Criminal Justice Career
Criminal Justice Career
In this day and age popular culture bombards us with images and portrayals of detectives and investigators who are just doing their jobs. They solve complicated crimes, use their powers of deduction and use very sophisticated technology. However these are the more high profile and higher level professions. There are many jobs that are more behind the scenes or at least not as high-profile. The entry level positions for this career include local law enforcement. For example positions in the sheriff’s department, juvenile justice centers, state law enforcement including the court system and attorneys general offices; federal law enforcement including the Department of Homeland Security and the Office of the Inspector General; and private companies including insurance companies and security patrol officers. . The Criminal Justice Career is one of the fastest growing careers in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for correctional officers, law enforcement officers and security officers is projected to increase as much as 35% through 2010.
Courses in the Criminal Justice Career
Some of the courses may be:
- Courts and the Criminal Justice System
- Criminal Justice Organization and Administration
- Principles of Policing and Law Enforcement
- Law Enforcement Reporting and Recording
- Correctional Programs: Probation and Parole
- Criminal Investigation
- Forensics and Crime Scene Investigation
- The Criminalistics of Cybercrime
- Policing Techniques: Interviewing and Interrogation
- Essentials of Security
- Aviation Security
- Crime Prevention
- Multicultural Law Enforcement
- Substance Abuse and Crime in America
- Gangs and Juvenile Justice
- The Criminalistics of Computer Forensics
- Controversial Issues in Law Enforcement
- Homeland Security
Training Requirements and Qualifications
Those looking for general careers in criminal justice must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 20 years of age, and must meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications. A combination of performance in competitive written examinations, education and experience determine the eligibility for appointment. Physical examinations often include tests of hearing, vision, agility, and strength. Some agencies require that candidates be interviewed by a psychiatrist or a psychologist, or given a personality test. Most applicants are subjected to a series of lie detector examinations or drug testing. Some agencies subject sworn personnel to random drug testing as a condition of continuing employment in that career. Police, detectives, and special agents must perform their duties in accordance with the law and departmental rules, although they work independently. Candidates should enjoy working with people and meeting those who reside in the public.