Sheriffs supervise police officers and the overall public safety plans of a county. In addition to having experience and knowledge about the criminal justice system and protecting the public, sheriffs also need to be good public speakers. They are elected to their posts and often hold press conferences, are interviewed by the media and work with mayors, county judges and other local leaders to develop crime prevention plans and corrections plans. Sheriffs may also sponsor local community programs to promote education, youth activities and anti-drug campaigns. They are experienced law enforcement professionals and still answer calls, make arrests, conduct investigations and enforce laws. Sheriffs patrol their area, manage other deputies and officers, work with attorneys, judges and correctional officers, assist during traffic accidents, and write up reports. They find themselves in potentially dangerous situations, from car chases to apprehending criminals to conducting raids. Sheriffs are armed, so an ability to use a gun or other weapon is a must.

Sheriffs earn higher salaries than other police officers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, police supervisors earned between $53,900 and $83,940 in 2006. The base salary for police chiefs was between $78,547 and $99,698. The salary for a sheriff largely depends on the geographic location in which he or she works. Those who work in very populous counties that include large metropolitan areas will earn much higher salaries than sheriffs who work in very rural communities with a lower cost of living. Because sheriffs are employed by the government, they are eligible for a full benefits package that includes retirement savings plans, life insurance, health insurance, training, paid time off and more. In some areas, the families of fallen sheriffs and police officers receive funding and tuition assistance as part of this benefits package.

While experience is one of the most important qualifications for a county sheriff, education is also significant. Because sheriffs are public figures and elected officials as well as law enforcement officials, a higher education in criminal justice can go a long way. A master’s degree will supplement on-the-job training by giving you a more holistic perspective of law enforcement and the legal system, and graduate school will also prepare you to be a better communicator in writing and speaking.

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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