by K. W. Callahan

Created on: January 19, 2009   Last Updated: February 02, 2009

Pursuing work in the criminal justice field can lead down a multitude of different career paths. While it can definitely be helpful, it doesn't necessarily take a college degree in criminal justice or even experience in the field to get started. People with a variety of skills and backgrounds can find themselves working in the industry without having directly related or prior experience.

There are many entry-level positions that make for good starting points for a career in the field. Jobs within law enforcement, corrections, personal security, and many others, are available with a high school diploma and little or no prior experience. Some of these positions can pay quite well and be great experience builders for those interested in furthering their career in criminal justice. Bare in mind however, the majority of college graduates will make significantly more money than non-graduates. According to allcriminaljusticeschools.com that amount adds up to an average to $15,000 more a year.

Don't expect to start at a position within the FBI, CIA, DEA, IRS, Department of Homeland Security, or any other of a slew of governmental agencies without some level of related background experience or education. This goes for many other areas of criminal justice as well. Positions within the legal, forensic, insurance, technological, psychological, and medical sectors will most likely require a post-secondary degree.

If you aren't sure exactly how to pursue a criminal justice career, begin by looking to your surroundings. If a local or community college is nearby, consider taking a class or two to determine if criminal justice is right for you. Depending on your geographic location, you may already be in the perfect spot for a job within the field. Living near a United States border or port of entry can be the perfect place for working as a Border or Customs Agent. If living in a large city, there may be opportunities in law enforcement, a correctional facility, the court system, or a government agency or bureau. Your location can also have an impact on the rate of pay you will receive. Obviously, larger infrastructure found in more developed or urban environments support bigger agencies, police forces, businesses, etc. as well as providing more jobs and typically higher wages than rural areas.

No matter what area of criminal justice you decide upon, remember that law enforcement positions are available in almost every sector of today's business world. This prevalence makes for considerable job creation, great job security, and plenty of opportunity for future career advancement.

Sources:

http://www.allcriminaljusticeschools.com/cri minal-justice-resources/criminaljustice-salaries

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