Choosing a career path is often exciting but also overwhelming as one is torn in between choices. There are so many types of careers which make it confusing and are often a daunting task for those that are not certain of the direction they would want to take. It is important to note that with various related courses in criminal justice, deciding on the major as a career path is the best decision that one can ever make. As the job sector in most nations shrinks every day, opportunities in criminal justice are ever increasing. The beauty of the course is that there are diverse ways to obtain a criminal justice degree.
Graduates of criminal justice gain an understanding of different theories of crime such as environmental, psychological and sociological theories. They also gain insight of in research that drives theories of crime. Students are also able to understand the laws that govern criminal justice process and are exposed to the organizations that are involved in criminal processes of justice. One is also able to analyze, interpret legislations and critique policies and laws in criminology field and appraise or identify areas for reforms.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Criminal justice is the best major to pursue especially for people who are interested in resolving challenging situations and are touched by changes and developments in the field of criminal law. As many in other majors struggle to decide on the direction of career they should take, graduates of criminal justice find it easy as there are famous top jobs they can take up: police detectives, FBI Agent, attorneys, criminologists and forensic psychologists.
As opposed to other majors, criminal justice opens up a variety of career choices. However, it is critical that one discovers their aptitude and interest in the field. Additionally, it is vital that one acquires high-quality education from an accredited learning institution. What makes it easier is that there are institutions that offer standard online courses in criminology. Hence one can enroll with the organization of their choice despite their location.
Additionally, criminal justice is a course that will improve a graduate’s chances of landing a job in diverse career fields. Some companies will require a minimum of a degree in criminal justice while others will promote individuals with the degree faster. Despite the fact that jobs may not state criminal justice as the specific degree, it is always the best fit for many agencies.
Salaries of careers in criminal justice are median or above average (Krimmel & Tartaro 277) . It is always good to choose a career because one wants to serve the community, but it is also equally important to prospect the monetary value of the course one is pursuing. Salaries in criminology field vary depending on location, the level of experience, specialized training, reputation and the kind of organization one works for. For instance, those who work in the major cities like New York and San Francisco are paid better than individuals in small rural areas. While many argue that careers can never make one rich, there are a number of criminal justice jobs that offer a six-figure pay and outstanding compensation packages.
Even if one is not interested in a lifetime career in criminology, the degree is very beneficial. It adds relevance in a person’s life. One is exposed to how the society functions and circumstances that can cripple the systems that hold the community together ( Chiricos, Padgett, & Gertz 755) . Also, the course sharpens the mind as the studies are very analytical and detailed. Even if one is not interested in being a criminologist, the course will be an added advantage in the career path they finally choose.
In conclusion, it is vital to note that there is a wide variety of criminal justice major and degrees that students can take up. Each type leads to a particular assortment career wise. As such, it is critical that learners discover their field of interest before enrolling for the degree.
Works Cited
Chiricos, T., Padgett, K., & Gertz, M. (2000). Fear, TV news, and the reality of crime. Criminology , 38 (3), 755-785.
Krimmel, J.T., & Tartaro, C. (1999). Career choices and characteristics of criminal justice undergraduates. Journal of Criminal Justice Education, 10 (2), 277-289.
