Career roadmap
How to Become a Criminal Justice Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a criminal justice professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a criminal justice professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) gain field experience, (3) earn a master’s, (4) earn a Ph.D., (5) get hired. Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a criminal justice professor
Earn a bachelor’s
Criminal justice.
Gain field experience
Optional.
Earn a master’s
Required.
Earn a Ph.D.
For universities.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in criminology or criminal justice is typical for universities; community colleges may accept a master’s plus field experience.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in criminology: Doctoral degree.
- Law enforcement experience: Valued.
- POST instructor certification: For academy teaching.
- Research grants: NIJ and others.
Skills to build now
Start with criminology, justice system knowledge, and research methods, and practice communication and objectivity. Learning the criminal justice professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Instructor: Teach.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Criminal Justice Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
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.
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.