Master of Forensic Science to teach criminal justice

Discussion in 'Online & DL Teaching' started by dhs320, Jul 3, 2012.

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  1. dhs320

    dhs320 New Member

    I am trying to decide between National University's graduate degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Jusitce, or Homeland Security. I have an undergrad in Criminal Justice and I been a federal law enforcement officer specializing in Homeland Security for over 12 years. I am looking to obtain an adjunct position in criminal justice and I am interested in the Forensic Science but not sure if it will qualify to teach. Any thoughts?
     
  2. not4profit

    not4profit Active Member

    As a prior DHS agent, a current leo, and current online instructor, I think I am uniquely qualified to answer this question. This is the problem, as I see it, with each option. If you go Forensic Science, unless you have some CSI experience, you will be passed over for jobs because you will be competing with a 20 year crime scene tech or someone like that. If you get a masters in CJ, you will be competing with lots of PhDs specifically in CJ. And honestly, schools still put the PhD in CJ above all your experience (laughable though it may be). However, you currently have a niche in Homeland Security. There aren't that many HS types running around, and there are VERY few HLS related doctorates out there... for now. Thus, with a Masters in HLS AND your HLS expereience, you will be the among the most qualified out there. Unfortunately, the HLS degree is widely regarded as too generalist to really have much utility in the workplace (kind of like the CJ degree). If I was you, I would do whichever program interests you the most, and do your best to align your experience with that degree. I have seen the MFS from National, and it looks great. But, don't expect to teach FS with just the MFS. You may have FS experience that I don't know about. What about a masters in CJ with 18 hrs in Forensic Science???? Seen any of those programs? There has to be at least one out there.
     
  3. dhs320

    dhs320 New Member

    I agree with you as it pertains to Homeland Security experience plus the degree. I'm stil undecided as to which one to choose between, the Master of Criminal Justice or the Master of Science in Homeland Security and Safety Engineering. I am leaning towards the Homeland Security. I see your points and thank you for the advice!
     

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