Kick-start your career in the arts or blaze a new professional trail with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Digital Photography from Southern New Hampshire University. The online bachelor's program provides a strong footing in the technical skills of digital camera operation, lighting, and post-production image editing while refining your visual literacy and providing you with a foundation in the humanities all at a fraction of the cost of comparable programs.

"Earning your online degree at SNHU will afford you the opportunity to lay the foundation of being an expert in your craft, and have a deeper understanding of professional photography," said Colleen Vandenberg, photography faculty at SNHU. In addition to a solid grounding in the liberal arts, this unique online photography degree also delves into the business, social media, and brand-building aspects of the profession to help you differentiate yourself in a competitive marketplace. Throughout the program, you'll also develop a professional portfolio for both career advancement and personal fulfillment."

In SNHU's online BA in Digital Photography program, you'll learn how to:

- Market and advertise services to attract clients

- Analyze and plan the composition of photographs

- Use various photographic techniques and lighting equipment

- Capture subjects in commercial-quality photographs

- Enhance the subject's appearance with natural or artificial light

- Employ the latest photo-enhancing software

- Maintain a digital portfolio to showcase your work

Taught by industry-leading faculty, the bachelor's in photography is a great program for anyone looking to develop a strong grasp of the theory, practice, and history of photography. With 36 free electives, the bachelor's in digital photography is also a transfer-friendly program, allowing students to pursue other academic interests alongside photography. This could be an opportunity to dive further into areas like marketing, communication, or graphic design.

"The courses challenged me to be creative," said Susana Ellis '20. "Each class was fun and engaging with great insight from teachers." Our online photography program was designed to give you the advanced technical knowledge you need to succeed as an artist. You'll learn about Digital camera operation. By studying the ins and outs of your camera body and lenses, you'll learn how to move on from auto mode to take truly individual and creative photos. Lighting. See how the manipulation of light can affect the aesthetic of a photo, illuminating a subject while communicating emotion. Post-production editing. Explore the art of image editing in software such as Photoshop and Lightroom while gaining knowledge about key topics like color, resolution, and formatting."

"By learning how to manually control their camera, and harness the power of aperture and shutter speed, students can create images with intention," said Colleen Vandenberg, photography faculty at SNHU. "With a strong foundation of technical skills, the student will become free to push creative boundaries." On top of technical photography skills, our bachelor's in digital photography teaches you the vital business knowledge needed to establish and run a successful photography business."

Focusing on the legal, marketing, and entrepreneurial aspects of photography, you'll learn how to:

- Build a personal brand

- Copyright your work

- Develop contracts and release forms

- Set pricing structures and manage overhead costs

- Work with clients

But when it comes to running a successful photography business, you'll need more than core business knowledge. In this digital photography program, you'll also strengthen general skills and attributes that are considered necessary when working with clients.

These include:

- Accountability and professionalism

- Creative intelligence and problem-solving

- Flexibility, timeliness, and time management

- Teamwork and collaboration

- Written and verbal communication

Throughout the program, you'll be accumulating work through various assignments. While learning the technical aspects of photography, you'll enjoy a robust feedback process to enrich your learning experience. Engaging in peer and professional critiques of photographic work, you'll be preparing yourself for formal employment and contract interviews. SNHU now has one of the largest online photography programs in the country, so you'll be able to benefit from studying with and learning from a diverse group of students from all over. These critiques will be invaluable as you develop and curate your professional photography portfolio. In fact, the digital photography program culminates with a course dedicated to polishing your portfolio, providing you the opportunity to showcase your professional work. With the creation of both digital and print portfolios, you'll establish a branded identity as a working professional and artist.

"The classes have pushed my boundaries and allowed me to grow my skill set," said Saryn Christina '21. "I have gained a lot of self-confidence and knowledge," which she adds will lead to many new opportunities in the future.

Photographers capture our world in singular moments in time. And the images they capture can record the indescribable beauty of our world, trigger a flood of emotions or cause the downfall of governments. Take your creative eye and love of visual storytelling to new heights with an Associate of Arts (AA) in Digital Photography degree from Southern New Hampshire University. You'll learn the technical skills needed to be a successful digital photographer thematic storytelling, design theory, image composition, how to use light and color to create compelling digital images, as well as post-production editing techniques.

These skills are paired with a strong foundation in the humanities, including courses in communication, writing, social sciences, and the business and history of photography. And all courses are online so you're free to learn anywhere and at any time that fits your schedule. This program is for anyone seeking to launch or advance a career in the exciting world of professional photography. You'll complete this program ready to develop your own personal brand with a unique visual style, powerful creative voice, and focused industry knowledge.

Learn how to:

- Develop professional skills aligned with best practices of the industry

- Employ industry-appropriate tools and techniques

- Apply the elements and principles of art and design

- Communicate ideas and themes to specific audiences

- Tell powerful stories through your own unique visual imagery

If you're interested in continuing your education beyond your associate degree, you can seamlessly transition to the bachelor's online photography degree program at SNHU. The Associate of Arts in Digital Photography degree at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is designed to give you the leading edge for a career in commercial photography.

Even with a photography background, Ryan Earheart '19 '21 knew there was more for him to learn. "I felt it was for me," he said. "I did a lot of digging around online, and after a bunch of research, I found that many people loved the photography program at SNHU." Taught by industry-leading faculty, you'll enjoy foundational coursework grounded in business and the liberal arts. Then, you'll focus on courses covering all aspects of digital photography. Lighting, aesthetics, design, and communications come together to offer a well-rounded degree."

"Photographers today often are hired on a contract basis and it is essential that they are educated in the successful creation, marketing, and running of a photography business," said Sloan Kelly, associate dean of fine and applied arts at SNHU. In addition to learning the most advanced camera, lighting, and editing technology, you'll enjoy a robust feedback process to enrich your learning experience. Coursework examines the artistic and business sides of the profession. "Learning how to build and maintain a freelance business and the importance of a brand and marketing that brand is essential for students to learn," Kelly said.

Earheart agreed. "The journalism, marketing, and business aspect of the course is worth it by itself," he said. Credits earned for the associate degree in photography can be easily applied toward a bachelor's degree in digital photography, graphic design, and media arts or a variety of other liberal arts majors."

Organizations of every size in every industry use data analytics from small businesses to state departments, nonprofits to global corporations. Data analytic skills are becoming more important in this constantly changing ecosystem. The National Football League is analyzing data in live time to help predict the next play on the field, the FBI is scanning large amounts of data every minute to predict possible events and Wall Street has implemented new technology to help consumers predict a stock's next best action. Data is becoming more available and more complex.

SNHUs Master of Science (MS) in Data Analytics takes a deep dive into the study of analyzing data, allowing you to hone one of the most coveted skill sets in today's workforce. You'll learn how to use advanced statistical techniques and tools in data and information management to collect and analyze large data sets. You'll also learn how to apply your computational, analytical, and modeling skills to provide decision support to key stakeholders. As you pursue your online master's in data analytics, you'll gain proficiency in identifying and evaluating data solutions. Upon completion of the capstone, you'll understand how to help businesses leverage information to make smart, data-driven decisions, operate with greater efficiency, and compete more successfully.

"I was able to use what I have learned within my role," said Luanne Dexter '20G. "I am currently working on a project that will apply what I learned in my capstone course." You'll come away from the program with a highly marketable skill in knowing how to interpret the stories that data has to tell. "It really has helped me to understand data analytics and has opened doors for me in my career," said Dexter. "I have [been] promoted since earning my degree as well as transitioned to a role as a data, analytics, and insight manager."

The programs core covers:

- Descriptive Statistics and Analytics

- Predictive Analytics

- Data Visualization and Presentation

- The Data Analytics Life Cycle

- Agile Scrum Management Techniques

"Whether you're already working in data analytics or you're in a field that could benefit from it, SNHUs comprehensive online data analytics masters program can help position you to succeed at your next career move. "I was able to transition to a role where I can use the skills I learned and move into a career path that was more in line with my passion," said Dexter. "[The program] gave me the credibility and knowledge I needed to do that."

Learn how to:

- Evaluate data sources to verify data using the data analytics lifecycle

- Compile and interpret big data to design more effective business systems

- Use data to make predictions, assess risk, and solve problems

- Report data findings and present solutions to key stakeholders

- Be a strategic asset to organizations in a wide range of industries

Demand for data analytics-related roles is at an all-time high. If you can analyze data using your statistical skills, lead strong dynamic teams and monitor progress, you'll have an edge in the job market. SNHUs master's in data analytics online develops this skill set, reinforcing the strategic and advanced uses of data analytics across a wide range of industries. Coursework covers all key topics, from data mining, visualization, and modeling to the ethical uses of data. And because it's an online program, you'll build relationships with a diverse group of students in your class discussions and projects and enhance your soft skills while you're at it.

"I wanted to study data analytics because I've always been interested in statistics and how to explain the world based on evidence and data," said student Adam Jahn. "The program provided a foundation to advance in the field, and I supplemented my learning with the resources provided by instructors during each class."

The MS in Data Analytics program includes two foundation courses, which are designed for individuals that are new to statistics and data management. (Note: Students who can demonstrate requisite skills in these areas may waive out of these courses.) Data and Information Management Master key concepts and tools in data and information management. Learn skills required for data assessment and validation for creating data structures and data analysis reports. Gain exposure to common data and information management technologies that organizations use for decision support. Foundations in Statistics Develop a foundation of basic statistical literacy. Assess the role of statistics in quantitative research and mixed methodologies and learn the relationship between computation and interpretation.

Conduct real-world analytical research that illustrates the process of interpreting the underlying meaning of data and how to use statistics to address important questions. As you complete your online masters in analytics, you'll dive deeper into data-driven decision-making, explore project management and predictive analytics, and develop communication and leadership skills. You'll also get to participate in Graduate Experiential Learning, an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cloud computing and real-world data analysis. Examples of experiential learning courses may include Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Foundations, Structured Query Language (SQL), and Introduction to Scripting Languages Using Python. SNHU also provides cloud-based virtual environments in select courses to give you access to the technology you need. Learn more about our virtual environments.

Paulitia Sheldon, an instructor of data analytics at SNHU and recipient of the 2019 Distinguished Online Teaching Award, sums up the program's value from her own perspective. "One thing I tell students is that these programs give you a terrific foundation of knowledge you need to succeed," she said. "However, as with most things, to differentiate, you have to commit to yourself that you will keep learning.  I think that is how you continue to separate from others. Find what you love and do it well."

Using data to inform business decisions is critical to the success of organizations. As businesses become smarter, more efficient, and savvier at predicting future opportunities and risks through data analysis, the need for professionals in this field continues to rise – and with it, so does the value of a Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. Southern New Hampshire University's data analytics degree online program will position you to capitalize on this critical business requirement, and by doing so, can help you become crucial to finding the solutions for organizational challenges.

The benefits of earning a data analytics degree from SNHU include:

- Median annual salary of $93,290 for statisticians and mathematicians1

- 33% projected job growth for statisticians and mathematicians through 20291

- Master industry-standard tools like Python, SQL, Tableau, SAS, and R for scripting, data manipulation, visualization, and statistical analysis

- Create a digital portfolio of your projects to share with employers

- Take advantage of student support that includes tutoring in math, statistics, and programming

- Multiple terms start throughout the year

- complete your degree at your own pace

- 24/7 online accessibility

- attend class when and where it's convenient

- One of the lowest tuition rates in the nation

The undergraduate data analytics degree online combines facets of business, information technology, and mathematics using data mining, simulation, and optimization. You'll use industry-standard tools like Python, SQL, Tableau, and R that focus on scripting, data manipulation, visualization, and statistical analysis. In addition to learning data navigation, validation, and techniques, you'll develop the soft skills necessary to be a vital decision-maker within an organization. With communication, storytelling, problem-solving, and visualization your degree can help you succeed in all aspects of a data analysis role.

Learn how to:

- Use industry tools to gather, interpret and visualize data techniques most appropriate for a given challenge

- Use quantitative and qualitative data analytics methods to respond to a variety of business challenges

- Develop analytical requirements and communicate solutions to technical and non-technical audiences

- Apply data analytics standards and policies to meet the security needs of organizations

- Work with teams to provide the data needed to inform business decisions

To launch your data analytics career, you'll compile work throughout your degree program for a data analytics portfolio. And to ensure that you fully understand the hard and soft skills needed to become an effective data analyst, SNHU offers data students extensive support such as online tutoring. The curriculum for SNHU's undergraduate data analytics degree was created to address the onslaught of data that organizations face every day. Each course was designed to prepare you for a particular element of a successful data analytics career. You'll learn from expert instructors who will facilitate meaningful discussions in the online classroom.

Paulitia Sheldon, a data analytics instructor at SNHU, is one of them. "I found Southern New Hampshire University in 2014, and from day one have just felt connected to the mission of learning," Sheldon said. "I am just always so impressed with the careers and life experiences our students share and how they also balance their master's program," she continued. "I have had the opportunity to be involved with hundreds of students during my time at SNHU, and we have so many amazing learners." The bachelor's in data analytics coursework combines data mining and structure with modeling and communication to build a broad and thorough education that will serve you well throughout your career. In addition, students can elect to learn SAS or SQL modeling techniques."

Get your foot in the door of a fast-growing field with the online Associate of Science (AS) in Data Analytics degree program from Southern New Hampshire University. Big Data is a huge part of business today. But how do you break into the field? SNHU's data analytics associate degree program can provide the foundational knowledge you need to help launch or continue your career. This 60-credit program is perfect for those looking to understand the basics of data analytics. It can also provide a seamless pathway to a bachelor's as all 60 credits may be transferred to our BS in Data Analytics program. Credits can also be applied to one of our many STEM degrees. Choose from a variety of full programs and concentration areas such as business management, cyber security, project management, and software development.

As an online SNHU student, you'll also have access to a number of valuable learning and networking experiences, including:

- Teradata University Data Challenge. Compete alongside fellow students. Interpret datasets and submit projects that solve real-world problems.

- Grace Hopper Celebration. Join thousands of students, academics, industry experts, and employers for the world's largest gathering of women technologists.

- ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing. Celebrate, connect, and be inspired by students, faculty, researchers, and professionals representing all backgrounds and ethnicities. Plus, if you have some college experience already, we'll accept up to 45 credits toward your associate program saving you time and tuition.

Learn how to:

- Solve organizational problems through data and communicate your findings to technical and non-technical audiences

- Apply data analytics standards and policies to meet the security, storage, and privacy standards of organizations

- Use quantitative and qualitative data analytics methods to respond to business challenges

"In the data analytics associate program, you'll gain an understanding of the various technical areas of data analysis as well as the industries in which it is used," said Dr. Susan McKenzie, associate dean of STEM programs."

You'll explore critical IT and data analytics concepts with courses that cover:

- The role of data analytics in organizations

- Gathering requirements and collecting data

- Data policy and decision making

- Emerging technologies and Big Data

- Data validation and how to get the right data

In addition, all major courses and general education requirements are transferable to the BS in Data Analytics program giving you a seamless pathway to achieve your educational goals.

As high-profile cyber-attacks become more common, the critical need for well-educated security professionals continues to grow. Companies of all sizes are investing heavily in cybersecurity expertise and technologies. Southern New Hampshire University's online Master of Science (MS) in Cyber Security program positions you for in-demand cyber security jobs. Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective security controls, understand cyber threats and reduce the negative impacts of data breaches. SNHU's affordable, online master's in cyber security combines theory with authentic practice, giving you a competitive edge in this high-growth, well-paying industry.

"The goal is to balance the needs of the organization you're working for with the costs of protecting the confidentiality of customer data, trade secrets, or other types of valuable information," said Jon Kamyck, associate dean of cyber security at Southern New Hampshire University."

Learn how to:

- Understand, evaluate and respond to cyber threats

- Defend against common cyber attacks

- Develop risk management, business continuity, and disaster recovery plans

- Draft information security policies informed by relevant laws and regulations

- Employ leadership strategies for ethical behavior and organizational effectiveness

- Recognize the influences of industry standards and emerging trends on the cyber security profession

- Enhance collaboration and communication skills

Choose the general track or specialize your degree with a concentration in IT management. The 36-credit MS in Cyber Security program is designed for students who want to meet the challenges posed by security threats, learn to protect the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of data, and develop risk management and mitigation strategies.

"The courses are applicable to the real world," said graduate Beth Maldonado '20 '21G. "They are taught by instructors who work in the field that they are teaching. They bring real-world experience and scenarios to the classroom which helps students to better understand topics and remember them."

Ken Girkin '17 '21G echoes that sentiment. "Not only did I learn a lot from the classes and instructors, but I learned from the other students as well," he said. "These classes gave me the foundation I needed to advance my career and get to where I am today."

The master's in cyber security online degree program focuses on 4 key areas of competence:

- Information security governance and management

- Information security incident detection and response

- Information security risk and compliance assessment

- Leadership, collaboration, and communication

"You'll find yourself working on assignments with a mix of theory and hands-on lab-based learning. "I regularly found myself switching between researching or writing papers and completing lab work, typically in the same class," said Mallory Quaintance '21. "Both areas are very important and I am glad that SNHU didn't overlook the importance of understanding what it's like to be actively working on a problem, versus just simply researching and writing about it." "Experiential learning is highly important," Quaintance adds, "so I'm glad that the program ended up being an excellent blend."

Other opportunities to prepare you for your career:

- Cyber security capstone: Combine coursework and experience to understand, evaluate and address difficult challenges associated with leading-edge topics in cyber security.

- Technology competitions: Gain experience by competing in national tech competitions, including the National Cyber League where SNHU fielded the first all-female team and earned multiple Top 10 finishes.

- Technology conferences: Learn, network and discover with our students and alumni at major networking events like the Grace Hopper Celebration, Women in Cyber Security conference, and ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing. What's more, SNHU's online master's in cyber security is designed with maximum flexibility, allowing you to accomplish your degree around your own schedule.

"SNHU classes are structured in a way that makes it easy for working adults and parents to fit the courses into their schedule without all the stress," said Maldonado.

"I was able to complete my work from anywhere at any time." Richard Sebastian '21 agrees. "The ability to obtain any degree through online study is a life-changer!" he said. "I work shift work and weekends and holidays. Attending traditional classes in a brick-and-mortar facility just was not an option for me."

" SNHU has been a leader in the online learning space for over 25 years. I have done online learning before at a different university," said Quaintance. "At the time, I found their online programs to be handled more like an afterthought rather than another way of learning. [At SNHU] the professors are engaged, and the work is meaningful without being overbearing or too tedious."

In a data-driven world, security professionals are essential defenders to protect sensitive data from cyber threats. Southern New Hampshire University's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cyber Security online program provides hands-on experiences to help you develop a security mindset, empowering you to begin a career building secure systems, protecting information assets, and managing organizational risks.

Specifically, the program will focus on 2 approaches to help build a security mindset:

- Systems thinking is a holistic view of how complex systems relate, influence, and interact with each other

- Adversarial thinking and a deep understanding of hacker tradecraft and adaptive incident response tactics Armed with these methods, you'll learn how to make decisions under conditions of uncertainty and apply proven security principles to solve problems at the critical intersection of people, process, and technology.

Learn how to:

- Apply security principles and practices to various components of a system

- Analyze and evaluate systems in the presence of risks and threats

- Identify and define the computing requirements to solve problems

- Communicate effectively with a range of audiences

- Make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles

- Help establish goals, plan tasks, meet deadlines, manage risk and produce deliverables

Choose to study the general track of the cyber security bachelor's degree, or add one of 2 career-focused concentrations to your program: data analytics or project management. SNHU's cyber security programs are aligned with recognized standards such as NIST's NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and CSEC Cyber Security Education Consortium. The bachelor in cyber security program provides hands-on learning with the most current industry tools accessible via virtual labs that will save you from downloading, installing, updating, and troubleshooting software on your personal computer.

"We want students to be confident and proficient day one after graduation," said Jonathan Kamyck, associate dean of cyber security at Southern New Hampshire University. "We provide our learners with many of the tools, techniques, strategies, and methods relevant to a variety of exciting, in-demand cyber security jobs."

SNHU's online cyber security degree program prepares you to solve complex problems, respond to cyber threats, assess risk, and apply cutting-edge security techniques with courses that may include Network Security, Application Security, and Incident Response and Investigation. Also throughout the program, you'll engage with industry-standard operating systems (Windows and Linux), computer networking devices and simulation tools (Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, pfSense), programming and scripting languages (Python, Java, Linux shells, and Microsoft PowerShell) and security software (OpenVAS, Snort, Kali Linux, Metasploit, etc.) The online curriculum works well because of a strong focus on skill development environments. In addition, experienced faculty in this program impart their years of earned knowledge to you while providing opportunities to collaborate with other students who share your interests and career goals.

"Today, computers and digital media are everywhere," said SNHU adjunct instructor Rodney Royster, a senior cyber security manager. "Almost every business or industry you can think of operates within this space. So, in short, a cyber security degree holder can work everywhere. The question here should be, where can they not work?"

Start your cybersecurity career with Southern New Hampshire University's Associate of Science (AS) in Cyber Security online program. The AS in Cyber Security degree combines the hands-on experiences, networking opportunities, and expert instruction you need to break into a growing field. Whether you've finished some college or you're just getting started, this 60-credit program offers a perfect pathway to launch your cybersecurity career.

You'll engage with a number of industry-standard operating systems, security software, computer networking devices, simulation tools, and programming and scripting languages. Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation and save even more by transferring up to 45 credits for previous experience, including industry credentials like the CompTIA A+ certification. Our curriculum is built to position you for success in the industry. The AS in Cyber Security aligns with recognized standards such as NIST's NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and CSEC Cyber Security Education Consortium.

Learn how to:

- Apply security principles and practices to all components of a system

- Design, implement and evaluate computer-based solutions

- Identify and define the computing requirements to solve problems

- Communicate technical information effectively with a range of audiences

Looking to earn your Bachelor's in Cyber Security? Upon finishing your associate degree, you can transfer all 60 credits toward your BS in Cyber Security degree online halfway to your bachelor's degree. That could mean 2 degrees in as few as 4 years both of which can help you enter (or advance in) the cybersecurity profession. Interested in exploring some of our other technology degree options. Check out our IT associate degree, associate in computer science, or a number of other associate and bachelor's technology programs. Our AS in Cyber Security program is built to help prepare you for entry-level roles in cybersecurity. That means learning the skills and industry tools you need to get your foot in the door.

"The curriculum works well in the online environment because of the strong focus on skill development," said Jonathan Kamyck, associate dean of cyber security programs at SNHU. "Students will use online labs and explore simulated operating environments."

You'll use a number of industry-standard tools and platforms, including:

- Popular operating systems like Windows and Linux

- Computer networking devices and simulation tools, such as Cisco Packet Tracer and pfSense

- Programming and scripting languages like Python, Java, Linux shells, and Microsoft PowerShell

- Security software such as OpenVAS, Snort, Kali Linux, Metasploit, and more

To complete the program, you'll earn 21 credits for general education courses, 18 credits for computer core courses, 18 credits for major courses, and 3 credits for 1 elective course.

Major courses include:

- Cybersecurity Foundations. Explore foundational cybersecurity concepts and terms. Learn the difference between adversarial and environmental threats and analyze how security practitioners respond to each. Identify legal and human factors and examine how they can influence the development of organizational security strategies.

- Computer Networking. Learn the basics of computer networking, including different network architectures and approaches to network design. Gain practical experience by performing common network implementation and administration tasks.

- Operating System Security. Learn the techniques and strategies used to protect modern operating systems. Employ best practices to securely provision operating system components and services. Troubleshoot insecure settings to reduce the risk of system compromise.

- Application Security. Explore the fundamental principles and practices of application security. Identify common software vulnerabilities and develop strategies to reduce their potential impact. Analyze and assess the security posture of multi-tiered web applications.

- Legal and Human Factors of Cybersecurity. Examine security concerns associated with humans and their interactions with information systems. Learn about social engineering and how to protect against human-focused cyber-attacks. Examine the legal and ethical aspects of individual privacy, acceptable use, and other social concerns.

- Cyber Defense. Explore common strategies and tactics employed by security practitioners to protect networks, systems, applications, and data. Learn the principles of cryptography and examine the critical role it plays in protecting information. Analyze the impact of emerging technologies and evolving social trends on the field of cybersecurity.

Become a leader in public safety with a Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice. This online degree program gives you the know-how to apply the latest research, leadership strategies, and criminological theories for effective decision-making in the U.S. justice system. Whether you're looking to advance your career in local law enforcement, aiming to work for a federal government agency, or want to help set public policy, a master's in criminal justice can help you gain the skills you need to be a leader in today's ever-changing criminal justice field.

Students may either pursue a general track ideal for those who want to craft their own focus through elective classes or choose between concentrations in public safety administration or advanced counterterrorism and homeland security. The master's in criminal justice online degree is a 36-credit program that focuses on management, leadership, data analysis, and budgeting skills. Depending on your electives, your criminal justice program may also touch on business law and ethical business practices.

Through your courses in the master in criminal justice online program, you'll:

- Learn what administrators, managers, and other leaders in today's criminal justice system need to know

- Learn from experts with years of experience in the field, bringing credibility and relevance to your education

- Gain a stronger understanding of finance, accounting, and the economic systems in which cyber and financial crimes are growing

Graduates will be prepared for a wide range of careers and advancement opportunities. You'll come away with the skills you need to stand out during the hiring process in both the public and private sectors. You'll learn key skills, including Resource planning, consensus building, ethical leadership, and business management.

The curriculum for the master in criminal justice online has been designed by working criminal justice professionals and is taught by faculty members with years of practical experience. Take, for example, Dr. Sheryl Victorian, a police chief and SNHU instructor with nearly a quarter-century of law enforcement experience. In 2021, she was named Chief of Police of the Waco, Texas police department, after serving, in various leadership roles, for 28 years with the Houston, TX police department. Beyond being highly qualified, Victorian brings a fearless commitment to exploring, discussing, and actively taking part in some of the most pressing law enforcement issues of our time specifically, police-community relations.

"In order for us to build trust in our communities, we need to build relationships," Victorian said. "We need their help and their support. I think it's incumbent on the police department to be proactive in building those relationships."

In her local community, that means finding opportunities to engage with the public. One way she did this was through the Houston PD's Positive Interaction Program, which invites city residents to a station house each month to learn about various aspects of the department. This gives residents a chance to meet and build relationships with local law enforcement and start a dialogue addressing specific concerns they have within their neighborhoods.

She is just one of many faculty members who finds a way to leverage their experiences in a meaningful way for students. Others, who have backgrounds in the NYPD or the FBI, add their own lens to critical conversations about criminal justice. Many courses also include field-authentic assignments with videos, simulations, national data, and role-playing exercises. The program's capstone course allows students to work on relevant research projects with law enforcement or other agencies, ensuring real-world experience prior to graduation.

"I'm really proud of the way SNHU has developed their courses to be more realistic and more helpful," said Mark Evenson, former chief of police in Brentwood, CA, and adjunct faculty member in SNHU's criminal justice program. "They do a much better job preparing people for careers in criminal justice than other schools that I've seen.

There are those born to serve their communities on the front lines and those born to lead behind the scenes. The criminal justice system needs both. Great leaders help police officers, detectives, and other branches of law enforcement do great work. They're a vital element in every aspect of the profession. SNHU's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Police Administration and Operations can help you become the kind of leader the law enforcement field needs today and tomorrow. You'll explore the demands, functions, and evolving state of the modern police force. You'll learn the many roles of police agencies across the country. And you'll gain a foundation in criminal justice principles as you dive deep into psychology, American politics, and criminal law. At the root of every career in the criminal justice system is a desire to help. As a leader in criminal justice education, SNHU is committed to helping you learn how you can help. Earning your online law enforcement degree is the first step.

Learn how to:

- Analyze crimes using advanced tools and techniques

- Balance real-world demands with tight budgets

- Develop performance evaluations and set goals

- Think critically, solve problems and communicate effectively

- Shape and set expectations for community policing

- Work behind the scenes to make a police agency succeed

Members of law enforcement hold a unique role in society. Every traffic stop or knocks on the door carries with it an enormous responsibility. It also highlights the need for strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, along with cultural competency and emotional intelligence. Maria Daniel with text Maria DanielCommunity policing is a core component of SNHUs law enforcement degree. María Daniel, who practices law in Philadelphia and teaches in SNHU's criminal justice program, addressed this topic on a recent panel of criminal justice experts for SNHUs Contemporary Justice Series. She stressed that the issues facing the criminal justice system go beyond the nation's police departments to inequities in the treatment of minorities.

"I think that all of us have an obligation to be the change, Daniel said. We have to be the light in the darkness, whatever our role in the criminal justice system. We have to treat people as humans first, and we have to be transparent in our shortcomings and say, I can do better. In recent years, SNHU worked with faculty and subject matter experts to rethink our whole criminal justice curriculum. Our law enforcement degree reflects that work."

"It also reinforces our commitment to provide the skills and experiences you'll need to bring to the workforce. We have a bigger responsibility than just delivering content, said Dr. Jeff Czarnec, associate dean of SNHUs criminal justice and social science programs. Our biggest responsibility is to add value to the program by looking to develop culturally competent public safety people. As a criminal justice student, you'll see this focus on cultural competency in both your online law enforcement electives and your core courses."

You'll gain a solid foundation in cultural awareness, communication, discretion, problem-solving, and other essential criminal justice principles. You'll also learn how to align best practices for managing police operations with public safety goals. The law enforcement degree program also integrates new learning resources that build a criminal justice communication certificate a bonus if you want to move up the ranks. Designed to develop the knowledge, attitudes, and skills to communicate effectively with a range of communities, the certificate focuses on enhancing your ability to accurately convey essential information.

The online law enforcement degree concentration covers topics ranging from crime analysis to policy development and consists of these 4 courses:

- Crime Analysis and Effective Police Service. Explore the assets and tools of progressive crime analysis techniques and their relationship to the delivery of effective police services. Learn to apply theory, data collection methods, and basic use of statistics to various goals of policing.

- Crisis Intervention for Police. Study crisis theory, intervention, and strategies required for first responders. Learn how to recognize threat levels, listen actively, and conduct effective mediation and negotiations in situations like attempted suicides, hostage-taking, and barricaded subjects.

- Effective Patrol and Community Policing. Examine the principles and effective practices of police patrol and operations. Discuss and analyze how to prepare and set expectations for patrol officers. Study the fundamental aspects and best practices of community policing.

- Leadership and Management in Criminal Justice Organizations. Learn how to lead and manage in the criminal justice workplace. Explore the traits and characteristics of criminal justice professionals at work. Develop performance evaluations and goals. SNHUs online criminal justice degree core and specialized courses are taught by highly regarded, accomplished faculty with years of real-world, hands-on experience. Our online faculty reflect the advanced academic qualifications and practical experience of a top-ranked, accredited university.

Our criminal justice faculty have experience working for major law enforcement agencies, including:

- Atlanta Police Department

- Chicago Police Department

- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

- Homeland Security

- Houston Police Department

- Miami Police Department

- New York City Police Department (NYPD)