Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

The Albany State University also offers a master's level degree in criminal justice for students who are looking to further their education in the
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Updated May 9, 2023

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Criminal justice schools in Georgia can train students for the careers that keep Georgia residents safe. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Atlanta has a violent crime and homicide rate lower than most other cities in the U.S. of similar size, and with the median household income in the state set at $49,342 in 2014, many criminal justice professionals can make lucrative salaries. Learn more about the field of criminal justice in Georgia, including which criminal justice schools provide different types of degrees for aspiring legal and protective service professionals.

Georgia's Best Criminal Justice Schools

Finding more information on the best criminal justice schools in Georgia is made easy with the following list. Using a wide collection of data, this chart has identified some of the most important factors students look at when selecting a training program, such as tuition rates, student-teacher ratios and graduation rates, and given each a grade. This breakdown provides students a closer look at the criminal justice schools that come out on the top of the list in Georgia.

#1 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Albany State University

  • Albany, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking flexible study should consider Albany State University. The public institution offers hybrid programs at the undergraduate level. Regardless of location, degree-seekers can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Students pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice complete major-specific coursework as part of the curriculum. These classes equip enrollees with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

Degree candidates can declare minors and concentrations. Learners can further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Enrollees seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities. The institution boasts that 96% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,438
Out-of-state
$13,716
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
6,122
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Mercer University

  • Macon, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking flexible study should consider Mercer University. The Macon-based institution offers in-person and remote programs, including a bachelor's in criminal justice. Regardless of location, enrollees can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Degree candidates complete industry-relevant coursework and attend lectures, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Degree-seekers can also pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Learners can choose electives, degree concentrations, and degree minors. Enrollees seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

To defray the costs of education, degree candidates can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The school reports that 100% of all enrollees get some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,528
Out-of-state
$25,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,422
Out-of-state
$15,422
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
8,740
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

University of North Georgia

  • Dahlonega, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from University of North Georgia. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs. Learners pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Degree candidates gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, becoming better prepared for their future careers. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree and study trajectory. Learners receive guidance throughout their studies through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Eligible enrollees can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding to their educational expenses. On average, students receive $5,859 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,898
Out-of-state
$13,851
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,140
Out-of-state
$16,488
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
19,748
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Columbus State University

  • Columbus, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Columbus State University offers numerous bachelor's programs suitable for learners from all walks of life. Located in Columbus, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. 

Students pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their program. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Learners can benefit from academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Students may be eligible for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college notes that 92% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,300
Out-of-state
$11,394
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
7,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Kennesaw State University

  • Kennesaw, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Kennesaw State University. The college supports 90 bachelor's programs, with 14 enabling fully remote study. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.

Degree-seekers in the bachelor of science in criminal justice program gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their program and study trajectory. Enrollees can receive personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

A financial aid counselor can help interested applicants determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. At the college, 92% of all enrollees get financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,450
Out-of-state
$15,704
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,328
Out-of-state
$19,188
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
37,807
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Point University

  • West Point, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Point University. A leader in hybrid education, the private college supports both in-person and online learning. Degree-seekers can enroll in 35 bachelor's programs, 14 of which are online.

Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing the bachelor of science in criminal justice. Degree candidates complete major-specific coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational and advanced coursework with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

To defray the costs of education, learners can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,085
Out-of-state
$20,085
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,360
Out-of-state
$12,360
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Students Enrolled
2,389
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Shorter University

  • Rome, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Shorter University. Students can pursue remote study or learn from the college's campus in Rome. To date, the private college supports 41 bachelor's programs, 40 of which are online.

Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice. The college provides learners with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree candidates can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their education.

Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals. Students benefit from many institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.

To manage the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities through the financial aid office. Of all enrollees, 100% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,940
Out-of-state
$21,940
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,360
Out-of-state
$12,360
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
1,487
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Reinhardt University

  • Waleska, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Reinhardt University is a private college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. Undergraduates connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Degree-seekers pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with the field. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes, with the option to make modifications.

Students can also choose electives and declare minors and concentrations. Institutional resources like career services and academic advising help learners throughout their program. 

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. To date, 100% of all degree candidates receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,300
Out-of-state
$23,300
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,906
Out-of-state
$8,906
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
1,521
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Valdosta State University

  • Valdosta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Valdosta-based Valdosta State University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. The public institution offers 49 bachelor's programs on campus. Degree-seekers can also pursue remote study across nine programs.

Learners pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice across modalities benefit from a robust curriculum. Degree-seekers complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees complete general and advanced classes, and can modify their course load to suit career goals.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

Degree candidates can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Typically, students receive an average financial aid package of $7,165.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,426
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,572
Out-of-state
$16,470
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
11,270
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Georgia State University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Atlanta, Georgia State University supports numerous hybrid degrees for undergraduate students. To date, the college offers 56 in-person bachelor's programs. One option includes a bachelor's in criminal justice. Enrollees benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.

Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their studies. Learners can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Degree candidates can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.

Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid. At the college, 93% of all enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,158
Out-of-state
$22,389
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,164
Out-of-state
$22,662
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
35,041
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Georgia College & State University

  • Milledgeville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Georgia College & State University. Of its 40 bachelor's degrees, one runs in an online format. Enrollees pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.

Students complete foundational and advanced classes throughout their program. Degree candidates can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and concentrations. Learners receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Interested applicants can explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid by working with the financial aid office. The college boasts an average financial aid award package of $7,671, with 96% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,508
Out-of-state
$26,688
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,292
Out-of-state
$18,846
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
7,031
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Clark Atlanta University

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree should consider Clark Atlanta University. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs. One option includes a bachelor's in criminal justice. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Degree candidates can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Students receive guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

The college connects degree candidates with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. At the college, 97% of all enrollees receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$20,888
Out-of-state
$20,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,290
Out-of-state
$16,290
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
3,920
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Clayton State University

  • Morrow, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Clayton State University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Morrow. Learners enrolled in the bachelor's in criminal justice program connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree-seekers engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study, gaining practical knowledge.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue concentrations and minors. Degree candidates can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Typically, enrollees receive an average financial aid package of $7,437.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$12,411
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
6,879
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Athens, University of Georgia supports numerous hybrid degrees for undergraduate students. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of arts in criminal justice. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework, becoming better prepared for their future careers. Depending on their career goals, degree-seekers can declare a double major, minor, or concentration. Enrollees benefit from institutional resources including career services and academic advising.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The institution reports that 97% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
38,920
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Atlanta Metropolitan State College

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Atlanta Metropolitan State College supports a variety of undergraduate-level degrees. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Atlanta-based campus. At present, the college provides six bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor's in criminal justice.

Degree-seekers across modalities benefit from a robust program curriculum. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.

Enrollees work with an academic advisor and customize their degree to meet their academic and career goals. Degree candidates can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

The college connects learners with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. At the college, 92% of all incoming students receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,425
Out-of-state
$9,051
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,844
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#16 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Savannah State University

  • Savannah, GA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Savannah State University, a public college in Savannah, provides flexible study options for undergraduate learners near and far. Students pursuing a bachelor's in criminal justice benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and concentrations. Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other resources.

Students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid. The college reports that 97% of all learners receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid award package being $7,231.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,528
Out-of-state
$13,068
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Students Enrolled
3,668
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Fort Valley State University

  • Fort Valley, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 39 bachelor’s degrees from Fort Valley State University. Located in Fort Valley, the public institution features in-person and virtual programs, enabling students near and far to benefit from top-ranked classes, prominent faculty, and a supportive learning community. 

Students pursuing a bachelor of arts in criminal justice complete foundational and advanced coursework. Degree-seekers can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or concentration. Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program.

Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid. The institution reports that 97% of all students receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,064
Out-of-state
$14,785
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,258
Out-of-state
$12,096
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
2,624
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
13% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Georgia Southern University

  • Statesboro, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Southern University supports flexible educational opportunities for students near and far. Learners can choose from one of 92 bachelor's programs, or opt for remote study across four programs.

Learners in person and online benefit from a supportive learning community while pursuing the bachelor's in criminal justice and criminology. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.

Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree. Enrollees seeking academic and career guidance can connect with campus resources, such as academic advising and career services.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The institution reports that 91% of all learners receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,371
Out-of-state
$15,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,977
Out-of-state
$19,890
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
26,054
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#19 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Dalton State College

  • Dalton, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree can learn at their own pace at Dalton State College. The Dalton-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. Students pursuing a bachelor of science in criminal justice can connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.

Degree-seekers build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education.

Learners can customize their studies, choose electives, and declare concentrations and minors. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding options. The average enrollee receives $5,517 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,563
Out-of-state
$9,469
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,964
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#20 Criminal Justice Schools in Georgia

Augusta University

  • Augusta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 42 bachelor’s degrees from Augusta University. The public college offers 42 bachelor's programs, six of which are fully remote. Students in the bachelor's in criminal justice program benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their field. Learners can modify their degree depending on their career goals by working with an academic advisor. Throughout their studies, degree candidates can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. On average, students receive $7,690 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,892
Out-of-state
$22,270
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,504
Out-of-state
$18,772
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
8,650
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers in Georgia

Most jobs associated with criminal justice require some level of higher education, from an academy program to a bachelor's or doctoral degree in criminal justice. For a look at the most popular criminal justice careers in Florida scroll over the tabs below. Click each occupation to show the degree requirements, the median salary for each occupation in Georgia specifically, and how many people are employed each profession across the state.

Comparison of Popular Criminal Justice Careers
Career Total Employed in Georgia Median Salary Degree Level Required
Police, Sheriff and Highway Patrol Officers 24,670 $38,430 Academy Program
Correctional Officer 16,710 $28,520 Certificate
Paralegal and Legal Assistant 7,750 $49,980 Associate
Compliance Officer 6,960 $58,030 Bachelor's
Court, Municipal and License Clerks 3,560 $30,330 Associate
Detectives and Criminal Investigators 3,370 $47,480 Academy Program + experience
Probation Officer 3,310 $35,200 Bachelor's

Where to Get Hired After Criminal Justice School in Georgia

There are many opportunities to work in the criminal justice field in Georgia once school is over. Data below shows opportunities and places where a criminal justice school graduate can apply. These departments are also additional resources for future career openings or to find out what are requirements and benefits for different agencies.

Protective Services Potential Employers

  • High Council of Justice of Georgia
  • Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice
  • Georgia Department of Natural Resources
  • City of Atlanta
  • Georgia Department of Public Safety
  • State of Georgia Police
  • Georgia Bureau of Investigation
  • Henry County Police Department
  • American Pool Georgia
  • Georgia Recreation and Park Association
  • Georgia Transportation Security Administration

Total Number of Employees in Georgia: 106,450

Legal Occupations Potential Employers

  • Georgia State Bar Association
  • Georgia Attorney Generals Office
  • Georgia Secretary of State
  • Supreme Court of Georgia
  • Judicial Council of Georgia
  • Private practice law firms
  • Georgia Association of Paralegals
  • Georgia Department of Revenue
  • Georgia Chamber of Commerce

Largest Areas of Employment in Descending Order

Protective service

  • Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell
  • Southern Georgia Non-Metro Area
  • Augusta, Richmond County
  • Middle Georgia Non-Metro Area
  • Savannah

Legal service

  • Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell
  • Savannah
  • Augusta, Richmond County
  • Macon
  • Southern Georgia, Non-Metro Area

Profesional Resources for Criminal Justice in Georgia

Business Compliance Resources

A professional group comprised of business related criminal justice professionals specializing in anti-money laundering measures in the Greater Atlanta area. Visit this site for more information on local organization events and members. A group of legal and managerial professionals dedicated to business record-keeping, security and information management. Providing educational programs, networking and outreach programs, the Atlanta ARMA provides events open to both members and their friends and professional colleagues. Georgia's local chapter of the nationally based professional group for in-house business counsel professionals, the GACC is a good source of information for students interested in business compliance and legal matters. From legislative efforts changing business laws and policies in the state to networking, business development and continuing education, the Georgia Chamber provides a place for businesses to come together to stand up for their rights and further economic growth.

Correctional Resources

One of the many programs offered by the Georgia Center for Opportunity, the Prisoner Reentry Initiative is a collaborative effort by experts from non-profit, government, academic and private sectors to provide people returning from prison employment and community reentry opportunities. This site provides details about the mission of the Department of Corrections, and includes a listing of jobs and other positions available in the department. Serving Georgia's youth offenders under the age of 21, employees at the DJJ work to redirect and shape at-risk and incarcerated youth to help them transition into becoming contributing members of society. Learn more about facilities, programs and employment on this site. Learn more about what the Georgia Department of Public Safety does to protect residents and what the benefits of working for the agency are.

Court and Judicial Resources

This agency provides legal representation on behalf of the State of Georgia on pertinent cases with the Supreme Court of the United States. Find more information on the office and employment opportunities here. The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council is a liaison between different criminal justice agencies in the state of Georgia. The agency also prepares policy proposals that are geared to making an impact in the legislative process. The Judicial Council of Georgia adopted licensing and certification training standards in 2015. Find more details on this and Board Appointments here. From training programs for judges and clerks to court reporters and more, the ICJE is a home base for continuing education information for elected court officials, court support personnel and judicial branch volunteers. From court forms and rules to judicial services information, this website provides information on the Georgia Court system, legislative tracking and links to many of Georgia's court-related professional organizations. A professional association for students, criminal justice professors and practitioners, the purpose of the SCJA is to promote and support the field of criminal justice in the southern U.S. The organization also publishes the "American Journal of Criminal Justice."

Legal Resources

A membership group for paralegals and legal support professionals in Georgia. This site provides information on becoming a paralegal, schools and certification programs, as well as jobs and business partnership listings. From networking to advocacy, mentorship and scholarship programs, the Georgia Association for Women Lawyers has been working to present programs and opportunities for women in law across the state since 1928. The GHBA is made up of Hispanic legal professionals across the state of Georgia, and is dedicated to serving both the Hispanic community and community at large, and specifically supports the recruitment and retention of Hispanic students in law schools and programs. An all-encompassing informational site on law, regulations and criminal justice procedures in the state of Georgia. Learn more about public service opportunities, attorney training and testing, state legal news and the Young Lawyers Division here. A part of the Atlanta legal community since 1961, NALS provides legal education and certification programs as well as networking and leadership opportunities within their membership community. Founded in 1995, the Stonewall Bar Association serves the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Georgia. Stonewall offers a student membership program for those interested in providing legal support and fighting discrimination based on sexual or gender orientation.

Law Enforcement Resources

The Greater Atlanta Chapter of ASIS International is a non-profit organization dedicated to the security profession. From a Law Enforcement Appreciation Day to a scholarship program and council dedicated specifically to young security professionals, this membership group provides a wealth of professional development resources. For more information on professionals in law enforcement administration in Georgia visit this site. There are many prep tools available here, from certification information to command college and other training programs, as well as job postings and details on career opportunities. This agency provides information and resources to members of the criminal justice community and others involved in law enforcement in Georgia. This association shares resources for deputies, jail officers and other members of the sheriff's office. Resources include publications, training, and conference information. For more specific details on how to become at State of Georgia peace officer, visit this page for more information on law enforcement and other related criminal justice professional training.

Wildlife and Environmental Resources

A page dedicated to providing information on the law enforcement division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Career and job listing information can be found here, as well as details on Georgia's boating, fishing and hunting regulations. A division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the EPD uses enforcement actions to combat environmental problems and help businesses, government entities and individuals meet environmental compliance laws. From information on conservation to forest management, planning and reforestation initiatives, the Georgia Forestry Commission also provides forest law enforcement information and career opportunities on this site. The resource for public land management in the southeastern U.S., the BLM regulates mining and energy exploration and development on Federal land. For details on Georgia and other southeastern states, including fire protection plans and how to get involved with land-based services, visit this site.

Expert Advice on Criminal Justice in Georgia: Dean Dabney

Dean Dabney

Dean Dabney is an Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia State University. His scholarly interests include the organizational culture within law enforcement agencies, forms of deviance and/or criminal behaviors that occur in organizational settings, and qualitative research methods. He has published 4 books, including the recently released Speaking Truth to Power: Confidential Informants and Police Investigations and several dozen articles appearing in such outlets as British Journal of Criminology, Criminal Justice & Behavior, Punishment & Society and Justice Quarterly.

Q. What skills do students gain in a criminal justice degree program in Georgia?

The substantive emphasis of criminal justice programs varies somewhat across schools. For instance, some emphasize a more applied approach, while others are more liberal arts focused. Generally speaking, research universities exemplify the latter while two- and four-year schools the former. Regardless, they will tend to provide substantive content in police, courts, corrections and crime. This provides basic background understanding for folks entering the criminal justice system as a practitioner or prepares them for law or graduate studies.

Q. How can these programs prepare students to superficially work in Georgia's criminal justice field?

The substantive coverage of police, courts, corrections and crime provides background understanding on how their practitioner oriented job will work. Perhaps more importantly, a liberal arts emphasis will prepare them as better communicators (written and verbal) and help them understand cultural differences that are central to the job.

Q. Some students may be interested in a criminal justice career because they are fans of shows life CSi and Criminal Minds. What would you tell those prospective students about the realities of the criminal justice field?

Most undergraduate criminal justice programs are generalist in nature and do not prepare them for these specific jobs. They should seek out a program specifically designed to provide forensic science content and/or plan to attend graduate school in a hard science area.

Q. If there are Georgia students who are not sure whether criminal justice is the right degree for them, what would you tell them?

They should contact the undergraduate coordinator or academic assistance professional at prospective schools to get a sense of the substantive emphasis of the program and sorts of job placements that they yield.

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