Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice Tips
Read these 2 Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Criminal Justice Degree tips and hundreds of other topics.
Master Degree Options
It's important to determine an area of sub-specialty within the field of criminal justice. This important step in the degree decision-making process is particularly relevant when you consider a master degree. More than any other degree level, a master degree is intended to provide specialty training in a certain focus area so that you can enhance your career opportunities after graduation. And, relevant to the field of criminal justice, is that while some sub-specialties require a master degree, others do not. Paralegals, for example, generally will be spending valuable work time obtaining a master in the field (employment obtainable with a certification and/or bachelor degree). Criminologists, on the other hand, most often need a PhD to practice successfully (which means a master will be essential on your educational road). Interview professionals, research online and on land programs, look for job/career descriptions that interest you. And, of course, find out if your area of interest either requires a master degree in criminal justice, or would prove more lucrative if you did obtain the master degree.
Drawbacks of a Master Degree in Criminal Justice
While a master degree in criminal justice can certainly enhance your career and earning potential, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Master degree programs can be very expensive, and unless earning potential is significant, can take a very long time to pay off. Note: One alternative in which to save money is to consider an online masters degree program.
- Before you look into programs yourself and put down money, check into your agency and do a little footwork. You may find that funding is available for you to go back to school. Note: If your company agrees to this, they may ask you to sign a contract agreeing to stay with them for a certain duration of time.
- The criminal justice field is rapidly expanding currently. This is a field that offers most opportunities based on contacts/connections. Since this field is booming, it may be smart to work for a while, obtain contacts, and then go back to enhance your degree later.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Heidi Splete |
