Online Learning Prepares Graduate Student for Success

Two weeks into her first semester as a graduate student in the University of New Haven’s online criminal justice program, Terri Robbins’ sister became very sick and was eventually diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer.

Coping with this and still being able to complete her degree is a testament to her faculty, she said.

"Throughout my entire degree program, my professors were incredibly understanding and helpful," she said. "It wasn't just about extensions or having them pull journal articles for me because I couldn’t get secure internet in the hospital to access our library database. They actually cared. They reached out to see how she was doing and how I was doing. I'll always be grateful for that, because it gave me the opportunity to spend time with my sister while still getting my master’s degree."

This compassion – combined with years of expertise and practical experience in the field – is why the University’s faculty in its online graduate program in criminal justice was ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report in its annual ranking of the nation’s top graduate programs.

The University was ranked number one in the category measuring the credentials and the training of its professors.

"The University of New Haven drew me in, and I knew I couldn't pass up the opportunity to learn from John DeCarlo. My professors always helped me think about topics in ways I never had." Terri Robbins, citing the program director who has nearly 35 years of experience in policing, rising to the rank of chief

Ultimately, it was the combination of the coursework, her faculty members’ insight, and the fact she could complete the program completely online that made the experience so beneficial to her career.

Soon after graduating, she was named a research assistant at the Police Foundation in Washington, D.C.

"Getting your master’s degree online, I believe, shows a level of dedication that is a little different than being on campus, and I think that has a special value when someone is interviewing for their career. The curriculum equipped me with the knowledge, but the experience is what helped shape me into an even more qualified candidate." Terri Robbins '17