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 (www.sacscoc.org).

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, tasers,
  • 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
OUTLOOK OCCUPATION
Good Probation/Parole Officer/Counselor
Good Police Officer
Good Correction Officer
Good Security Guard
Good Dispatcher
Stable Detective
POSITION SALARY (PER YEAR)
Probation/Parole Officer/Counselor $26,000 - $37,000
Police Officer $26,000 - $43,500
Correction Officer $27,340 - $32,100
Security Guard $18,000 - $26,000
Dispatcher $22,000 - $26,000
Detective $26,000 - $43,500
Airport Security $23,508 - $35,276

 

(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 (www.sacscoc.org).

CONCENTRATION OPTIONS DEGREE / CERTIFICATE TYPE DEGREE PLANS
Criminal Justice Associate of Arts View Degree Plan
Criminal Justice Associate in Applied Science View Degree Plan
Criminal Justice Corrections Certificate View Degree Plan
Dual Credit Corrections Certificate View Degree Plan
Basic Peace Officer Certificate View Degree Plan
Dual Credit Emergency Services Certiciate View Degree Plan

 

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 (www.sacscoc.org).