Criminal Justice Degrees Overview in Washington
Explore the criminal justice careers in Washington. Compare details of career paths using this state-specific research resource.
Criminal Justice Careers in Washington
A degree from one of the top criminal justice colleges in Washington can set you up for a successful career in public service. Criminal justice graduates help prevent or investigate crimes from their positions in police departments, court systems, or private security firms.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 421,500 jobs in protective services to open up each year in the U.S. between 2021 and 2031. As of May 2021, these jobs paid a median salary of $46,590. The following list of careers in Washington state shows the required degrees and median salaries for each position.
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives
First-line supervisors of police and detectives, such as chiefs of police or police captains, supervise and oversee criminal investigations. They may offer expert guidance to investigating teams while also assuring that the investigation proceeds according to relevant laws and policies.
- Required Degree: Bachelor’s Degree
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$123,290
Correctional Officers and Jailers
Correctional officers and jailers oversee incarcerated people throughout the state of Washington. These professionals are responsible for facilities’ safety, residents’ transportation, and prison social activities.
- Required Degree: High School Diploma or GED Certificate
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$63,580
Police Detectives
Working for law enforcement agencies, police detectives investigate potential violations of local, state, or federal law. Detectives usually need vocational training or on-the-job experience along with a degree.
- Required Degree: Bachelor’s Degree
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$108,550
Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers
Police and sheriff’s patrol officers investigate crimes and arrest people suspected of committing those crimes. To be a police officer, you must pass rigorous cognitive and physical aptitude tests and complete police academy training. Applicants with higher education may receive preference.
- Required Degree: High School Diploma or GED Certificate
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$92,250
Private Detectives and Investigators
Private detectives and investigators help individual clients investigate financial, legal, or personal matters. They may locate missing persons, gather evidence for civil cases, or verify someone’s background.
- Required Degree: Varies
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$67,490
Gambling Investigators
Gambling investigators help prevent fraud or theft in casinos or other gambling facilities. Often, their work involves video surveillance and responding to emergencies. They may work for the casino, hotel, or local or state government agencies.
- Required Degree: High School Diploma or GED Certificate
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$41,350
First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers
First-line supervisors of correctional officers help ensure that correctional facilities remain safe and compliant with relevant laws and guidelines. These professionals may oversee entire prisons or specific teams of correctional officers.
- Required Degree: Associate Degree
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$82,780
Probation Officers
Probation officers help criminal offenders rehabilitate. They may interview the offender, their relatives or friends, or their counselors to help set up a case plan. They may also connect offenders with job placement, mental health, and housing services.
- Required Degree: Bachelor’s Degree
- Average Annual Salary in Washington (2022):$69,960
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How Washington Compares to Criminal Justice Nationally
In the table below, you can see the difference between the national average salary for a selection of criminal justice careers against salaries in Washington.
| Criminal Justice Career | Average National Salary | Average Washington Salaries (May 2022) |
|---|---|---|
| First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $99,410 | $123,290 |
| Correctional Officers and Jailers | $54,760 | $63,580 |
| Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $63,327 | $110,620 |
| Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | $71,380 | $92,250 |
| Private Detectives and Investigators | $59,400 | $67,490 |
| Gambling Investigators | $88,059 | $41,350 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | $99,410 | $82,780 |
| Probation Officers | $48,308 | $69,960 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Where to Go After Criminal Justice School in Washington
- Washington State Office of the Attorney General
- Washington Office of Juvenile Justice
- Seattle Police Department
- City of Spokane Police Department
- City of Tacoma Police Department
- Federal Bureau of Prisons
- Department of Homeland Security
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Department of Transportation
- Washington State Department of Corrections
Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Washington
Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission
Created in 1974, this organization’s mission is to establish standards and provide training to Washington’s criminal justice professionals. The commission operates numerous academies and provides state certifications for several professions.
Washington State Sheriff's Association
Washington’s sheriffs are the only elected law enforcement officers in the state. This association helps these officials fulfill their duties and obligations to the counties and the people who elected them.
Washington State Department of Corrections
This state agency manages all correctional services for people who have been convicted of breaking the law. Its website includes information for victims of crime, families of incarcerated people, and job-seekers in the corrections field.
Washington Council of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs
Top executives and leaders from local, federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies work together to provide resources and services to all agencies in the state, members and non-members alike.
Washington Association of Legal Investigators
Legal investigators in Washington state can take advantage of the association’s educational resources to improve their professional skills. Options include conferences, webinars, and training events. The organization also performs advocacy work on behalf of the profession.
Washington State Patrol Troopers Association
This organization bargains with the State of Washington on behalf of its members to improve their working conditions.
High Technology Crime Investigation Association: Washington State Chapter
The state chapter of a national organization, this association focuses on preventing and investigating high-technology crimes. Members can take advantage of online learning options, in-person conferences, and professional awards.
Office of Juvenile Justice, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
The Office of Juvenile Justice helps monitor juveniles’ contact with the justice system, ensuring compliance with federal laws and incentivizing system-wide improvements.
Washington State Correctional Industries
Blending business with government, Washington State Correctional Industries helps incarcerated individuals gain work-ready employment skills they can use upon release. The organization also works with private partners to provide a prison-to-workplace pathway.
Washington State Patrol
This agency helps ensure public safety by assisting motorists, enforcing traffic laws, and investigating collisions. The WSP also manages fire safety, a forensic laboratory, high-tech crime investigations, and criminal records.
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