Employment Outlook

As the population grows, current employees retire and rates of incarceration increase, employment opportunities in fields related to the administration of justice should be good. Numbers of job openings will vary due to several factors, such as changing demand for various specialties, salary levels and geographic area.

The information that follows is taken from the Occupational Outlook Handbook, United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Correctional Officers

Employment growth is expected to be faster than average, providing excellent job opportunities. Jobs in this field normally require working shifts, finding openings in rural areas and receiving salaries that may be perceived as low, relative to other occupations.

Police Officers and Detectives

The demand for police officers and detectives is expected to be average. Police services will continue to be important in a security-conscious society with a growing population.

Local police departments should offer excellent opportunities for those who meet the psychological, personal and physical qualifications. Competition for jobs will vary by geographic area (such as more crime in urban areas) and by salary ranges available.

Private Detectives and Investigators

Employment growth is expected to be greater than average, due to heightened security concerns, increased litigation, and the need to protect confidential information and all types of property. Employers will increase the use of background checks for applicants, which is another example of the types of criminal justice related tasks that will be increasing.

Forensic Science Technicians

Employment growth for those qualified is expected to be much faster than average which should result in excellent prospects for technicians applying for work in crime labs. Forensic science will be applied to examine, solve and prevent crime.