How to Get Started in Criminal Justice
A criminal justice career is a good fit for people who enjoy learning about and enforcing local and federal laws. People with criminal justice degrees have access to a variety of occupations, such as becoming a probation, correctional or police officer. To launch this career, you will need to complete a degree focusing on criminal justice and choose a career path.
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Instructions
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Choose a criminal justice program. At a minimum, employers typically require an associate's degree in criminal justice, which will take two years to complete. Some employers prefer a bachelor's degree or higher, depending on your career choice. A bachelor's degree takes four years to complete. Community colleges, vocational programs and universities offer programs in criminal justice.
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Select a profession. People with a degree in criminal justice have a variety of career options, such as becoming a probation offer, correctional officer or police officer. When attending your program, talk with professionals in different fields to determine which career is right for you.
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Research criminal justice jobs. Criminal justice professionals, such as probation officers and correctional officers, are employed by state and local governments. More jobs are available in urban areas, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Police officers are employed by city, county, state and federal governments. Check the websites of the agencies where you would like to work.
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Pass the necessary exams. Criminal justice careers typical require passing psychological and physical exams, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is especially important for law enforcement and correctional officer jobs, which require physical endurance for safety purposes. The employer will facilitate the exams as part of the application process. You also will have to pass a background check.
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Meet the minimum age requirements. If you want to become a probation officer or correctional officer, there may be age requirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, agencies typically require these professionals to be at least 21 years of age. Local police departments may also have minimum age requirements. Check with local employers to learn about these requirements.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are interested in advancement opportunities, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field. Some employers require a master's degree or higher. Ask your employer about tuition assistance to advance your career.
People in criminal justice careers may face hostile working conditions. For example, police officers and correctional officers work in potentially dangerous situations. Physical strength and agility will help you in this career.
References
- Photo Credit Police image by Zeno from Fotolia.com
