There are many reasons for career changes, the realization of a new passion, a need for more financial security or you may be tired of your current career. If you need to add some spice in your life a job in the criminal justice system could be just what you’re looking for.
But before diving into the world of criminal justice, you’ll need a degree. It is said that technology has made the world a better place to live, yes, now earn your degree from online associate programs in just two years. The degree opens opportunities within the criminal justice field, including work in police departments, parole, and the court system. You will find advancement and new experiences every day.
Why should you choose a career in criminal justice? Here’s a list!
1. Job Stability
Crime never takes a holiday, so you’ll always have a job. They offer an almost unmatchable level of job security and stability. As a public servant, if you enter a criminal justice field you can enjoy job security.
2. Intellectual Stimulation
Doesn’t matter if you are a police officer or Homicide Detective you have to put your problem-solving skills to the test day in and day out. You’ll need 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 problem-solving skills, and in most cases, they must earn a master’s degree in a criminal justice field to advance beyond an entry-level position1.
3. You’ll Have 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 give you the ability to use your specific skills for a greater good2. You can give back to your 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 you’ll receive some of the best training available. Each specific job in criminal justice is different and each one offers 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 offer 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 offers 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 offers 98 undergraduate majors. Established in 1943, WSU’s offer online criminal justice bachelor’s degree.
Florida State University
Founded in 1851. You can 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 offers 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 offers 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 offer online degrees in criminal justice. So start exploring your options and find out what a career in this field can do for you.
[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.
