Criminal Justice
If you're interested in a career in America's criminal justice system to enforce the law, investigate crimes, assist victims, or implement security measures to prevent crime, a degree in Criminal Justice, Law, and Security could be a great fit for you.
Types of Degrees
Criminal Justice, Law, and Security students can pursue an associate degree (2 years), bachelor's degree (4 years), or master's degree (6-7 years). An associate degree is usually obtained in two years and is less expensive per semester than a bachelor's degree. Associate degrees may allow you to enter the workforce sooner but sometimes with a lower starting salary than people holding a bachelor's degree or higher level of education.
Admission Requirements
A high school diploma or equivalent is required and scores from college entrance exams like the ACT and SAT are often required. Each school has its own specific requirements, making it important for you to explore several options before settling on a specific school.
Career Opportunities After Earning A Criminal Justice, Law, and Security Degree
The range of career opportunities available to someone with a degree in Criminal Justice, Law, and Security include:
- Police Officer/Sheriff
- Private Detective/Investigator
- Probation/Correctional Officer
- Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.
Post Graduate Salary Information
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a Police Officer or Detective was $65,170 in 2019 (1) while Probation Officers made $54,290 in 2019. (2)
Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.
References
Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.