6 Highest Paying Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors
Criminal justice is a rising field in the United States that is growing on all levels of government and in the private sector. At Bay State College, we’re proud to help our students launch successful careers with both a two year Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and a more comprehensive four year Criminal Justice Bachelor’s program. Upon graduating, here are some of the highest paying jobs for which you’ll be qualified:
1) Police and Detectives
With a median salary of $56,980 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this line of work is extremely well suited for a criminal justice degree holder. Working your way through a police department can be satisfying and financially rewarding as you move up the ranks of the organization.
2) Private Detective and Investigators
Criminal justice degree holders who take their investigative skills into the private sphere earn a median salary of $45,740 a year. Fortunately, this profession is projected to experience 11% growth over the next decade at a time when other sectors of the economy have stagnated.
3) FBI Agent
Starting salaries for FBI agents are more than $40,000 a year, an impressive salary for graduates straight out of college. Even better, salaries for these competitive jobs rise quickly as well, and median yearly income is $62,812.
4) Intelligence Analyst
For criminal justice students with excellent analytical skills, it’s certainly worth looking into a lucrative career as an intelligence analyst. With an average salary of close to $80,000 a year, working in this field can be immensely rewarding on a professional and personal level.
5) Correctional Officer
Earning a median salary of $38,970 a year, correctional officers oversee individuals who are serving time in prison. With lots of potential for overtime, there are many opportunities to earn far more than the median salary.
6) Border Patrol Agent
Coming in at $62,781 a year, border patrol agents work for the government and enjoy a high median salary and great benefits. While the majority of these jobs are aimed at protecting the United States – Mexico border, there are positions elsewhere in the country as well.