Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice

Career Opportunities in Criminal Justice

Earning a bachelor's degree in criminal justice can help you achieve career goals in law enforcement, investigation, and corrections. Supervisory positions in law enforcement and corrections often require a bachelor's degree, and these positions often pay better.


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Fighting Crime with a Bachelor's Degree

Criminal justice jobs requiring at least a bachelor's degree include private detectives and investigators, and federal and state corrections officials. Although not required, 34 percent of private detectives/investigators hold a bachelor's degree. If you're seeking a position within state or federal law enforcement agencies, a bachelor's degree is often required.

Job Outlook Is Bright for Criminal Justice Professionals

Growing concerns about security and lawsuits are creating faster than average job growth for private detectives and investigators. Federal and state correctional workers are generally paid according to ranking structures established by their hiring agency. Advancement may be possible with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and by meeting continuing education requirements. The employment outlook for federal and state correctional personnel typically depends on the availability of funding. Budgetary fluctuations may impact hiring.