Learn the Ropes If You Want to Dig for Clues as a Career
Digging for clues is more than just a game. You have to put in the time and effort, but at least you’ll learn all there is to know if it’s your goal! The career world is a tough place to get by, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be successful in your line of work; it just takes some smarts and research skills!
Are you someone who wishes to protect the interests of your country? Has it always been your dream to fight for the welfare of your community? If yes, then a spot in the field of criminal justice is something you should certainly consider. While fighting crime is a daunting task for many reasons, it is also a gratifying career in the long run.
By fighting against the criminal affairs of a state, not only do you enhance the quality of life for everyone around, but you also contribute to the general safety of the citizens- something which is vital for the well-being of a nation.
The field of criminal justice is exceptionally diverse. Each course of study, such as the one aiming at the MSN masters in criminal justice, is unique and designed to match different interests. Therefore, whether you’re someone who loves science or whether you’re someone who likes to take action head-on, you can be sure that you’ll have a fair chance of showcasing your unique talent.
Listed below are a handful of courses along with their eligibility criteria- that you should check out if you’re interested in helping fight crime.
1. Working for the DEA
The DEA (or drug enforcement agency) is an integral component of a country’s justice department. This sector specializes in combating drug-related offenses and helps control cases related to illegal drug trafficking.
Agents working for the DEA have several jobs, including performing research and tracking terrorist organizations. They may even partner with officials from other countries to share information and locate international trade rings. Before becoming a DEA agent, you must possess the qualifications that indicate you are prepared for the challenges of the job.
Firstly, you must possess a high degree of agility, which means you must be someone who thinks and acts quickly, without delay. Secondly, you must have relative work experience in the field of criminal justice.
2. Joining the Police Force
Another well-reputed position you can try joining is the police force. It is an occupation that usually focuses on people who like to take action head-on and handle the most challenging situations. To join the police, you don’t need any particular specialization.
However, an individual can even apply through a simple high school diploma or GED at a minimum. However, since the profession is competitive, pursuing higher education such as a bachelor’s in criminology and criminal justice can provide you an advantage over other candidates.
Once you apply for a vacancy, you will have to undergo a few written tests and interviews. Upon passing these, you will have to go through a series of medical and fitness tests. It will include an eyesight check as well as a few physiological-based assessments too. Once you clear these, you can join the academy and commence training. However, before applying for training, you must be 100% positive and ready to commit to your duties.
3. Working as a Forensic Psychologist
Forensic psychology is a trendy and exciting field. You probably know about it if you’re a crime show enthusiast or are someone that loves indulging in detective-based films. While this field doesn’t exactly fight crime on a physical aspect, it’s more based on the mindset of criminals.
Essentially, a forensic psychologist helps determine the factors that influenced a criminal to commit an offense. Most of their work involves investigating cases, forming case studies, and recommending treatment programs for criminals.
To be eligible for becoming a forensic psychologist, you have to complete an undergraduate degree in psychology. On average, this can take anywhere from 3 to 4 years, depending on where you live. After completing your bachelor’s, you must apply for a master’s degree and a doctorate.
The final step is to attain a license to be able to practice legally. All in all, forensic psychology (although a high yield field) requires a considerable time investment; hence only consider applying if you’re ready to commit to the time duration.
4. Fighting Crime as a Criminal Lawyer
As of today, a lot of students aspire to study criminal law. It is an excellent field for those who wish to work with victims and impact their lives. Criminal lawyers get to work in various cases, including murders, violence, abuse, and fraud. Not only is it a highly diverse field, but it also comes with great salary benefits! According to statistics, the revenue of criminal lawyers and attorneys in the US alone is $14.6 billion, which will only increase over the years to come.
The first step to becoming a criminal lawyer is getting a bachelor’s (LLB) from law school. There are no particular subjects you have to take to get into law school; however, taking courses that strengthen your interpersonal skills may be helpful in the selection process. The last step is to pass the state exam, and you will then earn a license to practice as a certified criminal lawyer.
Depending on where you live, there may be a few more formalities you might have to cater to. Therefore it’s wise to thoroughly research your country’s procedure before you go ahead and apply for a seat.
Final Thoughts
Fighting crime can be a gratifying task. Not only does it help improve our surroundings, but it is also a highly respectable career path. The field of criminology is multidisciplinary, meaning that it has a multitude of career choices to offer.
Famous examples include the police force, secret agency, forensic sciences, cybercrime, and much more. There is a great deal of information available online if you wish to learn more about each course.
Brian Zeng
Founder of Ponbee.com: I like to write about self-improvement and achieving excellence, and believe that it is these qualities that ultimately make people successful in life.
