Exploring Careers in Criminal Justice

There are many career options for you to explore within the criminal justice field. The following options are only a sampling of the varying directions you can consider. Keep in mind the path you choose may require additional education, experience, training, and/or other qualifications beyond obtaining a criminal justice degree.

Your ideal career path may or may not appear in the list above; continue exploring career options until you find a path that aligns with your individual interests and professional goals. Make it a priority to learn as much as possible about your desired career path. The more you know about your target job, the better you can plan and prepare yourself for success.

Ever wonder what it would be like to work as a patrol officer? In the following Candid Career video, watch and listen as one law enforcement professional shares his experience:

You can watch the full recorded interview (and explore many others) by accessing Candid Career through our unique university link.

If you are interested in witnessing a day-in-the-life of a patrol officer first-hand, consider completing a ride along with your local law enforcement agency. Contact your law enforcement office to see if they offer a ride along program and ask about the requirements to participate.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook (2023), a Probation Officer works with and monitors law offenders and provides social services to assist in their rehabilitation. Probation officers can specialize in different areas, such as adult probation and juvenile probation, and typically make frequent visits with the probationer to ensure they are not a threat to the community.

While each state, county, or agency has different requirements for becoming a probation officer, most require a bachelor’s degree, a minimum age requirement of 21, and the ability to pass various background and drug testing. In addition, training for probation officers varies by agency, and is typically sponsored by the local, state, or federal government. Some agencies require candidates to pass a certification test and/or work as a trainee prior to obtaining a permanent position.

For more information on how to become a probation officer, reach out to your local and state correctional facilities to inquire about your area’s employment requirements. The Occupational Outlook Handbook’s “Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists” can also provide general guidance and resources for conducting research.

Citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm (updated September 6, 2023).

A great way to learn more about a criminal justice career is to conduct an informational interview with someone who works in your desired job role. An informational interview can provide unique insight into the daily functions, responsibilities, joys, and challenges of that individual's position. It can also provide an opportunity to build your professional network and learn more about industry employers and work settings.

Employers often gravitate toward hiring job candidates who possess relevant, real-word experiences that complement their education. If you have limited experience in the criminal justice field, below are a few ways you can gain relevant experience and pave your way to opportunity. To brainstorm additional ideas, schedule an appointment with your career coach.

Volunteering:

Volunteering allows you to serve your community while building new skills, experiences, and professional connections. Explore opportunities with local law enforcement agencies, judicial centers, criminal victim advocacy organizations, and public event facilities.

Military Service:

Many of the skills, values, and training instilled through the military align with civilian criminal justice careers, such as service above one’s self, quick decision-making skills, and specialized occupational training.

Fellowships:

Research potential fellowship opportunities, such as the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program, to sharpen your professional skills and leadership abilities.

National and Community Service Programs:

Consider looking into service-based programs and opportunities through the Corporation for National & Community Service, such as:

Building meaningful connections with employers, mentors, and industry professionals can help you learn more about a position or specialty area as well as aid you during a future job search. Below are a few ways you can begin establishing new professional relationships in the criminal justice field:

APUS Virtual Career Fairs

Career Services offers industry-specific virtual career fairs throughout the year, providing students and alumni with the opportunity to connect with employers and recruiters.  View our Events page to discover upcoming career fairs, employer information sessions and other events.

Past participating VCF employers have included*:

*Please note that past employer participation does not guarantee future employer VCF participation. Please visit our Events page within CareerLink for upcoming events.

APUS Mentoring Program

Receive coaching, motivation, and guidance from a university mentor. Visit the university's mentoring page to learn more.

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization offers a variety of career and professional development benefits, including the opportunity to network at conferences and other events. There are several professional organizations within the criminal justice field; be sure to explore all your options to find the best fit for you. Examples of relevant organizations include:

LinkedIn Groups

Build your network, connect with employers, and join LinkedIn groups to engage in professional discussions. Examples of LinkedIn groups include: