Changing a career could come down to a number of factors; a newfound passion, a need for more financial security, or even a desire to change career paths. If adding some spice is the intended goal, then a job in criminal justice might be the right path.
But before exploring the world of criminal justice, a degree will almost assuredly be required. Technology has made the world an easier place to live in, and it has also made it possible to earn online associate degrees in under two years. This degree can open opportunities in the field of criminal justice such as police departments, the judicial system and legal offices. Within each of these fields exists brand new opportunities.
If looking to jump start a career in criminal justice, here is some important information to consider;
1. Job Stability
Crime never takes a holiday, so jobs will always be in need. They provide an almost unparalleled level of job security and stability. Stability and job security are paramount in this field, especially if one becomes employed via the public service.
2. Intellectual Stimulation
Whether it’s as a police officer or a Homicide Detective, brainstorming skills will no doubt be put to the test day in and day out. It will be important to think quick and fast to keep up with the challenges. Criminals never make a point to commit their crime between the traditional 9 to 5, so, therefore, be prepared to work a variety of different hours. Criminal justice professionals need strong brainstorming skills, and in most cases, they must earn a master’s degree in a criminal justice field to advance beyond an entry-level position
Whether it’s as a police officer, a detective or something else, thinking skills will always be required on a daily basis. Quick action will always be required to keep up with these challenges. 1.
3. Having the Chance to Help Others
Helping people and getting a meaningful life is one of the main reasons why most people choose this profession. Criminal justice careers provide the ability to use specific skills for the greater good2. Give back to the community in different ways either protecting a crime victim, supervising the progress of a convicted criminal on parole or probation.
4.Unique Opportunities and Experiences
Being a life savior will provide some of the most astounding training available. Each specific job in criminal justice is different and each one provides its own set of unique rewards and benefits.
5.Health and Retirement Benefits
Criminal justice professionals need to be physically fit and healthy since the demands of some jobs are more physically gruelling. within the field of criminal justice, many professions provide an earlier retirement at a younger age and earn more. The officer in law enforcement generally is required to resign within 20 to 25 years after the start of their career. It provides more appealing retirement and insurance packages than private-sector jobs3.
Top Careers in Criminal Justice
– Lawyer
– CIA Officer
– Information Security Analyst
– First-Line Supervisor of Police and Detectives
– Crime Scene Investigator
– Criminal Investigator
– Homicide Detective
– ICE Agent
– Forensic Psychologist
– Forensic Accountant
– Probation Officer
Online Schools for Bachelor of Criminal Justice Degree Programs
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst serves more than 30,000 students each year. The fully online criminal justice bachelor’s degree prepares students for careers in public safety, corrections, victim services, and policing.4
Washington State University
According to their website, Washington State University’s online Bachelor in Criminal Justice is “ranked no. 1 in the nation!”5. Washington State University was founded in 1890 that provides 98 undergraduate majors. Established in 1943, WSU provides an online criminal justice bachelor’s degree.
Florida State University
Founded in 1851. It’s possible to complete a part-time bachelor’s in criminal justice online through FSU’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
Loyola University of Chicago
The Loyola University of Chicago enrols about 17,000 students annually. The school provides over 80 undergraduate majors and more than 180 graduate programs. Current criminal justice professionals can advance their careers by earning the school’s fully online BA in applied criminal justice.
University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida provides more than 20 online undergraduate programs. It is a top-ranked public research institution. The flexible online BS and BA in criminal justice programs rank among the most popular distance education pathways at UCF. This degree provides a comprehensive core course structure that gives a deep insight into the knowledge base in the field of Criminal Justice.
Criminology is a vast field and several well-known universities provide online degrees in criminal justice. So start exploring different options and find out what a career in this field can do for those who are interested.
[1] “NextStepU.” College Planning | Financial Aid and Advice to Plan for College.
[2] Roufa, Timothy. “Why a Career in Criminology Might Be Right for You.” The Balance Careers. June 11, 2019.
[3] “Why Choose a Career in Criminal Justice?” National. December 17, 2019.
[4] Writers, Staff. “Criminal Justice Careers.” CriminalJusticeDegreeSchools.com. December 18, 2019.
[5] “Top 20 Online Schools for Bachelor’s of Criminal Justice Degree Programs.” Online Schools Center. March 24, 2020.