Criminal justice degree helps Troy detective

Nick Freisthler has worked in law enforcement for nearly 20 years and currently serves as a detective with the Troy Police Department in Troy, Ohio. As a detective he conducts investigations of felony level crimes, processes and collects evidence, and prepares cases for prosecution.  

Freisthler earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from University College in 2020 completing his coursework through OHIO Online. He appreciated the structure and flexibility of the online program. “Ohio University’s faculty takes the time to set up their courses so that the student can learn outside the traditional classroom,” he said. “Each faculty member utilizes multiple forms of media to create the best learning environment possible.”  

Why did you choose Ohio University?  

I chose Ohio University because of its outstanding academic reputation and simple transfer credit process. 

What would you tell someone considering a Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree at OHIO?  

I would tell someone who is considering Ohio University’s Bachelor of Criminal Justice program to go for it...talk to an advisor and see what Ohio University can do for you. I was very impressed at how my advisor broke down every degree requirement from the time I applied to the time I completed my degree. With the help of my advisor, I was able to map out every semester from start to finish. I was even able to obtain a minor in communications studies.  

How has your criminal justice major served you in your career? 

My criminal justice major has helped me in my career by broadening my understanding of criminal justice. Before I pursued my degree in criminal justice at Ohio University I only focused on my cases in my community. Obtaining my criminal justice degree helped me understand the most current issues that the criminal justice community faces in the world today.  

What experiences and skills led you to your current position?  

I have been a police officer for over eighteen years and a military police officer in the United States Marine Corps for twenty years. I have been able to learn from excellent peers and leaders throughout my career. The most important skill I have developed is the ability to understand when it is necessary to put in the extra work, even if it is not required. Understanding the need to put in the extra work has given me the opportunity to work in investigations.  

What advice do you have for students interested in careers in law enforcement and criminal justice?  

For individuals that are looking at a career in criminal justice the most important thing is to understand that criminal justice and law enforcement is always changing. I started my career in law enforcement shortly after September 11, 2001 and since that time issues and theories have changed greatly. It is imperative to understand what is important to the community that you serve and strive to educate yourself about those issues. I feel that Ohio University has given me the ability to see what issues are important to my community so I can provide the best possible service to the residents of the City of Troy, Ohio.