Criminal Justice/Pre-Law

Program Summary

Earning a degree in criminal justice can help you get hired for many different job opportunities within the criminal justice field. While police officers make up a large portion of the professionals working in law enforcement, there are many more career options that you may want to consider from FBI agent to computer forensic specialist. With the wide range of roles available, you can find a career that is a good fit for your unique interests, skills, talents, and salary expectations.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates growth in the following criminal justice fields:

Law Enforcement
There is a predicted 5% increase in all law enforcement by 2021, increasing by 41,400 officers across the country, for a total of 821,300 positions. Applicants who have a college degree, military experience and can speak a second language will do well in finding employment.

Corrections
A 5% increase is also expected in the field of corrections. A total of 43,000 positions will be added to the bailiff and corrections officer field within the next six years. Prospective applicants in this criminal justice field will increase the chance of employment with prior military experience and/or a college degree.

Telecommunicators
The outlook for criminal justice jobs as a police, fire and ambulance dispatcher is expected to grow 8% by 2021. Basic requirements are a high school diploma, with some states requiring advanced certification. A military background in communications is also helpful.

Social Worker
One of the largest growth rates will be in social work, at a 19% increase. While not all social workers are in the criminal justice arena, some law enforcement departments and corrections agencies employ social workers. A bachelor's degree is required but a master’s degree, advanced supervised training, and state licensing is required for those wanting to become a clinical social worker.