10 Well-Paying Criminal Justice Degree Jobs & Salary

The field of criminal justice encompasses a wide range of jobs, from law enforcement officers to court administrators to forensic science technicians.

Pursuing a criminal justice degree can lead to a rewarding career working to maintain law and order, protect public safety, and ensure justice is served. In this topic, we will explore some of the most common jobs in the criminal justice field and the salaries one can expect to earn in these roles.

Whether you’re interested in working as a law enforcement officer, a private investigator, or a victim advocate, there are many exciting career opportunities available to those with a criminal justice degree.

A criminal justice degree can lead to a variety of jobs in the criminal justice system. Here are some examples:

1. Law enforcement officer: A criminal justice degree can prepare you for a career as a police officer, sheriff’s deputy, or other law enforcement professional.
2. Probation officer: Probation officers work with individuals who have been released from prison or are on probation to ensure they comply with the terms of their release.
3. Corrections officer: Corrections officers work in jails and prisons to maintain order and ensure the safety of inmates and staff.
4. Private investigator: Private investigators work for individuals, law firms, and corporations to conduct investigations and gather evidence.
5. Paralegal: Paralegals work in law firms to assist attorneys with research, document preparation, and other tasks.
6. Court administrator: Court administrators manage the day-to-day operations of a court, including scheduling, budgeting, and staffing.
7. Crime analyst: Crime analysts use data and statistical analysis to identify patterns and trends in criminal activity.
8. Victim advocate: Victim advocates work with victims of crime to provide support and assistance throughout the criminal justice process.
9. Forensic science technician: Forensic science technicians collect and analyze physical evidence at crime scenes and in labs.
10. Juvenile justice specialist: Juvenile justice specialists work with young offenders to develop rehabilitation plans and help them reintegrate into society.

These are just a few examples of the many careers available to those with a criminal justice degree. Other possibilities include security management, intelligence analysis, and emergency management, among others.

MUST READ: TOP 20 BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE WITH EXPLANATION

Criminal Justice Degree Salary Per Year

The salary for someone with a c/justice degree can vary widely depending on the specific job and location. Here are some average salaries for some common criminal justice jobs in the United States:

1. Law enforcement officer: The average salary for a police officer is $67,600 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
2. Probation officer: The average salary for a probation officer is $58,790 per year, according to the BLS.
3. Corrections officer: The average salary for a corrections officer is $47,440 per year, according to the BLS.
4. Private investigator: The average salary for a private investigator is $50,510 per year, according to the BLS.
5. Paralegal: The average salary for a paralegal is $56,610 per year, according to the BLS.
6. Court administrator: The average salary for a court administrator is $73,840 per year, according to the BLS.
7. Crime analyst: The average salary for a crime analyst is $61,220 per year, according to the BLS.
8. Victim advocate: The average salary for a victim advocate is $44,880 per year, according to the BLS.
9. Forensic science technician: The average salary for a forensic science technician is $60,590 per year, according to the BLS.
10. Juvenile justice specialist: The average salary for a juvenile justice specialist is $44,880 per year, according to the BLS.

It’s important to note that these are just average salaries and can vary widely based on factors such as location, experience, and education level.

Additionally, some jobs in the criminal justice system, such as law enforcement officers, may offer additional benefits such as retirement plans, health insurance, and paid time off.