Criminal Justice: A Field with Many Branches
Criminal justice is the field through which crime is stopped, solved, and dealt with in a way that respects human rights. It consists of three main branches: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It is also a broad field that includes many subfields such as homeland security, cybersecurity, forensics, and law.
A Rewarding Career in Criminal Justice
A career in criminal justice is a rewarding one that allows you to make a difference in people's lives and improve society. It involves putting your skills and expertise to work as you serve your community in a manner that is both ethical and fair.
Opportunities in Criminal Justice
Whether you're interested in police work or working for a state or federal agency, a career in criminal justice is a great choice. You'll get to help stop crime, protect the public, provide housing for prisoners, and make a positive impact on communities.
Educational Pathways in Criminal Justice
Your degree in criminal justice will give you a solid foundation for future employment opportunities and advancement within the field. A bachelor's degree will prepare you for many entry-level jobs, while a master's will open up more advanced positions and potential leadership roles.
Diverse Career Options in Criminal Justice
There are many different career options in the criminal justice field, from detectives to probation and parole officers to financial crime investigators. Each has its own unique set of requirements and rewards.
Exciting Careers in Criminal Justice
Becoming an FBI Agent
Becoming an FBI agent is one of the most exciting careers in the criminal justice field, but it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. To qualify, you must obtain a bachelor's degree from an accredited university and have at least three years of law enforcement experience before applying to the FBI.
Joining the DEA
The DEA investigates drug crimes and pursues drug traffickers in the U.S. and internationally. This job requires a bachelor's degree in a criminal justice-related field, along with a background in law and a desire to make a difference.
Career in Forensics
Become a forensics expert and use your skills to solve complex crime cases that require analyzing DNA evidence, determining bullet trajectories, or testing chemicals found at a crime scene. A career in forensics can offer you an excellent opportunity to work as a police detective, a private investigator, or in a courtroom.
Protecting the Homeland
You can even go beyond the criminal justice arena and help protect the American public by becoming a homeland security advisor. The need to protect citizens against terrorism, extradite suspects, and combat cross-border cybercrime require experts in this field.
Opportunities in Foreign Affairs
A career in homeland security may lead to a job in the Department of Defense, with opportunities in intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, legal services, and clandestine operations. You can also consider a career in foreign affairs, where you might work with the U.S. Department of State or other international diplomatic missions.
The Fascinating Field of Forensic Science
Forensic science is an exciting area of study that can involve identifying clues to crime by examining physical evidence such as fingerprints, a blood sample, or the residue from a burnt or damaged object. A career in forensics could also mean becoming a fire investigator, where you might be called on to identify arson or other negligent behavior.
