Criminal justice and legal degrees are extremely popular among students because of the wide range of careers they help them qualify for. People with criminal justice and legal degrees can work as everything from security guards to legal assistants. Here's a closer look at the top degrees in these fields.

Criminal Investigations
People with criminal investigations degrees are detectives, investigators and crime prevention specialists. They work for the local, state and federal governments or for private organizations. They participate in some of the most exciting cases while working to keep society safe. Salary varies between $45,000 and $80,000 per year, and benefits are typically excellent.

Criminal Justice
People with criminal justice degrees work to enforce the law and investigate crimes. Many work in the areas of investigation, intelligence and security. Salary for people with this degree ranges from $45,000 to $100,000, and those who are trained to carry weapons typically make more. Benefits are typically excellent.

Homeland Security
With the increased threat of terrorism and drug trafficking on the home front, more and more federal agencies are hiring people with degrees in homeland security. People with this degree work to enforce borders, prevent terrorism, protect citizens and decrease crime. They earn between $45,000 and $90,000 per year and often enjoy the benefits of working for the federal government.

Corrections
People with corrections degrees work in prisons and rehabilitation institutions for people convicted of crimes. They also work with juveniles who have committed crimes. Although corrections officers often have emotionally and physically demanding jobs, they also enjoy the rewards of witnessing successful rehabilitation and reintroduction of people back into society. They earn between $35,000 and $45,000 or more per year.

Criminal Justice Administration
People with degrees in criminal justice administration manage other employees, provide office support and maintain files and paperwork. They help keep police departments, court offices and prison systems running smoothly and efficiently. They earn between $55,000 and $100,000 per year and enjoy excellent benefits.

Criminal Justice Administration
People with degrees in criminal justice administration manage other employees, provide office support and maintain files and paperwork. They help keep police departments, court offices and prison systems running smoothly and efficiently. They earn between $55,000 and $100,000 per year and enjoy excellent benefits.

Law Enforcement
People who earn law enforcement degrees often work as police officers, security guards, border patrol agents, drug enforcement agents and detectives. Those trained to carry weapons typically earn more, and their salary ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year.

Legal and Paralegal Studies
Degrees in legal and paralegal studies provide people with the valuable skills they need to be legal assistants, courtroom reporters, and even lawyers. They earn between $30,000 and $70,000 or more per year, and they conduct research, file papers, and provide assistance to lawyers and court judges.