Types of Criminal Justice Degrees
Ever since the advent of the modern detective novel, careers in criminal justice have held people's interest. Now with some of the most popular television shows focused on criminal justice careers like crime scene investigating and criminal profiling, even more people are interested getting a degree in criminal justice. These degrees can lead to jobs in all areas of criminology and justice, from the local level to the federal level.
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Certificates
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There are several types of degrees that can be earned in criminal justice. The most basic "degree" is the certificate. Usually a certificate is awarded at the completion of a very specific training program, like crime scene photography. Some schools offer a basic criminal justice certificate which offers basic classes to give an overview of the areas of study. Students who obtain certificates can use them to gain employment in this specific area or as a stepping stone to a more advanced degree. Certificates are also good for rounding out skills in a job environment or for making a transition to a new job performance area.
Associate's Degree
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It takes about two years to gain an associate's degree. During this program, the student learns fundamental criminal justice skills while rounding out the education in other relevant areas like sociology, psychology and criminology. Some Associate's degree programs might include technical skills aimed at law enforcement careers. If you are thinking of becoming a law enforcement officer at the local or state level, you will probably at least need an associate's degree. Once you have obtained one, you can continue with a program to a bachelor's degree and beyond, applying credits you've already earned.
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Bachelor's Degree
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A bachelor's degree usually takes four years to complete and provides a well rounded, in-depth education for entry level criminal justice careers. For example, the John Jay College for Criminal Justice, one of the leading colleges in the world for criminal justice studies, offers bachelor's degrees in areas like criminology, criminal justice, deviant behavior, forensic science and forensic psychology. Once you've gained your bachelor's degree, you can obtain entry level employment or continue on to an advanced degree like a Master's or PhD.
Areas of Study
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Criminal justice is a broad term that encompasses many specialized fields. A general criminal justice degree will likely include classes in psychology, sociology, economics, government, ethnic studies and other relevant fields of study. Other degrees are offered that include a more narrow focus, like forensic psychology for example. The type of degree and department will be determined by the school you attend and the career you are planning for. You can find degrees in police studies, correctional studies, judicial studies and more.
Applications
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Criminal justice degrees can help you gain employment in many facets of law enforcement. At the local level, you may join the local police force, sheriff or gang task force. At the state level, you might work at the crime lab, for the state police department, for a prison, in the courts or with the liquor control board. Federal criminal justice jobs include the Department of Homeland Security, FBI or DEA. There are plenty of private sector jobs available with security companies or insurance agencies as well.
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