Studying Criminal Justice Technology: Degrees at a Glance
Criminal justice technology programs will teach you how to serve and protect a community. Whether someone earns an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in this field, they will qualify for a job that involves protecting individuals and property through crime prevention. Other possible career opportunities might involve rehabilitating criminals or monitoring inmate behavior. While an associate's degree will often qualify you for an entry-level position, a bachelor's degree might be necessary to obtain higher-level positions or work for the federal government.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), from 2010-2020, police officers and detectives were predicted to see a 7% growth in employment, while probation officers and correction treatment specialists can anticipate an 18% growth during the same time period. However, correctional officers might see only a 5% growth.
Associate's | Bachelor's | |
---|---|---|
Who is this degree for? | Individuals who want to find an entry-level position in corrections or law enforcement | Those who want earn higher-level positions in corrections or law enforcement or who want to work for the federal government |
Common Career Paths (with approximate mean annual salary) | - Police officer ($56,000)* - Security guard ($27,000)* | - Correctional officer (federal level) ($53,000)* - Correctional treatment specialist ($52,000)* |
Time to Completion | 1-2 years, full-time | 4 years, full-time |
Common Graduation Requirements | - About 20-24 courses - Fieldwork experience | -About 40-48 courses - Internship |
Prerequisites | High school diploma | High school diploma |
Online Availability | Yes | Yes |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures).