Online Criminal Justice Degrees in North Carolina: Comparing Schools

A career in criminal justice allows you to protect your community and uphold the law in North Carolina. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, North Carolina employs over 21,000 police and sheriff’s patrol officers, reflecting solid opportunities in public safety. If you’re ready to serve and protect your community, use this STEPS guide to explore hybrid and online criminal justice degree programs in North Carolina.

Author: Kenya McCullum
Editor: Kimberly Zaski
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Associate Degrees in Criminal Justice

An associate degree in criminal justice is a great entry point for students in the early stages of their career or educational journeys. Typically, it only takes two years to complete these degrees, and your classes can be much more affordable than those offered by four-year colleges. Earning an associate in criminal justice opens the doors to entry-level careers like crime scene tech, corrections officer, or police officer. You can also apply credit toward a bachelor’s degree later.

Surry Community College

Surry Community College offers an associate degree in criminal justice technology that teaches the nuts and bolts of criminal justice systems. To do this, the curriculum combines coursework covering computers and technology used in the criminal justice field, as well as legal concepts, investigative principles, and the ethical standards expected from criminal justice professionals. The program covers types of law, including juvenile, criminal, and constitutional law, and provides an understanding of courtroom procedures and how evidence is handled during different stages of the legal process. Communication skills are also emphasized.

Location: Dobson, NC

Mode: Online and on campus

Cost: $76 per credit in-state; $268 per credit out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or its equivalent
  • SAT or ACT scores

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

A Look Into Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degrees

Typically, it takes four years to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. The length of the program gives you time to develop your skills and explore a broad range of topics related to specific areas of criminal justice. With your degree, you may be able to move into better-paying roles in police forces, corrections facilities, or public policy organizations.

Gardner-Webb University

Gardner-Webb University’s bachelor’s degree in criminal justice provides an interdisciplinary look at the field, so students are exposed to criminal justice and liberal arts coursework. Specific classes cover ethics in criminal justice, public safety theory and research, and criminal investigation. By the end of the program, students gain writing, public speaking, critical thinking, problem solving, and social interaction skills. In addition, you will become familiar with criminal justice research, allowing you to understand how studies are conducted and how data is analyzed.

The school also offers a campus-based criminal justice administration bachelor’s degree. In addition to completing coursework, students in this program participate in field experience that reinforces classroom learning.

Location: Boiling Springs, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $375 per credit

Admissions Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • A minimum 3.72 grade point average
  • A minimum 1,015 SAT score or a 22 minimum composite on the ACT

Online Criminal Justice Master’s Programs

Earning a master’s degree in criminal justice allows you to examine critical components of the system to gain a deep understanding of these concepts. You’ll have more freedom to follow your interests and develop specialized skills in these programs. In the job market, your advanced degree qualifies you for higher-profile positions in management and the development of law enforcement organizations. With a master’s in criminal justice, you’ll be prepared to teach the topic at some colleges in the state.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s criminal justice master’s degree program is designed for those who want to take a leadership role in a criminal justice setting, such as law enforcement agencies, the court system, victim services organizations, or correctional facilities. The program is delivered asynchronously, so students have the flexibility to work on their assignments, as well as communicate with classmates and professors on their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial if you’ll be working full time as you earn your degree. But no matter when you decide to participate in classwork, you’ll benefit instructors who have years of work experience and scholarship in criminal justice and criminology.

Location: Greenville, NC

Mode: Online

Cost: $263.83 per credit in-state; $994.33 per credit out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • Minimum bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university

Doctorates and Graduate Certificates in Criminal Justice

If you’re interested in conducting research, teaching the next generation of criminal justice practitioners, or rising to the highest level of management in government or private organizations, then a doctoral degree in criminal justice is the right choice for you. These programs allow you to choose a specialty to gain expertise in the criminal justice area most relevant to your career goals.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

The PhD in criminal justice from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a 65-credit program that includes core coursework about quantitative research methods, data analytics, advanced statistics, and theories of criminal behavior. Also, you can focus on one of four areas: digital forensics, research methodology, investigative science, and social justice. In the digital forensics concentration, for example, you’ll study cybercrime, operating system forensics, and the tools and techniques used to detect digital crimes. If you want to focus on investigative science, you will take classes about blood pattern analytics, crime scene construction, forensic ballistic investigation techniques, and the legal implications of forensic science.

Location: Greensboro, NC

Mode: On campus

Cost: $4,896 per year in-state; $17,696 per year out-of-state

Admissions Requirements:

  • Master’s degree in a social science discipline
  • Minimum 3.33 grade point average

Addressing Frequent Questions From North Carolina Criminal Justice Students

Is financial aid available for criminal justice students in North Carolina?

Yes, you can find financial aid from a variety of sources. First, check financial aid programs at your school. Most schools offer some support to students based on academic merit or financial need. For example, you can receive funding directly from schools like East Carolina University and Gardner-Webb University.

Next, look into outside scholarships, grants, and other aid. For example, the North Carolina Department of Justice offers a student loan forgiveness program for criminal justice majors who go on to work for the state. Also, on the federal level, you may be able to receive grants and student loans.

How long does it take to earn a criminal justice degree online in North Carolina?

Completion time depends on the program. If you enroll in a certificate, for example, you may spend about six months to one year on your studies. An associate degree can be completed in two years, while a bachelor’s degree takes four. On the graduate level, you may spend two to six years in school, depending on whether you enroll in a master’s or doctoral program.

Should a criminal justice degree program be accredited?

Yes, it is always best to pay attention to accreditation as you’re exploring degree programs. Generally, criminal justice programs are not accredited by a specific organization, though some may be certified by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS).

You should look for a school that has received institutional accreditation in your search. Colleges and universities are accredited by regional organizations such as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). In North Carolina, schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Is an online criminal justice degree worth it?

Yes. A criminal justice degree can prepare you for careers in corrections, law enforcement, or advocacy, and you can use your degree to open doors. When you complete your degree online, you’re able to keep costs down because the tuition rate tends to be lower than traditional degree options.

What is the difference between criminology and criminal justice?

Although criminal justice and criminology are closely related, they are not the same discipline. Criminal justice focuses on the processes related to justice and law, such as police procedure, forensic science techniques, and how a case travels through the court system. Criminology focuses on the nature of crime, including the causes of criminal behavior, the psychological issues that influence offenders, and the impact crime can have on its victims.

Pay & Employment Outlook for Criminal Justice Graduates in NC

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Area Occupation 10th Percentile 90th Percentile Median
North Carolina Correctional Officers and Jailers $37,670 $58,080 $46,440
North Carolina Court, Municipal, and License Clerks $32,610 $54,200 $42,560
North Carolina Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary $38,100 $73,330 $59,520
North Carolina Detectives and Criminal Investigators $47,950 $127,210 $61,320
North Carolina Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $40,860 $77,790 $52,380
North Carolina Private Detectives and Investigators $36,340 $96,860 $60,940
North Carolina Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists $41,790 $68,240 $52,600
North Carolina Security Guards $24,620 $49,610 $33,550
North Carolina Social Workers $43,740 $103,540 $59,320

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Area Occupation Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth %
North Carolina Correctional Officers and Jailers 13,830 12,990 -840 -6.10%
North Carolina Court, Municipal, and License Clerks 4,210 4,470 260 6.20%
North Carolina Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary 1,390 1,470 80 5.80%
North Carolina Detectives and Criminal Investigators 3,160 3,440 280 8.90%
North Carolina Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers 20,610 23,100 2,490 12.10%
North Carolina Private Detectives and Investigators 830 940 110 13.30%
North Carolina Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists 3,400 3,370 -30 -0.90%
North Carolina Security Guards 26,840 28,320 1,480 5.50%
North Carolina Social Workers 1,460 1,600 140 9.60%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Criminal Justice Resources for North Carolina Students

Ready to learn more? There are a number of resources available to augment classroom learning and help throughout your career. The following are some resources that we curated for criminal justice students and professionals.

  • All Things Judicial Podcast: Produced by the North Carolina Judicial Branch, this podcast covers the latest news, including court decisions, about the state’s criminal justice system. Also, the show features human interest stories about the impact of the justice system on North Carolinians.
  • NC Criminal Debrief: In this podcast, host Phil Dixon, a faculty member at the UNC School of Government, discusses various topics related to criminal law. Episodes cover areas such as federal and state court decisions that affect the criminal justice system in North Carolina.
  • NC Law Enforcement Officers Association: The NCLEOA is made up of law enforcement officers around North Carolina. The group provides educational conferences, quarterly newsletters, legislative reports, and opportunities to connect with other professionals around the state.
  • North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police: This organization supports the needs of police chiefs, captains, and assistant and deputy chiefs as they keep communities around the state safe. Members participate in networking events, professional development activities, and community engagement programs.
  • North Carolina Criminal Justice Association: The North Carolina Criminal Justice Association links career professionals and academia. Their goal is to keep people in the field up to date with emerging research and current best practices. You can access the back catalog of journals, information about upcoming events, and scholarship information on the organization’s website.
  • North Carolina Department of Adult Correction: This state-run site consolidates all the information for correction facilities across North Carolina. Here, you can learn about state-sponsored resources for corrections officers, keep current on the latest research, and browse statewide job opportunities.
  • North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police: North Carolina police officers benefit from their local chapter of The Fraternal Order of Police. Nationally, The Fraternal Order of Police is the largest organization for police officers and supports its members through professional development, scholarships, and legal funds.
  • North Carolina Jail Administrators’ Association: The North Carolina Jail Administrators’ Association caters specifically to corrections officers at every career level. This site is a great resource for industry-related news, networking, and scholarship opportunities.
  • The North Carolina Judicial Branch: The state’s judicial branch website includes information on the different types of courts around North Carolina, including the Court of Appeals, business court, district court, recovery courts, and the Supreme Court.
  • North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation: This site includes information about the work of the NCSBI, including investigations related to computer crimes, arson, financial offenses, and cold cases. The site also includes statewide crime statistics and information about background checks.

List of the Best Online Criminal Justice Schools in North Carolina

Hybrid and online criminal justice degrees in North Carolina make it easier to attend classes from your couch or a coffee shop. Online programs can be a lifesaver for full-time workers, people managing family obligations, or those who don’t have access to a nearby campus. The best part is that you’ll earn the same degree as students who attend on-campus programs without breaking the bank.

To find the best online criminal justice schools around the state, review our rankings below. Also, we include information about our methodology to help you understand why these schools were chosen.

1

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Why We Selected Fayetteville State University:
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Fayetteville State University (FSU) is certified by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences. It requires 120 credit hours, including 38 core University courses and 82 Criminal Justice-specific credits. The program emphasizes foundational knowledge in criminology and justice systems. Completion typically takes four years, with an annual tuition of around $7,969. Admission requires a high school certificate with good grades and English fluency. Career paths include police officers, crime analysts, and legal researchers. FSU offers practical and theoretical knowledge, internships, and community engagement opportunities.
Program Highlights
  • Fayetteville State University offers the first ACJS-certified criminal justice program in North Carolina.
  • The program provides flexible online degree completion options, supporting diverse student needs.
  • Fayetteville State University integrates practical experiences with a supportive learning environment for students.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,982
  • Average Grant Aid$2,719
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid69%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid81%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
2

Isothermal Community College

Spindale, North Carolina

Why We Selected Isothermal Community College:
The Criminal Justice Technology program at Isothermal Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree requiring 64 credit hours. The curriculum focuses on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. Key areas include criminology, juvenile justice, criminal and constitutional law, investigative principles, ethics, and community relations. Graduates gain practical skills for careers such as police officers, deputy sheriffs, and correctional officers. Tuition varies by residency status, and financial aid is available. Prospective students should contact the college for admissions requirements.
Program Highlights
  • Isothermal Community College offers tuition-free opportunities through the Lee L. Powers Service Scholarship for eligible students.
  • Prospective students can benefit from over 35 institutional scholarships, including those for specific programs like Machining.
  • Isothermal has a high rate of financial aid, with 94% of first-time students receiving assistance through grants and scholarships.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,824
  • Average Grant Aid$1,575
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid49%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
3

College of the Albemarle

Elizabeth City, North Carolina

Why We Selected College of the Albemarle:
The College of The Albemarle’s Criminal Justice Technology program provides comprehensive knowledge of criminal justice systems and operations, focusing on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. Core classes include criminal justice systems, criminology, juvenile justice, and investigative principles. The program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, security, and related fields such as police officers, correctional officers, or cybersecurity roles. The program requires 60-70 credits and typically takes two years to complete. Students can seek scholarships and financial aid information from the College of The Albemarle and transfer credits to four-year programs.
Program Highlights
  • Prospective students can explore scholarship opportunities to fund their studies in this program.
  • The curriculum includes specialized tracks focusing on technology integration within the criminal justice system.
  • Graduates benefit from potential career paths such as cybersecurity analyst and forensic technician roles.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,081
  • Average Grant Aid$1,264
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid28%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid99%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course97%
4

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina

Why We Selected North Carolina Central University:
North Carolina Central University offers a comprehensive Criminal Justice degree program, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, and juvenile justice. The program includes theoretical and practical coursework focusing on history, management, and policy aspects. Students can choose concentrations such as Law Enforcement, Corrections, Homeland Security, and Juvenile Justice, providing career pathways like law officer roles or case management positions. The program requires 120 semester hours with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 and completion of foundational courses with a “C” or higher. Career outcomes include roles in local, state, and federal agencies.
Program Highlights
  • The NCCU Criminal Justice program offers flexible class schedules, including online options for convenience.
  • The program uses field experiences to prepare students for careers in justice-related agencies effectively.
  • Scholarship opportunities, such as the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association scholarship, support financial needs.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$3,728
  • Average Grant Aid$3,233
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid77%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
5

University of Mount Olive

Mount Olive, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of Mount Olive:
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of Mount Olive focuses on crime, criminal behavior, and the justice system, covering Constitutional Law, Juvenile Justice, Law Enforcement, and Victimology. The flexible format offers full-time or part-time options with five-week courses. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA, and tuition costs $425 per credit hour, including military discounts. Graduates pursue careers in Law Enforcement, Forensic Science, and Public Policy, with preparation for legal or graduate studies emphasizing critical thinking skills. Regular internet access is required.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers competitive pricing with active duty military tuition reduced to $200 per semester-credit hour.
  • Tuition includes no application fee and no technology fee, easing the financial burden on students.
  • Accelerated course options allow most courses to be completed in just five weeks, enhancing flexibility.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$21,618
  • Average Grant Aid$10,547
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid97%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
6

Sandhills Community College

Pinehurst, North Carolina

Why We Selected Sandhills Community College:
The Criminal Justice Technology program at Sandhills Community College provides a comprehensive education focused on criminal justice systems and operations, covering criminology, juvenile justice, criminal law, and investigative principles. The Associate in Applied Science degree requires 67 credits and offers flexible scheduling for working professionals. Financial aid is available, and work-based learning opportunities enhance real-world experience. High school diploma or equivalent is required. Experienced faculty provide instruction, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety.
Program Highlights
  • Prospective students are attracted to Sandhills due to its specialized Criminal Justice Technology—Forensic Science track.
  • The program offers employer partnerships through BLET training, benefiting students seeking law enforcement roles.
  • Sandhills facilitates financial aid assistance, enhancing affordability for its diverse student body.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,598
  • Average Grant Aid$1,741
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid36%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid89%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
7

Catawba Valley Community College

Hickory, North Carolina

Why We Selected Catawba Valley Community College:
Catawba Valley Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice Technology providing in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. Students study criminal justice systems, criminology, juvenile justice, and Constitutional Law. The program includes certificates in Law Enforcement, Judicial Court Administration, and Correctional Probation and Parole. Graduates pursue careers as police officers, correctional officers, and security specialists. The degree transfers to four-year colleges like Lees-McRae College and Lenoir-Rhyne University. Admissions require a high school diploma or GED, with financial aid available. The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement facilitates transfers to UNC System schools.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers specialized career tracks like correctional probation and parole certificates.
  • A partnership with Lees-McRae College allows for a seamless 2+2 transfer option.
  • Employment opportunities include roles in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,128
  • Average Grant Aid$1,717
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid13%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
8

Edgecombe Community College

Tarboro, North Carolina

Why We Selected Edgecombe Community College:
The Criminal Justice Technology program at Edgecombe Community College prepares students for roles in law enforcement, corrections, and related fields. The program offers an Associate in Applied Science degree requiring completion of 73 credit hours, including core courses like Introduction to Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Operations. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of criminal justice systems and practices. Financial aid is available, and students can access support services. Career pathways include entry-level positions in local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. The program meets North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission requirements. Graduates may pursue further education or enter the workforce directly.
Program Highlights
  • Edgecombe Community College offers fully online degrees, eliminating the need for campus visits.
  • Edgecombe provides financial aid and support services accessible online, enhancing student flexibility and convenience.
  • Moodle facilitates seamless online learning with integrated support tools for student success.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,432
  • Average Grant Aid$2,570
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid35%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio10/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
9

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, North Carolina

Why We Selected University of North Carolina at Pembroke:
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice delivers a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system, including crime theories, law enforcement, courts, and corrections. This 120-credit program requires 21 core credits and 15 elective credits, with a minimum 2.0 GPA. It prepares graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or legal services, offering online course options while requiring general education completion. Transfer pathways, such as those with Cape Fear Community College, assist associate degree holders. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.
Program Highlights
  • Accelerated online programs offer completion in as few as 12 months, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
  • Affordable tuition starts at $8,306 for in-state MBA students, providing financial accessibility.
  • UNC Pembroke is a top military-friendly school, offering enhanced support services for military students.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$1,000
  • Average Grant Aid$2,299
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid40%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
10

Robeson Community College

Lumberton, North Carolina

Why We Selected Robeson Community College:
The Criminal Justice Technology program at Robeson Community College is a 66-67 credit hour Associate of Applied Science degree. It includes a core curriculum of 43 credit hours and 23 general education credit hours, covering topics such as criminal justice systems and investigative principles. Completing the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) course can earn up to 20 credit hours. Career opportunities include law enforcement, corrections, and security. Tuition costs are $2,571 for in-state students and $8,715 for out-of-state students per year. The program has articulation agreements with several universities, but past criminal activity may affect job prospects.
Program Highlights
  • Robeson Community College offers fee-waived online law enforcement courses for first responders.
  • The college provides sponsorship opportunities for tuition-free Basic Law Enforcement Training.
  • Robeson Community College has articulation agreements with several universities for seamless bachelor's degree transitions.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$2,432
  • Average Grant Aid$2,078
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid7%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
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Kenya McCullum AUTHOR

Kenya McCullum has been a professional writer and researcher for over twenty years and has written hundreds of feature-length articles, guidebooks, and other in-depth content. She has tackled various healthcare topics, such as women's health, fitness, mental health, addiction, and nutrition, as well as issues providers face when delivering care. Also, McCullum has extensive experience writing about higher education, online learning, continuing education, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has interviewed numerous leaders in the healthcare and education sectors. She has a master’s degree in communication and a bachelor’s degree in English.

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Kimberly Zaski EDITOR

Kimberly Zaski is an award-winning writer, editor, and higher education marketing professional, with more than 30 years promoting lifelong learning, degree programs and educational opportunities for nontraditional students. As a marketing director for the University of Nevada, Reno, she and her team won national awards for writing, advertising, and publication design. Following her 25-year career at UNR, Kimberly spent 8 years as chief membership officer and VP of corporate partnerships for UPCEA, the University Professional and Continuing Education Association, in Washington, DC. Kimberly is a graduate of the University of Nevada’s Reynolds School of Journalism, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees with an emphasis in print, public relations and marketing. She has written and edited hundreds of articles and features, working as a news reporter based in North Lake Tahoe for five years.

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