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Criminal Justice
Career
Personal characteristics such as honesty, sound judgment, integrity and a sense of responsibility are especially important in this field. The ability to relate to a variety of people is also important. In most agencies, applicants’ character traits and backgrounds are investigated or a psychiatrist or psychologist interviews them. Most applicants are subjected to lie detector examination, drug testing and a personality test. The field is a challenging one and involves much personal responsibility.
Job outlook
Since the 9-11-01 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, criminal justice is one of the fastest growing, most diverse industries in the country. Employment of law enforcement positions is expected to grow for all occupations through 2016. Job prospects are often related to the economic well being of the level of government.
What/Where the jobs are
Municipal police officers, county sheriff’s deputies, state troopers, detention and corrections officers, probation and parole officers, forensic laboratory technicians. Some examples of jobs at the federal level are the FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshall, U.S. Customs Services, including Border Patrol, U.S. Postal Inspection, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. This program also is the perfect starting point for those interested in becoming an attorney.
Degrees awarded
Associate in Science Career Option (ASCO)
Degree requirements
Click here for curriculum information.
Program contact
Brian Agnitsch, Brian.Agnitsch@iavalley.edu
Admissions contact
Note: Students should be advised that law enforcement agencies and corrections facilities conduct criminal background checks prior to hiring.