Criminal Justice Major Jobs

The field of criminal justice offers a wide range of career opportunities for individuals who are passionate about law enforcement, corrections, and the administration of justice. A degree in criminal justice can lead to a variety of jobs in both the public and private sectors. In this article, we will explore some of the most common jobs available to criminal justice majors, as well as some of the skills and qualifications required for these positions.

Careers in Law Enforcement

One of the most common career paths for criminal justice majors is law enforcement. This can include jobs such as police officers, detectives, and federal agents. Law enforcement professionals are responsible for enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and protecting the public. To be successful in this field, individuals must possess strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work well under pressure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for police and sheriff’s patrol officers was $61,380 in May 2020.

Police Officer

Police officers are responsible for enforcing laws, responding to emergency calls, and investigating crimes. They must be able to work well in a team environment and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Police officers must also be physically fit and able to handle stressful situations. The BLS reports that employment of police and sheriff’s patrol officers is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations.

Detective

Detectives are responsible for investigating crimes and gathering evidence to solve cases. They must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work independently. Detectives must also be able to communicate effectively with witnesses, victims, and other law enforcement professionals. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for detectives and criminal investigators was $83,170 in May 2020.

Careers in Corrections

Another career path for criminal justice majors is corrections. This can include jobs such as correctional officers, probation officers, and parole officers. Corrections professionals are responsible for overseeing individuals who are incarcerated or on probation, as well as providing support and rehabilitation services. To be successful in this field, individuals must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work well in a team environment. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for correctional officers and jailers was $47,410 in May 2020.

Correctional Officer

Correctional officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who are incarcerated, as well as maintaining order and discipline within correctional facilities. They must be able to work well in a team environment and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Correctional officers must also be physically fit and able to handle stressful situations. The BLS reports that employment of correctional officers and jailers is projected to decline 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Probation Officer

Probation officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who are on probation, as well as providing support and rehabilitation services. They must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work independently. Probation officers must also be able to communicate effectively with clients, families, and other professionals. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $60,250 in May 2020.

Careers in Administration of Justice

A third career path for criminal justice majors is the administration of justice. This can include jobs such as court administrators, judges, and law clerks. Administration of justice professionals are responsible for overseeing the operations of courts and justice systems, as well as ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently. To be successful in this field, individuals must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work well in a team environment. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for judges and magistrates was $148,890 in May 2020.

Court Administrator

Court administrators are responsible for overseeing the operations of courts, including managing budgets, supervising staff, and ensuring that court procedures are followed. They must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work well in a team environment. Court administrators must also be able to communicate effectively with judges, attorneys, and other court professionals. The BLS reports that employment of administrative services managers, which includes court administrators, is projected to grow 5% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations.

Advanced Degrees and Specialized Training

While a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice can provide a solid foundation for a career in the field, advanced degrees or specialized training may be required for certain positions. For example, a master’s degree in criminology or forensic science may be necessary for careers in research or academia. Additionally, specialized training in areas such as cybersecurity or emergency management may be beneficial for careers in law enforcement or corrections. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for postsecondary teachers, which includes those who teach criminal justice courses, was $80,560 in May 2020.

Master’s Degree in Criminology

A master’s degree in criminology can provide advanced training in the study of crime and the criminal justice system. This can include coursework in areas such as research methods, statistics, and theory, as well as specialized courses in areas such as forensic science or cybersecurity. A master’s degree in criminology can be beneficial for careers in research, academia, or policy analysis. The BLS reports that employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Specialized Training in Forensic Science

Specialized training in forensic science can provide advanced training in the analysis of evidence and the investigation of crimes. This can include coursework in areas such as DNA analysis, ballistics, and toxicology, as well as hands-on training in laboratories and crime scenes. Specialized training in forensic science can be beneficial for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or research. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for forensic science technicians was $61,930 in May 2020.

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