Considering a job in criminal justice? Know how technology will affect your career

Are you obsessed with television shows like "CSI" and "Law and Order"? You're not alone.

Such shows have drastically illuminated the married fields of technology and criminal justice. While the world has progressed into a digital era, criminal justice is on the forefront of using technology to advance the field. Face-to-face interactions and paper filing systems were not cutting it, so criminal justice has since started to rely heavily on advanced information technology.

If you are inspired by "CSI"-type shows and are considering pursuing a criminal justice degree, it is helpful to understand computers and have a background in information technology. Just a few ways that technology has changed the criminal justice system include:

* Criminal records - Almost all criminal records are stored digitally. This type of filing is necessary for law enforcement officials because it promotes efficient and prompt access.

* F.B.I. - The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) was the first nationwide filing system used in criminal justice. It was an efficient way to store and retrieve information on wanted persons, stolen vehicles and other items of importance. The Federal Bureau of Investigation was the first law enforcement agency to take advantage of this system.

* Forensics - Computer forensics have become a necessary and effective tool for forensic specialists. Computer forensics are extremely useful for legal cases, recovering data, reviewing computer information during break-ins and for gathering evidence.

* Education - For students interested in entering the field of criminal justice, technology has drastically changed the way students learn. Technology allows students to participate in events they may not have otherwise had the opportunity to partake in. It is a great way for students to experience real-life situations from the safety of a classroom.

* Communication - Among all branches of criminal justice, technology has drastically improved communication. Sharing information has become easier, which improves efficiency and promotes teamwork among branches.

Being trained in information technology or criminal justice computer software can make you an extremely valuable member of a criminal investigations team. Enrolling in a school that can train you in criminal justice, information technology or computer forensics can help you pursue a real-life version of the criminal investigation television shows that you love.

Information in this article was provided by Brown College. Contact Brown College today if you're interested in developing marketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with an industry-current degree program. (Brown College does not guarantee employment or salary.)

Courtesy of ARAcontent