The U.S. criminal justice system is a large, complex, and interconnected system of federal, state, and local agencies, processes, and professionals. They work together to control crime; impose penalties on lawbreakers; and provide justice, aid, and assistance for victims and offenders. If you earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, you’ll have a good foundation for pursuing a variety of careers, including corrections officer, cyber crime investigator, homeland security border patrol, FBI agent, and others.*
How Does One Degree Launch So Many Careers?
An online criminal justice degree like a BS in Criminal Justice prepares you with a strong foundation and the flexibility tochoose from several concentrations that help align your area of study with your career goals.
Potential Career Options in the Field: Salaries for Criminal Justice Professionals (May, 2020)1
| Position | Median Annual Wage | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|
| Police and Detectives | $67,290 | $113,860 |
| Sociologist | $86,110 | $143,020 |
| Administrative Services Managers | $98,980 | $169,930 |
| Information Security Analysts | $103,590 | $163,300 |
| Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists | $55,690 | $95,510 |
| Correctional Officers and Bailiffs | $47,440 | $81,360 |
Beyond a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Some criminal justice careers may require additional education and training beyond your online criminal justice degree, as each job description will specify. A specialized bachelor’s in criminal justice degree will give you a strong start down the path toward your ideal career. It may also provide superior credentials and a competitive edge when compared with other job applicants. It will also give you a solid foundation for accelerating your education to earn an MS in Criminal Justice, and ultimately pursue a PhD in Criminal Justice.
Explore Walden University's online criminal justice degrees for graduates and undergraduates. Get the help you need to launch or advance your career. Earn your degree in a convenient online format that fits your busy life.
*Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of a degree program.
1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm