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For decades, career options and college courses in the USA revolved around the more traditional fields, with business, finance, engineering, and medical sciences often topping the list of choices. But, other career paths have recently emerged as feasible and financially rewarding, as well. Consider a degree in the criminal justice field, for instance. Here’s what you need to know.
What is the criminal justice field all about?
While you may think of police officers and law enforcers when you hear the term criminal justice, the field is actually more far-reaching than that, and offers a variety of viable career options. Simply put, criminal justice refers to the system of laws and regulations, and to the various agencies responsible for holding criminals accountable for their actions. The field also seeks to deliver justice and restoration to the victims of criminals, as best as it possibly can. Studies in criminal justice embrace areas like criminal law, juvenile justice, the judicial processes, criminology, forensic science, forensic psychology, corrections, and many others.
What careers are available to those who seek an education in criminal justice?
There is a lengthy roster of careers for those who obtain an education in criminal justice. Among the employment opportunities and areas of specialization are jobs as law enforcers and police, investigators, detectives, forensic specialists, forensic psychologists, federal agents, corrections careers (such as parole officers, probation officers, corrections counselors, and the like), prosecutors and defense attorneys, as well as other careers in the legal system, such as paralegals, court clerks, court reporters, judges, and witness coordinators, among numerous other job posts.
So, as you can see, the possibilities are vast for those who choose an education in this field. Eking out a career in criminal justice could prove not only gratifying, but also financially rewarding for those who opt for either a college degree or a certification program in any of the related areas of study.
What options are available for an education in criminal justice?
If your interest is piqued and you are inclined to an aspect of criminal justice, know that there are several education options available to you. While you can definitely go the route of a four-year college course to obtain a BA or a BS Degree in Criminal Justice, there are also other avenues that you can explore. For instance there are certificate and even degree programs offered online that not only cut the time involved, but also the costs of getting a more traditional college degree. An online course or a shorter program would be ideal for those who are already working, or who are perhaps looking to make a career change. The bottom line, when it comes to the mode of education you choose, would be what best suits your current situation and personal preference. All it takes is some research on your end to determine what plan of action is most suitable for you.
A career in the criminal justice field might be just what you are looking for to fulfill your desire for personal and financial growth. Because there are so many aspects of study to choose from, as well as employment opportunities, the field embraces an array of skills of talents. And that, in itself, is all the more reason to look into it, today.
