Criminal Justice Education

The criminal justice system encompasses a wide range of roles, making it a popular and rewarding field. Whether you’re interested in legal support, law enforcement, or other related positions, there are opportunities for everyone.

Available Roles in Criminal Justice

1. Court Clerks and Legal Secretaries:

   • Entry-level positions that can be pursued with a high school diploma.
   • Court clerks assist in court proceedings, while legal secretaries provide administrative support to attorneys.

2. Associate of Science (AS) Degree:

   • Consider a two-year AS degree from a junior college.
   • Provides a solid grounding in subjects relevant to the legal system.
   • Can be converted into a bachelor’s degree with an additional two years at university.

3. Bachelor’s Degree in Law:

   • Essential for aspiring lawyers.
   • A four-year degree that serves as the foundation.
   • To become a lawyer, you’ll need to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) through further education and hands-on experience.

4. Other Criminal Law Careers:

   • Paralegals and legal assistants can find jobs with an associate’s degree.
   • Most higher-level positions require at least a bachelor’s degree.

Online Degrees and Career Advancement

• Online Degrees: Studying online is increasingly popular and convenient.
• Career Opportunities: Once you have a foothold in the criminal justice system, consider furthering your education through online degrees to access more lucrative roles.

Remember, the criminal justice system offers diverse career paths for individuals at all education levels. Explore your options and take steps toward a rewarding future.

What Can You Study?