A public safety degree helps students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to protect and serve their community. People who get this degree can work in various fields and earn lucrative salary packages. Getting advanced education in this field opens doors to various opportunities. Students can pursue associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees in public safety.
What Is Public Safety?
Public safety includes protecting people, safeguarding them from disasters, crimes, and any other potential forms of danger. It refers to the welfare of the public and is usually considered a government responsibility. Various professionals play an essential role in this regard; however, their ultimate goal is to safeguard the public from any danger.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Public Safety?
With a degree in public safety, graduates can take on various roles depending on their interests. Some may want to pursue a career in the state, local, and federal agencies, while others may want to work as a part of the administration and coordinate the efforts of a team. People in this field are required to be passionate about the protection and well-being of their community. They should be competent in areas like strategic planning, first responding, budgeting, and public sector management. Candidates who choose to go for administrative jobs have a fixed schedule, while those who work as first responders work irregular hours.
The following are some of the career options with a degree in public safety.
Police and Detectives – Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police safeguard the lives and property of the citizens, whereas detectives collect evidence and facts regarding a crime. These professionals write reports and patrol the assigned areas.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $83,170 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 3% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $86,030 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | Texas | 16,810 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | Alaska | $113,420 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Correctional Officers and Bailiffs – Correctional Officers and Jailers
Correctional officers supervise individuals who are waiting for a trial or have been sentenced to prison. Bailiffs, on the other hand, are responsible to maintain order and safety in courtrooms.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $45,180 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | -7% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $50,130 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | Texas | 47,160 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | California | $78,510 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Emergency Management Directors
These experts plan strategies to deal with any natural disaster or emergency. They also help in dealing with the aftereffects of emergencies in coordination with elected officials, government agencies, public safety officials, and non-profit organizations.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | $74,590 | |
| Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | 5% | |
| Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | $82,530 | |
| State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | California | 760 |
| State with the Highest Salary, 2019 | District of Columbia | $120,680 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from a Public Safety Degree?
A public safety degree provides knowledge about safeguarding the well-being of the community. Students learn how different state and federal agencies work and share information with private agencies. Some of the courses taught during this program include emergency management, risk management, terrorism, working with federal and local agencies, civil liberties and security, criminal justice, etc.
How to Choose a Public Safety Degree?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose an accredited degree
- Check if scholarships are offered
- Consider the length of the program
- Check if the institute offers an online program
- Consider the total cost of the program
Public Safety Degree Admission Requirements
To get admitted into a bachelor’s degree in public safety, students are required to meet several requirements, including the completion of high school. To get admitted into a master’s degree, they are required to have a bachelor’s degree, work experience, and a good GPA.