Criminal Justice Schools, Programs and Career Training

In order for society to function properly, it must have a transparent, fair, and effective criminal justice system. You need:

Law enforcement to provide safety and order

Forensic science to help piece together clues in order to confirm guilt or innocence

Court reporting to ensure lasting records exist for future review

Legal representation for all citizens

Nearly all careers within the criminal justice, law, and protection arenas require at least some level or formal training. This is why the vast majority of aspiring cops, lawyers, social workers, and stenographers attend accredited programs in their given fields.

Criminal Justice, Law, and Protection Certification Schools

What type of training program you attend ultimately depends on the type of criminal justice or legal career you wish to pursue. Listed here are typical requirements and median annual salaries for some common criminal justice careers:

Court reporters typically need certificate training and licensing in order to work in the legal justice system. Median annual wage: $49,710.

Police officers usually attend dedicated academies lasting for several months. In some precincts, you must complete at least a few years of college education before applying to the academy. Median annual wage: 451,410.

Corrections officers go through specialized training academies after securing a bachelor's degree, three years of professional experience, or a combination of the two. Median annual wage: $38,380.

Attorneys must complete a bachelor's degree, law degree, and licensing exam before they can practice professionally. Median annual wage: $110,590.

There are also a range of careers for which criminal justice education is not mandatory as long as you have sufficient training in other key areas. For example, many law enforcement agencies rely on scientists, accountants, engineers, and computer specialists to capture and prosecute criminals.

Career Outlook: Criminal Justice, Law and Protection Careers

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that growth for the career areas mentioned above should match or exceed the national average for most occupational fields.