Caroline's Career
October 27th, 2023
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
Career Exploration
After taking the career tests, my results came back that I should work in "Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security." I was very pleased with these results because this is the career field I've been interested in for years. Being able to work with others and helping people have always been my passions. It feels good knowing your hard work is helping others feel safe.
Career Research
Job Prospects: the growth rate of Detectives and Criminal Investigators is "moderately growing"
Daily Responsibilities: the daily responsibilities of Detectives and Criminal Investigators include creating reports, examining crime scenes, and being witnesses in court
Educational Requirements: the educational requirements of Detectives and Criminal Investigators include getting a bachelor's degree in criminology or criminal justice and some go further and get their masters.
Education Planning
To begin working as a detective or criminal investigator, you need a bachelor's degree. A great degree for this career is a Criminal Justice degree.
A school in North Carolina that offers this program is Western Carolina University, located in Cullowhee, NC.
Comparing Programs
While attending WCU and majoring in Criminal Justice is a great option to become a detective or criminal investigator, there are other options.
One of those options is the Sociology, B.A. Criminology and Justice Studies Concentration degree at UNC Greensboro, located in Greensboro, NC.
These degrees are very similar, both giving you lots of knowledge on criminology and the justice system. However, the Sociology, B.A. Criminology and Justice Studies Concentration degree is best for those that want to be able to understand the minds of criminals, figuring out what kind of person would commit different crimes.
Tuition
At WCU, the average cost (after aid) is roughly $14K a year.
At UNCG, the average cost (after aid) is roughly $11K a year.
FInancial Aid + Scholarships
FAFSA - a form completed by current and prospective college students in the United States to determine their eligibility for student financial aid
- FAFSA is a great way for students to be able to afford their college education
A great scholarships for students going in for a Criminal Justice degree is the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association Criminal Justice Scholarship. It's a $2,000 scholarship intended to help students pursuing a Criminal Justice degree.
Summary
Throughout this project, I have learned even more about a career path I thought I already knew so much about. It gave me a lot of insight on my education, finances, and future career options.
I intend to get my bachelor's degree, either the Criminal Justice degree or the Sociology, B.A. Criminology and Justice Studies Concentration degree. Then I will go on to get a master's degree, and maybe in the future go to law school. While in school, I will be sure to take advantage of scholarships and FAFSA.