9 answers
Meranda
Student
Vinton, Ohio
2
Questions
Asked
724 views
What Career Opportunities Are Available with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice ?
I've always wanted to pursue this path, but I'm worried I'm in over my head. I've job shadowed dispatchers and probation officers this year in southern Ohio, and they're hoping I'll come back. Am I making the right choice?
9 answers
Karissa Helton
Teacher
205
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
Going to law school or becoming a police officer are good paths. You could be a detective within a few years. Being a youth probation officer could also be rewarding. Also, you could work towards a PhD in Criminal Justice. Students love Criminal Justice classes so the opportunity to teach college exists.
Ryan Clark
Business Value
7
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Police Officer: You know those people who keep our neighborhoods safe? That could be you! You'd patrol streets, help people in need, and catch bad guys.
Prison Guard: Ever seen those shows about prisons? You could work there, making sure everything stays safe and helping prisoners change their lives.
Probation Officer: After someone gets in trouble, you could help them get back on track. You'd make sure they follow the rules and find ways for them to succeed.
Detective: Remember those cool detectives in movies? You could be one, solving mysteries and catching criminals by investigating clues and solving cases.
Forensic Scientist: If you're into science, you could work in a lab analyzing evidence from crime scenes, like fingerprints or DNA, to help solve crimes.
Legal Assistant: You could work in a law office, helping lawyers with cases by doing research, organizing files, and preparing documents.
Private Investigator: Like a detective, but working for private clients. You'd investigate things like cheating spouses or missing persons.
Crime Analyst: You'd use data and computer skills to help police understand patterns in crime and figure out how to stop it.
Security Manager: You could work for a big company, making sure their buildings and people stay safe from things like theft or vandalism.
Victim Advocate: If you're passionate about helping people, you could support those who've been hurt by crime, guiding them through the legal process and making sure they get the help they need.
Prison Guard: Ever seen those shows about prisons? You could work there, making sure everything stays safe and helping prisoners change their lives.
Probation Officer: After someone gets in trouble, you could help them get back on track. You'd make sure they follow the rules and find ways for them to succeed.
Detective: Remember those cool detectives in movies? You could be one, solving mysteries and catching criminals by investigating clues and solving cases.
Forensic Scientist: If you're into science, you could work in a lab analyzing evidence from crime scenes, like fingerprints or DNA, to help solve crimes.
Legal Assistant: You could work in a law office, helping lawyers with cases by doing research, organizing files, and preparing documents.
Private Investigator: Like a detective, but working for private clients. You'd investigate things like cheating spouses or missing persons.
Crime Analyst: You'd use data and computer skills to help police understand patterns in crime and figure out how to stop it.
Security Manager: You could work for a big company, making sure their buildings and people stay safe from things like theft or vandalism.
Victim Advocate: If you're passionate about helping people, you could support those who've been hurt by crime, guiding them through the legal process and making sure they get the help they need.
D.J. Benion, MBA
Federal Law Enforcement Officer
27
Answers
Updated
D.J.’s Answer
It all depends on what you're seeking. I think you mentioned shadowing some probation officers and a few others. Sometimes, law enforcement officers do collaborate with probation officers. If you work with local or state agencies, that's common. At the federal level, if you have a BA or BS in criminal justice, you could be a police officer, a state agent investigator, or a federal special agent criminal investigator.
I am a special agent criminal investigator with the federal government. You might not be familiar with the term "special agent" or "criminal investigator." Essentially, I am similar to an FBI agent, except I work for the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), Office of Inspector General (OIG). We investigate fraud, waste, and abuse by entities and programs that must adhere to specific rules, laws, and regulations.
As I mentioned earlier, it all depends on what you're seeking. There are many TV shows like FBI, NCIS, etc., but most people in federal law enforcement don't experience the level of action seen in movies every day. Yes, we do receive some of that training, but in my current position, I usually receive a complaint and investigate its merit. It has to align with our agency's priorities, so we focus on significant cases of fraud, waste, and abuse.
Our investigations are different from those of most local police officers or other federal agents. The cases we handle are highly technical and complex. Previously, I was a United States Capitol Police Officer in Washington, D.C., for about 2.5 years, then moved to the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for 17 years. I had opportunities to travel worldwide, meet various people, and work in the International Operations Center, Mission Operation Center (MOC) and the Transportation Security Operation Center (TSOC). As a Watch Desk Officer in the MOC, I deployed personnel on high-risk missions globally.
In FAMS, I also conducted security assessments and was part of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Unit (drones). I worked in the Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) Program, where pilots were armed to protect the cockpit in the absence of Air Marshals, preventing another 9/11. This job was very physically demanding, with frequent international travel and little sleep. Some people loved it, while others didn't.
In my current role as a special agent criminal investigator, it's the best job I've had in my 21-year federal law enforcement career. So, it comes down to what you think you would enjoy in a career. There are also other opportunities, such as investigative analysts who assist us by performing various tasks, looking through databases, and running queries. This allows us to focus on more complex issues.
If you have any questions or need guidance on your career path, I'd be happy to help based on my experience.
I am a special agent criminal investigator with the federal government. You might not be familiar with the term "special agent" or "criminal investigator." Essentially, I am similar to an FBI agent, except I work for the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), Office of Inspector General (OIG). We investigate fraud, waste, and abuse by entities and programs that must adhere to specific rules, laws, and regulations.
As I mentioned earlier, it all depends on what you're seeking. There are many TV shows like FBI, NCIS, etc., but most people in federal law enforcement don't experience the level of action seen in movies every day. Yes, we do receive some of that training, but in my current position, I usually receive a complaint and investigate its merit. It has to align with our agency's priorities, so we focus on significant cases of fraud, waste, and abuse.
Our investigations are different from those of most local police officers or other federal agents. The cases we handle are highly technical and complex. Previously, I was a United States Capitol Police Officer in Washington, D.C., for about 2.5 years, then moved to the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for 17 years. I had opportunities to travel worldwide, meet various people, and work in the International Operations Center, Mission Operation Center (MOC) and the Transportation Security Operation Center (TSOC). As a Watch Desk Officer in the MOC, I deployed personnel on high-risk missions globally.
In FAMS, I also conducted security assessments and was part of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Unit (drones). I worked in the Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) Program, where pilots were armed to protect the cockpit in the absence of Air Marshals, preventing another 9/11. This job was very physically demanding, with frequent international travel and little sleep. Some people loved it, while others didn't.
In my current role as a special agent criminal investigator, it's the best job I've had in my 21-year federal law enforcement career. So, it comes down to what you think you would enjoy in a career. There are also other opportunities, such as investigative analysts who assist us by performing various tasks, looking through databases, and running queries. This allows us to focus on more complex issues.
If you have any questions or need guidance on your career path, I'd be happy to help based on my experience.
Caroline Bellizzi
HR Technology, Strategy and Transformation
1
Answer
St. Charles, Illinois
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
First, if you enjoy the work of a dispatcher or probation officer then you should pursue the opportunity. Graduates need the opportunity to learn from their mentors and leaders so it does take time for any new employee to settle into a role, learn, and gain experience to feel more comfortable with their work. If you are interested in pursuing other opportunities, then you could also consider corporate or insurance fraud investigator or private / court case (law firm) investigator as potential career opportunities with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or Science.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
617
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Meranda,
A Bachelor of Arts (BA)/ Bachelor of Science (BS) in criminal justice can open up various career opportunities in the field of law enforcement, corrections, and security. Some potential career paths include:
1. Police Officer: Working as a police officer involves enforcing laws, responding to emergency calls, conducting traffic stops, and investigating crimes.
2. Probation Officer: Probation officers monitor and support individuals who have been placed on probation by a court as an alternative to incarceration.
3. Corrections Officer: Corrections officers work in jails or prisons to maintain order among inmates and ensure their safety.
4. Private Investigator: Private investigators conduct investigations for individuals, businesses, or attorneys to gather evidence for legal proceedings.
5. Homeland Security Agent: Homeland security agents work to protect the United States from domestic and international threats such as terrorism and other criminal activities.
6. Crime Scene Investigator: Crime scene investigators collect physical evidence at crime scenes for analysis and processing within the criminal justice system.
It's great that you've had the opportunity to job shadow dispatchers and probation officers in southern Ohio. If you have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in criminal justice and feel passionate about serving your community through these roles, consider exploring different aspects of the field and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work to confirm whether this is the right fit for you.
Best wishes.
A Bachelor of Arts (BA)/ Bachelor of Science (BS) in criminal justice can open up various career opportunities in the field of law enforcement, corrections, and security. Some potential career paths include:
1. Police Officer: Working as a police officer involves enforcing laws, responding to emergency calls, conducting traffic stops, and investigating crimes.
2. Probation Officer: Probation officers monitor and support individuals who have been placed on probation by a court as an alternative to incarceration.
3. Corrections Officer: Corrections officers work in jails or prisons to maintain order among inmates and ensure their safety.
4. Private Investigator: Private investigators conduct investigations for individuals, businesses, or attorneys to gather evidence for legal proceedings.
5. Homeland Security Agent: Homeland security agents work to protect the United States from domestic and international threats such as terrorism and other criminal activities.
6. Crime Scene Investigator: Crime scene investigators collect physical evidence at crime scenes for analysis and processing within the criminal justice system.
It's great that you've had the opportunity to job shadow dispatchers and probation officers in southern Ohio. If you have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in criminal justice and feel passionate about serving your community through these roles, consider exploring different aspects of the field and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work to confirm whether this is the right fit for you.
Best wishes.
a perez
Law enforcement police officer
47
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
a’s Answer
You should fact check with departments your interested in by looking at thier websites or checking with them look for (in no particular order I’m putting it but you pick what’s more important to you) for pay and benefits and retirement plan and in how many years of working can you retire and other benefits offered and see if you would like to work their the lifestyle you would have like the hours you would work day or night or overnight and if you can get chance to move up or to other units also pick to see if you want a large department with a lot of training and units snd moving up snd slot of action or you want a small department that is laid back slow pace snd not much happening and less units and training
“it is important for you to chose you work to live or live to work” so if you enjoy spending time at concerts or doing fun things then you work to live if you rather wotk get action and training and move up then you live to work you chose then you now if it’s good for you or not it is a very smart thing you did going with them to see the way it is but remember your on friendly terms not working or competing with them
here is some examples of fields and salaries but this varies by departments and location and does not include benefits or other things that can be important as I explained and think if you want local or city or county or state etc to work in best of luck
it can be rewarding if the right fit imagine if you became a police officer academy instructor snd trained officers that’s rewarding or you help disadvantaged youths that’s rewarding to some not to all
Take a look!
Police Officers and Detectives – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2022, the median pay for police officers and detectives was $69,160 ($33.25/hour).
FBI Agent – FBI agents are some of the highest-paying criminal justice careers with an average salary of $93,970.
Forensic Psychologist – Forensic psychologists combine clinical work and data analysis. This unique set of skills nets them an average salary of $72,285.
Forensic Science Technician – Forensic science technicians make an average salary of $63,740 for aiding in criminal investigations and analyzing data.
Judge and Hearing Officers – Judges and hearing officers make a median salary of 128,610 ($61.83/hour)
“it is important for you to chose you work to live or live to work” so if you enjoy spending time at concerts or doing fun things then you work to live if you rather wotk get action and training and move up then you live to work you chose then you now if it’s good for you or not it is a very smart thing you did going with them to see the way it is but remember your on friendly terms not working or competing with them
here is some examples of fields and salaries but this varies by departments and location and does not include benefits or other things that can be important as I explained and think if you want local or city or county or state etc to work in best of luck
it can be rewarding if the right fit imagine if you became a police officer academy instructor snd trained officers that’s rewarding or you help disadvantaged youths that’s rewarding to some not to all
Take a look!
Police Officers and Detectives – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2022, the median pay for police officers and detectives was $69,160 ($33.25/hour).
FBI Agent – FBI agents are some of the highest-paying criminal justice careers with an average salary of $93,970.
Forensic Psychologist – Forensic psychologists combine clinical work and data analysis. This unique set of skills nets them an average salary of $72,285.
Forensic Science Technician – Forensic science technicians make an average salary of $63,740 for aiding in criminal investigations and analyzing data.
Judge and Hearing Officers – Judges and hearing officers make a median salary of 128,610 ($61.83/hour)
Nathan Gaudet
Correctional Officer
1
Answer
Fox Lake, Wisconsin
Updated
Nathan’s Answer
Meranda,
Congratulations on securing some fantastic job-shadowing opportunities! Your dedication and effort in exploring the Law Enforcement field is truly commendable. It's easy to make career choices based on what we see on screens, but you're going beyond that. You're proving to yourself and potential employers that you're eager to dive in, learn from the ground up, and embrace the reality of the field. This attitude will undoubtedly lead you to success in any path you choose.
Regarding your question, it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed in Law Enforcement. Don't shy away from this feeling. Instead, embrace the uncertainty, as it will keep you alert and successful as you venture into this field. Dispatch and Probation are excellent starting points for anyone interested in Law Enforcement. These roles offer a comprehensive view of the system, from the initial police response to the offender's reintegration into society.
Dispatch, Probation, and Correctional staff are all trained in effective communication skills, which are vital in active Law Enforcement. By starting in these areas, you'll develop invaluable skills that will benefit you throughout your career and aid your advancement within any level of Law Enforcement you choose to serve.
Your decision to pause and reflect on your next steps shows wisdom. It's important to remember that feeling "over your head" and any creeping doubts can be viewed positively. They're signs that you're making a significant decision and, with the right training, your meticulousness and eagerness to learn (as shown by your job-shadowing initiative) will equip you with the necessary skills for this career move. You're on the right track, and you're going to excel!
Congratulations on securing some fantastic job-shadowing opportunities! Your dedication and effort in exploring the Law Enforcement field is truly commendable. It's easy to make career choices based on what we see on screens, but you're going beyond that. You're proving to yourself and potential employers that you're eager to dive in, learn from the ground up, and embrace the reality of the field. This attitude will undoubtedly lead you to success in any path you choose.
Regarding your question, it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed in Law Enforcement. Don't shy away from this feeling. Instead, embrace the uncertainty, as it will keep you alert and successful as you venture into this field. Dispatch and Probation are excellent starting points for anyone interested in Law Enforcement. These roles offer a comprehensive view of the system, from the initial police response to the offender's reintegration into society.
Dispatch, Probation, and Correctional staff are all trained in effective communication skills, which are vital in active Law Enforcement. By starting in these areas, you'll develop invaluable skills that will benefit you throughout your career and aid your advancement within any level of Law Enforcement you choose to serve.
Your decision to pause and reflect on your next steps shows wisdom. It's important to remember that feeling "over your head" and any creeping doubts can be viewed positively. They're signs that you're making a significant decision and, with the right training, your meticulousness and eagerness to learn (as shown by your job-shadowing initiative) will equip you with the necessary skills for this career move. You're on the right track, and you're going to excel!
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
120
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Meranda,
I will answer this in my own capacity- hopefully it will provide another perspective from what others have shared. Criminal Justice is a much-needed career field with a range of opportunities. Some positions will be more intensive than others. You do not need to have all the answers right now. While getting your undergraduate degree, you can see what areas seem most interesting. You could go into probation (being a probation officer), train to work as a police officer, pursue a federal career in law enforcement, train as a paralegal or attend law school (graduate education). You might consider becoming an investigator with the county public defender's office or pursue training as an independent private investigator. You could explore nonprofit social services jobs in case management, program or project management. You could work as a jail or prison officer or consider an administrative/management role in the same setting. If you have an interest in the military or working at a national park as a ranger, having a background in criminal justice will set you apart from the competition. There are positions for criminal investigators and enforcement officers within the parks system. Being a victim's advocate (for victims of violence) requires an understanding of local policy and law. These are just a few of the options I can think about without doing additional research. In terms of job intensity- certain positions may be more emotionally or physically taxing. Some may involve wearing and being able to operate a firearm. Some may put you at risk for more bodily or psychological injury. However, there are ways to prepare for such positions to minimize the adverse effects. Self-care is essential to any job that involves helping others and working closely with people who have themselves, experienced a range of injustices. Yet such work may also be incredibly satisfying! Doubting yourself is natural when making a new, important commitment- such as attending school. Ask yourself what the doubt (concern/worry/hesitation) is about and take time to explore this in depth. Perhaps it will lead you to a different path. Challenges in life are just that- challenging! They are not easy by default. But what you do not know now, you can learn. What you are not feeling confident in now, you will build over time with experience. Seek mentorship and try out different opportunities. In doing so, you will eventually find your way. Good luck!
I will answer this in my own capacity- hopefully it will provide another perspective from what others have shared. Criminal Justice is a much-needed career field with a range of opportunities. Some positions will be more intensive than others. You do not need to have all the answers right now. While getting your undergraduate degree, you can see what areas seem most interesting. You could go into probation (being a probation officer), train to work as a police officer, pursue a federal career in law enforcement, train as a paralegal or attend law school (graduate education). You might consider becoming an investigator with the county public defender's office or pursue training as an independent private investigator. You could explore nonprofit social services jobs in case management, program or project management. You could work as a jail or prison officer or consider an administrative/management role in the same setting. If you have an interest in the military or working at a national park as a ranger, having a background in criminal justice will set you apart from the competition. There are positions for criminal investigators and enforcement officers within the parks system. Being a victim's advocate (for victims of violence) requires an understanding of local policy and law. These are just a few of the options I can think about without doing additional research. In terms of job intensity- certain positions may be more emotionally or physically taxing. Some may involve wearing and being able to operate a firearm. Some may put you at risk for more bodily or psychological injury. However, there are ways to prepare for such positions to minimize the adverse effects. Self-care is essential to any job that involves helping others and working closely with people who have themselves, experienced a range of injustices. Yet such work may also be incredibly satisfying! Doubting yourself is natural when making a new, important commitment- such as attending school. Ask yourself what the doubt (concern/worry/hesitation) is about and take time to explore this in depth. Perhaps it will lead you to a different path. Challenges in life are just that- challenging! They are not easy by default. But what you do not know now, you can learn. What you are not feeling confident in now, you will build over time with experience. Seek mentorship and try out different opportunities. In doing so, you will eventually find your way. Good luck!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Meranda,
Exploring Career Paths with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice
A Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice can serve as a gateway to a plethora of career opportunities within the criminal justice system and associated sectors. Below are some potential career trajectories you could embark on with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice:
Law Enforcement: A Criminal Justice degree often leads graduates towards law enforcement careers, such as police officers, detectives, or federal agents. These roles, which could be at local, state, or federal levels, involve enforcing laws, probing into crimes, and ensuring public safety.
Corrections: Working in corrections as correctional officers, probation officers, or parole officers is another popular career route for those with a Criminal Justice degree. These professionals interact with individuals convicted of crimes, who are either imprisoned or under community surveillance.
Legal Services: Opportunities in legal services, like paralegal roles, legal assistant positions, or court clerk jobs, can also stem from a Criminal Justice degree. These roles support lawyers and judges in various legal procedures and administrative tasks.
Homeland Security: Criminal Justice graduates may find job opportunities within homeland security, safeguarding the nation from threats like terrorism, natural disasters, and cybersecurity attacks.
Private Security: Some choose to work in private security for corporations, businesses, or private individuals with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice. Their responsibilities may include protecting property, assets, or individuals from security threats.
Social Services: A Criminal Justice degree can also be advantageous for roles within social service agencies that assist at-risk populations, such as crime victims, juvenile offenders, or individuals battling substance abuse or mental health problems.
Forensic Science: If you're intrigued by the scientific side of criminal investigations, a career in forensic science could be an option. Forensic scientists scrutinize physical evidence from crime scenes to aid in solving crimes and support legal procedures.
Cybersecurity: The rising prevalence of cybercrime has led to an increased demand for professionals skilled in cybersecurity. Those with a Criminal Justice background can specialize in cybersecurity to help thwart and investigate digital crimes.
Is a Career in Criminal Justice Right for You?
Given your job shadowing experiences with dispatchers and probation officers in southern Ohio and your interest in a Criminal Justice career, it appears you're already on the path to exploring this field. If you're driven by helping others, upholding justice, and positively impacting your community through law enforcement or related roles, a degree in Criminal Justice could be a great fit for you.
When choosing a major and future career path, it's vital to reflect on your strengths, interests, and long-term career aspirations. If your job shadowing experiences were rewarding and you're eager to continue learning about the criminal justice system and its various facets, this path could be fulfilling.
The field of Criminal Justice provides diverse growth and specialization opportunities, letting you shape your career to match your interests and strengths. By staying abreast of industry trends, networking with field professionals, and gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles, you can further explore if this path is right for you.
Choosing a career path is a deeply personal decision that should align with your values, interests, and ambitions. If you're passionate about contributing to the criminal justice system and public safety and justice efforts, pursuing a BA/BS in Criminal Justice could be an excellent choice for you.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on occupational outlooks across various sectors including law enforcement, corrections, legal services, and other Criminal Justice-related fields.
American Society of Criminology (ASC): The ASC is a scholarly society committed to promoting research on criminology and criminal justice issues. Their publications provide insights into current trends and developments within the field.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): As the U.S. Department of Justice's research arm focused on criminal justice issues, NIJ produces valuable research reports and resources that inform policy decisions related to law enforcement practices, corrections systems, forensic science, victim services, and other areas within the criminal justice field.
Blessings,
JC.
Exploring Career Paths with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice
A Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice can serve as a gateway to a plethora of career opportunities within the criminal justice system and associated sectors. Below are some potential career trajectories you could embark on with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice:
Law Enforcement: A Criminal Justice degree often leads graduates towards law enforcement careers, such as police officers, detectives, or federal agents. These roles, which could be at local, state, or federal levels, involve enforcing laws, probing into crimes, and ensuring public safety.
Corrections: Working in corrections as correctional officers, probation officers, or parole officers is another popular career route for those with a Criminal Justice degree. These professionals interact with individuals convicted of crimes, who are either imprisoned or under community surveillance.
Legal Services: Opportunities in legal services, like paralegal roles, legal assistant positions, or court clerk jobs, can also stem from a Criminal Justice degree. These roles support lawyers and judges in various legal procedures and administrative tasks.
Homeland Security: Criminal Justice graduates may find job opportunities within homeland security, safeguarding the nation from threats like terrorism, natural disasters, and cybersecurity attacks.
Private Security: Some choose to work in private security for corporations, businesses, or private individuals with a BA/BS in Criminal Justice. Their responsibilities may include protecting property, assets, or individuals from security threats.
Social Services: A Criminal Justice degree can also be advantageous for roles within social service agencies that assist at-risk populations, such as crime victims, juvenile offenders, or individuals battling substance abuse or mental health problems.
Forensic Science: If you're intrigued by the scientific side of criminal investigations, a career in forensic science could be an option. Forensic scientists scrutinize physical evidence from crime scenes to aid in solving crimes and support legal procedures.
Cybersecurity: The rising prevalence of cybercrime has led to an increased demand for professionals skilled in cybersecurity. Those with a Criminal Justice background can specialize in cybersecurity to help thwart and investigate digital crimes.
Is a Career in Criminal Justice Right for You?
Given your job shadowing experiences with dispatchers and probation officers in southern Ohio and your interest in a Criminal Justice career, it appears you're already on the path to exploring this field. If you're driven by helping others, upholding justice, and positively impacting your community through law enforcement or related roles, a degree in Criminal Justice could be a great fit for you.
When choosing a major and future career path, it's vital to reflect on your strengths, interests, and long-term career aspirations. If your job shadowing experiences were rewarding and you're eager to continue learning about the criminal justice system and its various facets, this path could be fulfilling.
The field of Criminal Justice provides diverse growth and specialization opportunities, letting you shape your career to match your interests and strengths. By staying abreast of industry trends, networking with field professionals, and gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles, you can further explore if this path is right for you.
Choosing a career path is a deeply personal decision that should align with your values, interests, and ambitions. If you're passionate about contributing to the criminal justice system and public safety and justice efforts, pursuing a BA/BS in Criminal Justice could be an excellent choice for you.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on occupational outlooks across various sectors including law enforcement, corrections, legal services, and other Criminal Justice-related fields.
American Society of Criminology (ASC): The ASC is a scholarly society committed to promoting research on criminology and criminal justice issues. Their publications provide insights into current trends and developments within the field.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ): As the U.S. Department of Justice's research arm focused on criminal justice issues, NIJ produces valuable research reports and resources that inform policy decisions related to law enforcement practices, corrections systems, forensic science, victim services, and other areas within the criminal justice field.
Blessings,
JC.
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