Understanding the Value of a Criminal Justice Degree

Your criminal justice degree is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a versatile tool that can open doors to various career paths. Whether you’re fresh out of college or contemplating a career change, here’s how you can leverage your degree to make money.

Government Positions

One of the most straightforward ways to make money with a criminal justice degree is by working for the government. Positions such as police officers, detectives, and corrections officers are in high demand and offer competitive salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for police and detectives was $63,380 in May 2020.

Private Sector Opportunities

While government jobs are a popular choice, the private sector also offers numerous opportunities for criminal justice graduates. Here are a few examples:

• Private Investigator: With a median annual wage of $55,740, according to the BLS, private investigators can make a decent living by providing services such as surveillance, background checks, and legal investigations.

• Security Guard: Security guards can earn a median annual wage of $38,040, and the demand for these professionals is expected to grow by 5% from 2020 to 2030, according to the BLS.

• Loss Prevention Specialist: These professionals work to prevent theft and fraud in retail settings. The median annual wage is $39,910, and the BLS predicts a 4% growth in employment from 2020 to 2030.

Consulting and Advisory Services

With your criminal justice degree, you can offer consulting and advisory services to businesses, organizations, and individuals. Here are a few areas where your expertise can be valuable:

• Security Consulting: Help businesses improve their security measures, develop emergency response plans, and train employees on safety protocols.

• Legal Consulting: Assist law firms with case preparation, evidence analysis, and expert testimony.

• Policy Analysis: Work with government agencies or think tanks to analyze criminal justice policies and propose improvements.

Teaching and Academia

For those who enjoy educating others, a criminal justice degree can lead to a career in teaching or academia. You can become a professor, instructor, or researcher at a college or university. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $80,580 in May 2020.

Entrepreneurship

With your knowledge and experience, you can start your own business. Here are a few ideas:

• Security Company: Offer a range of security services, such as alarm systems, surveillance, and armed guards.

• Investigative Agency: Provide services like background checks, surveillance, and legal investigations.

• Training and Consulting Firm: Offer training programs for law enforcement agencies, businesses, and individuals.

Networking and Continuing Education

Building a strong professional network and staying up-to-date with the latest trends in criminal justice are crucial for success. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and consider obtaining certifications or advanced degrees to enhance your qualifications.

By leveraging your criminal justice degree in various ways, you can create a fulfilling and profitable career. Whether you choose to work in the public or private sector, teach, consult, or start your own business, the possibilities are endless.