A criminology degree can prepare you for many careers in the criminal justice field. This article will explore some of the most well established careers and also some perhaps lesser known career paths.
Criminologist
A criminology degree trains you to become a criminologist; but, what does a criminologist do? A criminologist studies crime and the criminal justice system with the goal of reducing crime. Criminologist also study people to try to determine why they commit crimes. Their job may also include assisting in creating legislation to deter crime. One thing to keep in mind is that to become a criminologist you will also need to earn a master’s degree.
Law Enforcement Administration
Using a criminology degree to springboard into a career in law enforcement administration is also an option. Law enforcement administrator are responsible for the managerial functions, such as staffing and budgeting, of law enforcement agencies.
Corrections Officer/ Prison Warden
A criminology degree can also assist you in pursuing a career as a corrections officer. Correctional officers’ primarily are responsible for overseeing incarcerated individuals. Corrections officers maintain the security of the facility and the safety of the inmates. Securing a degree in criminology can assist an individual to move from a position as a corrections officer to a position as a prison warden.
Crime Scene Investigator
Earning a degree in criminal justice can be a natural way to transition into become a crime scene investigator. Crime scene investigators are responsible for securing the crime scene as well as gathering all the evidence found at the crime scene. Testifying in court regarding the collection and chain of custody of evidence collected at the crime scene is an important aspect of the crime scene investigators job.
Private Investigator
In addition to these other careers, an individual with a criminology degree can enjoy a career as a private investigator. Private investigators assist people in gathering information and evidence relevant to both criminal and civil cases.
Criminal Profiler
Criminology degrees are assets for those individuals who have a desire to become a criminal profiler. Criminal profilers examine the evidence in cases and create a psychological profile of offenders. These profiles assist law enforcement officials find suspects in criminal cases (usually murder cases).
FBI Special Agent
FBI special agents investigate federal crimes. Holding a degree in criminology is an excellent starting point for beginning a career as a special agent, since you are required to possess a four-year degree to become a FBI agent.
As you can see, getting a criminology degree can open up a wide variety of career paths to you. If you’re looking for a degree that gives you options in your career choices, a degree in criminology is a great choice.