Long-Term Prospects

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Job Satisfaction

General quality of life statement

Statistically speaking, criminology and criminal justice majors are semi-satisfied with their jobs. At 58%, job satisfaction is a little over half. That's not bad. Sure, the hours are long and the pay isn't truckloads, but it's not pennies either. The average criminal justice grad makes $50k a year. Hey, we wouldn't turn that down. Yeah, that's a little below the median, but only slightly.

Not many criminology/criminal justice majors go back to school for an advanced degree. If they do, they usually become criminologists or forensic scientists. However, you'll find that most criminology and/or criminal justice majors go into law enforcement. A lot of criminology-focused graduates get started in law enforcement and stick with it as they move up the ranks. They must like it there because well over half of them enjoy their jobs.

Crime and punishment is a fairly controversial concept. After all, a punishment for one person might be a reward for another. It's the same with crime—what is wrong to one person might be okay to another. We'll be real. Our system isn't perfect. A criminology or criminal justice major will probably learn that in their first week.

At the very least, our system more or less protects regular American citizens, which we like. Yes, we here at Shmoop like feeling safe. A career in criminology or criminal justice will likely involve keeping people safe by enforcing the law, so study away, criminology enthusiasts.

25th Percentile Salary

Median Salary

75th Percentile Salary

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