Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I need to obtain a Master's Degree?
Many career opportunities such as law enforcement, probation and parole, corrections, private security and juvenile justice work do not require a master's degree for entry level positions. However, many students choose to complete a master's degree before seeking full time employment. Those interested in high level administrative, psychiatric social work, prosecution and defense, will find a master's or law degree essential. Those who desire to enter research fields will need a master's and/or a Ph.D. Those interested in teaching careers will need a doctorate degree.
2. Is the Criminal Justice Program at St. Cloud State University nationally recognized?
Yes. Dr. Martin Nemko's evaluation of public post secondary education (How to get an Ivy League Education at a State University, Avon Books, 1998) recognized St. Cloud State University as one of " America's outstanding public colleges". Dr. Nemko further recognized the Criminal Justice Department as one of the strongest programs at St. Cloud State University.
3. What career opportunities are available to Criminal Justice majors?
The following are just a few career options for criminal justice majors:
- Youth Counselor
- Probation/Parole Officer
- Conservation Officer
- U.S. Secret Service Agent
- Public Defender or Prosecuting Attorney
- Police Officer
- U.S. Marshall
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Correctional Counselor
- U.S. Customs Service
- College Instructor (requires graduate degree)
- Attorney (requires J.D. degree)
4. Are internships available?
Yes, internships are available in a wide range of areas. Examples are:
- Youth Counselor at Thistledew Camp in northern Minnesota
- Security specialist at the Minneapolis-St.Paul international airport
- Probation officer at Anoka County Corrections
- Clerking for an Attorney
- Campus Security Officer at SCSU
- St. Cloud Police Department
- U.S. Marshall's office
- Collier County ( Florida) sheriff's department
- Minneapolis or St. Paul Police Department
- Minnesota Department of Corrections
- Minnesota Correctional Facility - St. Cloud
