For Bucky Wright, returning to college was never about starting a new career. It was about finishing what he started, growing in his faith and setting an example for his children. Before enrolling in Abilene Christian University’s (ACU) online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program, Bucky spent years serving in various law enforcement roles in San Diego, California. His path to ACU began when his daughter chose to attend the university.
“I followed my daughter to ACU,” Bucky shared.
When his daughter enrolled as a student, Bucky accepted a role as a lieutenant of administration in ACU’s residential campus police department. Although he had already built a successful career in law enforcement, he still had one personal goal he wanted to accomplish. “I had some college credits, but I never completed my degree,” Bucky said. “And I always told my kids how important it was to finish what you start.”
Not long after arriving in Abilene, Bucky became a Wildcat in more ways than one. While continuing to serve and protect the ACU community, he enrolled as an online student and began pursuing his degree in criminal justice.
Choosing ACU
By the time Bucky was contemplating school, he was familiar with the university’s culture and had built many meaningful relationships on campus. Bucky quickly realized ACU was where he wanted to earn his degree. “It’s a faith-based university, and that mattered to me,” Bucky explained. “It mattered to my family.”
While the university itself felt familiar, online learning was something completely new. Returning to school after decades away from the classroom brought moments of uncertainty, especially regarding technology and online coursework. Thankfully, Bucky had support from his daughters, who encouraged him throughout the process.
With their help and encouragement, he applied to the online criminal justice program and officially started his journey as a student.
More Than a Degree
Bucky’s return to college was purely for himself, not a climb up the career ladder. After years in law enforcement, he had already accomplished the professional goals he set for himself. Instead, Bucky’s decision to earn his bachelor’s in criminal justice was personal to him. “This was about bettering myself,” Bucky shared. “About growing and seeing how my faith connects with what I’ve done all these years.”
As he progressed through his coursework, Bucky began to see that connection more clearly. Through assignments, discussions and conversations with classmates and professors, he found opportunities to reflect on his career, his values, and the purpose behind his work. “It’s been really special to have the chance to share my perspective and hear from others,” Bucky explained. “You get to see how people think, what they believe and what drives them.”
One of Bucky’s favorite parts of ACU’s online experience has been the relationships he has formed with faculty and classmates. Whether interacting through discussion posts or participating in class on Zoom, every course created opportunities to connect with others on both academic and personal levels.
Over time, those interactions helped create a sense of community that Bucky hadn’t anticipated from an online program. He also appreciated the authenticity his professors brought to the classroom. Many of them had direct experience working in the criminal justice field, which made the coursework feel relevant. “
They’re not just teaching from the book,” Bucky explained. “They’re living it, and they bring their faith into it. It makes everything feel more meaningful.”
Growth Through Online Learning
Earning an online degree came with many challenges for Bucky. Like many adult learners, he had to adjust to new technology, online learning and academic expectations. “I had to learn citations and research tools. That was all new to me,” Bucky said with a laugh.
However, the greatest area of growth came through his Bible courses.
Throughout his time at ACU, Bucky had the opportunity to explore scripture and develop a stronger understanding of his faith. Those experiences became some of the most meaningful parts of his educational journey.
“I thought I understood a lot already, but diving deeper into the Word was incredible,” Bucky said. “I learned so much.”
For Bucky, faith became woven into every aspect of the learning experience. It shaped the way he approached his studies, reflected on his career and thought about serving others.
Supporting Future Criminal Justice Students
As Bucky looks toward the future, he hopes to draw on both his professional experience and education to support the next generation of criminal justice students. His goal is to continue working with students on ACU’s residential campus and help guide those interested in law enforcement careers. “I want them to have an understanding of what really happens,” Bucky explained.
One idea Bucky hopes to develop is a mock interview for criminal justice students preparing to enter the field. Through oral interviews and mentorship opportunities, Bucky wants to help students comprehend the importance of ethics, character and integrity in law enforcement. For him, success in the criminal justice field goes beyond technical skills or training. It begins with having the right heart for service and a genuine desire to help others.
Bucky also hopes to encourage students who may feel uncertain about pursuing an online degree or returning to school later in life. Having experienced those fears himself, he understands how intimidating the process can seem.
“Block out all the background noise and go into it with an open mind,” Bucky shared. “It’s not what this world makes it out to be. Block out all the negatives and see if you really like it. If God put you here and God wants you to be a cop, don’t close that door. Push it all the way open.”
ACU’s online degree program allowed Bucky to return to school and earn his bachelor’s degree. Along the way, he found renewed purpose in his career and discovered meaningful ways to use his experience and knowledge to mentor and support future students pursuing criminal justice. His journey reflects how online learning can create opportunities for both personal and professional growth. To learn more about ACU Online and its flexible degree programs, visit our website.