Criminal Justice Degrees Overview in Alabama

Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers enforce the law. Police typically work in local, state, federal, tribal, or university settings. Officers may need college coursework to work in some police departments or federal agencies.

Correctional Officers and Jailers guard individuals convicted of crimes in prisons and jails, as well as transport them to courtrooms or to different correctional facilities.

Though some correctional officers do not have college degrees, the Federal Bureau of Prisons accepts bachelor’s degrees for roles in federal prisons if applicants don’t already have experience in the field.

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists rehabilitate and reintegrate formerly-incarcerated individuals into society. These workers may create education, work, and treatment plans for their parolees.

Professionals in these roles typically hold bachelor’s degrees.

Emergency Management Directors make and implement plans in response to natural or man-made disasters. Though some professionals in this field have only high school diplomas, most hold bachelor’s degrees as well as additional certifications.

Forensic Science Technicians collect, analyze, and store evidence, including tissue, fingerprints, and hair, connected to criminal investigations. They may become experts in a specific field like ballistics or handwriting. Often, they are called on to testify in criminal trials.

Individuals in this field need at least bachelor’s degrees, though some also secure master’s degrees in forensic science.

Paralegals and Legal Assistants support attorneys by researching cases, discovering legal precedents, and preparing documents. They typically need associate degrees or certificates.

Compliance Officers ensure that the organizations they work for are following necessary laws and regulations. Many sectors, including healthcare, finance, and transportation, offer jobs for compliance officers.

Professionals in this role typically hold bachelor’s degrees.