Turn your passion for CSI shows into a career in criminology! Criminologists seek to understand the complexities of crime, its causes, how we define it and how successful our actions are in dealing with it. They may examine things like frequency and locations of a particular type of crime, and study society's concept of the criminal. They also advise government on policies about crime and interpret long-term trends in particular crimes.
Education Requirements:
A bachelor's degree in criminology is required to get
into the field, but further degrees in psychology, sociology, math, and history significantly open job opportunities.
Job Prospects:
Some criminologists work as teachers or research professors. Others are police officers with master's degrees or PhDs. Research positions are also available within the government. Some work for private firms, while others choose to become correctional officers. Since September 11th, there has been an increased demand for well-educated security personnel.
Earning Power:
The average annual salary for a Canadian correctional officer is $40,000, which is at the low end of criminologist careers. Those with a master's degree
(and in a different vocation) can bump that figure to approx. $57,000.
