Did you know?
Only approximately 10 percent of all crimes are actually reported to the authorities. Reasons for that include that the crime was not that serious, it is felt that the police can’t do anything about it, or that the victim is worried about not being believed. The judicial response to crime varies greatly from one society to another, even though the crime rates are similar. In Holland, for example, imprisonments account for about 7 percent of all sentences imposed, whereas in the US about 70 percent of sentences involve custody.
Careers with this degree include but are not limited to:
Criminologist, Customs Service, Customs Special Agent, Fraud Investigator, Police Officer, Detective, Parole/Probation Officer, Court Services or Juvenile Case Worker, Federal Agent (CIA, DEA, FBI, US Marshal, Secret Service, etc.)
Job Spotlight: FBI Agents
The career path of an FBI Agent is an interesting one that requires additional training after receipt of a criminal justice degree. FBI agents conduct sensitive investigations for matters such as terrorism, cyber-crime, white-collar crime, civil rights violations, extortion, and other violations of federal statutes. Some of the duties they may perform include: Research, Undercover investigations, Filling out reports, Testifying in federal court.
According to the FBI’s website, there really is no such thing as a “typical day” for an FBI agent. Agents in the field offices could be testifying in federal court one day and executing a search warrant and gathering evidence the next. Over the course of a week, they might meet with a source to gather intelligence on illegal activities; make an arrest; and then, back in the office, talk with their squad members and catch up on paperwork. Some agents also work in specialized areas across the FBI such as training, fingerprinting, lab services, and public affairs; many also serve as supervisors or managers. Special agents are always on call to protect their country and may be transferred at any time, based on the needs of the FBI.
How much can I earn?
The BLS reported that police and sheriff’s patrol officers earned a median salary of $61,380 in 2018. Victims’ advocates earned considerably less, according to PayScale.com, which reported a median salary of $35,228 in 2019. Finally, private investigators and detectives earned a median salary of $50,090 in 2018 (www.bls.gov).
Is a Criminal Justice degree a good fit for me?
Do you spend your weekends watching “Criminal Minds” or “CSI”? Do you wonder what it would be like to walk in your favorite character’s shoes? Or do you just simply want to keep people safe? A criminal justice degree could be perfect for you! There are so many job opportunities available to those in the criminal justice field, it’s just about finding the right fit for you!