Career Choices: Law and Criminal Justice Degrees Open Doors
The legal field spans the spectrum of public service. From the police officers who walk a beat on the streets, to the lawyers who defend and prosecute, to judges who deliver rulings in court, to parole and corrections advocates who assist people after incarceration.
Career Choices for Those with Law and Criminal Justice Degrees
If you earn an online law degree or an online criminal justice degree, you can choose from jobs that allow you to work in rural or metropolitan areas.
Some of the professions you may consider after earning your online law degree or online criminal justice degree include:
- Police officer
- Police detective
- Sheriff's deputy
- Fish and game warden
- Highway patrol (state trooper)
- Correctional officer
- Probation or parole office
- Paralegal
- Law clerk
- Lawyer
The employment outlook for most local law enforcement positions is favorable. However, there is more competition for state and federal agency positions, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Law enforcement is expected to grow as fast as average for all professions. Police and patrol officers made a mean annual wage of $55,180 in 2009. Fish and game wardens made $54,950. Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists made mean annual wages of $50,500 in 2009.
Educational Requirements
Most law enforcement positions require a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related subject. An online law degree or online criminal justice degree can get you started. If you earn an online law degree and want to advance in the corrections or judicial field, you may want to pursue a graduate level degree.
