Posted on March 25th, 2025 in Blog, Social Sciences

Is Criminal Justice a Good Major?

Choosing the right major allows individuals to align their future career path with their goals and interests. For those with a passion for law, order, and public service, the criminal justice field may be the right fit.

Of course, no decision this big should be made without careful evaluation. Aspiring students may be wondering, is criminal justice a good major?

Before deciding on criminal justice as a major, individuals should explore the skills and competencies taught in the degree program, and whether a degree in criminal justice is worth it for them. By familiarizing themselves with the program and its common career outcomes, prospective students will have everything they need to make an informed decision.

What Is Criminal Justice?

Broadly, the criminal justice field focuses on laws, criminal behavior, and the justice system. It encompasses all the governmental departments, systems, and processes designed to maintain social order, enforce laws, and ensure public safety. The field is made up of three primary components: law enforcement, the court system, and corrections.

Professionals in criminal justice investigate crimes, apprehend offenders, uphold individuals’ constitutional rights, and rehabilitate individuals so they can safely re-enter society. At every level, they play a critical role in ensuring fairness and justice while maintaining the community’s safety and upholding the public’s trust.

Is a Degree in Criminal Justice Worth It?

Pursuing a degree in criminal justice is a worthwhile investment for those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. This social science degree is designed to equip students with skills and knowledge that can be applied to any of a range of professional and personal contexts.

Many graduates believe a degree in criminal justice is worth it because of its broad applications, as criminal justice degree programs help students develop a versatile set of skills and competencies, including the following:

The ability to analyze complex scenarios, assess evidence, and make informed decisions
Effective writing and speaking skills for creating reports, giving testimony, and engaging with the local community
Ethical judgment and an understanding of legal frameworks when enforcing laws
Problem-solving skills that can be used to resolve real-world challenges, including criminal investigations, crime prevention, and offender rehabilitation
Interpersonal skills that can be employed to create trust and rapport with individuals from different backgrounds
A broad understanding of the legal system, including laws, legal processes, and criminology theories

Why Criminal Justice Is a Good Major

Of all the educational paths to choose from, what makes a criminal justice degree the right one for an individual to pursue? Criminal justice is a good major for those seeking a dynamic and impactful career. It offers the opportunity to:

Serve and protect communities by helping to maintain public safety and ensure justice for victims and offenders alike
Pursue a number of diverse career paths in law enforcement, law, or rehabilitation
Make a tangible impact and direct contribution to society
Enjoy long-term job security and opportunities for career advancement
Be part of a growing field that evolves to suit the community’s needs

Criminal Justice Degree Benefits

Aside from classroom learning, a criminal justice degree program offers students long-term personal and professional advantages such as the following:

Hands-on experience: Many criminal justice programs include internships or fieldwork opportunities to develop practical skills.
Networking opportunities: Criminal justice students make lasting and meaningful connections with professors, alumni, and professionals in the field, building relationships that can lead to future job opportunities.
Personal growth: Beyond career preparation, the degree program fosters personal development in areas such as empathy, resilience, and a sense of civic responsibility.

Criminal Justice Degree Career Outcomes

A criminal justice degree qualifies graduates to pursue a range of exciting and rewarding jobs, including these popular options:

Border Patrol Agent

Border patrol agents secure our national borders and prevent unlawful immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. They monitor border activity, conduct inspections, and collaborate with other law enforcement agencies. This role requires physical fitness, vigilance, and a commitment to national security.

Correctional Officer

Correctional officers oversee individuals who are incarcerated in jails and prisons. They maintain order, enforce rules, and ensure the safety of inmates and staff. This role demands strong interpersonal skills and the ability to handle high-stress situations with professionalism.

Crime Scene Technician

Crime scene technicians, also known as forensic science technicians, collect and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes. They document their findings, process evidence in laboratories, and provide critical support in solving crimes. Attention to detail and a strong scientific background are essential for success in this role.

Criminal Investigator

Criminal investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build cases against suspected criminals. They often specialize in an area such as homicide, fraud, or cybercrime. This role requires sharp analytical skills, persistence, and a keen understanding of investigative techniques.

Lawyer

Lawyers specializing in criminal law represent clients in court, either as defense attorneys or prosecutors. They analyze cases, provide legal advice, and advocate for their clients. This role requires a passion for justice and advanced education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Paralegal

Paralegals assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and organizing case files. They operate as part of a legal team to help court proceedings run smoothly. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are key in this role.

Police Detective

Police detectives investigate crimes, gather evidence, and interview suspects and witnesses. They work closely with law enforcement agencies to solve cases and bring offenders to justice. This role demands critical thinking capabilities, excellent communication skills, and a strong sense of ethics. Candidates must gain field experience as a police officer before becoming a detective, and may be required to complete police academy training, depending on the state where they want to work.

Private Investigator

Private investigators are contractually hired to uncover information in cases that can range from fraud to missing persons. They conduct surveillance, research records, and compile evidence for clients. This role requires resourcefulness, discretion, and a knack for problem-solving.

Probation Officer

Probation officers work with individuals who have been placed on probation instead of being incarcerated. They oversee these individuals’ compliance with court orders, provide them with counseling, and connect them with resources to aid them in their rehabilitation. Successful probation officers have a well-developed sense of empathy and strong interpersonal skills.

Recovery Agent

Recovery agents, also known as bounty hunters, locate and apprehend individuals who have skipped bail. They work closely with bail bond agencies to ensure defendants return to court. This role requires courage, adaptability, and knowledge of legal procedures.

Choose a Degree That Positions You to Make a Difference

Earning a criminal justice degree can be a pivotal step toward a meaningful career that offers you the opportunity to improve your community. Once you decide that criminal justice is a good major for your long-term goals, consider programs with a track record of success that can accommodate your learning style, such as Warner Pacific University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

Designed for working adults who are passionate about pursuing a career in law enforcement, public service, corrections, or law, WPU Online’s criminal justice program is taught by industry professionals who bring real-world experience to the classroom. Students learn about criminology, the American legal system, urban sociology, and other consequential topics with long-term career applications. Additionally, for students who are interested in both criminal justice and social work, WPU offers an in-person dual degree program at its campus in Portland, Oregon.

When considering the potential career outcomes and the personal growth you’ll experience, a degree in criminal justice could be well worth it for you. Learn more about the fully online program’s curriculum and classroom format to see how WPU Online supports career-minded students with a passion for law and order.

Sources:
Indeed, “Careers in Criminal Justice You Can Pursue With Your Degree”
Indeed, “Criminal Investigator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications”
Indeed, “How to Become a Police Detective in 8 Steps”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers and Bailiffs
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Lawyers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paralegals and Legal Assistants
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Police and Detectives
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Private Detectives and Investigators
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol Agent