The FBI is the federal law enforcement that protects the United States against acts of terrorism, federal crimes, civil rights infringements, corruption and violent acts of crime. FBI agents are specially trained investigators who track cases, interrogate suspects and witnesses, make arrests, conduct raids, use surveillance, collect evidence, assist in hostage situations, give testimony, and more. The types of cases that FBI agents investigate range from white-collar crime and public corruption to very violent crimes, organized crime rings to major thefts and burglaries to cyberterrorism and cyber espionage. While the CIA is chiefly responsible for monitoring international intelligence, the FBI does still investigate threats to the United States from international espionage and terrorism. FBI agents are stationed in major cities, like the Washington, D.C. headquarters, as well as smaller cities and even in U.S. embassies around the world. Even though FBI agents are federally employed, they must be able to work alongside local and state law enforcement officials and legal teams, as well as medical examiners, judges, analysts, forensic scientists and others involved in pursuing an investigation and making arrests. FBI agents need to be very vigilant and very detail-oriented in order to manage investigations over long periods of time, making reports and collecting evidence. Agents must also be able to handle dangerous, high-stress situations and be in top shape mentally and physically.
There are currently over 12,730 special agents in the FBI. The FBI offers special agents a range of benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement benefits, time-off, education and training assistance, work-life programs, and more. Entry-level agents can expect to make a little less than $40,000 annually, while those with more experience can earn in the $80-90,000 range. This amount may also be adjusted depending on your geographic location and education level.
FBI agents need to be smart, alert and analytical. Their understanding of the U.S. criminal justice system must be infallible, and while agents undergo an intense training program before going into the field, a degree in criminal justice can also be a big help. FBI agents must be between the ages of 23 and 37, and they need to have at the very least a diploma from a four-year college or university and at least three years of work experience. Applicants must also qualify under one of the following subject areas: accounting, computer science/information technology, language, law, or diversified, so majoring in one of these areas would be very useful.
Top 10 Criminal Justice Colleges
Search our rankings of the 10 top criminal justice colleges in the US below and request free information packets directly from the top criminal justice degree programs for your needs.
1.
University of Phoenix -
Master's Degree. University of Phoenix provides highly rated resources that fosters independent learning and enables the student for success. University of Phoenix graduates have shown a history of success by having long careers in the field of Criminal Justice.
2.
Everest University Online -
Master's Degree. With a career-oriented focus, a student graduating with a M.S. in Criminal Justice from Everest University Online will have the skills necessary to pursue numerous careers upon graduation.
3.
Walden University -
Master's Degree. At Walden University, the Master's Degree in Criminal Justice degree plan can be completed completely online and at the convenience of the student. Walden University is the premiere online college for students interested in pursuing a degree in the legal and justice field.
4.
Colorado Technical University -
Master's Degree. The university's Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare individuals for roles in the emerging administrative and leadership sectors in the criminal justice system. Students are offered flexible courses online, allowing them to pursue this prestigious degree while maintaining other priorities in their lives as well.
5.
Kaplan University -
Master's Degree. The wide variety of courses and flexible time schedules make Kaplan University a top rated Masters in Criminal Justice school with the following options: Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Corrections, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Law, M.S. in Criminal Justice/Global Issues in Criminal Justice.
6.
Capella University -
Master's Degree. Capella University Online’s top ranked job placement statistics make it a top choice by any student who wants a future in criminal justice. A Masters of Science in Public Safety - Criminal Justice, is offered.
7.
Saint Joesph's University -
Master's Degree. Saint Joesph's University Master's in Criminal Justice program is at the forefront of education in providing a dynamic curriculum to every student. Saint Joesph's makes it easy to obtain a Criminal Justice degree online affordably and from the comfort of home.
8.
Virginia College -
Master's Degree - At Virginia College, students are equipped with proper skills and training before graduation in order to succeed in their career of choice. Their Master's in Criminal Justice degree will prepare students for mid to upper-level management positions in the legal field.
9.
University of Cincinnati -
Master's Degree - This highly regarded criminal justice department prepares the student with a well respected faculty, a quick degree plan, and the choice to move on to get a Doctorate. Options include M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice (1 Year Program).
10.
Bowling Green State University -
Master's Degree. Bowling Green State University’s Criminal Justice school provides students with excellent academic training and experience. The department offers both a Masters of Science (MS) degree in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelors of Science (BS) degree in Criminal Justice.
11.
South University -
Master's Degree. The South University Masters in Criminal Justice department allows you the option of specializing in Homeland Security. The school offers two masters options: Masters of Science( M.S.) in Criminal Justice, M.S. in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security.
