Choosing from the best criminal justice schools in America is key to your future success in the field you choose. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find which ones offer the best education for budding criminal justice students. To make this decision easier to make, Best Universities will guide you in choosing the right one.
Students should research the programs offered by each school listed here. It is important to make sure that the university’s program offers the right curriculum and courses to suit your individual needs. With so many fields within criminal justice jobs, the right college for you must meet thses individual needs. This list will help narrow things down as you prepare for an educatioin in criminal justice. Best Universities has done the research of the cost of tuition and fees and compared them to other schools to ensure that the chosen school is affordable for you, as well.
By taking the time to evaluate this list, you can make an informed decision when selecting from the best criminal justice schools in America. Doing so will ensure that you are getting the best, most personally tailored education possible and will give you the best chance of succeeding in the criminal justice career world.
We’ve curated a list of the best schools for criminal justice programs. Each of these schools meets the following criteria:
- An average annual cost of no more than $22,000
- A median starting salary no lower than $49,500
- Accredited programs by recognized bodies
Popular Online Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Best Criminal Justice Schools
1. University of Maryland – University College
4 Year; College Park, MD
Average Annual Cost: $7,296
University of Maryland – University College, now known as the University of Maryland – Global Campus, has a remarkable criminal justice program. As a fabulous online degree option, you can take advantage of a flexible and versatile learning process. Students will have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science, specializing in criminal behavior and crime.
In your classes, you’ll learn how to apply substantive, procedural, and evidentiary criminal bodies of law. Students will also explore social science research, and criminal justice evaluation and learn about the responsibilities of corrections, police, and courts. It’s one of the many programs that focus on all of the fundamental tenets of criminal justice, ethics, and analytical skills.
Students need to earn 120 total credits; 33 are required for major courses, with 46 being minor and electives. There are also 41 general education courses you’ll be required to take. Some of the most common course offerings for criminal justice majors include:
- Ethical Behavior in Criminal Justice
- Law Enforcement Administration
- Criminal Law in Action
- Criminal Investigation
- Correctional Administration
- Issues in Criminal Justice
Another interesting concept of the criminal justice program at the University of Maryland – University College is its graduate pathway. If you opt to participate in a “Vertical Pathway,” you can reduce the requirements for a master’s degree in Criminal Justice Management. This process is ideal for anyone interested in furthering their undergraduate degree.
University of Maryland – University College has an impressive graduation rate of 85%, with 95% of the study body finding employment in criminal justice upon graduating. After graduation, you’ll be able to earn an average of $46,730.
Further Reading: Cheap Online Criminal Justice Degrees
2. University of Baltimore
4 Year; Baltimore, MD
Average Annual Cost: $10,424
The University of Baltimore offers a unique Bachelor of Science degree for those interested in criminal justice. In this program, you’ll learn about preventing crime as well as researching and analyzing why and how criminality occurs. Students will gather a deeper understanding of the aspects that can affect the likelihood of criminal acts.
You’ll find all of your courses will revolve around research analysis and design as well as criminological theory, administration, and organization. You’ll also have the opportunity to customize your learning pathway to focus on other interdisciplinary courses. For example, if you want to acquire a specialty in information technology, you can choose classes along with your criminal justice requirements.
The program at the University of Baltimore prepares students for a career in corrections, investigative services, law enforcement, and private and public career options. Upon graduation, you could work as a drug enforcement agent, corrections case manager, juvenile counselor, and many more.
All school salaries and data was gathered from gradreports.com, collegescorecard.ed.gov, and collegetuitioncompare.com.
3. University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
4 Year; Denver, CO
Average Annual Cost: $10,907
When pursuing a career in criminal justice, you must have access to a specialty of interest. Studying at the University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus gives you multiple avenues for learning. Students can acquire undergraduate and graduate degrees in various areas of criminal justice, including:
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Minor in Criminal Justice
- Minor in Law Enforcement
- Minor in Victims and Victim Services
- Undergraduate Certificate in Law Enforcement
- Undergraduate Certificate in Victims and Victim Services
- Master of Criminal Justice
- Dual Master of Public Administration/Master of Criminal Justice
- Graduate Certificate in Crime Analysis
As a part of the School of Public Affairs, students will gather an education to help prepare them for an ever-changing workforce. It’s one of the few criminal justice programs that adapt to the modern needs for law enforcement, human services, and crime analysis. You’ll also find this program is perfect for students interested in pursuing a law-related career.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, you’ll explore the tenets of crime and criminal justice organizations. Students will work through complex issues about community corrections, race, crime, victimology, capital punishment, and more. Interestingly, this program is a blend of in-person and online courses, making it highly adaptable to your schedule.
The University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus has an exceptional retention rate of 71% and 50% of the student body graduates. With your degree, there’s the potential to earn an average of $43,494 and $52,524 annually depending on if you go for your bachelors or masters degree in criminal justice.
4. University of Phoenix – Hawaii
4 Year; Kapolei, HI
Average Annual Cost: $11,020
If you’re on the hunt for a criminal justice program that adapts to your schedule, the University of Phoenix – Hawaii is a fantastic solution. Its online course offerings are meant to be taken by working professionals and students interested in studying from home. When it comes to criminal justice, there is a multitude of degree options that you can consider.
During your studies, you’ll be able to build a strong foundation in the specialty while also establishing leadership skills. All of your courses can assist you with finding careers in the court system or other fields of criminal justice, such as security and public administration. What makes the University of Phoenix – Hawaii unique is that most of its courses are online.
Like their New Mexico campus, the University of Phoenix provides Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in various fields. Students often find themselves specializing in Criminal Justice Administration, Correctional Program Support Services, and Security Management. If you want a quick learning pathway to begin your future career, they offer a standard Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice.
Approximately 46% of students graduate from the University of Phoenix – Hawaii. 92% of alumni who graduate from this program find employment upon graduation. The median salary is $38,300, depending on the specialty you choose. Undoubtedly, the starting salary is a desirable feature for prospective students.5. University of Phoenix
5. Florida Institute of Technology – Online
Average Annual Cost: $12,240
The program is one of the most in-depth as it explores several essential concepts of the criminal justice system. Students will also have the benefit of studying entirely online, making it highly adaptable for working professionals. When you complete the program, you’ll be awarded a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.
In total, you will need to acquire 121 credits to earn your degree. Fortunately, there is a wide assortment of course offerings that the program features. Some of the most common classes you’re likely to take during your studies include:
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Law Enforcement Systems
- General Physical Science
- Police Organizations and Administration
- Homeland Security and Terrorism
- Criminology
- Substantive Criminal Law
- Criminal Justice Ethics
Another fabulous feature of the criminal justice program is its list of electives. Within your 121 credits, you’ll be expected to take up to nine credit hours of courses such as:
- Organized Crime
- Serial Killers
- Violent Crime
- White-Collar Crime
- Abnormal Psychology
- Crisis and Conflict Resolution
Florida Institute of Technology-Online has a graduation rate of 12% but for those students who do reach the accomplishment of graduating their hard work pay off with graduates making an average salary of $63,704. Also, as these courses are offered entirely online, you can work and study simultaneously to further your career.
6. Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs
4 Year; Colorado Springs, CO
Average Annual Cost: $13,109
Online degree programs have boomed in popularity thanks to their convenience and versatility. At the Colorado Technical University – Colorado Springs, you can acquire your criminal justice degree online. Students will dive into corrections, justice administration, law adjudication, law enforcement, and criminology during their studies.
Compared to other criminal justice degree programs, this pathway requires you to earn more credits before receiving your degree. Students will be required to take 182 credits which will include some of the following courses:
- Ethics in Criminal Justice
- Algebra for Business
- Introductory Psychology
- Speech Communications
- Victimology
- Public Administration
- Social Psychology
- American Corrections
- Criminal Law
- Criminology
- Career Planning and Management
While working towards your criminal justice degree, you’ll learn about the essential communication and professional skills required of law personnel. You’ll also acquire technical knowledge to assist with improving the justice system as a whole. Undoubtedly, this program helps students prepare for careers in community policing, law enforcement, and security management.
7. Walden University
4 Year; Minneapolis, MN
Average Annual Cost: $13,365
Walden University is another school that focuses primarily on offering courses suitable for working professionals. Whether you already have a career in criminal justice and want to expand or you’re switching careers, this program is ideal. Walden University’s criminal justice program is one of the few currently recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.
They have also earned the title of a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education. With the criminal justice degree, you’ll focus on restorative justice, 21st-century policing, and cybercrime. It’s one of the most adaptable learning pathways to focus on contemporary criminal justice concerns.
Upon graduation, you’ll receive a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Students will also have the opportunity to focus on a specific concentration, including:
- Corrections and Human Services
- Advanced Topics in Criminal Justice
- Criminal Justice Management and Administration
- Crime and Criminal Investigation
If you prefer to have a more flexible learning pathway, Walden University also enables students to design their curriculum. You’ll be able to choose from one of the four concentrations and personalize it to your specifications. With the self-designed course selection, you can focus on your preferred specialty.
8. National University
4 Year; La Jolla, CA
Average Annual Cost: $14,664
National University offers three distinct criminal justice degrees to help you earn your dream career. They offer an undergraduate program, but they also have an inclusive Master’s program for further education. Whether you’re a working professional or a student fresh out of high school, this pathway is ideal for your future goals.
To further understand what each program offers, let’s explore the concepts you’ll learn with each degree.
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration
Students will learn about crime at all levels in this program, including local, state, and federal. You’ll acquire the educational and professional requirements for law enforcement, teaching, training, private security, research, and more. During your studies, you’ll explore civil and criminal investigations, court systems, criminology, juvenile justice, research methods, and forensic science.
- Master of Criminal Justice
Are you interested in taking your undergraduate education to the next level? If so, a Master of Criminal Justice from National University is ideal.
In this program, students will specialize in law enforcement leadership through an engaging curriculum. Students will develop research and problem-solving skills to analyze cases and develop solutions.
Undoubtedly, any area of study specializing in criminal justice will give you the fundamental skills to pursue a law-oriented career. You’ll learn how to apply sociological, biological, and psychological explanations to crime. Students will also gather a strong emphasis on using ethics when approaching federal, state, and local law enforcement.
9. Capella University
4 Year; Minneapolis, MN
Average Annual Cost: $14,668
Undergraduate students interested in acquiring a graduate degree should consider Capella University. Their innovative Master of Science in Criminal Justice can give you the training required to pursue an advanced career. At this time, the school doesn’t offer any undergraduate criminal justice degrees.
You’ll experience resource planning and acquire leadership strategies to help your criminal justice career during your studies. Students will also develop decision-making skills to assist with policy-making to improve community safety. You can seek employment in federal, state, and local government and private sectors with this degree.
One of the more unique features of this program is that it’s developed alongside the FBI National Academy Associates. You’ll acquire real-world experience working with criminal justice with the help of the school’s prestigious faculty. Also, the program has been recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity.
As a whole, Capella University retains approximately 46% of its student body. With your degree, there’s the potential of earning an average of $37,748 and $66,843 , depending on the specialty and level of degree you earn. With a Master’s, you can guarantee your salary will be highly competitive.
What Can I do with my Criminal Justice Degree?
As you consider criminal justice degree programs, it is natural to wonder about employment options after graduation. Most often, an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree is the foundation and starting point for a majority of criminal justice careers. In some cases, even after you receive your degree, you will need additional certification (e.g., if you want to become a cop). To become a criminal researcher, social worker, or lawyer, you will need a graduate degree.
Sometimes a criminal justice degree may not be the best option for your career goals. For instance, if you are interested in becoming a criminologist or a profiler, you will need a background in criminology and psychology. If you choose to pursue a career in a technical specialty like forensics, you will need a rigorous knowledge of chemistry and biology, in addition to your criminal justice knowledge. Your career goals should influence your decision about what kind of education you pursue.
Criminal justice careers typically fall into one of two categories: applied criminal justice, or theoretical criminal justice. Applied criminal justice refers to careers related to the practice of criminal justice, like policing. Theoretical criminal justice refers to careers that deal with the causes of criminal behavior and society’s response to crime, like forensic psychology and criminology. Below, we have profiled the most popular career choices, along with their educational requirements.
Criminal Justice Careers
Criminal justice careers typically fall into one of two categories: law enforcement or legal. Law enforcement refers to careers related to the practice of criminal justice, like policing, and those that deal with the causes of criminal behavior and society’s response to crime, like forensic psychology and criminology. Legal careers focus on providing legal services to individuals and businesses as legal representatives or as public officials in the courts. Below, we have profiled the most popular career choices, along with their educational requirements.
Law Enforcement Careers
The following career paths will enable you to enter law enforcement either at the local, state, or federal levels. Read each description to develop a point of view on whether your career selection is right for you.
Bailiff
Bailiffs are law enforcement officers who are responsible for maintaining order and providing security in courtrooms. Also called marshals or court officers, their duties vary depending on their location, but typically include enforcing courtroom rules, opening court by announcing judges’ arrivals, guarding sequestered juries, delivering documents, taking custody of offenders, and calling witnesses to the stand and presenting the oath. The educational requirements for bailiffs can also vary depending on their location. Some local and state law enforcement agencies require at least a high school diploma or GED, while others require some college and law enforcement or military experience. Others prefer bailiffs to have an associate’s or bachelor’s criminal justice degree. However, for employment on the federal level, a bachelor’s degree and related work experience are a requirement for entry-level positions. In addition to the minimum education requirements, bailiffs may also be required to complete a formal training program that includes instruction in topics like custody and security procedures, use of firearms and chemical sprays, self-defense, CPR, and first aid.
BLS reports that the median annual salary for court bailiffs is $48,320 in 2021. This occupation is on the decline but BLS excects approximately 33,000 job openings for bailiffs annually over the next decade. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a bailiff, you are encouraged to contact local and state law enforcement agencies, courts, and schools with criminal justice programs to connect with internship resources.
As part of your preparation for a bailiff career, you may enjoy exploring subjects like law enforcement systems, community policing, and critical incident analysis.
Border Patrol Agent
Border patrol agents are the law enforcement officers of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They are primarily responsible for patrolling the Mexican and Canadian international land borders and the coastal waters surrounding the Florida Peninsula and the island of Puerto Rico to detect, prevent and apprehend terrorists, undocumented aliens, and smugglers of aliens at or near the land border. Working with other law enforcement officers, they help to facilitate the flow of legal immigration and importation of goods while preventing illegal trafficking. To qualify for the GL-5 level, the lowest rank, you must have at least three years of general work experience that demonstrates your decision-making and ability to maintain composure in potentially dangerous situations. A four-year degree may be substituted if you don’t have the required background experience. Although there is no requirement that your degree is in a particular field, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice may help to give you a competitive edge. During the training, you’ll receive instruction in both border patrol and federal law enforcement subjects. Federal law enforcement subjects include communications, report writing, and ethics and conduct. Border patrol-specific training includes instruction in areas like immigration and nationality law, border patrol operations, physical training, and Spanish.
Since knowledge of Spanish is critical as many of the persons border patrol agents come into contact with speak only Spanish, trainees are tested for Spanish speaking skills within the first two weeks of training at the academy. If you cannot pass the exam, you will have to complete eight weeks of Spanish language training in addition to your basic training.
The employment rate for this field is expected to grow by 3% between 2021 and 2031, as predicted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, heightened security concerns regarding American border safety and illegal immigration have resulted in a need for qualified applicants, therefore, individuals who are bilingual or have law enforcement or military experience are expected to find the best job opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average annual border patrol agent salary was $66,020 in 2021.
If you are in a criminal justice career as a border patrol agent, you may consider taking classes like homeland security and terrorism, crime prevention, and policing in context.
Bounty Hunter
Bounty hunters are individuals who execute warrants by locating, apprehending, and transporting fugitives who have forfeited their bail by failing to appear in court. Bounty hunters are also sometimes referred to as bail enforcement agents, fugitive recovery agents, or bail fugitive investigators. Although there are not any specific education or training requirements to become a bounty hunter, several schools offer online and video training courses that may help you prepare for a career as a bounty hunter. However, you may consider pursuing a criminal justice associate’s degree to gain a fundamental understanding of criminal behavior and the law, and especially the statutes in your state. For example, you should know your rights and limitations as a bounty hunter as it relates to the use of force or firearms. Additionally, you may also consider becoming trained in the areas of safety and self-defense.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a 6 percent employment growth for bounty hunters through 2031, due to increasing demand for security and safety. Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports the median annual salary for bounty hunters as $59,380 in 2021. The lowest 10% made an average of $32,130 and the top 10% made an average of $98,070. Therefore, the annual earnings for bounty hunters are dependent on the number of cases taken and a person’s apprehension success rate. Students thinking of becoming bounty hunters typically take courses like constitutional law, criminal procedure, or criminal investigation.
Corrections Officer
Correctional officers work in the penal system, which is the corrections and rehabilitation segment of the criminal justice system. Corrections officers are responsible for maintaining security within prisons. Their duties can include supervising inmates, conducting cell searches, restraining inmates, and preventing assaults, insurgencies, and escapes. The basic education requirement for corrections officers is a high school diploma or a general education development (GED) certificate. However, some state and local agencies may require applicants to have some college credits. In many cases, military and law enforcement experience can be substituted for education. If you would like to work in corrections on the federal level, you will need to possess a bachelor’s degree.
In addition to the academy training that most agencies provide to new corrections officers, there is usually also on-the-job training. New recruits typically shadow a more experienced officer for several weeks or months, and they receive training in the legal limitations and boundaries of their position. Lastly, many agencies also offer new recruits training in the use of firearms and self-defense to ensure their safety when working with inmates. On the federal level, corrections officers are required to go through 200 hours of formal training during their first year of employment, and to keep up with changes and developments by participating in annual in-service training.
Students interested in a career as a corrections officer typically take courses like criminology, criminal behavior, and corrections and rehabilitation.
Crime Scene Investigator
Crime scene investigators, also called forensic science technicians, process crime scenes to collect, identify, classify, and analyze evidence. They work with the police to help apprehend individuals suspected of criminal activity. Crime scene investigators can also be critical to a prosecutor’s case since their crime reports and testimony can either help convict or acquit suspects in criminal cases. The educational requirements for crime scene investigators vary by location and employer. Many crime scene investigation careers require a bachelor’s degree in either forensic science or natural science, like biology, with an emphasis on the criminal investigation, or a criminal justice degree with a background in science. Others may require a criminal justice degree with some background in science. Smaller or rural agencies may hire applicants who have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Because they require extensive on-the-job training before working independently, newly hired crime scene investigators must complete on-the-job training in the form of an apprenticeship. During the apprenticeship, they are paired with more experienced investigators to learn the proper methodology and procedures for collecting and classifying evidence. Additionally, criminal investigators who work in a crime lab must complete DNA-analysis training, which can last for 6 to 12 months, while firearms analysis training can last up to three years.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of crime scene investigators is forecasted to grow by 11% through 2031. The increased use of forensic evidence in court cases accounts for the projected increase in the number of crime scene investigator positions that will become available. BLS also reports that the average annual salary of crime scene investigators was $61,930 in 2021. Actual salaries vary depending on location, degree level, and experience, which may account for the fact that the lowest 10% in the field earned less than $37,670, and the top 10% earned more than $103,430 in 2021.
Typically, students interested in exploring crime scene investigation careers are able to gain practical experience by participating in internship programs sponsored by, or by securing summer employment with, a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency.
Students interested in studying crime scene investigations may find taking classes like blood patterns and crime scenes, crime scene photography, and foundations of criminal investigation interesting and helpful.
Criminal Profiler
Criminal profilers create psychological profiles of criminals to identify behavioral patterns, which can help officers isolate their searches to suspects who fit a particular profile. Criminal profilers examine crime scenes, interview witnesses and victims, and analyze crime scene evidence to gather the information needed to create a psychological profile. They may work within a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency, and they may be called upon to give expert witness testimony in a court case. Education requirements for criminal profilers are not clearly defined, however, it is recommended that if you are interested in becoming a criminal profiler you need to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or behavioral science. Other possible educational pathways can include pursuing a double major in psychology and criminal justice or getting a criminal justice bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in psychology or forensic psychology. The Behaviors Science Unit (BSU) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offers basic behavioral science training seminars to various groups including domestic and international law enforcement officers, U.S. military and intelligence officers, new agents, and academic personnel, when appropriate. The training includes topics such as bio-psycho-social aspects of criminal behavior, applied criminology, death investigation management, and juvenile crime and behavior.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for criminal investigators is expected to be 3% between 2021 and 2031. Job opportunities for state and federal criminal investigators are expected to be competitive due to greater opportunities for growth and higher salaries. The mean annual wage for criminal investigators and detectives, according to BLS, is $66,020, while the average annual wage of psychologists is $81,040, which may give you an idea of what the average salary is for a criminal profiler.
As you consider your educational pathway to pursuing a career as a criminal profiler, you may consider taking courses like sociology of deviance, psychological factors of crime, and crime, deviation, and conformity.
Criminologist
Criminologists typically work in local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. They are responsible for studying and analyzing the behavior and methods of criminals, in order to determine what motivates them. Once criminologists have identified criminal patterns, law enforcement uses the information to assess potential criminal situations and to predict (and prevent) additional crimes. Entry-level criminologists usually hold a bachelor’s degree in criminology, sociology, or psychology. However, many federal and private industry employers prefer that criminologists hold at least a master’s degree in behavioral science or a closely related field of study. Choosing to pursue a master’s degree from one of the top criminal justice graduate programs may take you up to two years to complete, but having an advanced degree can definitely give you a distinct advantage when competing for jobs in your field. Even though individuals with advanced degrees will enjoy the best career opportunities, bachelor’s and master’s degree holders should do well in fields such as criminal justice, public policy, or victim’s services.
There are a wide variety of criminologist internships available to students enrolled in both on-campus and online criminal justice degree programs. Many internships are available through local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, victim services, and rehabilitative agencies. However, your school can be a good source for arranging internships also.
There are not any licensing requirements to enter the criminologist field. If you are considering pursuing a career as a criminologist, courses like correctional philosophy, psychological factors of crime, and meta-analysis in criminal justice are typically the types of classes enjoyed by others in your field.
Customs Agent
Customs border and protection officers, or customs agents, are federal law enforcement officers of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responsible for enforcing U.S. customs laws for every item or individual that enters or leaves the country. They are present at every international airport, seaport, and land border crossing to ensure to detection and confiscation of smuggled goods, prevent individuals without legal authorization from entering the country, and ensure import duties are paid. To qualify for the entry-level rank of GS-5, the lowest rank, you must have at least three years of general work experience that demonstrates your ability to interact well with people and to learn and apply information. If you do not have the required professional experience, a bachelor’s degree may be an acceptable substitute. Once hired, as a customs agent trainee, you are required to attend a one-month training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC). During your training, you’ll receive instruction in basic law enforcement skills, cross-cultural communications, entry and control procedures, and U.S. customs import and export laws. If you are selected for duty in an area requiring knowledge of Spanish, you may receive an additional six weeks of language training if you do not pass a Spanish proficiency test.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate in this field is expected to grow by 3% between 2021 and 2031. Additionally, heightened security concerns regarding illegal immigration, terrorism, and gun trafficking have resulted in a need for qualified applicants, therefore, if you are bilingual, or have law enforcement or military experience, it is expected that you should have the best employment opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the average annual border patrol agent salary was $66,020 in 2021.
If you a considering a career as a customs agent, you may enjoy taking criminal justice courses like the psychology of criminal behavior, drugs and crime, and deviance and social control.
Federal Special Agent
The role of federal special agents falls under the law enforcement category of the criminal justice system, but instead of being assigned to a single geographic area, the entire country is their jurisdiction. As the nation’s primary investigators, they are responsible for enforcing over 300 federal statutes and investigating criminal activities that threaten national security. To meet the educational hiring requirement for a federal special agent, you must have, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least three years of professional work experience. You must also be able to pass physical, medical, and psychological exams in addition to a series of lie detector tests.
Along with the basic educational requirements, federal special agents must undergo intensive 21-week training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The training includes classroom and practical instruction in areas like national security investigations, interviewing, and criminal investigations.
Although BLS reports that the expected job growth for investigators, in general, will be 3%, it is also expected that federal special agent positions will remain competitive due to a higher rate of pay, opportunities for inter-agency transfers, and greater room for advancement and promotions.
The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) offers several 10-week summer internship opportunities to junior and senior undergraduate students interested in learning about FBI operations and exploring career opportunities with the Bureau. Students may work at one of 56 field office locations, FBI headquarters in Washington, DC, or the Criminal Justice Information Services Center in West Virginia.
If you are a student interested in federal special agent career opportunities or pursuing an online criminal justice degree, you may enjoy taking a class like fundamentals of law, forensic science, or investigative and intelligence techniques.
Game Warden
Game wardens have commissioned peace officers who patrol the lands and waterways of their communities to enforce fishing, hunting, and boating safety laws. Game wardens may patrol borders as part of their state’s homeland security initiative, investigate environmental crimes, and conduct search-and-rescue operations in a state’s lakes and rivers. They also educate the public regarding environmental laws, assist other law enforcement agencies with apprehending criminals and render aid during natural disasters, such as floods and hurricanes.
Game wardens typically have to meet specific hiring criteria, however, the requirements can vary greatly by state. Some states require candidates to have a high school diploma or general education equivalent (GED), while other states require game warden candidates to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Some hiring preference may be given to people with previous law enforcement experience..
Jobs for game wardens should remain competitive since state and federal agencies typically offer higher pay and more opportunities for advancement than local agencies. In addition, BLS also suggests that candidates who are bilingual, or who have law enforcement or military experience will find the best opportunities in federal agencies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also reports that the median annual salary for game wardens in 2021 was $66,020.
If you are a criminal justice student interested in pursuing a career as a game warden, you may enjoy taking courses like public safety operations, wildlife management, and occupational crime.
Law Enforcement Officer
Law enforcement officers are responsible for maintaining public safety, preventing criminal activity, and apprehending criminal offenders within their jurisdiction. They also work with other agencies within the criminal justice system by helping to ensure violators are prosecuted by testifying in court, interviewing victims, and locating witnesses to crimes. Most police departments require applicants to have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, and some agencies require at least a criminal justice associate degree. However, you should have a bachelor’s degree or higher if you want to move up the ranks within a police department.
Before being sworn in as a law enforcement officer, you must attend basic training at a police academy that, depending on your agency and location, may last from 12 weeks to over a year. During basic training, you will receive classroom and hands-on instruction in areas that will help you be successful as a law enforcement officer, such as community policing, use of force, self-defense, and ethics.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall job outlook for law enforcement officers is favorable. On the local level, the expected rate of employment growth is 3%, however, most municipal agencies experience high turnover rates that can create job opportunities for qualified applicants. On the other hand, it is estimated that the outlook for federal law enforcement officers will continue to be competitive because of higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement. BLS also reports that the average median salary for law enforcement officers in 2021 was $61,190.
College students studying criminal justice may apply to any one of the 12-week internship sessions held three times a year by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. The program is open to criminal justice seniors and graduate students. In addition, many local police departments have cadet programs, which allow qualified individuals who have not met the hiring age requirement to gain work experience and receive training that prepares them to transition to a law enforcement officer position once they become eligible.
There are not any licensing or certification requirements for becoming a law enforcement officer. If you are considering becoming a cop, you may enjoy taking constitutional law and sociology. You may also consider taking a foreign language if you will be working in an urban area with diverse populations.
Military Police
Military police are charged with the duty of protecting the lives and property of enlisted personnel by enforcing military laws and regulations. They are also responsible for controlling traffic, preventing crime, and responding to emergencies on military bases. Similar to their civilian law enforcement counterparts, military police perform patrols; interview witnesses, victims, and suspects in investigations; conduct crime scene security processing, and arrest and charge criminal suspects. All branches of the Armed Forces require their members to be high school graduates or have equivalent credentials, such as a GED. However, if you are interested in becoming an officer, you will typically need to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree to qualify for officer training. To join the Army’s military police, you must first take the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). The ASVAB helps determine your suitability for certain occupations, and your score determines the types of training programs that may accept you. If you are accepted, you will then have to participate in a 20-week job training program in addition to the on-the-job training in police methods you will receive.
During those 20 weeks, you will receive classroom and field instruction. Topics that are covered include basic warrior skills and use of firearms; traffic and crowd control; investigating and collecting evidence; military/civil laws and jurisdiction; and arrest and restraint of suspects.
There are various internship opportunities available for students who participate in a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program at their college or university, however, there are no internships available specifically for military police. Additionally, there are not any licensing requirements to meet prior to enlisting in the Armed Forces.
Although a degree is not required to become a military police officer, taking courses like police and society, criminal investigation, and theories of crime and deviance as part of a criminal justice degree can help prepare you for a variety of opportunities in this niche.
Parole Officer
Parole officers work with individuals who have been released from prison or jail and are serving parole until their actual sentence release date. The role of the parole officer is to aid in the offender’s rehabilitation and help them avoid returning to prison. Parole officers accomplish this by providing offenders with resources, such as family and substance abuse counseling, job training, or educational programs to help them re-enter society and change their behavior patterns to reduce the risk of recidivism. State and federal corrections and justice departments most often employ parole officers. To enter the field, you must have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. Federal parole officers are typically required to have an additional year of graduate-level studies in areas like social work, sociology, or counseling. Specialized parole officer education can typically include coursework in interviewing and counseling, juvenile processes, parole terminology, case law, adult criminal justice systems, statutes, fines and restitution, and court reports and presentations. These kinds of courses can help new parole officers gain the knowledge and develop the skills they need for success in their careers.
According to BLS, the employment of parole officers shows no chance of increase or decline between 2021 and 2031. Parole officer salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for this field was $60,250 in 2021.
Internships in this field provide students studying criminal justice the opportunity to gain a working knowledge of the parole process and the day-to-day responsibilities of a parole officer. Typically, interns are allowed to handle many of the basic parole officer functions, including verifying offenders’ employment and residence information, assisting with offender background investigations, maintaining files and records, and entering information into the agency’s computerized database.
There are not any specific licensing requirements for parole officers. However, most states require parole officers to attain some form of certification once they have completed training and probationary programs.
Criminal justice students focusing on parole officer education may enjoy courses like race, gender, class, and gender in a correctional context, or administration of community-based corrections programs.
Police Detective
Police detectives are ununiformed officers who collect evidence, investigate criminal activity, conduct interviews of suspects, witnesses, and victims, and arrest suspects. Typically, police detectives start out as patrol officers, so the entry-level criteria for detectives are the same as it is for cops. Also, like uniformed police officers, detectives are often called upon to testify in court to support a prosecution’s case against an offender. They also help district attorneys by ensuring the evidence they collect and the confessions they receive are admissible in court. Police detectives must complete a few years as patrol officers before being eligible to take a written examination that qualifies them to become detectives. Having a criminal justice degree may help you earn a higher salary as an officer, and may give you a competitive advantage when applying for detective and other promotions.
The BLS predicts that job opportunities in most local police departments will be good, but there will be a lot of competition for police jobs in state and federal agencies. The BLS also reports that in 2010 the median annual salary for detectives and criminal investigators in the U.S. was $66,020.
If you are considering pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, you may find taking courses like criminology and public policy, police administration, and criminal investigation interesting and beneficial.
Private Investigator
Private investigators are non-law enforcement detectives who conduct surveillance, find facts and information, and analyze and present their findings as it relates to their clients’ personal, legal, and business matters. They provide many services, including tracing missing persons, conducting background checks, and investigating suspected criminal activity. In many cases, their investigation can overlap with a criminal investigation being conducted by law enforcement officers. They may also be called upon to share their findings with the authorities and to testify in court. Although most private investigators have some college credentials, most firms do not have formal education requirements, and private investigators typically learn on the job.
In addition to learning how to collect data, private investigators need to acquire industry-specific knowledge to succeed in their field. For example, investigators may need to study accounting, finance, business management, and fraud prevention to be effective as corporate investigators. Or, they may choose to go into criminal investigations, which would call for a degree in criminal justice, criminology, or law enforcement.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the best opportunities will be found in entry-level investigative work for people with previous law enforcement or military experience. The job outlook for private investigators is still quite positive, in general. BLS predicts the field will experience a 6 percent increase in growth by 2031, which is average expected growth. The anticipated growth stems from increased security concerns and the increased demand to protect confidential data and property from theft and exploitation. According to BLS, the average median pay for private investigators was $59,380 in 2021.
Students interested in private investigations may be also interested in courses like policing, investigative function, and organized crime in America.
Probation Officer
The terms probation officer and parole officer are often used interchangeably, however, the two positions are actually different. Probation officers work with offenders who have been convicted of a crime, but were granted probation in lieu of jail time, and parole officers work with offenders who have served jail time. Probation officers develop and implement rehabilitation plans that include home and work visits, counseling referrals, and overseeing drug tests and electronic monitoring to ensure the offender doesn’t endanger anyone or themselves. Except for in very small or rural areas, probation officers typically work with either adults or juveniles, but not both. Typically, agencies require probation officers to have a bachelor’s degree in corrections, criminal justice, or another closely related field. However, if you don’t have related work experience, you may be required to have a master’s degree in criminal justice or corrections as a substitute for experience. In general, some states require probation officers to complete a training program sponsored by the state before seeking certification, and others require an on-the-job probationary period of six months to one year before being allowed to take a certification exam. In addition to college courses, probation officers can participate in professional development training that helps to develop skills in areas like social perceptiveness, inductive reasoning, judgment and decision making, problem sensitivity, and maintaining interpersonal relationships, all of which can help probation officers do their jobs well.
The BLS also reports that the median annual salary for probation officers was $60,250 in 2021, however, the upper 10 percent earned more than $99,090. Because actual salaries vary depending on experience and education, it may be worth the investment to pursue a master’s degree in criminal justice or a similar subject to increase your earning potential.
Probation officer internships can provide criminal justice students with the opportunity to gain practical experience. Interns are usually assigned tasks related to low-level offenders, like verifying offenders’ employment and residence information, assisting with offender background investigations, maintaining files and records, and entering information into the agency’s computerized database.
There are not any specific licensing requirements for employment as probation officers. However, most states require probation officers to attain certification once they have completed training and probationary programs.
As a criminal justice student interested in a career as a probation officer, you may consider taking courses like theories of crime prevention, criminal justice ethics, or juvenile delinquency.
Security Officer
The security officer’s role in the criminal justice system is to deter criminal activity, enforce laws, and to monitor all levels of activity to protect property against theft, defacement, fire, and other forms of illegal activity. Security officers accomplish this by monitoring alarms and surveillance cameras, controlling access to specified areas, interviewing witnesses in case of court testimony, and detaining criminal offenders for the police. In most cases, employers require security officers to have a high school diploma or a GED. Employers who hire armed security officers, however, typically give preference to applicants who have completed some criminal justice coursework or who have law enforcement experience. For the most part, you do not need to have any specific training to qualify for a security officer position, as most employers provide on-the-job training to new officers. The specific type and amount of training you may receive varies and is dependent on the type of security work you are hired to do. ASIS International, an organization of security practitioners, has developed training guidelines that recommend 8 to 16 hours of on-the-job training in addition to 8 hours of annual training. In general, training typically covers emergency response protocol, first aid, public relations, detention of suspects, and report writing.
The guidelines also recommend annual firearms training for armed officers as required by the state in which they work. If you are interested in becoming an armed security officer, your training will be more rigorous and involve training in the use of force and weapons retention. You may also be tested periodically in the use of firearms.
Industry sources indicate that as concerns about terrorism and crime continue to rise, the need for the protection of people and property will also rise. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the employment rate for security officers to grow by 3% between 2021 and 2031, which translates to around 38,000 new positions becoming available during that time frame. Although many people are drawn to the field because of the low training requirements and part-time employment positions, the field experiences a great deal of turnover, which will create additional job opportunities. Security officers with related experiences, such as a background in law enforcement or a criminal justice degree, will be the most competitive and secure the best prospects.
The average median wage for security officers is $31,470, however, the top 10% of security officers earned $56,730. If you have professional experience and more education, it can translate into a higher pay rate for you. Taking classes like public safety operations, criminal justice ethics, and police-community relations can help to give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Security officers are required to be licensed in most states. Although specific requirements vary by state, in general, you should be at least 18 years of age, pass a criminal background check, not have a history of drug use, and complete the required amount of training. Also, if you want to become an armed security officer, attaining a firearm license is a separate process. In some states, the licensing agency is the Department of Public Safety, and in others, it is the Division of Licensing. It is advisable that you check with the state in which you will work to verify the specific agency and requirements for your situation.
If you are considering pursuing a security guard career, classes like police function, criminal justice ethics, and police and society may be of interest to you.
Sociologist
Sociologists working in the criminal justice system study how social influences affect individuals and groups, especially in the context of the social forces related to crime and delinquency. They also examine how criminal justice agencies and institutions affect people’s lives. The findings of their sociological studies can help lawmakers and law enforcement develop, implement, and evaluate public and crime control policies. Generally, the entry-level educational requirement for sociologists is a master’s degree. If you are interested in becoming a sociologist within the criminal justice system, you may consider earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a specialization in criminal justice and a master’s degree in sociology to prepare for a sociologist career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment growth rate for sociologists is expected to be 5% between now and 2031. It is expected that the growth can be attributed to the use of sociological research in policy development, and in the research of social issues, problems, or programs. BLS goes on to report that the median annual salary of sociologists was $92,910 in 2021.
As a recent graduate, you should expect your actual salary to vary, depending on your degree level, years of relevant experience, and geographical location. For example, the lowest 10% of sociologists earned less than $60,770 while the top 10% earned close to $135,420 in 2021.
There are a wide variety of internships available to undergraduate and graduate students of criminal justice who want to explore sociologist careers. Typically, most sociology and criminal justice-oriented internships are available through local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, juvenile justice departments, adult corrections agencies, and criminal law organizations.
There are not any licensing requirements for becoming a sociologist. If you are considering pursuing a career as a sociologist, courses like current social problems, sociology of crime and punishment, and structure factors in crime are typically the types of classes that may be enjoyed by other students in your field.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance abuse counselors in the criminal justice system typically work with either adult or juvenile offenders and their parole or probation officers to provide assessments, education, and treatment plans to help offenders recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Substance abuse counselors also provide group and individual counseling to inmates, offenders on probation, parolees, and the families of the offenders. Depending on the type of work, state regulations, level of responsibility, and the counseling setting, the educational requirements for substance abuse counselors can range from a high school diploma or equivalent to a master’s degree. However, substance abuse counselors working in private practice must have a master’s degree and a state license to practice counseling.
According to the BLS, the employment of substance abuse counselors is expected to grow by 22 percent through 2031. They speculate the fast rate of growth will be due to the criminal justice system’s attempt to curb offender recidivism by requiring substance abuse treatment as part of an offender’s sentence, or in lieu of jail time.
The BLS also reports that the average annual salary for substance abuse counselors was $48,520 in 2021. However, salaries are determined by location, education, and experience. For example, the lowest 10% of substance abuse counselors earned less than $30,870, while the upper 10% earned over $77,980. Therefore, earning a master’s degree in counseling, criminology, psychology, or a related subject could be a very good investment in your career.
Students pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree should be able to secure internship opportunities through hospitals, human and social services organizations, mental health outpatient centers, and residential substance abuse and mental health facilities. Schools with criminal justice programs may also be able to help you connect with criminal justice professionals to arrange substance abuse counseling internship opportunities within the context of corrections.
In addition to mandated licensing, substance abuse counselors may also seek voluntary certification. The certified criminal justice professional (CCJP) credential, also known as certified criminal justice addiction professional certification, is for criminal justice professionals who provide treatment services to adult and juvenile drug offenders. If you have a criminal justice degree, it may be possible to apply your bachelor’s or master’s degree towards the certification’s education requirements. Becoming certified demonstrates professional competency in your field.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in substance abuse counseling, you may also be interested in taking courses like drugs and crime; alcohol, drugs, and society, and sociology of crime and punishment.
Transportation Security Administration Officer
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are security guards responsible for protecting people, property, equipment, and freight at airports, seaports, and rail terminals. Their primary duties include screening passengers and baggage for weapons, explosives, and illegal items; guarding vehicles to ensure nothing is stolen during loading or unloading; and watching for criminal activity. The hiring requirements for TSA officers include a high school diploma or GED and at least one year of security-related work experience. TSA officers must also pass a background check, drug screening, and physical exam. TSA officer candidates are required to complete a basic training program that includes at least 40 hours of classroom instruction and 60 hours of on-the-job training to achieve initial certification as a checkpoint TSA officer. Students interested in pursuing supervisory TSA officer positions are encouraged to consider completing a criminal justice associate degree for a more competitive edge. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of TSA officers is anticipated to grow by 3% through 2031, which is about average for all occupations. The average median salary for TSA officers in 2021, as reported by BLS, was $31,550.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers several paid and unpaid internship opportunities in its various operation areas, including transportation security, management, administration, and professional services to undergraduate and graduate students. As a criminal justice student, you may consider taking courses like criminology, theory, and practice of crime prevention, and terrorism.
Legal Careers
From paralegal to judge, the legal careers listed below will expand your understanding of the legal paths you can take. Some require advanced degrees, but many are viable alternatives to post-graduation.
Attorney (Defense)
Defense attorneys are lawyers who specialize in representing or advocating for the accused in criminal court cases. They are usually either hired by individual clients or by the government as public defenders. To become a lawyer, you typically need to complete at least seven years of full-time study after high school, which includes a four-year undergraduate degree and three years of law school. Earning a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and passing your state’s bar exam should allow you to practice law in your state. Before you can begin your studies, most law schools require you to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which measures your aptitude for the study of law. LSAT scores are usually a determining factor in law school admission, so it is important that you prepare for the exam. In law school, you will study subjects like civil action, criminal procedure, legal research and writing, property law, criminal law, and constitutional law. You may also choose a specialization, such as family or corporate law, while in law school.
Further Reading: Best LST Prep Courses
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 10% growth in the employment of defense attorneys between 2021 and 2031. However, even with the 80,200 new jobs expected to be added during that timeframe, competition is expected to be strong due to economic factors and budget constraints potentially negatively affecting hiring trends.
According to BLS, the average annual salary of defense lawyers was $127,990 in 2021. The actual income of a new defense attorney income can vary depending on factors such as whether you open your own practice, work for a large law firm, or work for the government as a public defender.
Typically, law students are able to gain practical experience by participating in internship programs sponsored by their schools, or by securing summer jobs in a variety of legal environments, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. In addition, agencies like the U.S. Department of Justice offer several paid and unpaid internship opportunities in its management offices, litigating divisions, legal and policy offices, and investigatory and law enforcement offices to undergraduate and graduate students.
Specific procedures vary by state, but in general, attorneys must become licensed by passing the written bar exam upon completion of law school. Since the exam is administered in each state, you must pass the bar in each state you would like to work. Some states also require attorneys to pass ethics exams and other state-specific tests.
Students considering becoming defense attorneys typically enjoy courses like the law of deprivation of liberty, law and science in criminal justice, and evidentiary issues in criminal justice.
Attorney (Prosecutor)
Prosecutors have licensed lawyers who are either elected or hired to represent local, state, and federal governments in criminal cases against individuals or groups charged with criminal activity. They work closely with law enforcement officers, participate in criminal investigations, interview witnesses and victims, present evidence in court, and help to determine the punishment or settlement criminal defendants should receive. To become an attorney, you typically need to complete at least seven years of full-time study after high school, which includes a four-year undergraduate degree and three years of law school. Earning a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and passing your state’s bar exam should allow you to practice law in your state. Before you can begin your studies, most law schools require you to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The LSAT measures the necessary qualities to succeed in law schools, such as reading comprehension, logic, reasoning, and analytical thinking skills. Admission to law school is competitive and the test scores are usually a determining factor in law school admission, so it is important that you prepare for the exam. During the first half of law school, you will learn the fundamental aspects of the law such as civil procedure, legal research and writing, property law, and constitutional law. In the second half of law school, you may choose a specialization, such as tax or criminal law.
Law students have a variety of internship opportunities to choose from to gain exposure and practical experience. You can participate in internship programs sponsored by your school or secure a summer job in a variety of legal environments, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Also, the U.S. Department of Justice offers undergraduate and graduate students several paid and unpaid internship opportunities in its litigating divisions, legal and policy offices, and investigatory offices.
Although specific procedures vary by state, in general, attorneys must become licensed by passing the written bar exam upon completion of law school. Since the exam is administered in each state, you must pass the bar in each state you would like to work. Some states also require attorneys to pass ethics exams and other state-specific tests.
Students interested in becoming prosecution attorneys typically enjoy courses like the law and the legal system, constitutional criminal procedure, and the legal foundations of the trial process.
Court Reporter
Court reporters are critical to the field of criminal justice because they are able to create verbatim and accurate transcripts of legal proceedings, meetings, depositions, and speeches. Their responsibilities include ensuring legal records are complete, accurate, and secure. Most court reporters receive their education at either a community college or vocational school. The programs are varied, depending on the transcription method learned, so the amount of time it takes to complete training can be from six months for a certificate to two to four years for an associate’s degree. Additionally, court reporter training programs usually include English grammar and phonetics, legal procedures, and legal terminology courses. Court reporters are also required to meet on-the-job training requisites upon completion of a training program. Certified court reporters are also required to complete online training and continuing education classes to maintain their National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) certification. Lastly, licensed court reporters must also meet their state’s licensing continuing education requirements as well.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of court reporters will grow by 1% by 2031. Court reporter services are currently being used for closed captioning on the Internet and on television. In addition, court reporters with real-time captioning experience and Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) will have the best job prospects.
In 2021, there were approximately 18,200 court reporters working in the U.S., and over half worked in state and local government. The median annual wage for court reporters was $60,380 that same year.
There are internship opportunities for court reporting students wanting to gain practical experience by applying their classroom knowledge to real-life situations. Your school should be your first point of reference for approved work sites if you need to complete an internship for graduation. However, court reporting agencies like AccuScript, Inc. offer working and student internships that allow students to explore careers as freelance court reporters and to help students transition smoothly from court reporting students to professional court reporters.
Court reporting students may find taking courses like business and professional writing, introduction to law and the legal system, and basic computer skills for legal professionals useful.
Judge
Judges commonly preside over trials or hearings regarding nearly every aspect of society on the municipal, state, and federal levels. They ensure proceedings are orderly and fair. Judges also interpret the law and apply precedent with the objective of protecting the legal rights of both the prosecution and the defense. They also give directions to the jury in a jury trial, or they rule on a defendant’s innocence or guilt in trials without a jury. For the most part, judges are required to have a law degree. Earning a law degree usually takes seven years of full-time study after high school which includes four years of undergraduate studies and three years in law school. Most judges have years of experience working as an attorney before being elected or appointed into a judgeship. All judges in each state must go through some form of training or orientation. Judicial training is provided by agencies such as the National Judicial College, the Federal Judicial Center, the American Bar Association, and the National Center for State Courts. Continuing education courses are also required by most states, and can vary in length from a few days to a few weeks. Also, federal administrative law judges are required to be lawyers and to pass an exam administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, very little change is expected in federal and state judgeships because each new position that comes available due to death, retirement, or expiration of term must be authorized and approved by state or federal legislature. In 2021, the median annual salary for judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates was $128,710.
There are not any licensing requirements specific to the position of the judge; however, most judges are required to be licensed to practice law. Since many judges were lawyers before they became judges, they already hold a license.
Students interested in pursuing a career as a judge typically enjoy courses like the specific problems in law and social control, capital punishment, and juvenile justice.
Paralegal
A paralegal (or legal assistant) works in private law firms or government agencies. Depending on their experience and education, paralegals can perform many of the same tasks an attorney would. Paralegals help lawyers prepare for hearings, trials, depositions, and meetings. Additionally, paralegals may also investigate the facts of a case, draft pleadings and motions, or conduct legal research.
Competition for jobs is expected to remain strong, but paralegals who are formally trained, have experience, and are specialized will have the best job prospects. Aundrea mentioned that freelance paralegals face a different set of challenges in the fact that, even though they have the freedom to be their own bosses, they don’t spend as much time doing actual “paralegal work”—this is because they have to balance their roles as paralegals with being entrepreneurs.
The BLS also reports that the average annual salary of paralegals was $56,230 in 2021, while the lowest 10% earned less than $36,410, and the top 10% earned in excess of $88,640. Actual salaries vary, depending on geographic location, degree level, professional experience, and the size of your employer.
Most paralegal training programs will offer you an opportunity to participate in an internship in which you can gain practical experience by working in a corporate legal department, a public defender’s or attorney general’s office, a law firm, or a nonprofit legal aid organization. Internships typically are for several months, and can sometimes lead to a permanent position.
