5 Career Options After Acquiring a Degree in Criminal Justice

Obtaining a criminal justice degree can assist students in developing the abilities essential to be successful in any endeavor involving the pursuit of justice.


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Marlene Joseph

Students who wish to study today's criminal justice system critically, aren't afraid to ask uncomfortable questions, confront the status quo, seek fresh answers to past issues and make a difference in the lives of those living in poverty in diverse communities might consider pursuing a criminal justice degree.

Obtaining a criminal justice degree can assist students in developing the abilities essential to be successful in any endeavor involving the pursuit of justice. Students can also create a strong network by collaborating with professionals from various sectors, including law enforcement and the military. In addition, professors provide students with an experienced perspective on criminal justice, assisting them in preparation for real-life scenarios.

Consider majoring in criminal justice if you are enthusiastic about promoting justice and safeguarding your community. Criminal justice students can pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees. These degree programs typically examine multidisciplinary issues in courses such as law and psychology. Students often wonder, "how long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, and since criminal justice offers a wide range of degrees, it may take anywhere from two to six years to finish, depending on the career path chosen. The amount of time it takes to earn a criminal justice degree is determined by the sort of program you register in and whether you are a full-time or part-time student.

Career Options Available

1. Paralegal

In the legal world, a paralegal is often referred to as a legal assistant and works in law firms to help attorneys and lawyers. The responsibilities include assisting and cooperating with the lead attorneys by acquiring and evaluating evidence, monitoring court filings, and managing and handling cases, among others.

Paralegals are typically required to have an associate's degree, while some employers may accept paralegals with certifications and appropriate experience. Recently graduated paralegals with bachelor's degrees are preferred by some businesses and also receive the highest salaries. Even so, it doesn't end there. You can pursue a career as an attorney, judge, or politician by furthering your education.

2. Private Investigators

Another alternative for criminal justice grads is to work as private investigators. You've probably seen private investigators in popular crime shows, but there's a reason they're one of the most gratifying careers out there. This can be the work for you if you enjoy solving mysteries, conducting interviews, and investigating unsolved cases. Private investigators assist in cases on a local, state, and federal level and are an important part of the legal, financial, and criminal investigations, as well as the search for missing people.

A private investigator collaborates with police departments and, when necessary, acquires evidence that can be presented in court. To work as a private investigator, you must have a license. Although state licensing requirements differ, all private investigators should consider getting bachelor's degrees and having legal experience. Salaries vary greatly depending on expertise, with an average yearly income of $66,000, according to PayScale.

3. Forensic Science Technicians

A criminal justice degree could be the ideal job option for individuals who love science. Forensic science technicians, often known as crime scene investigators or forensic investigators, work in a variety of settings ranging from the lab to helping at an actual crime scene.

In addition to conducting crime scene investigations and obtaining evidence and information, these professionals also examine the evidence, pictures, and other relevant materials. They then conduct in-depth scientific and technical assessments to arrive at conclusions and solutions. If you're interested in using science to uncover the truth, you might want to look into this career option.

4. Juvenile Counselors

No one is born with a criminal record. Not everyone receives the guidance they need to make positive decisions, and teenagers, in particular, require assistance in navigating this difficult world. This is where the role of juvenile counselors comes in. In both schools and penal facilities, juvenile counselors assist with troublesome adolescents to help them get back on track.

A juvenile counselor helps children and their families by providing support, resources, and direction. Counselors provide life advice to children by teaching them how to solve difficulties, change unhealthy behaviors, and channel their energy more productively.

To put it differently, you must be able to connect with children on a deeper, more personal level and have a desire to help them improve their lives. You will provide counseling and social services to children in custody, foster families, and juvenile detention centers as a Juvenile counselor. A Juvenile counselor's annual salary ranges from $53,059 to $67,647.

5. Victim Advocate

A role as a victim's advocate may be perfect for you if you wish to help at-risk youngsters or promote individual rights. You can assist victims of crimes by offering emotional and physical support as a certified expert. Working at emergency helplines, conducting support groups, or offering in-person therapy are all options for victims' advocates.

Victim advocates must have excellent communication, and counseling abilities because some victims have suffered severe trauma. Victim advocates frequently collaborate with criminal justice experts to assist victims in receiving justice. A victim advocate can better guarantee that an individual gets the support and care they require by providing information about the agencies, organizations, and companies that provide these services.

The Bottomline

A career in criminal justice is for you if you're interested in understanding the core causes of crime, creating rules to prevent crime from occurring, and making the world a much better place for everyone. You'll be able to reach your full potential in the sector if you have a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice.

When it comes to pursuing a criminal justice degree, there are numerous options. You can work in the field, responding to active crimes or collecting evidence. You may further your interest in science by working as a crime scene investigator. Or, you can work at an office where you counsel and assist individuals trying to shift from a criminal record.

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