A degree in criminal justice can open the door to a wide range of career options. You can work as a police officer, forensic scientist, social worker, or probation officer, and you can also pursue graduate degrees in the field.
A Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice (BCJ) teaches students to understand the history and theory of criminal justice as well as contemporary issues and practices. It also gives students practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
The BCJ degree combines a liberal arts foundation with criminology and corrections-focused training, preparing you for an array of job opportunities in the criminal justice system. You’ll learn how to conduct a thorough crime investigation, identify and collect evidence, communicate effectively with witnesses, analyze judicial proceedings and more.
Master’s in Criminal Justice (MCJ) teaches students to think critically about the legal process, research and policy-making. It prepares you for a variety of high-level positions in the justice system, including executive or management roles.
Professionals with a Master’s in Criminal Justice are prepared for advancement within the field, and they often earn higher salaries than those without an undergraduate degree. It is also common for these professionals to seek employment in a specialized field, such as law enforcement or homeland security.
Doctorate in Criminal Justice (DJJ) enables you to pursue advanced academic and research studies in the criminal justice get help field. You can choose to study topics like crime scene investigation, forensic science, or sociology, and you may be able to specialize your degree with a concentration.
The criminal justice field is a diverse and exciting one. Its job outlook is generally positive, and many professionals earn higher than average wages.
There are three major branches of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, the courts and corrections. Each branch is responsible for maintaining order and keeping the law in place.
Forensics is the practice of collecting, analyzing and interpreting forensic evidence in cases of crime. It’s an essential part of any police force, and forensic scientists have a growing demand for qualified workers.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a forensic scientist, you’ll need to complete an extensive training program before applying for a job. There are several online forensics degrees that can help you gain the skills and experience you need to start your career.
In addition to a baccalaureate, some criminal justice schools offer certificate programs that allow you to earn an associate or bachelor’s degree in the field more quickly. Depending on the school, you can earn your certificate in less than a year.
You can also earn a juris doctorate, which is a legal degree that can lead to careers in academia or public administration. You can pursue a DJJ degree as a stand-alone program or as a minor, and you’ll need to complete at least 120 credits to receive this academic designation.
Regardless of your goal, a criminal justice degree is a good investment in your future. It opens the doors to a variety of career paths and helps you stand out from the competition. You can even go on to graduate school and get a PhD in the field.