How to Become a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement
Maintain law and order, prevent crime, and protect communities. It typically requires an associate's or bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $76,210 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$76,210/yr
Job growth
3%
Openings / yr
53,700
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Law Enforcement
- Critical Thinking
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Community Relations
Helpful certifications
- POST Certification
- State Peace Officer License
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
5/100
Work-life balance
32/100
Stress level
82/100
Satisfaction
62/100
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement make?
The median pay for a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement is $76,210 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement?
The usual entry point is an associate's or bachelor's degree. Common majors are Criminal Justice, Criminology, Sociology, Political Science, and Public Administration.
Is Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about 3% over the decade, with roughly 53,700 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement use most?
Common skills for this role are Law Enforcement, Critical Thinking, Communication, Problem Solving, and Community Relations.
Planning to become a Criminal Justice / Law Enforcement?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.