What's the Purpose of a Degree in Criminal Justice?
Published: October 01, 2019
Author: Sidney Webster
Are you passionate about solving social justice issues? Do you like the thought of solving a crime? Is the safety of your community important to you? If you answered yes to any of these questions, a career in criminal justice could be the perfect fit!
Greenville University offers many online degree completion options, and criminal justice just happens to be one of them. As an online degree, students do not have to worry about being able to show up to class. An online degree is a sweet opportunity for students to go to school from anywhere with WiFi!
What is criminal justice? The criminal justice system is made up of three parts: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The three branches work together to keep crime from occurring and punish irrational behavior. Criminal justice is often confused with the term criminology. While they share the same root, criminology is different as it is the study of the causes and effects of crime.
What does earning a degree in criminal justice look like at GU? At GU, those majoring in criminal justice learn about society and social processes. Criminal justice focuses on the study of deviance, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. However, the program, like most programs at GU, is experienced- based. Students obtain the experience through field activities such as serving agencies with a history of incarceration, children's homes, homes for the delinquent, mental institutions, low-income communities, and many other areas.
What can one do with a degree in criminal justice?
1. Police Officers are part of the law enforcement component of criminal justice. They protect lives and property in the area they serve. The projected growth of the position is 7%, and the 2018 median salary was $63,380.
2. Criminal Detectives are also part of the law enforcement component of criminal justice. They collect evidence and investigate criminal activity. The projected growth of the position is 7%, and the 2018 median salary was $63,380.
3. The people who work with law offenders are Probation or Correctional Treatment Officers. They assist in providing rehabilitation for those in custody or on probation. The projected growth is 6%, and the 2018 median salary was $53,020.
4. Courtroom Judges oversee the courtroom procedures and legal processes.
As one of GU's degree completion programs, it is designed to support all in their journey towards their dream. If a degree in criminal justice is your dream, we are here with you. Don't journey alone; complete your degree in criminal justice with GU! Find more of GU's online degree programs here.