Few pursuits are as noble and as worthwhile as a career in criminal justice and the law. 2 year criminal justice degree jobs are also great options to begin a career in this exciting and important field. That is also why so many people seek out a degree, to win those associates in criminal justice jobs.
So what can I do with an associate’s in criminal justice? What are the top-paying jobs with an associate’s degree in criminal justice? These are a few of the many questions that people ask when seeking a criminal justice degree and beginning a career in criminal justice.
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The Top Associates in Criminal Justice Jobs
There are many opportunities available in the criminal justice field. Here is a look at some of the most common and popular associates in criminal justice jobs, and the answer to what jobs can i do with an associate’s degree in criminal justice.
- Law Enforcement / Police Officer: When people ask what can I do with an associates degree in criminal justice, they are often asking if they can become a police or law enforcement official. While there are still the training and academy requirements, an associate’s in criminal justice can pave the way to earning your badge.
- Victim Advocacy and Support: Not everyone interested in the law is focused on the criminal aspect, some are more concerned about the victims. Among the more common and important 2 year criminal justice degree jobs are those roles in the area of victim advocacy.
- Insurance / Claims Investigator: 2-year criminal justice programs equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in positions such as claims and insurance fraud investigation.
- Safety / Security Officer: Positions as safety and security services are excellent entry-level opportunities for those seeking a career in security. These types of jobs can also provide training and be used as stepping stones toward careers in law enforcement.
- Rehabilitation / Probation Officers: These positions and roles in the criminal justice system have a big impact on not only the lives of those convicted and the victims of crimes, but on society and communities too.
- Youth Intervention / Detention Counselor: Few associates in criminal justice jobs are as important as youth intervention and detention counselors.
- Corrections Officer: These associates degree in criminal justice jobs typically mean working in environments like prisons, jails, and detention centers. These types of positions are also common steps towards careers in law enforcement.
These are a few of the excellent opportunities and jobs availed with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. The other most popular question regarding these positions is about associates in criminal justice salary ranges.
How Much Can I Make with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice
The top paying jobs with an associates degree in criminal justice will vary depending on several factors. These factors can include the details, risks, and job requirements, to even the geographical locations of the positions.
Here is a look at some of the median wages, courtesy of the U.S. Dep’t of Labor Statistics, beginning with the most highly desired and well-paid positions in criminal justice.
Law Enforcement / Police Officer
According to recent salary and earnings reports from the aforementioned Department of Labor, the median wage for police officers is $67,290 per year. In addition to being one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, earning this criminal justice associates degree salary will also require other training and certifications. These are typically in the form of police academies and law enforcement training requirements.
Corrections Officer
The median wage for a corrections officer is reportedly $47,440 per year. While these can also be volatile and dangerous criminal justice vocations, they are also always in a controlled environment. Positions as a corrections officer are also easier to get and can also earn future and hopeful police officers valuable real-world experience.
Safety / Security Officer
Security officers, based on the median wage data from the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, can expect to make around $31,080 per year. Much like the previous two examples, this particular position can pose risks, but not on the same level or potential dangers as those of beat officer or prison guard.
A career in criminal justice is one to be proud of, one that can make a difference, and one that can offer a solid income. Careers in criminal justice can also be both personally and professionally rewarding, and an associate’s degree in criminal justice can open the doors to those opportunities.
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