Appalachian State University Blog

“What can I do with a criminal justice degree?” If that’s what you’ve been wondering, the answer is that the field offers a wide range of career opportunities across multiple areas. A criminal justice education can open doors beyond traditional law enforcement, giving you the flexibility to explore different paths based on your interests.

Many graduates pursue roles in law enforcement, but opportunities also exist in court systems, corrections, public safety and policy development. Even within law enforcement, there are diverse career options, from patrol and investigations to specialized units. It all begins with earning a degree like App State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ), which provides the foundation to enter and grow within this dynamic field.

What Will I Learn in a Criminal Justice Degree Program?

Pursuing a career in criminal justice starts with studying for a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. While earning this degree, students will learn the foundations of criminal justice and criminology, like the roles of law enforcement, courts and corrections. Prospective students also learn about how social, political and economic factors affect crime and criminal behaviors, as well as how they shape criminal justice policy responses.

Students will work with professors who’ve worked in courtrooms and police departments who bring their real-world experiences into the classroom.

Overview of Criminal Justice Careers

Criminal justice careers encompass a wide range of roles focused on maintaining public safety, enforcing laws and supporting the legal system. The field includes professionals who work in law enforcement, courts, corrections and related areas, all contributing to the prevention and resolution of crime.

Individuals in criminal justice careers may pursue positions such as police officers, probation and parole officers, corrections officers, crime analysts, court workers or federal agents. Each plays a distinct role in the system, from investigating crimes and apprehending suspects to supervising offenders and analyzing data to prevent future incidents.

These careers are available in various work environments, including federal, state, and local government agencies; correctional facilities; and private-sector firms. Many roles require strong communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure.

With growing demand for public safety and security, criminal justice careers offer stability, advancement opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in communities.

Criminal Justice Careers and Salaries

“What can I do with a criminal justice degree?” If that’s your question, you’ll find that a criminal justice degree can pave the way to a career in law enforcement, court systems, community corrections, public safety and many more positions in criminal and social justice organizations. These potential careers merely scratch the surface of what’s possible with a criminal justice degree.

1. Detective

Detectives, commonly called criminal investigators, are an arm of the police force that gathers facts and collects evidence to analyze possible crimes. These law enforcement professionals examine evidence and interview witnesses and suspects to build a case that the district attorney’s office can prosecute. While this position requires fieldwork, it also requires strong communication skills and the ability to write detailed reports.

Detectives often start their careers as police officers, but a degree in criminal justice can set them apart from other officers and put them on track to becoming detectives. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), detectives earned a median annual salary of $77,270 as of May 2024. The BLS also projects a 3% growth in the number of detective positions available between 2024 and 2034.

2. Private Investigator

Private detectives or private investigators collect, analyze and report their findings related to the legal and personal matters of their clients. This career requires both field and office work; private investigators often have to conduct surveillance and research issues related to the case. Both individuals and companies can employ private investigators, with cases ranging from finding missing persons to catching sexual predators to locating lost assets.

Private investigators often need a degree in criminal justice, but most states also require private detectives to be licensed. According to the BLS, the median annual salary of a private investigator was $52,370 as of May 2024. This profession is projected to grow by 6% between 2024and 2034.

3. Forensic Science Technician

Forensic science technicians typically work for the police department in a laboratory setting. These criminal justice professionals organize, preserve, prepare, analyze and report on evidence collected during a crime scene investigation. Forensic science technicians can also work in hospitals, where their focus is more on investigating someone’s death and determining its cause.

A technician is typically the lowest-ranking position in the forensic department, but it’s a great way to start climbing the ladder to become the lead forensic scientist. According to the BLS, forensic science technicians earned a median annual salary of $67,440 as of May 2024. The BLS also projects that the profession is growing quickly. The bureau expects it to grow by 13% between 2024 and 2034.

4. Probation Officer

Probation officers are essential fixtures in the criminal justice system. Their goal is to keep criminal offenders from committing further crimes after adjudication. They help rehabilitate criminals and set them up for productive lives in society. They also play a key role in public safety and prevent criminals from harming people. They work with the court system and law enforcement by conducting investigations on people accused of serious crimes and making recommendations to the court that help guide sentencing judges on their rulings.

In the case of non-violent offenders who don’t pose serious risks, they meet regularly with offenders, ensure they’re following probation restrictions and rulings and help them stay on the right track. While a criminal justice degree is necessary for this position, probation officers also typically undergo rigorous training on probation rules and regulations in their jurisdiction before being certified.

According to the BLS, probation officers earned a median annual salary of $64,520 as of May 2024. This position is expected to grow by 3% between 2024 and 2034.

5. Paralegal

Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, support lawyers, law offices, courts and legal departments of organizations in their day-to-day duties. Paralegals conduct legal research, draft documents, maintain files and interview potential clients. They also perform a variety of legal, regulatory and administrative tasks.

Legal assistants, in addition to having a criminal justice degree, also typically have a certificate in paralegal studies. They also need to hone their communication skills and their ability to use different computer programs; they also need to understand filing requirements, legal citation rules and legal libraries. The median salary for paralegals was $61,010 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. The BLS projects this profession will have little or no change in demand or growth from 2024 to 2034.

Preparing for Your Career With a Criminal Justice Degree

From law enforcement and corrections to courts and public safety, a criminal justice degree can open doors across multiple sectors.

App State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) program provides a strong foundation for these careers. Students build essential skills in critical thinking, communication and leadership while gaining a deeper understanding of how the criminal justice system operates.

Graduates are prepared to pursue roles that make a difference in their communities and position themselves for long-term growth and advancement. If you are ready to turn your interest into action, learn more about how App State Online can help you take the next step toward your future.

Recommended Readings

Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court: Understanding the Processes

Why Study Criminal Justice: Insights From Dr. Elicka Sparks

Careers With a Criminal Justice Degree: Paths for Graduates

Sources:

Indeed, Careers in Criminal Justice You Can Pursue With Your Degree

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paralegals and Legal Assistants

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Police and Detectives

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Private Detectives and Investigators

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists