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Pick Your Path: Careers in Criminal Justice

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JUSTICE CAREER? PROBATION OFFICERS Probation officers work with people that have been sentenced to probation instead of serving prison time. They are a key component of the criminal justice system and often work closely with law enforcement and the court system at the local, state or federal level. Their main goal is to help offenders comply with the conditions of their probation through supervision and support. Probation officers also work to ensure that offenders aren't a danger to the community. They might help them find employment, locate housing and connect them to additional resources so they can lead productive lives. Since substance abuse is a common problem, probation officers may also work with treatment facilities within the community. Education: Education requirements vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a bachelor's degree is needed for entry-level positions. A master's degree in areas related to criminal justice, social work or psychology may be necessary for advancement opportunities. Certification through the state or federal government may also be required. PAROLE OFFICERS Parole officers work with people after they've been released from custody. They play a vital role in the criminal justice system by helping offenders successfully transition back into society. By providing supervision and support, they can also help reduce the risk of repeat criminal behavior, keeping people from returning to prison. Parole officers supervise those on parole to ensure that they are complying with the terms of their release. They may visit the parolee's home and work, interview family and friends and oversee mandatory drug testing or electronic monitoring. They also provide assistance with resources such as job training and substance abuse treatment. In some jurisdictions parole officers also act as probation officers. Education: Education requirements vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a bachelor's degree is needed for entry-level positions. A master's degree in areas related to criminal justice, social work or psychology may be necessary for advancement opportunities. Certification through the state or federal government may also be required. CAREER? PROBATION OFFICERS Probation officers work with people that have been sentenced to probation instead of serving time. They are a key component of the criminal justice system and often work closely with law enforcement and the court system at the local, state or federal level. Their main goal is to help offenders comply with the conditions of their probation through supervision and support. Probation officers also work to ensure that offenders aren't a danger to the community. They might help them find employment, locate housing and connect them to addition- al resources so they can lead productive lives. Since substance abuse is a common problem, probation officers may also work with treatment facilities within the community. Education: Education requirements vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a bachelor's degree is needed for entry-level positions. A master's degree in areas related to criminal justice, social work or psychology may be necessary for advancement opportunities. Certification through the state or federal government may also be required. PAROLE OFFICERS Parole officers work with people after they've been released from custody. They play a vital role in the criminal justice system by helping offenders successfully transition back into society. By providing supervision and support, they can also help reduce the risk of repeat criminal behavior, keeping people from returning to prison. Parole officers supervise those on parole to ensure that they are complying with the terms of their release. They may visit the parolee's home and work, interview family and friends and oversee mandatory drug testing or electronic monitoring. They also provide assistance with resources such as job train- ing and substance abuse treatment. In some jurisdictions parole officers also act as probation officers. Education: Education requirements vary by jurisdiction. Typically, a bachelor's degree is needed for entry-level positions. A master's degree in areas related to criminal justice, social work or psychology may be necessary for advancement opportunities. Certification through the state or federal government may also be required.

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