Criminal Investigation Degree

Criminal investigations are the backbone of law enforcement. They are vital and the eyes and ears out on the street and keeping public security and ensuring public safety. As such, many different specialties are available for those in law enforcement that have interests in a variety of fields of investigation, but primarily criminal justice, police work, and the judicial system in general. Each of these has its own particularities and unique function, but all of them require the same basic skills, training, and knowledge to carry out their respective tasks with excellence.

The first area that requires strong police work, and very strong criminal investigation capabilities, is that of the Forensic Science field. Because forensics experts are able to determine what is beyond a shadow of a doubt, they are absolutely essential in solving crimes. As such, police departments often hold criminal defense symposiums to help train newer police officers in this area. Similarly, many private investigators focus entirely on assisting the prosecution in finding and presenting cases against those accused of committing crimes, from the alleged victims of crimes, to suspects themselves. These are the people who will best understand the tactics needed to prove a case, as well as what types of communications (if any) are best conducted during investigations. This is also a place where many experienced lawyers begin their careers, honing their skills and gaining experience in the various fields of law that fall under the umbrella of criminal law.

One of the other fields that criminal investigators must be up to date on is Security / Protective Services. As crime rates rise, and the economy suffers, an increasing number of businesses are trying to save money by utilizing Security/ Protective Services as a cheaper alternative to hiring and training new employees, or continuing to employ the old employee with the troublesome tendencies. It is important for investigators in this area to be proficient in many different types of communication and investigation techniques, as well as physical movement detection. Additionally, as more industries begin utilizing computers and other high tech surveillance equipment, investigators must know how to use such tools and remain compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to investigations and searches. These are the positions most likely to offer job security for experienced Criminal Investigators with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Investigation.