Is a 2 year degree in Criminal Justice worth it?

Question

I would like to go to community college for criminal justice, but the school concilors are very vague on what oppertunities are avalible after completion. Where could I expect to be employed after graduation?

Answer 1

It matters what your plans are after college. If you are sure that you want to be a police officer and nothing else you can probably get away with an associates degree (2 year degree) If you plan on doing anything else like probation\parole, social work, federal agencies, counseling, etc. or moving up in a police department you will need a bachelors degree. (4 year degree) Also if you ever decide you want to go to graduate school and get a masters you will need a bachelors degree first. Get the bachelors. Believe me it is worth it in the end. You will not regret it!

Answer 2

Since I am a college professor, let me give a few points to think about.

First, a two-year, or "associates" degree is hardly a "real" degree at all. It's really the equivalent of a "certification" - police cadets are usually only required to get 45 hours of college credit before, or while, attending police academy.

Second, an associates "degree" is just a little better than a high school diploma, and will not give you the employment potential of a "real" four-year degree. Without that four-year degree, you are not a "professional", you are instead a "certified" __whatever__.

Third, what are YOUR academic / life goals? You need to answer this in order to decide which way to go. Your associates training is NOT worthless! Your hours will transfer to most universities and get you well on the way to your professional degree.

Hope this helps

Answer 3

I have to second Steven, as a college professor as well. Why have the “goal” of stopping at the two years?

In today’s job market a bachelor’s degree is hardly enough. Many higher end jobs are seeking applicants with graduate level degree. This is just something to think about.

I would suggest examining your goals, seeking the four-year degree, and starting your career in the chosen field before finishing college.

Answer 4

2 year degree is a waste of time in that field, you learn so much more in all 4. Trust me, I am a criminal justice graduate.

Answer 5

You can work with the police dept. or even work in fingerprints just to start.

Answer 6

I don't think so.