Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Programs in Montana

Crime is a growing problem in Montana, particularly in the oil patch that it shares with North Dakota. In fact, crime has become such a major problem there that the state has made it a goal to minimize crime in this area and protect those who travel to Montana for work. In this area, violent crime is on the rise. Experts believe that organized crime is to blame.

Some people call Montana’s recent spike in crime a crime wave. Rates of violent and property crimes seem to be on the rise every month. To combat this problem, officials may need the help of criminal justice graduates who are experienced with the causes, solving, and trying of crimes.

Getting your Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree in Montana

To earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, you need to spend about four years earning 120 credits across a range of subjects. Before you can start choosing electives and practical experience courses, you must complete the core courses that are required of criminal justice students. Courses in this area include Criminology, Social Deviance, Law Enforcement, Research in Sociology, and Elementary Statistics for Social Research. Some of the more advanced courses you may take include Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice, Courts and Criminal Justice, Criminal Law, Complex Organizations, Principles of Corrections, and Sociological Theories.

As you finish up your education, it is likely that you will be expected to complete some type of work experience. This may come in the form of an internship, externship, or practicum. You may be able to choose where or in what capacity you work, particularly if you have shown great promise or skill in one area of criminal justice. Use this experience wisely, as it may determine the future of your career.

Montana criminal justice students may have a chance to apply for many different scholarships and grants to cover educational expenses. The Association of Montana Troopers awards scholarships that are worth $500 each. Other scholarships are specific to students at different schools, including the Frank Lee Criminal Justice Scholarship and the R.B.J. Campbelle Jr. Scholarship.

Working in Criminal Justice in Montana

It’s important to explore your career options as you get close to finishing your education in this field. If you are interested in working in a prison or jail, you may wish to become a correctional officer. Montana correctional officers earn an average salary of $33,100 per year (O*Net, 2014). O*Net predicts a 12% increase in job openings by the year 2022. The average salary for a Montana criminal investigator is $83,400 per year (O*Net, 2014). During this time frame, O*Net expects to see an 8% increase in jobs.

Are you ready to make Montana a safer and more enjoyable place to live? If so, take the first step now by reaching out to criminal justice schools in Montana.