Career outlook

What can I do with a degree in criminal justice?

Students earning a degree in criminal justice will receive a foundation in critical thinking, research, writing and analytical skills. Career options in criminal justice are virtually limitless and many CJ majors earn careers in law enforcement, the courts, corrections or a variety of non-profit organizations that serve the criminal justice system. Additionally, many continue on to graduate school earning a master's, doctoral or Juris Doctor.

Transferable skills

A criminal justice degree offers skills in:

  • Critical thinking and basic analytical ability
  • Interpersonal and cross-cultural awareness
  • Analysis of evidence-based practices
  • Event and program coordination
  • Public speaking skills

Careers insights by degree

Graduate study

This degree also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in:

Notable people with a criminal justice degree

  • Andrew Lutaakome Kayiira (leader of the Uganda Freedom Movement (UFM))
  • Freda Adler (president of the American Criminological Society and consultant to the UN on issues of crime)
  • Alice Stebbins Wells (first female police officer in the LA police force)
  • Pauley Perrette (American actress who played in NCIS, published writer, singer and civil rights advocate)
  • William Fitchner (American actor known for playing Sheriff Tom Underlay on Invasion)