Comments on: 10 Criminal Justice Careers Without Carrying a Gun

By: Radek M. Gadek

Radek M. Gadek — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:46:12 +0000

Marisol, I have heard opinions about criminal justice degrees in the field from both angles. So the jury is out on that one. In my opinion, a major in Criminal Justice is a great option for those who truly seek work in the criminal justice system. I don’t think it’s a degree for those who don’t have the passion or the calling. It’s true for many degrees which people “think” they should take on, while not really knowing much about possible employment opportunities, or worse yet, not wanting to work in the profession at all. I recently touched on this matter in my blog post: What can you do with a criminal justice degree?. That post alone should help you a lot.

I agree with you. You should choose an academic path that will bode best with you. No question there. The criminal justice system, including law enforcement agencies, would not dream of having homogenous workforce. It would be a total calamity if almost everyone would hold only a criminal justice degree. Diversity, including in academics, is what drives the cj system forward.

IF you are one 110% sure about being an interpreter, than pursuing language in college is a very viable option. If you can prove your proficiency (spoken and written) you might not need to take a language degree (ie. Spanish). This way, you can focus on a degree that you truly have interest in.

By: marisol

marisol — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 19:50:33 +0000

I am absolutely confused. Not to long ago my major was criminal justice, now however I have decided to change it. I have heard from people in the field that criminal justice may be looked down upon. I also feel that I should choose a major that will help me in the criminal justice field but that I can also benefit from if I take another direction. I also want to take advantage of the fact that I am bilingual in English and Spanish. Is there jobs as translators for the federal police and if so what should I major in?
Thanks!

By: Kim Fuino

Kim Fuino — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:07:03 +0000

I’ve started school for a career in criminal justice. I would like to end up in victims advocacy, especially those of domestic violence and rape. Will I need further training to do this? If so, what kind? Thanks.

By: Radek M. Gadek

Radek M. Gadek — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:02:40 +0000

If you look at metropolitan areas, even county or State law enforcement, you can find work starting at around 50k (perhaps not near you). Some Federal careers can start higher. Saying that, when you compare it to many other career choices, law enforcement officers get sizable pay increases and great benefits. Some of the LEOs I know, make 75k to 90k after 3-5 years on the job (that may entail promotion(s)). The caveats are stress, mandatory overtime, and the inherent danger of the job. You might want to consider that before even thinking about this career.

By: Barbara

Barbara — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:01:05 +0000

Hey . I am currently a freshman in college and I am really considering a career in Criminal Justice . It intrigues me ! I know of the many options that are laid out for me . But I am unsure of what to go with . I don’t exactly agree with the pay . I understand that starting pay is almost always low . But seriously some of these careers are starting at 20-50k . I’m looking for a career with options , good pay , security, and benefits . I am considering the FBI . But like I said I’m unsure of what to choose . Criminal Justice is broad . I need a specialization . I wouldn’t mind handling a gun . (: Thanks !

By: Radek M. Gadek

Radek M. Gadek — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:23:23 +0000

See: FBI Special Agent Career. Make sure to read the article and the comments.

By: Maribel

Maribel — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 23:05:40 +0000

Hi!
I was wondering what would I have to do if I wanted to work with the FBI Criminal Justice right after I get my degree? First of all, which would be most preferable by the FBI? A Master’s or Doctor’s in Criminal Justice? What are the chances that I will actually be accepted by the FBI? Would I have to have some years of being a cop before? Also, does the school I graduate from matter or just as long as I get my degree?
Thanks. hope to hear from you soon!

By: Cat Olsen

Cat Olsen — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 04:10:22 +0000

Hi,
I am considering going into the criminal justice field, however, i have two misdameaner DUIs. Will i even beable to find a job in this field? I do not want to be a cop or do paralegal work. Advice please!
Thanks.

By: Tiffany

Tiffany — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 19:04:05 +0000

I would like to study criminal justice. Do you know of any good school in the southbay area like torrance or carson gardena ect, that are accredited schools

By: Radek M. Gadek

Radek M. Gadek — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 08:44:38 +0000

Hi Ryan,

Thanks for stopping by.

1. 9.9 times out of 10 you can’t be a detective unless you are a police officer first. Having that few years experience as a “cop”, at the very least, makes for a much better detective in my opinion.
2. Your professors are right. If you want to skip being a police officer, then yes, go Federal – the FBI has a homicide unit – minimum of a Bachelor level education need to be completed.
3. What is a high paying job to you? Most metropolitan police officers as well as FBI Special agents can count on about 50k and above to START. There are pay increases, overtime pay (which will be imminent), and other paid time and benefits. A graduate degree can help you put your foot in the door when it comes to being transferred to special units and status changes (promotions) – which usually equal a pay increase.
4. As for the advice, when you complete your Bachelor’s and Master’s, perhaps even a PhD, money should be the last motivator for you. Knowing what you know now, there aren’t too many high paying positions. Those that are, are for the most part offered to seasoned leaders or are administrative in nature. Best bet: show that you have what it takes to EARN the promotion and the money that comes with it. Nothing is given away for free, especially in law enforcement positions, unless of course the department/agency in question practices cronyism, which usually leads nowhere really fast (think of Federal probes in Chicago). The criminal justice system is much different than it was in the 80s and 90s – there’s more scrutiny and outspoken individuals that keep an eye on such practices.

I think that about covers it. Hope this helps.

Radek