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 and helping to prevent crimes to 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 awaiting 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, both in the community and those who 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.

 

Navarro College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Navarro College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Navarro College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website.

Work Environment

 

Work Environment Characteristics for Criminal Justice-Related Positions

 

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, tasers,

  • Radio, telephones, and computer equipment

  • Electronic surveillance devices

  • Patrol car

 

Worker Portrait

 

Skills, Aptitudes, and Interests for Criminal Justice Positions

 

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

 

Employment Outlook

 

Employment Outlook for Criminal Justice Occupations

 

Salary Information

 

Annual Salary Ranges for Selected Criminal Justice Positions

 

(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

 

Navarro College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Navarro College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Navarro College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website.

 

Navarro College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Navarro College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Navarro College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website.