Criminal Justice Schools in South Carolina
Best South Carolina Criminal Justice Schools, Degrees and Resources
The top criminal justice schools in South Carolina provide training programs for those looking for a degree or certification in preparation for a rewarding career as a lawyer, police officer, correctional officer or judge. South Carolina boasts some of the safest cities in the country – 30 cities made the list by Safewise in 2015 for their low crime rates as reported by the FBI. However, there are still certain parts of the state that need experienced legal and protective services professionals to preserve public interest and promote safety. Use this page to discover education programs and attractive job opportunities available throughout South Carolina.
SOUTH CAROLINA’S BEST CRIMINAL JUSTICE SCHOOLS
Beginning a career in legal or protective services starts with finding the right academic or certification program that fits a student’s career goals. It is often difficult to decide which schools are best, but by utilizing the ranking list below to assist with the search, students will be able to compare schools by acceptance rate, tuition, student-to-teacher ratio and other factors. Discover the best criminal justice schools for 2017 in South Carolina below.
Coker University
Hartsville, SC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Coker University, a private college, is located in Hartsville. Enrollees hoping to advance in a criminal justice-adjacent career will benefit from the college's criminal justice programs. Students complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. They can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Depending on their needs, enrollees can complete the program in person or virtually. Online programs make up 19% of the college's programs. Career services and academic advising are just two of the many campus resources available to learners.
Coker University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 52
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 64%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,896
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$29,976
- Out-of-state$29,976
- In-State$14,897
- Out-of-state$14,897
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled1,113
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Lander University
- Greenwood, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Lander University. The Greenwood-based school offers criminal justice programs. Beyond the classroom, degree-seekers can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Depending on their needs, enrollees can complete the program in person or online. To date, 12% of the college's programs enable online study. Learners seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Lander University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 33
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 43%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,185
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 62%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,598
Average Price After Aid: $13,009
- In-State$10,700
- Out-of-state$20,300
- In-State$8,856
- Out-of-state$16,844
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled3,226
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Wesleyan University
- Central, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southern Wesleyan University, a private college based in Central, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. Its programs, such as the criminal justice programs, foster learning through robust curriculums and supportive learning communities. The college boasts a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. To date, the college supports 10 online degrees. Throughout their program, learners can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Southern Wesleyan University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 37
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 35%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 69%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,328
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$24,926
- Out-of-state$24,926
- In-State$10,170
- Out-of-state$10,170
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance Rate35%
- Students Enrolled1,430
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Carolina-Columbia
- Columbia, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Columbia, University of South Carolina-Columbia provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. The college's criminal justice programs provide students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the criminal justice field. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Learners can complete their degree on campus or online. The institution notes that 17% of its programs enable online study. In-person and remote students can access campus resources while enrolled, including career services and academic advising.
University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 300
Number of Online Programs: 50
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 77%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,282
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 45%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,577
Average Price After Aid: $21,787
- In-State$12,288
- Out-of-state$33,528
- In-State$13,737
- Out-of-state$29,760
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled35,364
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
- Charleston, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Citadel Military College of South Carolina supports numerous programs from its main campus in Charleston. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Students complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Degree-seekers can attend classes on campus or online, depending on their scheduling needs. To date, the college supports 14 online degrees. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Citadel Military College of South Carolina at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 84
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,940
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 48%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,700
Average Price After Aid: $17,723
- In-State$75
- Out-of-state$75
- In-State$10,740
- Out-of-state$18,390
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled3,767
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
South Carolina State University
- Orangeburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
South Carolina State University, a public college based in Orangeburg, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. Students in the criminal justice program benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Enrollees can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their learning.
The program supports in-person and online learning formats. Online programs make up 3% of the college's programs. Learners can make use of campus resources, such as academic advising and library services, while enrolled.
South Carolina State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 64
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $10,045
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 75%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,623
Average Price After Aid: $20,007
- In-State$9,528
- Out-of-state$20,218
- In-State$9,928
- Out-of-state$21,038
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled2,479
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Anderson University
- Anderson, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Anderson University, a private college based in Anderson, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Beyond the classroom, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Remote degree-seekers can choose from one of 11 fully online degrees. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Anderson University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 99
Number of Online Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 57%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,827
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$26,130
- Out-of-state$26,130
- In-State$9,651
- Out-of-state$9,651
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled3,543
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Claflin University
- Orangeburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Claflin University reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. Enrollees pursuing a criminal justice degree benefit from a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Degree-seekers can pursue their studies at their own pace. Of its programs, 4% allow for fully online study. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Claflin University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 45
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 55%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 97%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 85%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,582
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$16,476
- Out-of-state$16,476
- In-State$11,653
- Out-of-state$11,653
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled2,070
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Limestone College
- Gaffney, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Limestone College supports numerous programs, both in person and online, from its main campus in Gaffney. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Students complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. They can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Degree-seekers can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Of all its programs, 27% run online. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Limestone College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 45
Number of Online Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 51%
Graduation Rate: 33%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 72%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $10,218
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$25,200
- Out-of-state$25,200
- In-State$12,350
- Out-of-state$12,350
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate51%
- Students Enrolled2,206
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
Morris College
- Sumter, SC
- 4 year
- Campus
A leader in higher education, Morris College provides educational opportunities to Sumter-based students and distance learners. Degree-seekers looking to advance in the criminal justice field should consider the college's criminal justice programs. Students can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their learning.
Degree candidates can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Throughout their studies, enrollees can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Morris College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 21
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 25%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 90%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,043
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$12,965
- Out-of-state$12,965
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate40%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled600
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
University of South Carolina-Upstate
- Spartanburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of South Carolina-Upstate supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Spartanburg. Enrollees hoping to advance in a criminal justice-adjacent career can explore the college's criminal justice programs. Degree-seekers benefit from a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. They can more easily explore collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Degree candidates can complete their program in person or remotely. Distance learners can choose from 10 fully online degrees. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
University of South Carolina-Upstate at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 48
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 48%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,173
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 59%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,182
Average Price After Aid: $15,838
- In-State$11,208
- Out-of-state$22,710
- In-State$13,734
- Out-of-state$29,760
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled6,308
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Benedict College
- Columbia, SC
- 4 year
- Campus
Benedict College is a Columbia-based private college. The school's criminal justice programs build theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many career paths in the field. Students can pursue collaborative learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects, to supplement their education.
Learners from all walks of life benefit from the program's flexible format. Degree-seekers can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Benedict College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 49
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 24%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 78%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,534
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$14,280
- Out-of-state$14,280
- In-State$9,900
- Out-of-state$9,900
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled2,040
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
Voorhees College
- Denmark, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Voorhees College is a Denmark-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Students can benefit from the collaborative nature of the program. They can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities while enrolled.
Students can earn their degree in person or remotely. The school offers one fully online degree. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Voorhees College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 22
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 41%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 86%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,351
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$11,630
- Out-of-state$11,630
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled510
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment0%
- AccreditationYes
Charleston Southern University
- Charleston, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Charleston Southern University supports numerous programs from its main campus in Charleston. The college's criminal justice programs provide students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for the criminal justice field. Learners can benefit from the programs' collaborative nature. Degree-seekers can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities while enrolled.
Students can complete the program in person or online. To date, 13% of the college's programs enable online study. Degree candidates can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources during their program.
Charleston Southern University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 90
Number of Online Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 50%
Graduation Rate: 41%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 59%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,817
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$26,000
- Out-of-state$26,000
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate50%
- Students Enrolled3,477
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment43%
- AccreditationYes
Trident Technical College
- Charleston, SC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Trident Technical College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. The college boasts a 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study, and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects.
Enrollees can complete their program in person or remotely. Leading in online education, the college supports 21 online degrees. In-person and remote students can access campus resources while enrolled, including career services and academic advising.
Trident Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 107
Number of Online Programs: 21
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 19%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 94%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,995
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 24%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,545
Average Price After Aid: $2,559
- In-State$5,024
- Out-of-state$8,571
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled12,351
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Aiken Technical College
- Graniteville, SC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Aiken Technical College supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Graniteville. Students in the criminal justice program benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Learners complete major-specific coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. Enrollees can pursue further learning through internships and research projects.
Degree candidates benefit from dual enrollment formats. Students can learn in person or remotely. When considering remote study, applicants should know that 2% of the college's programs support online learning. Throughout their program, students can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Aiken Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 63
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 23%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,225
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 21%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,147
Average Price After Aid: $3,525
- In-State$4,776
- Out-of-state$6,408
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,236
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
York Technical College
- Rock Hill, SC
- 2 year
- Campus
York Technical College, a public college based in Rock Hill, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The college's criminal justice programs equip learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Students benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, degree-seekers can pursue their studies at their own pace. In-person and remote students can access campus resources while enrolled, including career services and academic advising.
York Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 75
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 23%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,267
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 22%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $3,745
Average Price After Aid: $6,655
- In-State$4,776
- Out-of-state$9,720
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,529
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Technical College of the Lowcountry
- Beaufort, SC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Technical College of the Lowcountry, a public college, is located in Beaufort. The school's criminal justice programs build theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many career paths in the field. With a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative projects.
Enrollees can attend classes on campus or pursue fully online learning. Leading in online education, the college supports 14 online degree. Regardless of enrollment format, participants can access campus resources including academic advising, library services, and tutoring.
Technical College of the Lowcountry at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 48
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 14%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 88%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,890
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 11%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,686
Average Price After Aid: $8,246
- In-State$5,160
- Out-of-state$10,104
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate48%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,308
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Greenville Technical College
- Greenville, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Greenville Technical College offers a variety of academic degrees in person and online. Enrollees hoping to advance in a criminal justice-adjacent career will benefit from the college's criminal justice programs. Degree candidates complete rigorous coursework and can pursue opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Students can complete the program in person or online. Approximately 2% of the college's programs include online options. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Greenville Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 90
Number of Online Programs: 2
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 11%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,705
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 21%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,582
Average Price After Aid: $6,992
- In-State$4,916
- Out-of-state$9,140
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,123
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Denmark Technical College
- Denmark, SC
- 2 year
- Campus
Denmark Technical College offers a variety of academic degrees in person and online. Its programs, such as its criminal justice programs, foster learning through robust curriculums and supportive learning communities. Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education preparing them for the demands of the field.
The program supports in-person and online learning formats. Degree candidates seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Denmark Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 26
Number of Online Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 20%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 91%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,640
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 38%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,676
Average Price After Aid: $13,639
- In-State$5,407
- Out-of-state$10,815
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled483
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
MOST SOUGHT AFTER CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS IN SOUTH CAROLINA
The USC Police Department in major cities, public safety departments, and city government organizations are some examples of employers who hire law enforcement and legal service providers in South Carolina. Completing an accredited degree program in criminal justice or obtaining certification can increase the chances of achieving employment in one of these fields. The tool below allows you to compare different career options and salary information for some of the most in-demand jobs South Carolina’s legal and protective services departments.
SOUTH CAROLINA CAREERS COMPARED TO NATIONAL AVERAGES
Most high-paying criminal justice jobs in South Carolina can be found in larger cities such as Columbia and Charleston, but graduates may also find employment in home offices of police departments, investigative firms, or law firms. Those starting their job search might find opportunities with the South Carolina courts system or with the SC Department of Corrections. The table below highlights different career opportunities in South Carolina compared to national averages.
Salary
| Job | National | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Private Detective | 47,170 | 53,530 |
| Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | 42,180 | 62,760 |
| Correctional Officers and Jailers | 34,040 | 46,750 |
| Judicial Law Clerk | 34,060 | 59,840 |
| Security Guards | 29,730 | 29,900 |
| Fish and Game Wardens | 47,380 | 54,760 |
| Lawyers | 107,230 | 139,880 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2015
Job Growth
| Job | National | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Security Guards | 0.051 | 0.098 |
| Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | 0.214 | 0.219 |
| Protective Service Workers, All Other | 0.058 | 0.089 |
| Lawyers | 0.056 | 0.063 |
| Judges, Magistrate Judges and Magistrates | 0.007 | 0.017 |
| Court, Municipal, and License Clerk | 0.045 | 0.057 |
| Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | 0.047 | 0.05 |
| Crossing Guards | 0.06 | 0.064 |
| Bailiffs | 0.047 | 0.06 |
Source: Projections Central, 2015
SOUTH CAROLINA EMPLOYERS HIRING CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATES
The South Carolina State Government is the state’s largest employer and manages numerous agencies and departments in the legal and protective services fields. Those looking to work in administrative law courts, highway patrol, or law enforcement can find jobs in larger cities, such as Columbia, Charleston and North Charleston. Taking some time to compare available jobs and salaries to national averages can help students make long-term career decisions. Compare average salaries for job opportunities across the state.
Protective Services
Potential Employers
Bailiffs at SC State Courts; Correctional Officers and Jailers at SC Department of Corrections; Detectives and Criminal Investigators for private and public detective firms; Fish and Game Wardens for SC Department of Natural Resources; Parking Enforcement Workers for SC City Government Organizations; Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers for SC Police Departments; Transit and Railroad Police for SC DOT; Animal Control Workers for Greenville County Animal Care; Private Detectives and Investigators for SC PI firms; Gaming Surveillance Officers and Gaming Investigators for SC Casinos; Security Guards at SC hospitals, malls and schools; Crossing Guards for SC Department of Education; Lifeguards, Ski Patrol and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers at SC State Parks; Transportation Security Screeners for SC airports.
Total Number of Employees in South Carolina: 46,260
Legal Occupations
Potential Employers
Lawyers for SC State Government; Judicial Law Clerks for SC Courts System; Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators and Hearing Officers for SC State Courts; Arbitrators, Mediators and Conciliators at SC Judicial and State Courts; Judges, Magistrate Judges and Magistrates at South Carolina Judicial Department; Paralegals and Legal Assistants for SC law firms; Court Reporters at SC Courts; Title Examiners, Abstractors and Searchers for SC Real Estate Firms; Legal Support Workers for SC law firms.
Total Number of Employees in South Carolina: 12,490
PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN SOUTH CAROLINA
BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES
Individuals looking for business filing information, business opportunities or employment agencies will find a wealth of resources on this website. The site also includes the latest updates straight from the Secretary of State and business forms and fees.
This section of the website includes information about permits and environmental compliance. It serves as a valuable resource for business owners and legal professionals who need access to the latest compliance records and updates.
The SBA offers resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs who need help growing their businesses by offering education, loan opportunities and grants.
This membership-based group provides resources for members of the legal profession who provide corporate counsel in the state of South Carolina.
This section of the state website includes information for business owners planning to do business in the state, state laws and regulations, licenses and permits, and taxes and insurance.
This organization helps grow new and existing businesses by promoting incentives, helping with buildings and sites and providing grants for community development and infrastructure improvement.
CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES
The South Carolina Department of Corrections maintains a comprehensive website for victims, families, and employees. The site lists current employment opportunities at correctional facilities across the state.
This is a medium security federal correctional institution. The website lists information about the facility and also links out to job opportunities with the Federal Bureau of Prisons listed on USAJOBS.
This organization is committed to protecting public trust and safety while providing assistance to those who have been victims of crime. The website includes information about the most wanted list and a county office directory.
This state agency supplies prevention, community programs, rehabilitative service and education for juveniles who are on probation, incarcerated or on parole in South Carolina.
COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES
The South Carolina Department of Administration Division of Human Resources lists employment opportunities with government entities across the state. The state government is South Carolina’s largest employer and offers a wealth of opportunities for career advancement.
This website features a comprehensive listing of all court orders, court rules, trial courts and court calendars. It also includes information for those interested in becoming a court reporter and resources for the judicial community.
This section of the South Carolina’s Information Highway includes information about the state’s courts, judges and solicitors. It also includes information about the latest opinions and orders for the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals.
This membership-based organization connects court reporters within the state of South Carolina.
This non-profit provides out-of-court dispute resolution for individuals, families and businesses.
Providing advocacy for children who have been abused and neglected, the Richland CASA provides volunteer and legal services that help children find permanent, safe homes.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Lawyers and legal professionals who want to help low-income or underrepresented members of the community can provide low-cost services through this organization. The organization provides free legal help to those in need and is looking for qualified legal professionals to support its mission.
Teachers, students, and legal professionals can find a wealth of resources on this site. It includes information about the Bar Foundation, latest news, and educational materials for those who wish to further their career.
Volunteer lawyers can join or support the pro bono program at the University of South Carolina. This section of the site also includes information about fellowships, leadership programs, and other resources for those entering the legal field.
Affiliated with the National Association of Legal Assistants, SCUPA provides membership-based services for networking and continuing education.
This directory offers contact information for the various bar associations throughout the state.
This site provides contact information and resources for South Carolina residents about state legal cases and law enforcement training and standards.
LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES
This website is a comprehensive listing of South Carolina police departments and includes details about sheriff’s offices police departments and fire and rescue apartments across the state.
Includes information about different types of cases, law enforcement initiatives, the latest news, and record checks. It’s designed for law enforcement officials but also includes information about weapons permit renewals.
Supports the efforts of law enforcement officers throughout the state and serves as a professional organization to provide training programs, recreation activities and networking events.
A professional organization for South Carolina state patrol officers, this association connects troopers to improve communication and provide networking opportunities.
This group aims to promote public safety by sharing information, providing educational community workshops and enacting changes through the legislative process.
This membership-based association supports the development of ethics and professionalism within the legal investigator community in South Carolina.
WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES
This is the main website for the DNR and includes information about licensing, public land use, and recreation areas around the state. The website also lists employment opportunities.
This page is a resource for the eligibility and steps required to become a game warden.
This website includes information about the Hunting Heritage Action Plan that outlines hunting heritage activities. Includes the latest plans and evaluations, assessment reports, and resources for leaders.
This website is a comprehensive compilation of all activities related to South Carolina’s natural resources. It includes details about final assistance programs, volunteer programs and local programs.
The law enforcement division of the SCFC investigates timber transaction crimes, arson, and other forestry-related infractions.
This page supplies information about the law enforcement team that protects South Carolina’s state parks.
