliance Officer
- Total Employed in Ohio
6,940 - Median Salary in Ohio
$56,470 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Bachelor's
Paralegal and Legal Assistant
- Total Employed in Ohio
7,570 - Median Salary in Ohio
$43,450 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Varies; up to Bachelor's
Court, Municipal and License Clerks
- Total Employed in Ohio
7,870 - Median Salary in Ohio
$33,840 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Varies; up to Bachelor's
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
- Total Employed in Ohio
2,050 - Median Salary in Ohio
$61,420 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Varies; up to Bachelor's
Probation Officer
- Total Employed in Ohio
2,970 - Median Salary in Ohio
$46,680 - Degree Level Required in Ohio
Bachelor's
WHICH OHIO EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATES?
With potential employers located all over the state, students with a criminal justice degree have a lot of interesting opportunities to go to work serving the local community. Whether you are looking for the hustle and bustle of a city, or would prefer the quiet life patrolling Ohio's 190,000 wild acres, a criminal justice degree can take you anywhere you want to go.
- Protective Services
Potential Employers
Bailiffs; Correctional Officers and Jailers; Detectives and Criminal Investigators; Fish and Game Wardens; Parking Enforcement Workers; Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers; Transit and Railroad Police; Animal Control Workers; Private Detectives and Investigators; Gaming Surveillance Officers and Gaming Investigators; Security Guards; Crossing Guards; Lifeguards, Ski Patrol and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers; Transportation Security Screeners
Total Number of Employees in Ohio: 113,800 - Legal Occupations
Potential Employers
Lawyers; Judicial Law Clerks; Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators and Hearing Officers; Arbitrators, Mediators and Conciliators; Judges, Magistrate Judges and Magistrates; Paralegals and Legal Assistants; Court Reporters; Title Examiners, Abstractors and Searchers; Legal Support Workers
Total Number of Employees in Ohio: 30,300
LARGEST AREAS OF EMPLOYMENT IN DESCENDING ORDER
OHIO'S PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE
BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES
- Council of Smaller Enterprises
COSE provides small business owners with the tools and resources to keep business growing, and a community of business owners to network with. - Women's Business Centers of Ohio
Through the empowerment of female business owners, the Women's Business Centers of Ohio provides members with tools to grow their business in sustainable ways, by offering training and other resources both online and on site. - Ohio Business Brokers Association
The Ohio Business Brokers Association (OBBA) is a non-profit that connects businesses with potential buyers, through the use of a middle party like accountants or real estate agents. The OBBA provides events, information, and other resources. - Ohio Chamber of Commerce
The Ohio Chamber of Commerce champions business development and growth in the state of Ohio. The department helps promote a business-friendly agenda with Ohio government and provides resources to entrepreneurs. - Central Ohio Chapter, Association of Corporate Counsel
The ACC serves corporate law professionals by providing a platform for networking and information-sharing. - Ohio Development Services Agency
This government website provides business and community resources for professional growth and development, including a section dedicated to minority interests. - Columbus District Office, U.S. Small Business Association
The U.S. SBA serves entrepreneurs by providing financing opportunities and resources to guide business expansion.
CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES
- Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
Get information on jobs, training opportunities, news and other resources connected to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections. Apply for grants, network with other correction professionals, or get information about community organizations working to educate the community on corrections issues. - Correctional Peace Officers Foundation
CPOF is a national network of correctional officers working together to create a strong community of dedicated professionals. Get information about training opportunities, news, scholarships and many other resources for professionals working in the corrections field. - Ohio Community Corrections Association
Ohio Community Corrections Association (OCCA) is a community resource to help professionals in the corrections field stay effective at management and rehabilitation. OCCA offers training, news, events and other resources, as well as a network for organizations involved in the corrections process. - Ohio Department of Youth Services
The Ohio Department of Youth Services webpage is the hub for information about juvenile correctional facilities, parole, community programs and family resources. - Ohio Justice and Policy Center
The OJPC provides advocacy and resources for the purpose improving the criminal justice system in Ohio through policy reform and community education.
COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES
- Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center
The Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center provides resources and training opportunities for those who work with crime victims such as law enforcement, victims' rights advocates, and legal professionals, as well as tools and resources for victims themselves. They provide free legal representation for eligible individuals. - Ohio Association for Justice
The Ohio Association for Justice (OAJ) is a collection of trial lawyers working to provide the best legal representation for all residents in Ohio. The OAJ offers training and events as well as a network of professionals. - Central Ohio Association for Justice
The Central Ohio Association for Justice (COAJ) works to provide legal service to all citizens, with more than 200 members. The COAJ offers training, events, and other resources for legal professionals in Central Ohio. - National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice
The National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ) works to provide fair legal representation and equal justice for minorities in the justice system. The NABCJ also works to recruit minorities for employment in the justice system. Events, training and other resources are available through their website. - Ohio Court Reporters Association
The OCRA provides membership-based professional networking opportunities and education to court reporters in the state of Ohio. - Ohio Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
This local chapter of the national CASA organization advocates for the best interests of children who have been neglected or abused.
LEGAL RESOURCES
- Paralegal Association of Northwest Ohio
The Paralegal Association of Northwest Ohio serves paralegals in the NW part of the state with scholarships, events, job opportunities and other resources. - Cleveland Association of Paralegals, Inc
With the changing pace of technology, it can be difficult to keep up no matter what field you are in. The Cleveland Association of Paralegals, Inc. is dedicated to keeping paralegals professionals up to date with news, information, events, employment openings and other opportunities. - Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
The Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers offers a network for legal professionals around the state, as well as training, scholarships, news, events and other resources. - Ohio Lawyers Assistance Program
The Ohio Lawyers Assistance Program offers resources for legal professionals struggling with drug and addiction issues. - Ohio State Bar Association
The OSBA is a professional organization for lawyers in Ohio to network and gain continuing education in their field. - Ohio Attorney General
The Attorney General office exists to serve state employees and agencies in legal representation as well as protect consumers and educate the public. - Pro Bono Legal Assistance in Ohio, American Bar Association
This directory lists a variety of low-income firms that provide legal aid to Ohioans.
LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES
- Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police
The OACP is a great resource for law enforcement, providing education, training and employment resources. The OACP prides itself on raising the standards for professionals working as law enforcement in the state of Ohio. - Ohio Association of Security and Investigation Services
Ohio Association of Security and Investigation Services (OASIS) provide members with insurance, training, job opportunities, news and resources for security and private investigators. - Ohio Police Juvenile Officers' Association
The Ohio Police Juvenile Officer's Association provides training and resources for corrections professionals that work with juveniles. They provide a network and other resources to bring professionals together to promote the safe handling of juvenile offenders. - Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy
This page provides information about the courses covered at the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy as well as additional law enforcement information. - Ohio State Troopers Association
Created to connect and educate Ohio troopers, the Ohio State Troopers Association is a membership-based organization that provides support and resources. - Buckeye State Sheriffs' Association
The BSSA serves Ohio's sheriffs by providing resources, information and networking opportunities.
WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
- Ohio Division of Natural Resources
Get information on available jobs, training opportunities, community information and other resources from the Ohio Division of Natural Resources. - Office of Law Enforcement, ODNR
This page has information specifically related to wildlife and natural resource law enforcement. - Division of Forestry, ODNR
Wildfire investigation and prevention falls under the Ohio Division of Natural Resources' Division of Forestry. - Association of National Park Rangers
Students looking to work as park rangers can use this resource to look for scholarships, training and networking opportunities. The AONPR promotes stewardship of our natural resources and promotes higher standards for law enforcement. - Cleveland Metroparks Organizations
Look for employment opportunities and find out about the 23,000 acres and 18 park reservations that make up the Cleveland Metroparks.
EXPERT ADVICE ON CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN OHIO: PROFESSOR SCOTT WAGNER
Professor Scott Wagner is a 36-year Ohio law enforcement veteran. He began his career in 1980 as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Licking County Sheriff's Office where he worked patrol. Professor Wagner is a nationally recognized author on law enforcement, defensive tactics and firearms related topics who has authored three books and hundreds of articles. He was an academy commander and instructor in the first 27 police academies that were conducted at Columbus State, and also has taught as an adjunct lecturer in the Sociology Department at The Ohio State University for two years.
What should prospective criminal justice students look for in a school?
They should look for a long-standing history of success in employment. They should also ask about the reputation of the school in question with people working in the field they seek to enter. For example, asking area police officers if they have heard of a local police academy program.
What do criminal justice departments look for when considering students to admit?
Our program is open enrollment for general students. However, to enter our police academy program, other requirements exist that are mandated by the State of Ohio, like a criminal background check and drug screen. Also, as our academy program is tied to our associate's degree program, students are generally required to have completed two semesters of work before they can start in the academy.
What skills do students need to be successful in a criminal justice degree program?
A willingness to work hard, AND a clear understanding of what kind of things employers require. For example, what kinds of things disqualify someone from working in a law enforcement agency. It is important to know those things before spending a lot of time studying for a career that isn't possible. Students should be people of integrity as that is a critical quality needed in the fields of law, law enforcement, and corrections.
What makes the criminal justice profession unique in Ohio?
We have a system of "free standing" and college academies where those interested in a law enforcement career can go to become certified as a prospective law enforcement officer before being hired by an agency. Once they meet all the state requirements of the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission, they can apply to hiring agencies. Agencies can then start them right to work in a field training period without having to send them through an accredited academy since that has already been done.