Security careers boom in unpredictable job market

Today's job seekers are faced with an unpredictable job market. Instead of guessing about the next big growth sector, many are turning toward an industry that has become increasingly solid -- security and criminal justice.

The security sector offers job opportunities for just about everyone, from office workers to on-site agents. Even if you don't have experience in the field, you can boost your resume and your marketability by enrolling in a career-track program that addresses your chosen focus.  

The Department of Homeland Security is a major employer in the field of security and criminal justice. DHS salaries average between $40,000 and $ 90,000, with specialized personnel earning even more.

"Ever since the creation of DHS in 2003, there has been a mounting demand for trained personnel. [DHS's] constantly widening responsibility means more people are needed today and in the future," says Dr. Mark Anarumo, an official in the U.S. Air Force and a professor of criminal justice at Stockton College in New Jersey. Last year alone, DHS hired 11,000 people, including law enforcement officials and terrorism specialists.

But security jobs aren't limited to immigration and border protection. Job opportunities are also growing in fields like natural disaster management. You can train to work as an emergency response professional, providing disaster relief in the wake of hurricanes and earthquakes.

You can also channel your talents toward the corporate sector. Right now, private companies are eager to hire consultants who are educated in criminal justice and homeland security. Energy companies and telecommunications companies are always looking for skilled IT professionals, especially those who have an information-security background.  

"Anyone can make a career in this field," says Dr. William Waugh, with the Department of Public Management and Policy at Georgia State University. "There are lots of courses and diplomas available at the undergrad and graduate level, specifically to train for such jobs." In particular, many online programs are geared towards adult students who are interested in making this career transition.  

Transitioning to a security career doesn't mean starting from scratch, or spending years in a classroom. Instead, many colleges are making the necessary programs available online, so career-changing professionals can gain these vital skills while maintaining a fulltime job. "There is a strong online presence of such courses, for people who are looking to make a career in this," Anarumo says. He also points out that almost 10 percent of his graduate students are professionals in other fields. Most are in their late 30s and 40s. Being able to study from home -- after work and on weekends -- lets them earn the credentials they need without losing time, or a pay check.  

With all the programs available for professionals looking for educational training to make this career change, one great resource for zeroing in on the criminal justice degree you need is criminaljustice-degrees.com, a comprehensive site bringing together over a hundred programs offering financial aid for criminal justice students. Subjects range from homeland and computer security to law enforcement and public safety.


You can make a difference while being part of this growing career field. Visit www.criminaljustice-degrees.com to learn more today. Copyright © ARAnet, Inc.