Are you a dedicated citizen who wants to help uphold the law and keep the peace? Are you passionate about making your community a better place? If so, you might want to consider pursing a criminal justice major!
Education
A degree in criminal justice can be earned at the associate’s and bachelor’s level. The main difference between the two degrees — other than time — is that you will get a broader knowledge of the American justice system with a bachelor’s degree than you would at the associate level. Typical courses you would take include criminology, the U.S. criminal justice system and criminal law.
What to know before you apply
Inquire as to whether your program will teach you general knowledge about criminal justice or if the classes you are taking will prepare you for a specific career. Also, be prepared to complete an internship in places like your local police department, the FBI or in a human rights organization. Students who pursue this major should be interested in all aspects of the law — from law making to enforcement to the psychology behind criminal activity.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, police officers and detectives earned an average of $56,980 per year in 2012. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists earned an average of $48,190 per year in 2012.
> For more information on what it takes to have a career in criminal justice, take the pre-education course on NextStepAcademy.com to find out if it’s the right field for you before you get to college!
