Criminal Justice 101: What Is It And How Can You Make A Career Out Of It?

Criminal justice is one of the most fascinating and complex fields of study that you can pursue. It encompasses everything from law enforcement to corrections, and from security to forensics. So what is criminal justice, exactly? And how can you make a career out of it?

In this blog post, we will answer those questions and more! We will discuss the different aspects of criminal justice and explain how you can get started in this exciting field.

Read More: What Is The Study of Criminal Justice?

So, What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice is the system in place to protect citizens, deter and punish crime, and maintain public order. It is composed of various agencies and individuals, all working together to ensure that justice is served.

The criminal justice system has three main components: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.

Law enforcement is the first line of defense against crime. Police officers work to keep our communities safe by patrolling neighborhoods, responding to 911 calls, investigating crimes, and making arrests.

Courts are responsible for adjudicating cases and handing down punishments for those who have been convicted of a crime. Judges preside over court proceedings, while prosecutors and defense attorneys represent the accused and the victim respectively.

Corrections is the final step in the criminal justice process. Those who have been convicted of a crime are typically sentenced to serve time in prison, or they may be placed on probation or parole.

There are many different career paths that one can take within the criminal justice system. Some people become police officers, while others become lawyers or judges. There are also opportunities for those who want to work in corrections or victim advocacy.

No matter what career path you choose, working in criminal justice can be both challenging and rewarding. If you’re interested in making a difference in your community and ensuring that justice is served, then a career in criminal justice might be right for you!

How do you start a career in criminal justice?

There are a few different ways to start a career in criminal justice. One way is to get a degree in criminal justice from a college or university. This will give you the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field.

Here at NCC, we offer an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice that can be completed in just nine  months.

If you’re not interested in getting a degree, another way to start a career in criminal justice is to get some experience working in the field. You can do this by working as a police officer, a probation officer, or a parole officer.

In order to enter the police, you’ll need to join a police academy. After completing the academy, you’ll be able to work as a police officer.

Corrections officers work in prisons and jails, and their job is to supervise inmates.

Probation officers work with offenders who have been released from prison on probation. Their job is to make sure that the offenders are following the terms of their probation.

Parole officers work with offenders who have been released from prison on parole. Their job is to make sure that the offenders are following the terms of their parole.

If you’re interested in working as a lawyer, you’ll need to go to law school and pass the bar exam. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to practice law and represent clients in court.

However, being a lawyer is not the only way to work in the legal field. Paralegals and legal assistants also play an important role in the criminal justice system. They provide support to lawyers and help with research, document preparation, and case management.

There are many different career paths you can take once you’re in the criminal justice field. Some people become detectives, some become lawyers and some work in corrections. No matter what path you choose, a career in criminal justice can be.

Advancing a career in criminal justice

Advancing a career in criminal justice can be difficult, but it is possible with the right education and training.

With so many different avenues to explore, finding the right one for you can be a challenge. But if you’re passionate about justice and want to make a difference, a career in criminal justice could be the perfect fit.

There are a number of ways you can advance your career in the criminal justice field. Some people become detectives, some become lawyers, and some work in corrections. No matter what path you choose, a career in criminal justice can be both rewarding and fulfilling.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice, there are a few things you need to do to get started. First, you’ll need to get a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Then, you’ll need to decide which area of the criminal justice field you want to pursue. Once you’ve done that, you can begin working your way up the ladder by taking on more responsibility and training for higher-level positions.

With hard work and dedication, advancing your career in criminal justice is possible. And if you’re passionate about making a difference in your community, it can be an extremely rewarding experience. So if you’re interested in criminal justice, don’t hesitate to get started on your path today.

Who knows where it might take you?

Qualifying for your future

Gaining a qualification from our Criminal Justice School puts you in an excellent position to access a variety of employment opportunities as you look for one that suits your skills and interests.

At Northwest Career College, our Criminal Justice instructors include licensed, practicing attorneys and degree instructors able to teach, not only the law but also to guide our students in the many ways a criminal justice graduate integrates into a Las Vegas legal profession.
As part of our Criminal Justice Program, you’ll visit courts, jails, meditation centers, and more to experience first-hand the law in action, which will make your criminal justice training applicable to the Las Vegas legal system. 
Northwest offers a flexible blended program with all criminal justice classes Las Vegas law classes taught on campus by an attorney and general education courses offered online. Our experienced instructors are on-campus to review and support your learning experience at all times. 
Call us at (702) 403-1592 to speak to one of our enrollment team about joining our Criminal Justice Program today!