FAQ
Criminal Justice Professor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a criminal justice professor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a criminal justice professor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about criminal justice professors
Do criminal justice professors need a Ph.D.?
Usually at universities.
Is field experience valued?
Yes, especially at community colleges.
What do they research?
Crime trends, policing, courts and corrections.
How much does a criminal justice professor make?
The median annual wage for criminal justice professors was $76,590 in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $45,000 and the highest 10% earned more than $140,240.
How long does it take to become a criminal justice professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in criminology or criminal justice is typical for universities; community colleges may accept a master’s plus field experience.
Do you need a degree to be a criminal justice professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a doctorate, while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree and professional experience.
Is criminal justice professor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +1.5% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 1,100 openings each year. Upsides include relevant, engaging subject; a common challenge is that competitive tenure track.
What skills does a criminal justice professor need?
Key technical skills include criminology, justice system knowledge, research methods, and statistics. Employers also value communication, objectivity, and mentoring.
What certifications are available for criminal justice professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in criminology, Law enforcement experience, POST instructor certification, and Research grants. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Criminal Justice Professor fit quiz, compare with Police Officer, or explore Criminal Justice Professor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1111 (Criminal justice and law enforcement teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Criminal justice and law enforcement teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.