If you have a passion for law enforcement and public service, then a career in the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) might be the vocation you’re looking for. Ideal candidates are those who can quickly solve problems, make decisions under pressure and interact with people from a variety of backgrounds.
If that describes you, Lamar University’s online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice offers aspiring US Marshals an excellent pathway to qualifying for roles in this important government agency and related areas of law enforcement. This flexible degree program, which can be completed on an accelerated timeline, enables you to study at your own pace while you continue to work.
What Does a U.S. Marshal Do?
The role of a U.S. Marshal is not for the faint-of-heart. Their primary responsibilities are vital to the safety of the nation. They include “apprehending fugitives, seizing the assets of criminals and supporting the federal judiciary,” according to Indeed. In other words, they are regularly tasked with defending the public from potentially dangerous people, while also supporting the federal court system by ensuring that criminal defendants are escorted to and from prisons and courthouses.
Some specific duties that U.S. Marshals carry out could include serving on specific task forces with a particular specialty. For example, they might be required to assist with fugitive apprehension, which involves “complex criminal investigations to locate and apprehend federal fugitives, egregious state or local fugitives, and non-compliant sex offenders,” according to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
U.S Marshals are also responsible for facilitating witness protection programs, which “provide for the security, health, and safety of government witnesses and their dependents whose lives are in danger as a result of their testimony against drug traffickers, terrorists, organized crime members, and other major criminals,” per the DOJ.
U.S. Marshal Educational and Professional Requirements
There are certain requirements for becoming a U.S. Marshal. Candidates must be between the ages of 21 and 36 to be considered for the position, according to the USMS. They must also be a U.S. citizen and meet minimum standards for education or general professional experience. At minimum, this must include three years of progressively responsible work experience, or a bachelor’s degree such as the one offered by Lamar University. In addition, they must also pass a background check and successfully complete the application process.
Students in Lamar University’s online BS in Criminal Justice program gain practical, hands-on experience through multiple, real-world internship opportunities. They also benefit from individualized academic support from dedicated faculty committed to preparing them for a successful career in law enforcement. Courses like Introduction to Criminal Justice, which explores the field’s history and philosophy, and Criminal Investigation, which helps students hone career-relevant skills, go a long way toward preparing aspiring marshals for the rigors of the job.
How Do You Become a U.S. Marshal?
Lamar University’s online BS in Criminal Justice program provides the educational foundation, practical experience and flexible learning environment aspiring U.S. Marshals need to launch their careers in federal law enforcement. The program’s flexible online format enables students to earn their degree while maintaining their current commitments, positioning them to meet the USMS educational requirements without putting their life on hold.
With real-world internships, dedicated faculty support and curriculum designed to help them develop essential critical thinking and decision-making skills, graduates are well-prepared to serve and protect their communities at the highest level. For those committed to a career in law enforcement, earning this degree represents an important step in building the qualifications and competencies required for service in this field.
Learn more about Lamar University‘s online BS in Criminal Justice program.
