Criminal Justice Degree and Programs

If you think criminal justice degrees are just for would-be police officers or lawyers, think again. Criminal justice programs serve as a stepping stone to a wide variety of careers ranging from probation officers and paralegals to forensic scientists and detectives. If you have ever seen one of the many popular crime scene investigation shows on television, you have a sense for just how exciting--but sometimes dangerous--this field can be. The trick is to find the ideal training for your chosen career path.

If you think criminal justice degrees are just for would-be police officers or lawyers, think again. Criminal justice programs serve as a stepping stone to a wide variety of careers ranging from probation officers and paralegals to forensic scientists and detectives. If you have ever seen one of the many popular crime scene investigation shows on television, you have a sense for just how exciting--but sometimes dangerous--this field can be. The trick is to find the ideal training for your chosen career path.

How to land a criminal justice career

If you want to start a career in criminal justice, you are going to need the right education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some professionals, like local or state law enforcement and correctional officers, are not required to pursue any formal education beyond a high school diploma. However, those who earn at least a bachelor's degree in criminal justice advance through the ranks faster or qualify for competitive federal positions.

Probation officers also generally need a bachelor's degree, but coursework in this field may focus on rehabilitation through the study of psychology, social work or sociology. A state or federal certification exam may also be required, and the BLS says a master's degree can help candidates advance or move into management roles. Forensic scientists also need at least a bachelor's degree, and they tend to major in forensic- or science-centric disciplines supplemented with criminal justice courses.