Whether your career goal is to climb the ladder at the FBI, work as a crime scene investigator, or become a police officer in your own community, you’ll discover that numerous possibilities are available to you with a degree in criminal justice.
Through 2026, this field is expected to grow seven percent. What does this mean for you? It means that having a bachelor’s or master’s degree can set you apart in this growing and competitive field.
If you’re committed to making a difference, preventing crime, working in government affairs, or protecting our land from harm, a criminal justice degree might be the perfect fit to fast-track your career.
Careers and Salaries With a Criminal Justice Degree
With many career paths for a criminal justice degree - from police officer, paralegal, probation officer, security and investigations - you’re sure to find the career that’s perfect for your goals and skill set. There are so many available options with a degree in criminal justice - consider the careers and annual median salaries below:
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- Police Officers earn $60,270 annually.
- Private Investigators earn $45,610 annually.
- Social Workers earn $45,900 annually.
- Forensic Psychologists (requires master’s in psychology in addition to bachelor’s in Criminal Justice) earn $72,580 annually.
- Crime Scene Investigators earn $56,320 annually.
- Corrections Managers earn $42,439 annually.
- Detectives earn $62,960 annually.
- Government/Military Contractors earn $90,000 annually.