Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Administration of Justice
Majors Overview March 3, 2015Students in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Administration of Justice will be able to seek a number of jobs in public administration and criminal justice. Students study criminology, corrections administration, and law enforcement along with the processes and policies of law across judicial agencies and policing. Graduates will be able to pursue graduate degrees or law schools, or they may find various leadership careers within the criminal justice system.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Administration of Justice
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree programs in Administration of Justice are introduced to the criminal justice system, including a focus on the current challenges and responsibilities of every one of these organizations; this includes homeland security, law enforcement, and corrections.
Students gain a strong grasp of social control, management procedures, and justice systems. Schools offer administration of justice degree programs through numerous departments, such as justice administration and public affairs. Additional real-world experience through internship opportunities is available through some of these four-year degree programs.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.
Coursework
Coursework combines general education classes with a heavy focus on instruction in the social sciences area, including government, history, American politics, and political science. Coursework in administration of justice program covers the critical issues and history related to the court system, corrections, and law enforcement. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Social problems
•Criminal procedure
•Criminal behavior
•Juvenile justice system
Career Choices
Those who graduate from the program can seek jobs within the areas of law enforcement, public service, and the judicial system. They have a large number of career options in the public sector, including employment with immigration agencies, prison systems, and state and local police departments. Bachelor’s degree holders can aim for job titles such as:
•Court officer
•Customs and immigration inspector
•Probation officer
Job and Wage Outlook
In May 2012, correctional treatment specialists and probation officers brought home an average annual wage of $48,190, and correctional officers and jailers banked $38,970 on average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Continuing Education Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s degree program may pursue continuing education and advance their career prospects by earning master’s degrees in public administration, education, criminal justice, legal studies, or administration of justice.
Those who showcase leadership and competence in entry-level occupations can seek career advancements in management or supervisory positions; alternatively, they may seek employment in related fields in the public sector.