Criminal justice professionals do more than protect citizens from bad guys with guns -- today's technology has altered the way crimes are committed. Crime has made its way online in the form of cyber identity theft, hacking and phishing, cyber stalking, cyber terrorism, cyber pornography, and cyber gambling. That's why criminal justice schools are more in demand than ever.

Those working toward a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice administration gain an interdisciplinary understanding of crime and justice in American society. Most criminal justice schools incorporate interpersonal skills and managerial and administrative subject matter, which will prepare you for positions of responsibility and leadership within the criminal justice community and beyond.

Undergraduate criminal justice schools provide an overview of police, prosecution, courts, and the correctional system, as well as the problems of the administration of justice in a democratic society. Contemporary criminal justice courses explore changes brought about by the war on terror as well as rapid technological change. You'll learn about homeland security, police response to terrorism, police accountability, racial profiling, and community participation in public safety.

Criminal Justice schools Make the World a Safer Place
When you're ready for the next level, you may opt to pursue a master of science degree in administration of justice and security. With this type of criminal justice degree, you'll acquire the knowledge you need to develop competence in administering criminal justice or security schools. The administrative program development and problem solving skills taught will prepare you for advanced career opportunities in the management of police, corrections, security, or court operations.

Graduate-level criminal justice programs apply management and financial principles to criminal justice organizations, analyzing constitutional requirements, court decisions, and legislation as they impact management in criminal justice organizations. You'll also explore the importance of developing a crisis management team, creating a command center, and maintaining an emergency response plan.

And criminal justice careers are in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to increase 9 to 17 percent through 2014. In May 2004, median annual earnings in this criminal justice career were $39,600, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $66,660. That same year, police and sheriff's patrol officers had median annual earnings of $45,210, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $68,880. And median annual earnings of detectives and criminal investigators were $53,990, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $86,010.

Fight contemporary crime by pursuing one of the nation's top criminal justice schools.