Looking to work in law enforcement? Or maybe you’re a professional interested in a different field. You might consider job options available if you obtain an advanced degree such as the Texas A&M International University Master of Science in Criminal Justice online program.
According to U.S. News & World Report, a master’s degree in criminal justice opens many doors for advancement in a law enforcement career, including:
- Help a law enforcement officer get promoted
- Develop critical skills in a criminal justice field
- Serve as an entry point for certain jobs, such as a position at a federal agency
The website said the degree can also bring important skills to law enforcement officers in their current jobs, giving students the tools they need to apply evidenced-based policy in their work. For example, the website said a chief of police could use skills obtained in a master’s program to determine if a report on community policing strategies has merit.
The website said journalists, victim advocates, social workers and nonprofit administrators may also pursue this specialized master’s degree to gain insight into the workings of the criminal justice system.
Wide World of Options
Whatever the goal, obtaining a master’s in criminal justice is an important step to gaining the skills necessary for success in many exciting fields. The website Criminal Justice Degree Schools lists a few:
Criminal profilers work in forensic science. After evaluating the evidence of a crime, they determine the profile of a person who might commit that crime based on a theory that behavior reveals personality. In addition, they help investigators determine if a crime scene has been staged or altered, help reconstruct crimes after the fact, and provide insight into motivation to commit the crime. Criminal profilers are often classified as criminal investigators, and they make an average of $83,220 per year.
Police and detective supervisors are first-line managers who schedule, evaluate and arrange continuing training for officers and detectives. They ensure that officers and detectives are motivated and that the department has strong morale. They see that departmental procedures are followed, not only in the field but in issuing and maintaining equipment. They spend considerable time in the field supervising reports and assisting in investigations. The salary for a police and detective supervisor averages $89,030 per year.
Emergency management directors develop crisis plans for local, state and federal law enforcement and public protection agencies. They are front-line coordinators for the response between multiple agencies when disaster strikes. They also help private businesses and organizations prepare for and respond to natural disasters, broad-scale incidents and terrorist attacks. They make an annual average salary of $82,570.
Private security management firms provide opportunities in the private sector for those with advanced degrees. These companies protect public utilities and nuclear power plants. They secure buildings and important information, such as data servers and other high-tech infrastructure. Criminal justice graduates may work directly for an organization or as a consultant and may be responsible for a variety of tasks, including securing persons and property or investigating sophisticated criminal activity. The average salary for a security manager is $107,480 annually.
An advanced criminal justice degree can fast track other professional careers such as special agent to federal agencies, criminologist, victim advocate and social worker. That’s why many working professionals who want to advance their careers are considering the Texas A&M International University Master of Science in Criminal Justice online program.
The program, which can be finished is 12 months, offers a solid foundation and the knowledge and skills to shape public policy in criminal justice.
Learn more about Texas A&M International University’s online Master of Science in Criminal Justice program.
Sources:
U.S. News & World Report: What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice?
Criminal Justice Degree Schools: 10 Jobs You Can Get With a Master’s in Criminal Justice Degree
