Criminal Justice Archives - Generations College https://www.generations.edu/category/criminal-justice/ Living the Legacy Sat, 27 Jan 2024 00:48:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.1 https://www.generations.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-Favicon-32x32.png Criminal Justice Archives - Generations College https://www.generations.edu/category/criminal-justice/ 32 32 BENEFITS OF A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE https://www.generations.edu/benefits-of-a-criminal-justice-degree/ Mon, 09 May 2022 23:59:59 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8169 A criminal justice degree can be surprisingly versatile, paving the way for a variety of exciting, challenging, and rewarding career opportunities. Criminal justice programs teach students about a variety of subjects, including criminal justice theory and administration, policy formation, the application and intersection of constitutional law, criminal law, and procedural law, and much more.

There are several ways to earn a criminal justice education, including pursuing a two-year or four-year degree in criminal justice, and even continuing your education by earning a master’s degree in the field. While there are certainly potential benefits of getting a master's degree in criminal justice, you don’t need to go to school for six or more years to reap the rewards of a criminal justice education. In fact, there are many benefits of a criminal justice degree earned as an undergraduate.

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STUDYING CRIMINAL JUSTICE DOES MORE THAN TEACH ABOUT LAW ENFORCEMENT

Many people who are not familiar with the field of criminal justice automatically associate it with the police force and other local law enforcement. While it’s true that a criminal justice degree can prepare you for a career in law enforcement if you choose that route, a criminal justice education is broader than that. You’ll learn life-long skills that can help you succeed in nearly any career.

In addition to the opportunity to learn about criminal justice and hone your skills, some of the benefits of studying criminal justice include flexible learning options for earning your degree, the ability to make a difference in your community, and access to a variety of rewarding career options.

HONE YOUR SKILLS

In addition to studying criminal justice concepts in the classroom, students also learn to apply forensic methods to analyze evidence and learn how to better articulate societal goals for criminal justice. Criminal justice coursework also helps students become familiar with some of the common technology tools used in the industry. Finally, it provides ample opportunities to improve listening, written and oral communication, and other interpersonal skills.

LEARN IN A CONVENIENT FORMAT

Criminal justice degree programs are generally designed with busy learners in mind. You can find programs that will allow you to take evening classes, or you can earn an accredited degree entirely from the comfort of your home — on your schedule. This type of flexibility makes it easier to pursue career goals while still managing myriad other responsibilities.

BENEFIT YOUR COMMUNITY

Ultimately, criminal justice is about more than simply identifying and correcting criminal behavior. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying criminal justice and working in a related job after graduation is that you are helping build safer, more cohesive communities. People who choose criminal justice careers may not ever fully realize the impact their work has on other people — especially because that work can benefit generations of people who aren’t even born yet.

A RANGE OF PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY REWARDING CAREER OPTIONS

The benefits of having a criminal justice degree also include opportunities to pursue well-paying, in-demand job opportunities. Because of expected growth in criminal justice careers in the future, these roles also come with a certain amount of job security, steady pay, and benefits that you may not find in other positions.

Some of the most popular jobs for people with criminal justice degrees include the following:

  • Police Officer
  • State Trooper
  • Corrections Officer
  • Youth/Juvenile Corrections Counselor
  • Probation Officer
  • Private Investigator
  • Fraud Investigator
  • Border Patrol/Customs Agent
  • Social Worker
  • Victim Advocate
  • Court Professional
  • Paralegal
  • Forensic Investigator
  • Crime Lab Analyst

These job titles represent just a sampling of the available career choices you can find when you earn a degree in criminal justice. It is worth noting that while a college degree may not be required for every one of these jobs, having a degree can help you stand out from other applicants and may help you negotiate for a higher starting salary and benefits.

PREPARE FOR YOUR FUTURE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE WITH A DEGREE FROM GENERATIONS COLLEGE

Generations College, located in the heart of Chicago, offers a Criminal Justice program designed to prepare graduates to enter the workforce armed with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. If you choose, you can then continue your education by applying your associate degree credits toward completion of a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.

To learn more about the Generations College Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice, contact us. If you’re ready to take the next step toward your future, apply online today!

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]]> TOP TRENDS IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE INDUSTRY https://www.generations.edu/top-trends-in-the-criminal-justice-industry/ Sat, 01 Feb 2020 23:51:47 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8323 Few careers remain static over time; criminal justice roles are no exception to the rule. As our communities and the wider world change, people who choose to work in law enforcement, probation and corrections, or as private detectives must continually hone their knowledge and adapt their skills to meet evolving needs.

Future trends in criminal justice including technological innovations are predicted to continue to change the way law enforcement, probation and enforcement officers do their jobs. In this blog post, we will explore these trends in more detail.

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]]> NEW AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

With the rise of technological innovation, technology-based crimes have grown in number, complexity and sophistication. As a result, today’s criminal justice professionals need to have a solid understanding of law enforcement tools used to combat these types of crimes.

Future trends in policing are likely to include continued reliance on the following types of technology:

  • Suspect identification tools, including facial recognition, in-vehicle computer searches, biometrics, rapid license plate scanning technologies, social media and big data
  • GPS technologies and surveillance drones
  • Rapid license plate scanning technologies
  • Body cameras, for greater community transparency
  • Law enforcement robots for dangerous tasks or repetitive work
  • Advanced 911 technology that can work with texts, photos, videos and more

Many of these solutions would have sounded far-fetched just a few decades ago, but they are now a reality for law enforcement, investigations, parole and probation, and enforcement personnel.

CHANGING JOB ROLES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Criminal justice personnel are experiencing changes to their roles in several important ways.

Rather than simply reacting to criminal activity, predictive police work is growing in popularity and effectiveness. Predictive policing uses artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to identify the risks for potential crimes and implement preventive measures.

For police officers and other law enforcement personnel, an increased call for public transparency is continuing to change the way criminal justice professionals interact with their communities. In addition to using technologies such as body cameras, law enforcement and other criminal justice employers are turning to social media to build and foster relationships with the public.

While the use of law enforcement robots and other technologies is expanding, there will still be a need for skilled, dedicated criminal justice professionals to fill a variety of roles including law enforcement, security personnel, fraud examiners, investigators, parole and probation officers, corrections officers, border patrol professionals, and much more. These predicted future trends in criminal justice give rise to a need for more trained professionals, not fewer.

START YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREER ON THE RIGHT FOOT

If you have decided to earn a degree and pursue a career in criminal justice, understanding how these future trends in law enforcement and other criminal justice roles are likely to impact you can help you achieve future success.

Generations College in Chicago offers an associate degree in Criminal Justice, designed to teach tomorrow’s criminal justice professionals to succeed. To explore this exciting program or any of our other online or on-campus degree programs, simply contact us. If you have decided to take the next step toward realizing your criminal justice career goals, apply online today!

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]]> WHAT JOBS ARE THERE FOR SOMEONE WITH A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE? https://www.generations.edu/what-jobs-are-there-for-someone-with-a-criminal-justice-degree/ Wed, 08 Jan 2020 01:17:20 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8359 Earning a degree in criminal justice prepares graduates to enter the workforce armed with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in a variety of exciting careers. Exploring potential criminal justice degree job options is a smart move — whether you are enrolled in a criminal justice degree program or are considering what type of degree to pursue.

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]]> OVERVIEW OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE FIELD

Criminal justice degrees are incredibly versatile. Many criminal justice program graduates choose to pursue careers in law enforcement, serving society as members of their local law enforcement communities. However, people with criminal justice degrees are not limited to working for their state or local police forces.

There are many other rewarding jobs for individuals with criminal justice degrees, including working in the private sector as investigators, working in our nation’s prison or parole systems, or fighting for peoples’ rights in victim advocacy roles — to name a few.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE JOB OPTIONS

The following list is not intended as an all-encompassing collection of criminal justice-related careers, but it does include many potential careers for people with criminal justice degrees.

  • Police Officer: Police officers play key roles in protecting their communities, enforcing local or state laws. In 2018, the mean salary for police officers was $65,400.
  • Cybercrime Investigator: With incidences of cybercrime and computer fraud continuing to grow, there has never been a greater need for cybercrime investigators. Mean salary for computer crimes investigators in 2018 was $62,960.
  • Forensic Investigator: Forensic analysts and investigators review and analyze data to help law enforcement professionals or other investigators solve crimes. Forensic science technicians’ mean salary in 2018 was $58,230.
  • Customs and Border Patrol Officer: CBP officers may work at traffic checkpoints, “line watch” roles near international borders, marine patrol and even as horse patrol officers. CBP officers help protect our country by preventing terrorists and terroristic weapons from entering the U.S. Depending on the role and qualifications, some CBP officers enjoy total compensation of more than $100,000 annually.
  • Corrections Officer: Working to maintain safety inside our nation’s prisons and correctional institutions, you’ll put your criminal justice coursework to the test. The median annual salary for corrections officers and bailiffs in 2018 was $44,400.
  • Parole or Probation Officer: When someone is released from prison on parole, or when the court orders probation for a convicted criminal, criminal justice professionals work to ensure the terms of the parole or probation are being met. In 2018, the median pay for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $53,020 per year.
  • Transportation Security Officer: TSA officers work at airports and marine ports to screen cargo or baggage, assuring compliance with Transportation Security Administration rules. The median pay in 2018 for transportation security screeners was $41,490.
  • Private Detective: Rather than working in public roles, private detectives take on work for hire, helping people get information and answers for legal, financial and other personal matters. The median wage for private detectives in 2018 was $50,090.
  • Victims’ Advocate: People who want to help protect victims’ rights may want to pursue jobs as victims’ advocates or restorative justice advocates. In these types of roles, you may work for a nonprofit company, government agency or social service company. The median salary in 2018 for people in social and community service management roles was $65,320.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAM CAN HELP YOU LAND A REWARDING JOB

As you can see from the list above, there are many wonderful career options for criminal justice majors. Choosing the right college degree program is the first step toward finding career satisfaction in the criminal justice field.

At Generations College, we are passionate about helping our students succeed in the classroom — and beyond. To learn more about Generations College’s Criminal Justice degree program, contact ustoday!

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]]> TOP 7 CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREER OPTIONS https://www.generations.edu/top-7-criminal-justice-career-options/ Tue, 07 Jan 2020 01:26:15 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8365 Many people are drawn to the criminal justice field because of a desire to be a part of enforcing societal rules and expectations, ultimately strengthening their communities. While they may be physically demanding and emotionally challenging roles, criminal justice careers can also be incredibly rewarding, offering personal satisfaction and financial success.

With an array of potential career options available to those with college degrees in criminal justice, the best criminal justice jobs may include roles you hadn’t considered. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of the top seven career options for criminal justice degree-holders.

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]]> TOP CRIMINAL JUSTICE JOBS
  1. Police officer: No list of the top criminal justice careers would be complete without including what is arguably the most popular choice: working for state or local law enforcement as a police officer. This category includes sheriffs, deputies and patrol officers, all of whom play visible roles in community safety. Crime doesn’t take nights, weekends or holidays off, so police officers must be prepared to work odd hours and respond nimbly to new and changing circumstances. Median pay for police officers in 2018 was $63,380 annually.
  2. Probation/parole officer: Probation and parole officers supervise convicted criminals who are serving probation. People in these roles help ensure the terms of the parolee’s probation are being adhered to, working with the police and corrections’ communities when necessary. Probation officers work with parolees one on one and must be able to exhibit authority and empathy in their day-to-day work. The 2018 median annual wage for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $53,020.
  3. FBI agent: As federal government employees, FBI agents are tasked with investigating crimes and guaranteeing that federal laws are enforced. If your focus is on the highest-paying criminal justice careers, you may want to consider working as an FBI agent. Experienced agents can earn six figures. However, to qualify as a candidate for this role, you will need to obtain a four-year degree and meet other stringent physical and mental qualifications.
  4. Private investigator: Private investigators (PIs) and private detectives often work closely with law enforcement personnel. Instead of working for the public, PIs represent individuals and companies searching for answers they haven’t been able to uncover themselves. PIs may specialize in a certain area, such as conducting investigations for family law-related matters (divorce, child custody, etc.) or internal corporate investigations. Others are generalists, handling matters like those as well as locating missing persons, conducting background checks and more. In 2018, the median annual wage for private investigators and private detectives was $50,090.
  5. Criminologist: People who choose to work as criminologists or sociologists specialize in profiling crimes and criminals in an attempt to apprehend guilty parties and prevent future crimes. Criminologists earn competitive pay; however, you’ll need a master’s degree or PhD for most positions. The 2018 median pay for sociologists and criminologists was $82,050.
  6. Private security: If you want to work in a security role with a more defined scope than you would have working for your local law enforcement office, you may want to consider a career as a private security guard. Security guards work for corporations of all sizes, including businesses, shopping malls, hospitals, college campuses and more. A typical shift involves patrolling the premises, ensuring safety and addressing problems as they arise. In 2018, security guards earned a median annual salary of $32,050.
  7. Fraud investigator: Fraud investigators often work for major corporations and usually specialize their work in a specific area, such as digital forensics, financial crimes or insurance fraud. Fraud specialists must be attuned to details and patterns, with the ability to work and focus well independently. A bachelor’s degree is generally a requirement to work as a fraud investigator. The median wage for fraud investigators is $39,416. Experienced investigators can make more than twice that amount each year.

WHY PURSUE A CAREER IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE?

Criminal justice professionals — regardless of what career paths they take — play important roles in maintaining order and peace. While some people avoid pursuing jobs in criminal justice because of the potential danger and stress they can entail, those who take the plunge want to be part of building stronger communities.

Generations College’s Criminal Justice program is a two-year Associate of Science degree designed to train and empower tomorrow’s criminal justice professionals, in whatever careers they choose. With hands-on, skills-based training provided by experienced and knowledgeable instructors, our graduates enter the workforce ready to succeed.

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]]> REGISTER TO VOTE! https://www.generations.edu/register-to-vote/ Tue, 15 Oct 2019 14:31:24 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8386 As the 2020 presidential election gains momentum, candidates’ ads and pleas for votes are seemingly everywhere. Interest in the political process overall has grown in the past decade, thanks in large part to politics taking center stage on news broadcasts and late-night talk shows. However, young voter turnout leaves something to be desired.

While there will be more millennials of voting age next year than there will be baby boomers, less than half of them go to the ballot box on election day. In fact, according to U.S. government census records, less than 30% of millennial voters went to the polls in the 2016 presidential election.

For some young adults, their failure to vote has less to do with a lack of interest than it does with not understanding how to make their voice heard. In this article, we’ll discuss why you should consider going to the polls. We’ll also provide details about where and how to register to vote in Illinois.

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]]> WHY REGISTER TO VOTE?

Are you asking yourself, “Why should I register to vote?” If so, here are some of the most compelling reasons to register and go to the polls on election day:

  • Help to shape policies that will impact your generation and future generations. Whether you’re voting for a presidential candidate, a U.S. Senator or member of the U.S. House of Representatives, or you’re voting for a local official, candidates have different opinions, goals and plans for how to govern most effectively. Some of these plans vary widely from one another. When you become educated about candidates’ stances on health care, human rights, immigration, education and more, you can help bring about change by voting for candidates whose views match yours. Many young voters don’t understand just how powerful a force their generation can be. If more millennials turned out to vote, their collective voice could shape the political landscape in long-lasting and meaningful ways.
  • It’s easier than ever to connect with candidates to learn about their platforms. In today’s digital age, not understanding what a candidate stands for is not an excuse to stay away from the polls on election day. Most candidates today maintain social media presences, and informative articles and policy analyses are plentiful online. This ease of access to information, and the opportunity to engage and interact with candidates for political office, helps ensure voters make more informed decisions.
  • Your vote DOES matter. Sometimes, there is a perception that it’s OK to skip voting on election day, because one little vote really doesn’t make a difference. However, time and time again, candidates are winning and losing elections by slim margins, often triggering recounts and legal challenges. The truth is, in today’s politically divided climate, your vote matters more than ever.

EASY TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN CHICAGO (OR ANYWHERE IN THE UNITED STATES!)

If you know you should vote but just aren’t sure how to go about it, you may be surprised to learn that registering to vote is fast and easy.

In Chicago

In Chicago, you can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State or at a Deputy Registrar’s office ahead of election day. You can also register to vote at the polls if you choose early voting or at your precinct’s polling place on election day. Visit the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners’ website for more details, deadlines and links.

In Greater Illinois

If you live outside Cook County, you can visit the State Board of Elections’ Online Voter Application website to register to vote for the first time or to check your voter registration status.

Outside Illinois

For students who live and attend college in Illinois, but still call another state “home,” it is also simple to register to vote in other states online.

After completing voter registration, use the sites noted above to find your local polling place, learn about casting absentee ballots and much more.

WE ARE COMMITTED TO ENCOURAGING AND EQUIPPING STUDENTS TO VOTE

With popular degree programs related to the political process — including paralegal studies and criminal justice — Generations College has an interest in seeing its student body become engaged in the political process. When students exercise their constitutionally granted privilege to vote for local officials and national representatives, they are doing their part to help ensure their rights and voices are heard, and that our democracy remains strong.

Are you ready to learn more? Contact Generations College today!

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]]> TIPS FOR WRITING A STANDOUT CRIMINAL JUSTICE RESUME https://www.generations.edu/tips-for-writing-a-standout-criminal-justice-resume/ Fri, 31 May 2019 22:16:37 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8443 Perhaps you have recently graduated from college or already have a job, but are seeking a new position in the criminal justice field. Whether you’re looking for a job that starts your career or takes it to the next level, you need a resume to get your foot in the door. Here are some strategies to help you write a standout resume that will improve your chances of getting the job you want.

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]]> TYPES OF RESUMES

There are three basic ways to organize the information on a resume:

  • Reverse chronological order — Arguably the most popular type of resume, this puts the emphasis on your most recent work or educational experience. It’s an easy way to organize your qualifications but may not be the best choice if your work experience is limited.
  • Functional — Sometimes called a skills resume, the functional resume lets you empathize professional training, education and abilities over job experience. This may be a better choice if you’re a recent graduate with little work experience.
  • Hybrid — Skills, education and work experience are arranged in reverse chronological order in a hybrid or combination resume. This offers the most flexibility for job seekers.

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE RESUME

Before you write your resume, think about the type of job you are pursuing, and the skills and experience required or recommended for it. Your resume should demonstrate that you have the necessary experience, skills and training to succeed in the position, so make sure it includes them or at least highlights related skills. Keep in mind that you can always tweak your resume for different jobs — in fact, doing so is well worth your time, especially for a job you really want.

Most resumes start with an employment history, giving the dates you worked at a particular position, your job title, your employer and a brief list of job responsibilities. In addition to work experience, include your educational attainments, training programs and any certifications or licenses you hold.

If you are a recent graduate with little work experience, it’s smart to highlight your academics and relevant training and downplay your lack of real-world experience. If you have a college degree, stick to your collegiate academic history, not your high school accomplishments.

Consider the aspects of your education and background that will help set you apart from other applicants. For example, if your GPA was above a B average, include that. Have you had internships? Do you have experience with software used in the criminal justice positions? Be sure to also touch on your work background, if you have one. Even if the position wasn’t in the criminal justice field, employers like to see work experience — and some of those jobs may include skills that you’ll use in a criminal justice career.

TIPS FOR WRITING YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE RESUME

Keep these tips in mind when writing your resume:

  • Keep it simple — Short, succinct sentences are preferred over longer, wordier ones. Aim to keep your resume to one page.
  • Include a professional objective — List your professional objective at the top of your resume; tweak it to reflect the position you’re applying for.
  • Choose a classic font — A simple, easy-to-read font like Courier, Times New Roman or Arial conveys professionalism.
  • Make your resume ATS-friendly — ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System. It’s a software program designed to search for candidates with certain skills or training, so be sure you’ve included relevant keywords on your resume.

These strategies will help you create a resume that showcases your background and experience — and with any luck, leads to an interview as well.

Are you interested in a criminal justice career? Generations College offers a criminal justice program that will prepare you for a satisfying, rewarding career. Visit our site to enroll or learn more about our program.

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]]> NEED A REASON TO PURSUE A DEGREE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE? HERE ARE FIVE https://www.generations.edu/need-a-reason-to-pursue-a-degree-in-criminal-justice-here-are-five/ Mon, 18 Feb 2019 20:52:09 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8511 The field of criminal justice is broad, encompassing a variety of different, but related jobs. Police officers and prison guards often come to mind when people think of criminal justice. While those are popular career options, there are many other opportunities for people with the right skills and training.

Earning an associate degree in criminal justice involves learning foundational knowledge about the law and the legal framework in the United States. Coursework typically covers criminal justice theory, ethics, administration, policy, evidence and much more.

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]]> FIVE BENEFITS OF EARNING YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE

Here are five of the many reasons you should consider enrolling in a criminal justice degree program:

  1. You’ll be more employable. There are some criminal justice jobs you can get without a formal degree. However, employers increasingly prefer candidates who have earned degrees. Earning your associate degree (a prospect that typically takes about two years) shows employers you are committed and have discipline that can be invaluable in the criminal justice field.
  2. Opportunity to explore various criminal justice career paths. When you pursue a criminal justice degree, you can go in many directions after graduation. Taking different courses gives you the chance to test the waters of careers, helping you choose a career to which you are well-suited.
  3. Enhance and hone your skills. Your degree program should also provide hands-on training through internship opportunities and real-world classroom examples. These experiences allow you to practice and perfect your skills before applying for full-time work. When you enter the workforce, you’ll be able to demonstrate that you know how to perform the essential tasks of the job.
  4. Gain broad foundational knowledge. Rather than focusing on a specific area of criminal justice, an associate degree gives students exposure to ethical considerations that can impact criminal justice professionals, while helping degree candidates understand how various criminal justice disciplines interact and are interrelated. This broad knowledge base means you will have a better understanding of the field than nondegree-holders.
  5. Play a role in the criminal justice system. Finally, many criminal justice degree-seekers do so because it affords them the opportunity to give back to their communities. They serve a role in making the wheels of justice turn by helping people who need it most.

CHOOSE GENERATIONS COLLEGE FOR YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION

Are you ready to embark on an exciting career in the criminal justice field? Start by earning your Criminal Justice Associate of Science degree from Generations College in Chicago. To learn more about how a solid educational foundation can set you up for a lifetime of career success, contact us today.

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]]> WHY AN AA OR AS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE IS A GREAT FIRST STEP https://www.generations.edu/why-an-aa-or-as-in-criminal-justice-is-a-great-first-step/ Fri, 18 Jan 2019 21:20:07 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8527 If you decide to go into the criminal justice field, earning your Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree in criminal justice is an important first step. Not only will your associate degree give you the ability to pursue jobs that require a college education, it will also give you the foundational knowledge you need to launch a long and successful career in criminal justice or to continue your education if you choose to do so.

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]]> WHAT IS AN ASSOCIATE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE?

When you pursue an associate degree in criminal justice, you are embarking on an in-depth degree program covering the criminal justice systems and procedures used in the United States to identify, apprehend, prosecute and punish people who break the law. You can expect to learn about laws, criminal procedures, forensics, ethics, how to write reports and much more.

An associate degree typically takes about two years to complete, although some students will finish sooner or take longer to complete their studies.

BENEFITS OF EARNING A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE

There are some criminal justice-related jobs you can still get without a college degree. However, employers are increasingly including degree requirements in job descriptions. Employers — whether state and local governments or private employers — also tend to prefer candidates who can demonstrate that they are serious about working in criminal justice careers. Earning your associate degree shows potential employers that you take your future seriously. It also demonstrates that you have up-to-date knowledge that brings value to the job.

Many people earn criminal justice degrees with the intention of becoming police officers or corrections officers in our prison system. Yet there are many other exciting careers in criminal justice. Your associate degree can open doors to these and other exciting career paths:

  • Private investigator
  • Probation officer
  • Parole officer
  • Private security guard
  • Fraud investigator
  • Forensic technician
  • Computer forensics
  • State patrol officer
  • Insurance investigator
  • Victim advocacy

GRADUATION DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN YOU’RE DONE LEARNING

Some people who earn their AA or AS degrees choose to transfer their associate degree credits to a four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree. Taking this path can help expand your career potential.

Even if you choose not to earn a bachelor’s degree after graduating with an associate degree, there are other ways to continue your education. For example, you could pursue advanced certification in a particular field of criminal justice such as forensics. This may make you more sought-after by employers and can help you command a higher salary.

At Generations College in Chicago, we offer an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice degree program. Our students get hands-on instruction designed to prepare them to begin working in criminal justice jobs right away. Many graduates also take advantage of Generations College’s articulation agreements with well-known four-year colleges and universities in the greater Chicago area, continuing their learning by applying their earned credits toward bachelor’s degree programs.

To learn more about our criminal justice associate degree program, contact us online or call (312) 922-1884 today.

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]]> WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE MAJORING IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE https://www.generations.edu/what-you-need-to-know-before-majoring-in-criminal-justice/ Thu, 03 Jan 2019 22:45:05 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8555 Choosing a career in criminal justice can mean an exciting and fulfilling career, giving you the opportunity to hold a number of important jobs that contribute to a safer society. Before enrolling in a criminal justice degree program, it’s smart to fully understand what that decision could mean for your future.

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]]> Choosing a career in criminal justice can mean an exciting and fulfilling career, giving you the opportunity to hold a number of important jobs that contribute to a safer society. Before enrolling in a criminal justice degree program, it’s smart to fully understand what that decision could mean for your future.

Here are five keys you should know before committing to pursuing your criminal justice degree:

1. THERE ARE MANY JOBS AVAILABLE IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE FIELD

Upon hearing you want to go into the criminal justice field, many people automatically assume that means you want to become a police officer. While you could choose to pursue a job working for the state or local police or in a private security role, earning a criminal justice degree can qualify you for many other job openings. Some of those jobs include working in the corrections system as a prison warden, corrections officer or parole officer. Other people with criminal justice training choose to work in investigative roles as crime scene investigators or lab analysts.

2. SALARY AND EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK ARE GENERALLY FAVORABLE

Working in the criminal justice field can mean a long and financially rewarding career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for police officers and detectives in the U.S. in 2017 was $62,960 per year. The 10-year job outlook through 2026 is forecast to grow at a rate of 7 percent, which should provide a measure of comfort for anyone entering a criminal justice degree program.

3. UNDERSTAND HOW VARIOUS JUDICIAL SYSTEM ROLES WORK TOGETHER

In some fields, there is not very much interplay or coordination between different jobs. That is to say, each type of job in the field functions independently. That’s not the case in the criminal justice field. In fact, when you work in criminal justice, your role is just one part of the larger picture. You will need to have a broad understanding of the way the justice system works and how your chosen career fits into the system as a whole.

4. SKILLS NEEDED TO SUCCEED GO BEYOND KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAW

Learning about the justice system and the framework of laws in the U.S. can help you be more successful in a criminal justice career, but you’ll need to hone some additional skills.

Look for a college that offers traditional criminal justice degree programing and that also helps students refine their problem-solving, research, writing and college study skills. Your criminal justice degree program should also include an introduction to working with statistics and investigation procedures.

5. YOU NEED WORK EXPERIENCE TO CLIMB THE RANKS

You may have a career goal to run the police department in a major metropolitan area or to become a prison warden. Your criminal justice degree can help you get there, but don’t expect to be hired into a senior-level position immediately. Regardless of what type of job you pursue, plan on starting in an entry-level opening and working your way up the ranks as you gain more experience.

Those who work in the criminal justice field play key roles in their communities and our society as a whole. If you are considering pursuing your criminal justice degree, explore what Generations College’s associate degree program in criminal justice has to offer.

Simply contact us online or call (312) 922-1884 to learn more and to take the first step toward your future.

The post WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE MAJORING IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE appeared first on Generations College.

]]> WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE? https://www.generations.edu/what-can-you-do-with-a-criminal-justice-degree/ Tue, 16 Oct 2018 00:38:12 +0000 https://generations.edu/?p=8595 If you are considering earning a criminal justice degree, you may have some preconceived notions about the type of job for which you’ll be qualified after graduation. Many students who start in a criminal justice degree program assume that their career track will be limited to working as a police officer or a corrections officer. While those are two of the most popular and common criminal justice jobs, there are many other career paths you could choose to pursue.

The post WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE? appeared first on Generations College.

]]> If you are considering earning a criminal justice degree, you may have some preconceived notions about the type of job for which you’ll be qualified after graduation. Many students who start in a criminal justice degree program assume that their career track will be limited to working as a police officer or a corrections officer. While those are two of the most popular and common criminal justice jobs, there are many other career paths you could choose to pursue.

A WIDE VARIETY OF CAREER OPTIONS

Here are a few of the most common career options available to you after graduation, including some jobs you may not have considered:

  • Police Officer: Communities across the country rely on police officers to keep the peace. Police officers are needed in cities and towns of all sizes, and help prevent crime, provide valuable community outreach services, and apprehend criminals.
  • State Trooper: Where police officers protect and serve their communities, state troopers are responsible for making sure state and federal laws are adhered to by motorists traveling on state and interstate roadways.
  • Private Security: Companies of all sizes and across a variety of industries regularly hire private security contractors. Having a criminal justice degree can help you obtain employment as a private security guard.
  • Corrections Systems:  When you work in a correctional facility, you could be a corrections officer, a corrections supervisor or manager, or work in prison administration. You’ll help guard and rehabilitate prisoners serving time after being convicted of crimes.
  • Probation Officer: As a probation officer, you will work closely with people who have been released from correctional facilities, helping them get back on their feet so they can rejoin society after serving time.
  • Private Investigator or Private Detective: Many criminal justice degree program graduates find satisfaction working as private investigators, helping individual clients locate people, money, running background checks and more.
  • Federal Investigator: For students who decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree after earning their associate degree in criminal justice, there are many exciting potential jobs including working for the FBI or other federal intelligence agencies. Federal agents may help prevent and solve crimes related to terrorism, corruption, cybercrime, money laundering, violent crime and much more.
  • Crime Scene Investigator: Crime scene investigators help the police review crime scenes, uncover evidence and reconstruct events to help the police apprehend and convict the perpetrators of the crimes.
  • Fraud Investigators: Another option is working for an insurance company, bank or other organization in an internal audit or fraud investigation role. Fraud investigators apply their criminal justice knowledge and skills to identify incidents of fraud so the injured party can recover damages.
  • Forensic Science Professional: In this role, you might work in a lab, hospital, courtroom or anywhere else where you can apply your knowledge of forensics to help ensure justice is served.
  • Computer Forensics Professional: Criminal justice degree holders can also work as technology specialists, extracting and reconstructing data to help solve crimes.
  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent: Another option is to work as an immigrations and customs enforcement agent, helping enforce U.S. laws about who and what can lawfully be in the country. These professionals work for a division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
  • Drug Enforcement Agent: These professionals help enforce our nation’s controlled substance laws, investigating suspected drug traffickers, and seeking to arrest and hold criminals accountable for violating the law.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS START WITH A SOLID EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Regardless of what type of criminal justice job you ultimately want to obtain, you’ll need a solid foundation in criminal justice theory, forensic techniques, the criminal justice infrastructure, constitutional, criminal and procedural law, ethics and more. These elements are the building blocks for a long, successful criminal justice career, and should be core components in any educational degree program you consider.

Where will your criminal justice career path take you? To learn more about earning an Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Generations College, contact us today.

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