Top Criminal Justice Jobs You Can Get With a Bachelor’s Degree
| 6 Min Read
A criminal justice degree opens doors to far more career opportunities than many people realize. While law enforcement roles often come to mind first, graduates can pursue meaningful work across corrections, legal services, private security and specialized federal officer positions. The field offers career stability, competitive salaries and the chance to make a tangible difference in communities every day.
If you’ve wondered what you can do with a criminal justice degree, the answer spans a diverse range of careers that protect public safety, support rehabilitation and ensure legal processes run smoothly. From patrol officers responding to emergencies to paralegals supporting court proceedings, criminal justice professionals work at every level of the system. Concordia University, St. Paul’s online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree provides the comprehensive education and practical foundation needed to excel in these varied roles.
Law Enforcement Careers
Law enforcement remains one of the most visible and sought-after career paths for criminal justice graduates. Police officers serve as the frontline protectors of community safety, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, making arrests and building relationships with residents. For those pursuing law enforcement careers in Minnesota, criminal justice program graduates are well-positioned to take the Peace Officer Licensing Exam, an essential step toward becoming a licensed peace officer in the state.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), police and detectives earned a median annual wage of $77,270 in 2024, with employment expected to grow steadily. Criminal investigators take on more specialized roles, focusing on solving complex cases that require extensive evidence gathering, witness interviews and analytical thinking. These positions typically require several years of experience as a patrol officer before advancement.
Federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF and the U.S. Marshals Service offer additional opportunities for criminal justice graduates willing to meet rigorous physical and background requirements. Career progression in law enforcement can lead to supervisory positions, specialized units such as narcotics and cybercrime divisions, and leadership roles that shape department policies.
Corrections and Rehabilitation Roles
The corrections field employs thousands of professionals who oversee incarcerated individuals and support their successful reintegration into society. Correctional officers maintain security and order within jails and prisons, supervise daily activities, conduct inspections and respond to incidents. These positions require strong interpersonal skills, crisis management abilities and a commitment to safety.
Probation and parole officers work outside institutional settings to monitor offenders serving community sentences. They conduct regular check-ins, verify compliance with court-ordered conditions, connect individuals with treatment programs and employment services, and report violations when necessary. This career path appeals to those interested in rehabilitation and reducing recidivism through supportive intervention.
Counselors working with at-risk youth in juvenile justice settings provide guidance, develop treatment plans and advocate for services that address underlying issues. These positions sometimes fall under social services or human services departments and may require additional certifications in counseling or social work beyond a criminal justice degree. The corrections field increasingly emphasizes rehabilitation over purely punitive approaches, creating demand for professionals who understand both security needs and evidence-based rehabilitation strategies.
Legal and Court System Positions
Criminal justice graduates often find rewarding careers supporting the legal system without becoming attorneys. Paralegals and legal assistants conduct research, draft documents, organize case files, interview clients and assist lawyers in trial preparation. Paralegals earned a median annual wage of $61,010 in 2024, according to the BLS. Many paralegals specialize in criminal law, working for prosecutors’ offices, public defenders or private criminal defense firms.
Court clerks and court administrators keep judicial proceedings running efficiently by managing case files, scheduling hearings, maintaining records and assisting judges with administrative tasks. These positions require attention to detail, organizational skills and knowledge of legal procedures.
Victim advocates provide crucial support to crime victims navigating the justice system, explaining legal processes, connecting them with counseling and support services, accompanying them to court proceedings and ensuring their voices are heard. These roles combine legal knowledge with compassion, offering meaningful work for those passionate about supporting vulnerable populations through difficult experiences.
Private Security and Corporate Roles
Private sector career opportunities for criminal justice graduates extend beyond traditional law enforcement. Security managers and loss prevention specialists oversee protection operations for corporations, retail chains, healthcare facilities, educational institutions and entertainment venues. They develop security protocols, manage personnel, coordinate with law enforcement agencies and respond to incidents.
Private investigators work independently or for investigative firms, conducting background checks, surveillance, fraud investigations and missing persons cases. While some states require specific licensing for private investigation work, a criminal justice degree provides valuable foundational knowledge.
Corporate compliance and risk management positions have grown substantially as well. As businesses face increasing regulatory requirements and security threats, a growing demand has emerged for professionals who understand legal frameworks and investigative techniques.
Preparing for Your Criminal Justice Career
A comprehensive criminal justice degree program provides the educational foundation needed for career success across all these fields. The B.S. in Criminal Justice at Concordia University, St. Paul covers essential topics, including criminal law, constitutional rights, research methods, ethics, cultural considerations and juvenile justice. Understanding how these components interconnect prepares graduates to work effectively at any level of the system.
Practical experience gained through internships significantly enhances employability and helps students identify the career path that best aligns with their interests and strengths. Many criminal justice programs facilitate internship placements with police departments, court systems, correctional facilities or legal offices. Professional certifications can further distinguish candidates in competitive job markets.
Law enforcement careers often require completion of a state-certified police academy. Correctional officers typically complete training programs specific to their facilities. Networking with professionals in your target field, developing additional skills and gaining relevant work experience all contribute substantially to career success. CSP Global’s flexible online format allows students to achieve this essential experience while completing their degree on a schedule that works with their other commitments.
Take the Next Step in Criminal Justice
Criminal justice graduates enter a field with diverse career opportunities, strong job security and the chance to contribute meaningfully to public safety and community well-being. Whether you’re drawn to the immediate action of law enforcement, the long-term impact of rehabilitation work or the precision of legal support roles, a criminal justice degree provides the knowledge and credentials to pursue your chosen path.
The B.S. in Criminal Justice at CSP Global prepares graduates for these varied careers through comprehensive coursework taught by industry-experienced faculty, with options including a Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training licensing eligibility track for those pursuing law enforcement in Minnesota. If you’re ready to start your criminal justice career, explore the online B.S. in Criminal Justice program today and learn how Concordia University, St. Paul can help you achieve your professional goals.
Learn more about CSP Global’s online B.S. in Criminal Justice program.