Special agents with the United States Secret Service are hired to protect high profile individuals and their families and to investigate financial cases like fraud and counterfeiting. Agents can be assigned to cases all over the world and are extremely well trained and well educated. The Secret Service protection force is responsible for the safety and protection of the president and vice president and their families, as well as the president-elect and vice president-elect and their families. Former presidents who have left the office within ten years are also protected, as well as young children and the spouses of former presidents, provided they do not remarry. Secret Service agents also monitor special events that the Department of Homeland Security thinks could be a target for attack. In addition to providing protection, Secret Service special agents investigate financial crimes and crimes that involve government service fraud, computer crimes, identity theft, forensic assistance to cases involving missing children or the exploitation of children. Special agents working in protection or investigations need to be prepared to work on high profile cases and in potentially dangerous situations. They need to be vigilant, detail-oriented, organized and effective communicators. Special agents are also armed, so they should feel comfortable carrying and using a gun. Working conditions include long hours and unexpected travel.

Secret Service agents can earn competitive salaries and can start earning at the federal GS-5, GS-7 or GS-9 levels. Currently, those who are proficient in a foreign language can earn an extra one-time recruitment bonus. Benefits include paid holidays, retirement benefits, health insurance, sick leave, and a flexible spending account program.

Special agents working for the U.S. Secret Service need to have a bachelor’s degree or ample work experience. Applying for a Secret Service position is extremely competitive, so earning a higher degree in an area like law enforcement or criminal justice could be extremely helpful in setting yourself a part from other applicants. A higher degree could also make you eligible for entry-level pay at a higher GS level.

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.
 

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