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Criminal Justice Degree

Many people who are fans of television programs like Law & Order or CSI find themselves interested in earning a criminal justice degree. While the cases represented on these shows aren't an accurate depiction of the daily work you would do in this profession, the criminal justice field is growing rapidly. It presents many excellent employment opportunities for bright, hardworking people who want to use their talents to serve the community. Search for great criminal justice exam study tips here.

A criminal justice degree can be an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree, or a master's degree. Many programs are offered either entirely online or have a mixture of online courses and traditional classroom-based education. Credits for an associate's degree will often transfer towards a bachelor's degree, but you will need to contact the school you wish to attend to verify specific policies in this area.

The coursework to earn a criminal justice degree focuses on many different aspects of the law enforcement system. You will learn about issues such as forensics, crime scene investigation, probation, parole, substance abuse, crime prevention, and multicultural law enforcement. Classes often have speakers who come in to share their experiences working in the criminal justice field. You may also be required to complete an internship or externship to gain practical experience.

With a criminal justice degree, you will be able to seek employment with local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. A criminal justice degree can be used to seek a position as a customs agent, security officer, body guard, law clerk, sheriff, police officer, or parole officer. Advancing to upper level positions may require additional training or certification, however.

Last Updated: 04/01/2013