Are you looking for a job in criminal justice? Knowing which careers are in demand can help you tailor your job search to find the position that's right for you. While a degree in criminal justice can open doors to many careers, the ones outlined below are in particularly high demand. Read on for more information about in-demand jobs for criminal justice degrees in your area.
Postsecondary Teachers
Pay: $62,050
Job growth: 17 percent; as fast as average
Despite growing tuition costs, college enrollment in American remains high. Students need capable, experienced and passionate instructors to teach them. Criminal justice professors apply their years of learning and on-the-job experience to help train the next generation of law enforcement leaders.
Typically, college professors hold a master's or doctoral degree in their field. However, in some instances, such as when hiring career and technical courses, work experience holds considerable weight in determining a candidate's qualifications for the position. State and public schools often have more rigorous requirements than private institutions.
Some schools prefer that instructors have prior teaching experience. Most professors gain this work experience by taking a graduate teaching or teacher assistant position.
Although colleges and universities with criminal justice programs can be found across the nation, the location quotient for this position, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), indicates that prospects are best in New Jersey, Oregon, Michigan, New York and the District of Columbia.
Probation Officers
Pay: $47,200
Job growth: 18 percent; as fast as average
When offenders are released from a correctional facility, or in lieu of serving time, they may be placed on probation. Probation officers meet with offenders, and sometimes their friends and families, to help them obtain any necessary rehabilitation services and help deter them from committing future crimes.
Qualifications to become a probation officer often vary by agency, but most require a bachelor's degree in a related field. Probation officers typically must past oral, written and psychological exams, as well. These professionals should be emotionally stable, possess excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as be capable of making logical and realistic decisions for their clients.
Most states have a training program for probation officers that they must complete in addition to any previous education or experience. Applicants must be 21 years old and have a record free of felony convictions. A drug test and valid driver's license are often required.
Prospects for probation officers are best in New Mexico, Oregon, Delaware, Idaho and Georgia. However, jobs can be found in any area, regardless of relative location to a correctional facility.
Security Guards
Pay: $24,380
Job growth: 18 percent; as fast as average
Security guards are employed in many industries. They may be employed by businesses or individuals to help keep possessions, goods and persons safe. Some security guards may be employed by an agency where they are given rotating assignments for different clients.
The majority of guards work in investigation and security services, but positions can be found within government, education, hotel and food service and hospitals. Some guards may serve as transportation security and may work on airplanes, ships, trains and other means of transportation.
Security guards are only required to have a high school diploma or GED, but preference is given to candidates with some college or a degree, especially when hiring armed guards. Most states also require that guards are licensed. Many security agencies provide on-the-job training, as well.
No matter where people are, it is important that they feel security. Jobs in security can be found throughout the nation, but opportunities are more prevalent in the District of Columbia, Nevada, Hawaii, New York and Florida.
Gaming Surveillance
Pay: $30,680
Job growth: 18 percent; as fast as average
Gaming surveillance officers, sometimes called surveillance agents or gaming investigators, work solely in the gambling industry. They act as security agents for casino employees and patrons. They are also responsible for detecting fraud or cheating.
The majority of work done by a gaming surveillance officer is conducted from an observation room. They use audio and video equipment, such as closed circuit televisions, to watch the casino for suspicious behavior and monitor employee compliance with rules and regulations. Occasionally surveillance officers will make the rounds on the casino floor.
Employment requirements for gaming surveillance officers are similar to that of security guards. However, gaming investigators are more often required to have training beyond a high school degree. A certification in security often can suffice. Additional training in the use of surveillance equipment may also be required.
Obviously, positions in this field will be most easily found in areas where the gambling industry thrives. It comes as no surprise that this career is in highest demand in Nevada. Other areas where demand is high include Oklahoma, Mississippi, New Mexico and South Dakota.
Private Detectives
Pay: $42,870
Job growth: 21 percent; faster than average
Private detectives investigate legal, financial and personal matters for their clients. They provide many services, such as background checks, finding missing persons, solving cybercrime and protecting celebrities.
The most common employers of private investigators include attorneys, businesses and individuals. Since private detectives work outside local, state and federal government enforcement agencies, they must be meticulous in properly collecting data and evidence.
Most private detectives learn on-the-job, but many find it helpful to have a background in criminal justice or law enforcement. Experience and education requirements can vary depending on the position.
According to the BLS, private detectives are in highest demand in Maryland, South Dakota, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
Hope this article assists you when researching available and growing jobs for criminal justice degrees.
My names Sandra and I follow various blog posts regarding education I find through my social media accounts and RSS feeds. I'll reference those I find interesting here.
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