Criminal Justice

The Occupations

Law Enforcement Officer

Dispatchers

Probation/Parole Officer

Case Managers

Security Guard

Detective

Correctional Officer

Airport Security

Court Mediator

About the Occupations

Police officers, detectives, guards and correctional officers are employed to help safeguard lives and property. They enforce the laws and regulations that protect individuals’ safety and constitutional rights. The main goal is protection and service to the community.

Responsibilities range from controlling traffic to helping prevent crimes, and investigating and arresting suspects. A few officers join specialized units that assist in crime fighting and apprehension of criminals.

Private police duties vary with the service provided by their employer. In airports, they help protect the safety of the traveling public and search for contraband. In retail stores, they often work undercover. In buildings and banks, guards help protect employees, merchandise, and money.

Corrections officers provide direct supervision of incarcerated people while waiting trial. They help maintain order, enforce regulations, supervise programs, or work assignments, and help maintain the security and safety of other officers and detainees.

Probation and parole officers, case managers, and counselors assist offenders, either in the community or those that are incarcerated offenders, by identifying problem areas and developing plans of action to assist the person in working toward becoming a productive law-abiding citizen. They make court recommendations, prepare sentencing assessments, and provide services for inmates, offenders, and their families.

Work Environment

Employers:

Correctional institutions

Municipal, county, state or federal agencies

Businesses, schools, hotels, hospitals

Airports

Private corrections companies

Typical Schedule:

40-48 hour work week

Overtime/shift work usual

Frequent holiday/weekend/night work

Tuition reimbursement

Tools and Equipment:

Daily reports, inmate records, court summons & other records

Handcuffs, firearms, OC spray, tazers,

Radio, telephones, and computer equipment

Electronic surveillance devices

Patrol car

Worker Portrait

Skills and Aptitudes:

Acts quickly/makes good decisions

Handles detailed work well

Performs duties in accordance with laws & departmental rules

Takes and gives directions easily

Provides leadership

Alert, dependable, and emotionally stable

Thorough, accurate, and observant

Displays a strong work ethic and high values

No prior convictions

Role model

Interests:

Enjoys working with people

Interested in performing a useful service that benefits society

Enjoys working with little supervision

Career Outlook

(Note: Individual earnings may vary based upon the job set- ting and position. These are ranges not guarantees of earnings.)

Sources: Horizons, Discover, the Occupational Outlook Handbook

Degree Plans

Criminal Justice – A.A.

Criminal Justice – A.A.S.

Asset Protection/Loss Prevention Certificate

Criminal Justice Corrections Certificate

Police Academy