In hearing “Criminal Justice,” people might automatically think of Police Officers. While Police Officers do make up a large portion of the criminal justice field, there are numerous other career opportunities available from FBI agents to forensic specialists. With such a wide range of professions, you most likely will have an easier time finding the right fit for your unique skills, personality, interests, and salary expectations. Here are a few jobs you could pursue with a Criminal Justice degree.
First, let’s start with the most obvious, Police Officer. Police Officers are on the front line of the US criminal justice system, working not only to apprehend criminals, but also prevent crimes in communities. This is a fast-paced career that also provides plenty of room for professional and personal growth.
Being on the front lines, however, is not for everyone. If you prefer to work behind the scenes, Forensics may be the right fit for you. Popularized by numerous TV shows, such as “CSI:Miami,” Forensics Science Technicians work in a variety of environments including labs, hospitals, and court rooms. This is an exciting career option for someone with an analytical mind and a passion for science.
This next career requires both some knowledge in forensics, as well as in the law. While they may assist public detectives and local police forces, Private Detectives also take on a variety of private cases that are not always criminal. For example, Private Detectives are often hired to do background checks and uncover information in certain situations such as divorce cases. If you enjoy uncovering hidden information and finding the next clue, a career as a private detective may be the right fit for you.
The three jobs above showcase a few options available with a Criminal Justice degree. Some other career options include Security Guard, State Trooper, Crime Scene Investigator, and the list goes on. Overall, if you feel passionate in helping your local community and want to challenge yourself in a variety of environments, a career in Criminal Justice could be the right fit for you! Find out more about Criminal Justice training in your area here & connect with an education advisor that can help you get started.