November 16, 2007, Newsletter Issue #33: State-Level Jobs In Criminal Justice

Tip of the Week

Education Connection Tip: Another possibility in seeking a job with an online criminal justice associate degree is on the state level. Common areas of focus on the state-level of criminal justice are state police, narcotics bureau, state crime commissioners, and attorney general's office positions.

While these jobs are attainable with an associate's degree in a focused area of criminal justice, they are not always readily available. One of the positive things about working for the state is that they tend to hire internal employees and to provide opportunities for advancement from within.  The bad news is that you may have to bide your time prior to getting a job.

If you are certain that your ultimate goal in obtaining an associates degree is to work on the state level, here are some tips to abide by:


If possible, while you are in school get a local level job on a part-time basis. This will provide you with experience and connections, as well as recommendations for future applications.Become connected to the staff/faculty at your institution. While this may seem more difficult with an online degree, it is still possible. You can be proactive in writing to your professor (s), making yourself known and being clear about your talents/interests during the entire process.If your program offers any internship opportunities, take one in the area of highest interest for you. This will give you an opportunity to learn more about whether or not this focus is right for you.And finally, be willing to put in the time. Many of us go into degree programs expecting to obtain maximum results prior to doing the footwork upon graduation. The criminal justice field is not the same as some fields (like investment banking, consulting) where you will make tons of money from the get go.
There is potential, however, if you are willing to form relationships, offer the best of what you have in whatever your first job is, and be honest with yourself about your strengths, weaknesses and expectations prior to embarking on your degree program.

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