Use a degree or diploma to enter the exciting world of criminal justice. Choose from popular majors and specializations, and tailor your educational experience to suit your career goals. Hiring managers in criminal justice fields look for educated professionals who are committed to their work.
Trade schools in criminal justice feature a range of popular specializations:
Use a degree or diploma in criminal justice to serve on the front lines as an investigator or law enforcement agent, or work behind the scenes as a corrections officer or forensic psychologist. Some entry level and technical careers only require a diploma or associate degree, while salaried and higher ranking positions may require a bachelor's degree.
Careers in Criminal Justice
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports healthy salaries and benefits packages for many criminal justice careers. In 2008, probation officers earned mean annual wages of $49,520. That same year, detectives and criminal investigators earned $63,840, while private detectives and investigators earned $46,480. Forensic science technicians working in crime scene investigation earned $52,960.
While job prospects in correctional facilities are expected to be excellent, keen competition is expected for many careers, including those for private detectives and investigators. While no degree or diploma program can guarantee a particular career or salary, completing your criminal justice education in trade school gives you the chance to prove your skills and knowledge to hiring managers. In areas of high job competition, training can give you the edge you need to secure a lifelong career.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Private Detectives
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Probation Officers
