Criminal Justice Degrees in Maryland
Criminal justice professionals work in the private and public sectors. Individuals can choose from many roles, including forensic science technician, paralegal, or police officer. Many criminal justice positions require applicants to possess a relevant bachelor’s degree, while some sectors require additional specialized training.
Maryland Criminal Justice Careers
Individuals with a criminal justice degree can pursue a diverse array of careers in Maryland. Maryland criminal justice roles often, but not always, pay a higher salary than the national average for those positions. Professionals in Maryland may be paid more than their counterparts in other states in order to offset the state’s higher-than-average cost of living.
Featured Online Programs
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| Career | National Average Annual Salary (2022) | Maryland Average Annual Salary (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Police and Detectives | $65,790 | $74,450 |
| Correctional Officers | $49,610 | $51,750 |
| Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $86,280 | $116,770 |
| Paralegals | $59,200 | $58,760 |
| Fraud Investigators | $73,810 | $93,800 |
| Forensic Science Technicians | $63,740 | $65,480 |
| Court Reporters | $63,560 | $55,580 |
| Criminal Justice Teacher | $64,990 | $65,140 |
Source: O*Net Online
Where to Go After Criminal Justice School in Maryland
Maryland has many public service offices that can utilize criminal justice experts. Graduates from criminal justice colleges in Maryland can pursue roles within the courts, law enforcement, or state government. Below is a list of relevant departments for criminal justice professionals to discover related roles.
Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Maryland
Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA)
CASA’s focus revolves around helping children who have been abused or neglected by providing them with safe homes. Court-appointed volunteers represent the interests of children under court protection.
Maryland Court Reporters Association (MCRA)
MCRA members can work with like-minded court reporters to discuss careers, salaries, and obtain support. Current reporters, retirees, students, and associates can join the association with differing registration fees.
Maryland Teen Court Association
This nonprofit organization oversees the teen court programs in Maryland. The organization’s mission revolves around assisting first-time youth offenders by helping them avoid juvenile records and make better future choices.
Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association (MCDAA)
The MCDAA aims to promote the study and knowledge of criminal defense law. The association attempts to hold meetings for defense lawyers to discuss criminal justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Maryland Chief of Police Association
The Maryland Chief of Police Association, founded in 1961, promotes an environment of law and order while increasing police professionalism. Members include local, state, and federal law enforcement officers, legal advisors, and interested citizens.
Maryland Fraternal Order of Police
This organization provides historical information and upcoming issues affecting law enforcement in Maryland. The Maryland division has over 20,000 members and chapters throughout the state.
Maryland State Bar Association
The state bar association assists Maryland lawyers in networking and participating in continued learning education programs. Members can access an events calendar, a research database, and a wellness portal.
Maryland Access to Justice Commission
The Maryland Access to Justice Commission, a partner of the Maryland State Bar Association, brings legal professionals together to discuss the inequalities of the civil justice system. The commission advocated for legal representation for low and mid-income Maryland families.
Maryland State Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy (MSCCSP)
The MSCCSP, created by the Maryland General Assembly in 1999, promotes fair sentencing policies. The organization maintains a sentencing guideline database to monitor and train judges and related legal professionals.
Maryland State Police Internship
Students interested in law enforcement can learn about the operational and backend procedures of the Maryland police department. Interns can have hands-on experience with the criminal justice system, gain insight into policing, and potentially earn course credit.
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