Criminal Justice Careers
Start a Meaningful Career in Criminal Justice
Criminal justice careers span an impressive range of roles, from law enforcement and corrections to legal services, homeland security and investigative work. Each path offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on individuals, communities and society as a whole.
At Generations College, our online criminal justice program empowers you to build the knowledge and confidence to succeed in this dynamic field. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, we provide the flexibility, expert instruction and practical preparation to help you achieve your goals.
WHERE CAN A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE TAKE YOU?
What does a criminal justice job entail? Depending on the role, criminal justice duties and responsibilities differ. Here are some of the most popular career choice:
Police Officer
One of the most recognized criminal justice degree jobs, the police officer role involves upholding laws, protecting citizens and safeguarding property. Duties include patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes and making arrests. This career can be stressful and physically demanding, but it offers the satisfaction of directly improving community safety. Graduates with an associate degree in criminal justice are prepared for entry into police work, where the 2023 national annual median wage was $74,910.
Corrections Officer
Corrections officers work within jails and prisons, overseeing individuals who are arrested or serving sentences. Responsibilities include monitoring inmate activities, enforcing facility rules and ensuring safety for both staff and detainees. While physically and emotionally demanding, it’s a critical role in maintaining order and security. The 2023 national median salary for corrections officers was $53,290.
Probation Officer
Probation officers supervise individuals on probation or parole, meeting regularly to monitor compliance with court orders. They create rehabilitation plans, connect clients to resources and encourage positive change. This career can be challenging but highly rewarding for those who value second chances. The median annual wage in 2023 was $61,800.
Private Investigator
Private investigators research cases for private clients, law firms or corporations. Tasks may include conducting surveillance, verifying backgrounds or locating missing persons. This role suits detail-oriented individuals who enjoy investigative work. The 2023 national average salary for private detectives was $49,540.
Security Guard
Security guards protect property and people in settings like retail, corporate offices and public venues. Duties include monitoring security systems, patrolling and assisting visitors. The national median salary in 2023 was $37,090, with pay varying by employer.
Fraud Investigator
Fraud investigators specialize in uncovering financial or insurance scams, conducting interviews and analyzing evidence. This career is increasingly important as technology expands the scope of fraudulent activity.
THE VALUE OF A TWO-YEAR CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE
A two-year criminal justice degree offers a practical, fast-track pathway into a variety of law enforcement career paths and related fields. By earning an associate degree, students gain a solid foundation in criminal law, criminology, ethics and investigative techniques, all of which are essential skills for roles ranging from police work to private investigator opportunities. This formal education not only prepares graduates for immediate entry-level positions but also strengthens their qualifications for advancement over time.
Flexibility is a key advantage. Many programs offer both online and in-person options, allowing students to choose a learning format that fits their schedules and commitments. Online courses make it possible to balance education with work or family responsibilities, while in-person classes provide valuable face-to-face networking with peers and instructors.
Additionally, completing a two-year program positions students to transfer seamlessly into a four-year institution if they wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Whether the goal is to start working quickly, advance in a current role or keep options open for further education, an associate degree in criminal justice provides the training, adaptability and credentials needed to move forward with confidence in a competitive job market.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN A CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROGRAM
In a criminal justice program, you’ll gain a blend of technical knowledge and transferable skills that prepare you for a variety of roles in law enforcement, security, investigations and more. Coursework often covers criminal law, criminology, corrections and forensic science, giving you a strong understanding of the systems and procedures behind criminal justice responsibilities.
Critical thinking is emphasized throughout the program, training you to assess situations, evaluate evidence and make sound decisions under pressure. Ethics is another cornerstone, ensuring you can navigate complex legal and moral challenges with integrity. Both verbal and written communication skills are honed so you can interact effectively with colleagues, community members and other stakeholders.
You’ll also develop forensic awareness, learning how to interpret physical evidence, follow chain-of-custody protocols and apply investigative methods. Together, these skills create a foundation of career readiness, allowing you to step confidently into entry-level positions or advance into specialized roles. Whether you’re pursuing a career as a police officer, probation officer, private investigator or security professional, your education equips you to adapt, problem-solve and lead in this critical field.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SALARY POTENTIAL & JOB OUTLOOK
Criminal justice careers offer competitive pay, with salaries varying by role, experience and location. From police officers and corrections officers to private investigators and fraud specialists, many positions provide stable incomes and benefits, reflecting the critical nature of the work. Criminal justice salary potential often grows with experience, additional training or advancement into leadership roles.
The job outlook in this field remains strong, with consistent demand both locally and internationally for professionals who can uphold the law, ensure public safety and manage justice system operations. Careers in law enforcement, security and investigations often provide long-term stability, making them appealing for those seeking meaningful, reliable work. Whether you’re drawn to frontline service, investigative work or specialized roles, a career in criminal justice offers the chance to make a tangible impact while building a secure and rewarding future.
GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED
Generations College, located in the heart of Chicago, offers both in-person and online classes for our fully accredited Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Designed for motivated adults, this program combines flexibility with personal attention, thanks to our small class sizes and direct access to experienced faculty. You’ll learn from professionals with real-world knowledge of today’s criminal justice system, gaining practical insight you can immediately apply to your career goals.
With more than a century of experience educating students, Generations College is committed to helping you achieve success, whether you aspire to a probation officer career, a correction officer job or another role in the field. Our curriculum prepares you for a wide range of opportunities, emphasizing the skills and knowledge needed for advancement or transfer into a bachelor’s program.
By studying on our Chicago campus, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a vibrant city with access to diverse professional networks, while our online learning options ensure your education fits your schedule. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on existing experience, our program offers a clear path toward a fulfilling career in criminal justice.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today or apply online to start building your future.