What Can You Do With A Criminal Justice Degree?
The courts, corrections system, and law enforcement agencies all fall under the umbrella of the U.S. criminal justice system. This diverse field often attracts people who want to make a difference in their community. If you’re interested in pursuing a position within the criminal justice system, then obtaining a degree in the field is a useful first step toward that goal.
Many careers in criminal justice, such as those related to law, require a higher level of education. Your degree may allow you to specialize in a niche area of crime, move up in the ranks, or explore the science and research side of the field.
Majoring in Criminal Justice: The Degree Level You Need for the Job You Want
An online degree in criminal justice may serve as a launchpad for graduates to later obtain more specialized education at a higher level. People who major in criminal justice may go on to pursue a range of certificate programs — such as those in law enforcement — or an advanced degree, such as a JD or a master’s. However, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice can also lead directly to a career in the field, such as a private detective or paralegal.
Some criminal justice jobs only need an associate’s degree or a bachelor's degree, while others require a master's degree. Below, we included some career options — from entry-level to senior — that you can qualify for with different criminal justice degrees, depending on the level that aligns with your ambitions. We also included salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What Can You Do With an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice?
If you already know that you're interested in becoming a paralegal, check out the best online associate degrees for paralegals.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice?
You may already know the specific area of study that interests you in the criminal justice field. Check out our top-ranked online bachelor's degrees for forensic science, criminology, law enforcement, and homeland security.
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice?
For more options at this degree level, check out our hub for the best online master's degree programs.
What Criminal Justice Careers Require More Advanced Graduate Degrees?
Is a Criminal Justice Degree Right for Me?
The field of criminal justice is diverse and complex, providing opportunities no matter your background or interests. Francis Bacon wrote, “If we do not maintain justice, justice will not maintain us.” Whether you’re interested in science, research, technology, or law, there is a career for you in this field. Some careers, such as forensic anthropologists and survey researchers, involve research and scientific experimentation. Social work and criminal psychology, however, allow individuals to work directly with victims and prevent crimes. Other careers, such as lawyers and police officers, are heavily involved in the criminal justice system and may involve collecting evidence. Those who are interested in law enforcement, public safety, improving U.S. communities, and learning about people should consider pursuing a degree in criminal justice.