Looking for a degree in criminology?
Here we answer 3 popular questions about criminal justice programs regarding jobs, salaries, and schools.
What are the 5 most popular jobs you can get with a degree in criminology?
Police Officer
One of the most popular positions that criminal justice training will prepare you for is a law enforcement officer. While it is not necessary to get a criminal justice degree it helps you better understand the criminal justice system and it allows for faster promotion through the ranks. Many schools advertise that they will train you for a career in policing but be careful when signing up to these programs. Many times you do not need that particular training to be a police officer, but you will likely require an accredited police training program from a police training academy. Before signing up to and criminal justice program for policing, make sure you check with your local police authority to determine if the training is necessary.
Detective
Detectives are usually law enforcement enforcement officers that have more skills and they generally require a more advanced degree of knowledge than most police officers. A degree in crim can help prepare you for more intense involvement in the criminal justice system.
Criminal Investigator
Criminal investigators present evidence to the prosecution and help prepare pre-trial paperwork. A degree in criminology would help you to advance in this type of career.
Criminal Analysts
There are many forms of analysts that exist within the criminal justice system and many criminal justice programs offer training on this particular field. Analysts do not need additional law enforcement training and can actually work for police agencies or government agencies. Once you finish your degree you can likely land a job as crime analysts for major law enforcement agencies.
Legal Assistant
Criminal justice degrees can aid you in finding careers within the legal industry, such as legal assistants and other clerkship positions.
How Much Money Can You Make with a Degree in Criminology?
Many entry-level jobs in the criminal justice field require a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in criminology or a diploma from criminal justice programs. These entry level jobs can range anywhere between 25k to 50k a year depending on the organization you choose. An average salary for a police officer or sheriff generally runs around 60-80k per year and detectives may earn more.
Where can you study criminology?
There are several schools online and offline that offer criminology. Some of the more popular criminal justice programs include, University of Maryland and University of Albany. If you are looking for distance education there are also several criminal justice programs online including Arizona State University. When signing up online, make sure the school is accredited in the state or province you live in.
