Why It’s Time to Get a Degree in Criminal Justice

Getting a degree now can prepare you for a rewarding future

criminal justice degree

If you’re considering getting an online criminal justice degree, now is a great time to get started. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many jobs in the criminal justice field are expected to grow rapidly between now and 2016. Paralegal jobs, investigator jobs, private detective jobs and police officer jobs will grow between 11-22 percent in the next few years. That is a tremendous opportunity – and getting your criminal justice degree now can set you up for a satisfying future career.

Why get a criminal justice degree?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, someone with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice earns, on average, 34 percent more than an individual with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. Getting a bachelor’s degree will help you earn over 40 percent more over your lifetime than if you had no degree at all. That’s a lot of money! If the cost of a traditional four-year college scares you, take a look at online criminal justice degree programs.

How much will I make in a criminal justice career?

It will vary depending on your experience and education, but salaries for criminal justice jobs range from about $18,000 to $78,000.

On average, police officers make about $45,000 annually. Those with criminal justice degrees working for the ATF, DEA, IRS, INS, Secret Service or the U.S. Marshals will start at about $25,000 – but with experience or an advanced degree in criminal justice you’ll be able to work your way up quickly.

Criminologists and forensic psychologists usually make between $39,000 and $67,000. Forensic scientists make about $46,000, on average.

What are some entry-level jobs in criminal justice I might be able to get?

Getting a criminal justice degree will prepare you for a number of different jobs. These are just a few that you may want to consider.

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