Why it’s a great time to get a degree in criminal justice
Getting a degree now can prepare you for a rewarding future
If you’re considering getting an online criminal justice degree, now is a great time to get started. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many jobs in the criminal justice field are expected to grow rapidly between now and 2016. Paralegal jobs, investigator jobs, private detective jobs and police officer jobs will grow between 11-22 percent in the next few years. That is a tremendous opportunity – and getting your criminal justice degree now can set you up for a satisfying future career.
Why get a criminal justice degree?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, someone with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice earns, on average, 34 percent more than an individual with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. Getting a bachelor’s degree will help you earn over 40 percent more over your lifetime than if you had no degree at all. That’s a lot of money! If the cost of a traditional four-year college scares you, take a look at online criminal justice degree programs.
How much will I make in a criminal justice career?
It will vary depending on your experience and education, but salaries for criminal justice jobs range from about $18,000 to $78,000.
On average, police officers make about $45,000 annually. Those with criminal justice degrees working for the ATF, DEA, IRS, INS, Secret Service or the U.S. Marshals will start at about $25,000 – but with experience or an advanced degree in criminal justice you’ll be able to work your way up quickly.
Criminologists and forensic psychologists usually make between $39,000 and $67,000. Forensic scientists make about $46,000, on average.
What are some entry-level jobs in criminal justice I might be able to get?
Getting a criminal justice degree will prepare you for a number of different jobs. These are just a few that you may want to consider.
- Bailiff
- Deportation Officer
- U.S. Marshal
- Bodyguard
- Border Patrol Agent
- Detective
- Naval Investigator
- CIA Agent
- Drug Enforcement Agent
- Paralegal
- Park Ranger
- Police Officer
- Corrections Officer
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- FBI Agent
- Fish & Game Warden
- Court Clerk
- Probation & Parole Officer
- Law Clerk
- Public Safety Officer
- Social Worker
- Victim Services Specialist
- Secret Service Agent
- Youth Advocate
- Sheriff
- U.S. Customs Agent
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What jobs can I get with an advanced criminal justice degree?
With a master’s or doctorate degree in criminal justice, you’ll be qualified for high-paying jobs with more responsibility, especially if you have management experience. Some of the jobs that require an advanced criminal justice degree are:
- Attorney
- Criminologist
- Law Librarian
- Coroner
- Police Detective
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- FBI Agent
- Criminal Investigator
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Private Investigator
- Warden
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What skills should I have?
Those looking to get a criminal justice degree should have firm ethics and high moral values. You should also have strong writing and presentation skills in addition to excellent interviewing skills.
Thinking about launching your criminal justice career? Get FREE information about an online criminal justice degree now.
Learn about online degree programs
Still not sure if an online degree is right for you? Take a look at these articles for more information on the benefits of online education, choosing the right program, financing your studies and more.
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