The Best Jobs For Criminal Justice Degree Holders

Are you passionate about justice, fascinated by investigations, or eager to make your community safer?

If so, an online criminal justice degree could be your ticket to a rewarding and impactful career. 

Whether you dream of working on the front lines of law enforcement or behind the scenes in analysis or advocacy, this flexible degree can open doors to a wide range of exciting jobs. 

Let’s explore some of the top career paths you can pursue—and what you can expect to earn—after graduating with an online criminal justice degree.

What Can You Do With an Online Criminal Justice Degree?

Earning an online criminal justice degree prepares you for diverse roles across law enforcement, corrections, investigations, social services, and more. 

Here are some of the most in-demand jobs in the field, along with their average salary expectations, according to Indeed.

1. Police Officer

Police officers are possibly the most obvious, but one of the most common jobs you can get with a criminal justice degree. While many law enforcement jobs do not require a bachelor’s degree, having one can make it easier for you to move up in the ranks. Police officers patrol neighborhoods and make arrests, of course, but they also write reports, which can be made easier with college experience. Salaries for police officers are climbing quickly currently.

Average salary: $68,715 per year

2. Correctional Officer

Correctional officers maintain order and safety within jails, prisons, and detention centers. They supervise inmates, enforce facility rules, conduct inspections, and assist with rehabilitation programs. This role is essential for the safe and effective operation of correctional facilities. A bachelor’s degree is not typically needed for entry-level corrections positions, but if you want to work for the Federal Bureau of Prisons or if you have aspirations to be a warden or director, you will want more than a GED.

Average pay: $23.56 per hour

3. Probation Officer

Probation officers monitor individuals released from prison, helping them reintegrate into society and avoid reoffending. They schedule community service, connect clients to resources, and ensure compliance with court orders. Unlike police officers or corrections officers, you often need a bachelor’s degree to be a probation officer. 

Average salary: $57,153 per year

4. Crime Scene Technician

Crime scene technicians, also known as forensic science technicians, collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes. Their work is crucial for solving cases and supporting law enforcement investigations.

Average pay: $22.49 per hour

5. Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts use databases and surveillance tools to gather and interpret information about criminal activities. Their insights help law enforcement agencies prevent and solve crimes.

Average salary: $60,489 per year

6. Victim Advocate

Victim advocates provide support, resources, and guidance to individuals affected by crime. They may accompany victims to court, help them access services, and offer emotional support through the recovery process.

Average pay: $22.33 per hour

7. Social Worker (Criminal Justice Focus)

Social workers in criminal justice support individuals and families impacted by crime, offering counseling, connecting them to resources, and helping with rehabilitation efforts.

Average salary: $50,957 per year (according to Salary.com)

8. Senior Fraud Investigator

Senior fraud investigators examine cases of suspected fraud in finance, analyze evidence, and develop strategies to prevent future incidents. They often work with law enforcement or private companies.

Average salary: $77,850 per year

Why Choose an Online Criminal Justice Degree?

An online criminal justice degree offers flexibility for working adults, parents, or anyone who needs to balance education with other commitments. 

Accredited online programs provide the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus degrees, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the workforce.

Earning Your Criminal Justice Degree

With an online criminal justice degree, you’re not limited to a single path—you can build a career that matches your interests and ambitions, whether that’s in law enforcement, investigations, corrections, social services, or leadership. These roles offer the  chance to make a real difference in your community.

Ready to take the next step? The University of Alabama Online offers an online criminal justice degree that is the same price, no matter where you live in the United States.

Explore their degree here.