Jobs with a Criminology Degree

A criminology degree is a versatile course that enables you to have a career in the law enforcement and criminal justice fields. The great thing about criminology is that it is a very broad subject, hence allowing you to have more choices for career paths on your plate. The field of criminology encompasses a large area of studies such as psychology, political science, communications, forensics, law, sociology, anthropology, and more. Whether in the local, state, or national levels, there is a myriad of jobs with a criminology degree.

Forensic scientist

With the heightening of technology nowadays, a job in the forensic sciences is deemed bright. As a forensic scientist, you are to deal with crime investigations in the forensic level;that is, you study evidences based on DNA samples found in blood, hair, and other human tissue. Such jobs may vary from computer forensic experts and forensic specialists.

Private security

A career path in private security is another option for criminology degree holders. Private security personnel vary from being a private investigator, body guard, industrial security specialist, and private detective. This involves private and public security services.

Probation and parole officer

Another career option is to be parole and probation officer. This type of job works in tandem with the corrections sector in criminal justice. You may also opt for a position as a penologist - one that deals with prison management and the treatment of incarcerated individuals.

Law enforcer

Police officers or law enforcers may take the form of a sheriff, ranger, airport security office, security guard, drug enforcement agent, and border patrol agent. Being part of the police force enables you to have a plethora of job opportunities in the law enforcement field. Although civilians are open to join the police force, criminology degree holders have an upper hand compared to their civilian counterparts.

State and federal law officer

Career options for this field in criminology include being a coroner, CIA agent, postal service investigator, marshal, criminal investigator, FBI agent, and fingerprint specialist. Note that such specialized job position may need further studies, like a master's degree or special training. However, some jobs may allow a bachelor's degree to suffice.

Social worker

Although there is a separate course that focuses on social work and its licensing, criminologists may also opt to cross over the profession and take a complementing job position as a social worker. Social work positions available for criminology degree holders include being a victim service specialist, child welfare case worker, juvenile court counsellor, substance abuse counsellor, and community service coordinator.

Law and order

Some criminologists also cross over to a complementary field in criminology such as law. You can opt for a job as an attorney, law clerk, administrator, paralegal investigator, law librarian, and more.

There are yet still a lot of job opportunities available for criminology degree holders, whether associate's, bachelor's, or a master's degree.