Is joining the military with a Criminal Justice Bachelor's degree a wise decision?

Hey guys, I've always had an interest in studying Criminal Justice and I aim to get a Bachelor's degree in the same. However, I'm also toying with the idea of joining the military after receiving my degree. Does anyone have experience or advice regarding this? Will my course of study provide any advantages if I decide to enlist?

As someone who has guided numerous students through different post-graduation paths, I'll share some considerations you might want to take into account. Keep in mind, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this; it will primarily depend on your personal goals and aspirations.

First and foremost, possessing a degree prior to enlisting in the military might grant you certain benefits. In many branches of the military, like the Army or Navy, your educational background could qualify you for a direct commission, which allows you to enter service as an officer, rather than an enlisted member. This could entail a higher pay grade and increased responsibilities, factors you'll want to take into account.

A Criminal Justice degree specifically could open up avenues in military police work, intelligence, or other law enforcement-related roles within the military. If your goal is to eventually transition into a civilian criminal justice job post service, such as a federal law enforcement role (e.g., FBI, DEA, etc.), military service could be seen as a strong plus by potential employers.

However, if your ultimate goal doesn't involve a criminal justice role or a branch of the armed forces that values that particular degree, your specific major might not substantially impact your military career. So, it would be a good move to investigate the specific branches you're considering and see how they might value or utilize your education.

Finally, before making your decision, try to connect with current or former military personnel who pursued a similar path. Their experience could be invaluable while you make your decision. Assess all your options, consider your long-term career goals, and make sure the decision aligns with what you truly want for your future.