Career Spotlight: Crime Statistics Analyst
In-depth Guide to a Career as a Crime Statistics Analyst
If you consider yourself a data guru and enjoy the occasional “Law & Order” episode, a career as a crime statistics analyst might be for you. Check out this spotlight to start your career today.
What Is a Crime Statistics Analyst?
A crime statistics analyst studies crime statistics to solve criminal cases and support law enforcement. They work to identify trends and patterns in criminal behavior by analyzing data. Crime statistics analysts work with criminal investigative units at the state and federal levels. In some cases, crime statistics analysts can be police officers or detectives.
What Does a Crime Statistics Analyst Do?
Crime statistics analysts are key to any law enforcement team. They study data to provide strategic, statistical, and investigative support to law enforcement by suggesting ways to reduce crime within specific areas. They use data and science to help find patterns in criminal activity by:
- Reviewing large amounts of data from law enforcement sources. Crime statistics analysts use this to determine when and where to deploy law enforcement and other personnel. They also examine administrative data to sort leads and information about cases to provide accurate information to high-level officers.
- Generating reports based on their findings. A large part of a crime statistics analyst’s job is to analyze information and create reports to present to leadership. This is important to keep data accurate but also to use in court and for future cases. High-level officers and leadership can also use these reports to make recommendations for combating crime and allocating police resources.
- Presenting findings to leadership, police officers, supervisors, members of the public, and policymakers. Crime statistics analysts present their findings to certain groups to ensure the information is getting to the right people. They use this time to provide context behind the data and clarify any confusing or misleading parts of their reports.
What Skills Does a Crime Statistics Analyst Need?
While everyone comes with their own set of skills, successful crime statistics analysts generally have the following:
- Analytical skills: Research and understanding data is at the core of the position. Being able to understand and process information is key to this job.
- Problem-solving skills: Crime statistics analysts are always solving a puzzle. Being able to find solutions quickly and efficiently is needed in this role.
- Technical skills: You must be proficient in computer programs, especially spreadsheet software, crime mapping, and statistics.
- Communication skills: Crime statistics analysts need strong written and verbal communication skills to create accurate reports that anyone can understand. Attention to detail is critical, since some reporting can be used in court cases.
How to Become a Crime Statistics Analyst
Although paths can vary, the following steps constitute a reasonable road map for people looking to enter this career.
Step 1: Earn an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice
Crime statistics analysts require at least an associate degree in criminal justice, forensic psychology, or another related field to be considered for an entry-level position. An associate degree in criminal justice from Excelsior University will introduce you to law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice systems in the United States.
Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience
Successful candidates have some experience working in the law enforcement field. At Excelsior University, you can study while working full time or part time. Positions that involve working with data and different software will look very impressive on your resume.
Step 3: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Like other jobs, higher education levels can help you secure leadership roles or stand out from other candidates. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Excelsior University will prepare you to work in law enforcement, security analysis, crime scene investigation, and other areas. You will focus on U.S. constitutional law and amendments, criminal policies and procedures, and data analysis.
Crime Statistics Analyst Salary
According to Payscale.com, the average base salary for crime analysts was $54,018 in 2024, whereas Indeed reports the average as $66,813. The job market is projected by Zippia to grow 3% from 2018 to 2028. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, make sure to chat with an admissions counselor at Excelsior University to learn more today!
