Criminal Justice, A. A. S.

The opportunity for public service through law enforcement or security work is attractive to many because the job is challenging and involves much personal responsibility. Furthermore, law enforcement officers in many agencies may retire with a pension after 20 or 25 years of service, allowing them to pursue a second career while still in their 40s. Due to relatively attractive salaries and benefits, the number of qualified candidates exceeds the number of job openings in federal law enforcement agencies and in most state police departments. This has resulted in increased hiring standards and selectivity by employers.