by Kathleen Lynn

Created on: January 19, 2009   Last Updated: February 01, 2010

With the economy in recession many are wondering about the career outlook of their chosen professions. Those who are studying for Criminal Justice positions may be wondering where their field stands in the current job market. What impact the recession will have upon their jobs and their lives.

There are a few fields that remain steady in most economical climates.  Criminal Justice falls into this category.  For those who are wondering about changing their jobs into a criminal justice profession, they should be aware that there are always some pitfalls and rocky moments with any career change.  However, in a world where the professions are constantly evolving, this field should always have some positions at various levels.  There is crime in any economy and it actually raises in a poor economic climate.  This is an important factor in determining the jobs that may be available.

In addition to this, it takes a strong individual to perform many of the duties and jobs associated with this field.  An entry level applicant with high school diploma or GED may qualify to begin as a correctional officer in some states.  This is a job that is hard to fill.  It takes a very ethical and yet, stern person to last any length of time when working inside a prison.  They are not pretty places.  Even receptionists in these facilities are warned not to bring in a lot of decor for their desks or office spaces.  You must retain some anonymity inside those walls.  It can be dangerous working inside jails, prisons, or even on the streets.  These are all things that make the retention of long term employees difficult.

With this in mind, The US department of Labor has predicted that by 2010 there will be a 29% increase in criminal justice fields. There will also be approximately 10% growth each year in Criminal Justice. Larger cities will see more growth than smaller, rural areas. There is an increased demand for police officers, FBI agents, Security personnel, investigators,and various other aspects due to the increases in national security and the continuing crime rates. Due to the high level of national security changes this field has experienced and will continue to experience growth. This is an area expected to grow despite the economic conditions facing the job market.

The growth is accredited to several different factors. Increases in the incarceration rates make the institutions a prime candidate for growth and opportunities to fresh graduates of Criminal Justice. Due to terrorism scares and heightened security measures the private industry of security professionals is in constant demand. While the economy may be in a downward spiral, in times of economic distress crime rates often spike higher. Society will fear the crime waves and the impact upon these waves to the living conditions. In order to maintain some control over the crime waves, there will be a higher demand for police officers.

One should understand when achieving a career in this field, that often times in recession while the need for the employees is high, the budgets are tight. The workday may be longer and more involved for the individuals in this career. Expect to put in late hours, much like the doctor and lawyer.

One of the greatest rewards to be found in the Criminal Justice field is knowing that your work is making a difference in other's lives. Because there are people willing to serve in this capacity the streets are safer for everyone.

Learn more about this author, Kathleen Lynn.
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