Researchers, probation

What does a researcher in criminal justice do? – Tasks and work environment

A researcher in criminal justice works to investigate, analyze, and develop knowledge about criminal justice processes, methods, and outcomes. Tasks often include collecting and processing data on crimes, recidivism, and rehabilitation programs, as well as evaluating the effects of various interventions within the criminal justice system. The research can cover everything from the causes of crime to the impact of different treatment methods and policies. The environment is often academic or government-based, with collaboration with other researchers, criminal justice personnel, and policymakers being a central part of daily work. The job requires precision, analytical skills, and a high degree of integrity.

Salary development over time

The salary for researchers in criminal justice has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 43 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 46 000 SEK, which represents an increase of approximately 7% over the period. Factors driving this salary development include increased demand for qualified research in criminal justice, higher educational requirements, and a greater focus on evidence-based methods in the justice system. The trend indicates that the profession is increasingly valued, and employers are willing to pay for specialist skills and experience in the field.

Researchers in criminal justice salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK/month (men), 42,000 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (men), 50,700 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 277 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 46 600 SEK/month, women 45 300 SEK/month (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a researcher specializing in criminal justice, a longer university education in social sciences, criminology, psychology, or similar fields is usually required. Many hold a master’s or doctoral degree, and experience in empirical research is often a requirement. Education is combined with specialized courses in criminal justice, statistics, and methodology, and sometimes internships or trainee positions within the public sector or academia.

• Master's or doctoral degree in criminology, sociology, or related fields (5–8 years)
• Specialized courses in statistics, research methodology, and criminal justice
• Internship or trainee position within criminal justice, authorities, or academia
• Strong analytical skills and experience in qualitative and quantitative research
• Prerequisites often include documented research experience

Common benefits and compensations

Researchers in criminal justice are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, remote work options, professional development, and conference participation. Pension schemes, wellness allowances, generous vacation policies, and insurance are standard in both public and private sectors. Some workplaces also offer supervision opportunities and research resources for personal projects.

Competition and challenges

Competition for research positions in criminal justice is high, especially for permanent positions and roles with independent responsibility. Requirements include high educational levels, documented research competence, and the ability to publish in scientific journals. A challenge is that research often must be adapted to political priorities and changing societal needs, requiring flexibility and broad competence. Another challenge is securing long-term funding for research projects, particularly in the public sector. At the same time, specialists in the field are in demand, providing good opportunities for well-qualified individuals.

Tips for those wanting to become researchers in criminal justice

To succeed as a researcher in criminal justice, it is good to combine analytical sharpness with a genuine interest in societal issues and the justice system. Engaging early in research projects during education and building networks within academia and criminal justice can provide valuable experience and contacts. Precision and perseverance are crucial when collecting and analyzing data, while communication skills help in collaboration and presenting results. Staying updated on new methods and international research is also important, as the field develops rapidly. Applying for relevant scholarships and participating in conferences can open doors to new projects and collaborations, and the ability to work independently is often a valuable asset in the profession.

Key facts about Researchers in criminal justice

• Education level: Master’s or doctoral degree (5–8 years)
• Work environment: Academic or government-based, often project-oriented
• Demand: 758 available jobs in 2024
• Work form: Full-time, often with flexible hours and remote options

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a researcher in criminal justice can advance to project leader, research coordinator, or head of a research unit. There are also opportunities to pursue a doctorate and work as a university lecturer or professor, or take roles as an investigator or expert within authorities and organizations related to the justice system. According to forecasts from the Employment Service, demand for qualified researchers in the criminal justice field remains strong, especially as society emphasizes evidence-based development of criminal policy measures. Opportunities for specialization in areas such as recidivism research, treatment methods, or policy analysis are good, and international collaborations are becoming more common.

Common questions about Researchers in criminal justice

• What does a researcher in criminal justice earn?
  - The average salary is 46 000 SEK per month, with variations between 41,100 SEK and 52,100 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 46 600 SEK and women 45 300 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a researcher in criminal justice?
  - A master’s or doctoral degree in social sciences, criminology, or similar fields is standard.
• How does the job market look?
  - There are 758 available jobs in the profession according to current statistics, and demand remains stable.
• What is the most common work environment?
  - Most work within academia or government agencies, often in project-based teams with flexible working hours.
• How has salary development looked?
  - Between 2022 and 2024, the average salary has increased from 43,000 SEK to 46 000 SEK.