What can you do with a criminal justice degree?

Whether your interests lie in law enforcement, forensic science, or the legal system, there are many meaningful career paths for a criminal justice degree. See what’s possible and explore the diverse range of roles you can pursue as a criminal justice graduate from Athens State University. 

Law Enforcement  

Law enforcement roles are essential for maintaining public safety and order. Professionals in this field help to: 

• Prevent crime 

• Apprehend offenders 

• Ensure community safety 

Careers in law enforcement often involve a high level of interaction with the public, requiring excellent communication skills and a commitment to serving others. 

Careers in Law Enforcement 

Police Officer 

National Average Base Salary: $71,800+ 

Becoming a police officer involves serving and protecting communities by: 

• Enforcing laws 

• Responding to emergencies 

• Conducting investigations 

This role also demands: 

• Strong communication skills 

• Physical fitness 

• A commitment to public service 

Detective/Criminal Investigator 

National Average Base Salary: $75,900+ 

If you’re interested in solving complex cases, becoming a detective or criminal investigator could be a rewarding career option for your criminal justice degree. Detective responsibilities include: 

• Gathering evidence 

• Interviewing witnesses 

• Solving crimes 

This role often requires additional training in law enforcement. 

Corrections 

Corrections professionals oversee individuals who are awaiting trial or serving time in jail or prison. They’re often responsible for: 

• Maintaining order and security within these facilities 

• Rehabilitating inmates 

• Helping to reintegrate inmates into society 

Careers in Corrections 

Correctional Officer 

National Average Base Salary: $50,700+ 

Correctional officers work in prisons or jails, overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time. This role involves: 

• Maintaining order within correctional facilities 

• Ensuring the safety of inmates and staff 

Probation and Parole Officer 

National Average Base Salary: $63,700+ 

Probation and parole officers assist individuals released from prison on probation or parole, which includes: 

• Helping reintegrate these individuals into society 

• Ensuring compliance with the terms of their release 

• Providing support to prevent re-offenses 

This role requires strong interpersonal skills and a background in criminal justice or social work. 

Forensic Science  

Forensic science professionals apply scientific principles to the investigation of crimes. Careers in forensic science require: 

• A strong background in the natural sciences 

• Specialized training in forensic techniques 

Careers in Forensic Science 

Forensic Scientist 

National Average Base Salary: $82,200+ 

A career as a forensic scientist may be ideal if you have a passion for science and criminal justice. Forensic science professionals help to solve crimes by analyzing physical evidence, such as: 

• DNA 

• Fingerprints 

• Other trace materials 

Crime Scene Investigator 

National Average Base Salary: $55,600+ 

Crime scene investigators (CSIs) are responsible for collecting and preserving evidence from crime scenes, which involves: 

• Documenting the scene 

• Gathering physical evidence 

• Collaborating with forensic scientists and law enforcement to piece together what happened 

This role demands: 

• A strong stomach 

• Attention to detail 

• A methodical approach to investigation 

Legal Services 

Legal services encompass many roles that support the legal system by: 

• Assisting lawyers 

• Conducting research 

• Preparing legal documents 

• Providing support to victims of crime 

Careers in Legal Services 

Paralegal/Legal Assistant 

National Average Base Salary: $67,300+ 

Paralegals and legal assistants support lawyers by: 

• Conducting legal research 

• Drafting documents 

• Organizing case files 

This role requires: 

• A solid understanding of legal principles 

• Excellent organizational skills 

Victim Advocate 

National Average Base Salary: $50,700+ 

Victim advocates provide support and assistance for victims of crimes. Their responsibilities include: 

• Helping victims navigate the legal system 

• Connecting victims to resources 

• Providing emotional support 

This role is crucial in ensuring that victims’ rights are protected and that they receive the help they need during difficult times. 

Ready for your criminal justice degree? 

Numerous criminal justice degree jobs have a positive impact on the legal system. As you prepare for your next steps, a BS in Criminal Justice from Athens State can equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful criminal justice career.  

Explore our criminal justice program and find the path that aligns with your passions and career goals!