In 2005, the Washington Post reported that since 2001, the federal government had invested $12 billion on homeland security research and development. The Department of Homeland Security is expected to be the government's largest employer over the next decade. That's why those with criminal justice degrees will be in great demand, as issues of terrorism, drug abuse, the death penalty, and human rights continue to be in society's spotlight.

A criminal justice degree qualifies you for a wide range of careers; with it you could work as an attorney or paralegal; an FBI agent; a corrections officer; a law enforcement or police officer; a security agent or analyst; a probation officer; a customs agent; a forensic scientist; or criminologist; a teacher in a legal or criminal justice field; a counselor; or even a social worker. Because it's an interdisciplinary field that often deals with theories, and the ideas or psychology behind criminal behavior and laws, you'll study issues of law, psychology, sociology, and public administration while earning your criminal justice degree. As you begin your criminal justice degree program, you'll most likely take an introductory level class in criminal justice. This course will introduce you to "big picture" issues such as the causes of crime, the theories behind laws and law enforcement agencies, court procedures, and issues regarding corrections and probation. Throughout your degree program, you'll be faced with tough societal questions. And in the end, you'll be rewarded with a career in which you'll serve your community and help to improve people's lives.