How To Become a Crime Analyst for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Aspiring crime analysts need the proper education and training to qualify for the job. Many students interested in criminal justice want to use data to help solve crimes, but figuring out the best path can feel overwhelming. With different degree options, skills to develop, and job requirements, it’s not always clear where to start. The demand for crime analysts is growing as law enforcement agencies rely more on data to prevent crime. In 2024, the homicide rate in major U.S. cities dropped to 12%, down from 14.3% in 2023. This decline shows how data-driven strategies, including crime analysis, are making a real impact. If you want a career that combines criminal justice and data analysis, now is the time to prepare.

This article will guide you through becoming a crime analyst in 2025. You’ll learn about the education, skills, and experience needed for the job. Our expert career planning insights will help you navigate your options and set you on the right path.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Crime Analyst

Education and Training – Most crime analysts need a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field, along with specialized skills in data analysis and GIS.
Career Path and Timeline – It takes about 4 to 6 years to become a crime analyst, including education, internships, and certifications that improve job prospects.
Job Responsibilities – Crime analysts use data to identify patterns, predict criminal activity, and assist law enforcement in resource allocation and investigations.
Essential Skills – Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, geospatial analysis, and technical proficiency in crime mapping software are key to success.
Career Growth and Challenges – Crime analysts face challenges like data accuracy, evolving crime trends, and workplace stress, but certifications and ongoing learning help them stay competitive.

What are the steps to becoming a crime analyst in 2025?
How long does it take to become a crime analyst?
What does a crime analyst do?
What skills are required to be a crime analyst?
What are the best majors for crime analysis?
What is the average salary of a crime analyst in 2025?
Where do crime analysts work?
What are the career advancement opportunities in crime analysis?
Can crime analysis lead to more lucrative criminal justice careers?
How can an advanced degree boost career prospects in crime analysis?
Can legal studies enhance crime analysis effectiveness?
How can hands-on experience enhance your crime analyst career?
What are the legal and ethical considerations in crime analysis?
What certifications can help you become a crime analyst?
What crime mapping software do analysts use?
What are the biggest challenges in crime analysis?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Crime Analyst

What are the steps to becoming a crime analyst in 2025?

Most professionals in this field follow a structured path, starting with a degree and progressing through training and job experience. In 2025, data showed that 68% of crime analysts hold a bachelor's degree, making education a crucial first step. If you're looking for the easiest bachelor degree to get started, criminal justice or criminology are great options. These programs provide a strong foundation in law enforcement, crime patterns, and data analysis. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a crime analyst.

Earn a relevant bachelor's degree. Most crime analysts have a degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field. Some also study data analytics, psychology, or geography. A degree gives you the foundation to understand crime patterns and analysis techniques.
Develop key skills. Crime analysts need strong analytical thinking, research skills, and attention to detail. Learning data analysis software, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and statistical methods will make you more competitive in the job market.
Gain experience through internships. Internships at police departments or government agencies provide hands-on experience. Many agencies seek candidates with real-world exposure to crime data and investigative techniques.
Earn professional certifications. Certifications like the Certified Crime Analyst (CCA) from the International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA) show employers you have specialized knowledge. While not required, they can improve job prospects.
Apply for entry-level positions. Start as a crime analyst assistant, research assistant, or intelligence analyst. These roles build experience and help you qualify for higher-level positions.
Continue professional development. Crime analysis evolves with technology. Staying updated through workshops, online courses, and industry conferences keeps your skills sharp and career options open.

The chart below lists the most common education levels of crime analysts in the US, as reported by Zippia in 2025.

How long does it take to become a crime analyst?

Becoming a crime analyst typically takes four to six years, depending on your education, experience, and training speed. Some students complete the process faster by choosing online colleges, which allow them to study at their own speed instead of following a fixed schedule. Others may take longer if they gain experience in a related field before transitioning into crime analysis.

Here’s a breakdown of the timeline:

4 years – Complete a bachelor’s degree. A traditional degree program takes four years, but students in self paced online colleges can graduate sooner by taking courses at an accelerated pace.
6 months to 1 year – Gain practical experience. Many students complete internships or entry-level jobs in crime analysis while finishing their degree, reducing the time needed after graduation.
3 to 6 months – Earn professional certifications. Many employers prefer candidates with specialized certifications. Studying for and passing certification exams usually takes a few months.
Ongoing – Continue learning. Crime analysis methods and technology change frequently. Analysts who take additional courses and attend workshops improve their job prospects.

What does a crime analyst do?

Crime analysts collect and interpret data to help law enforcement agencies prevent and solve crimes. They identify patterns, predict criminal activity, and provide reports that assist in investigations. Their work improves policing strategies and helps allocate resources more effectively.

Analyzing crime data. A crime analyst reviews reports, arrest records, and incident data to find trends in criminal activity.
Mapping crime patterns. They create maps highlighting high-crime areas using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Predicting future crimes. Analysts use statistics to forecast future crimes, helping police focus their efforts.
Supporting investigations. They provide detectives with data on suspects, crime locations, and possible case connections.
Creating reports and presentations. Analysts prepare charts and summaries for police departments, city officials, and the public.
Recommending resource allocation. Based on data, they help agencies decide where to deploy officers and patrols.

For those interested in this field, understanding crime lab analyst job requirements is key. These roles typically demand a background in criminal justice, statistics, or a related field, along with experience in data analysis, GIS tools, and report writing. Meeting these requirements ensures candidates are equipped to translate data into actionable crime-fighting strategies.

What skills are required to be a crime analyst?

Crime analysts need a mix of technical, analytical, and communication skills to interpret crime data and support law enforcement. These skills help them identify trends, predict criminal activity, and provide valuable insights to police departments—and are a strong example of what can you do with a law enforcement degree beyond traditional policing roles.

Data analysis. Crime analysts must understand statistics, databases, and research methods to process crime data effectively.
Geospatial analysis. Analysts map crime locations using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify patterns and trends.
Critical thinking. They must assess large amounts of information, connect details, and draw accurate conclusions.
Problem-solving. Analysts help law enforcement agencies develop strategies to reduce crime by finding patterns and risk factors.
Attention to detail. Small data points can reveal major crime trends, so analysts must work with precision.
Technical proficiency. Analysts use specialized software like SQL databases, Microsoft Excel, and crime mapping tools.
Communication skills. They present findings through reports, charts, and briefings, making complex data understandable.
Collaboration. Crime analysts work with police officers, detectives, and city officials to support investigations and policy decisions.
Ethical judgment. Handling sensitive law enforcement data requires integrity and adherence to privacy laws.

What are the best majors for crime analysis?

The best majors for crime analysis focus on criminal behavior, data interpretation, and investigative techniques. Many professionals in the field choose criminal justice, criminology, or related areas. In fact, Zippia reports that 38% of crime analysts hold a degree in criminal justice, making it one of the most common choices. However, other degrees can also provide a strong foundation for crime analysis.

Criminal justice. This major covers law enforcement, crime prevention, and legal systems. It provides a direct path to crime analysis.
Criminology. This field studies the causes of crime and criminal behavior, helping analysts understand patterns and trends.
Data science or statistics. These majors focus on data analysis, predictive modeling, and statistical methods essential for crime mapping and forecasting.
Geographic information systems (GIS). Since crime analysts often use GIS to map criminal activity, this major offers valuable technical skills.
Psychology or forensic psychology degree. Understanding criminal behavior is key to crime analysis. A forensic psychology degree helps analysts interpret motives, risk factors, and behavioral patterns in criminal activity.
Computer science or cybersecurity. These majors are helpful for analysts working in digital crime investigations or predictive policing technology.

The chart below lists the most common majors for crime analysts, as reported by Zippia in 2025.

What is the average salary of a crime analyst in 2025?

According to Zippia, the average salary of a crime analyst in 2025 is $60,253 per year. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and job responsibilities. Analysts working in large metropolitan areas or federal agencies often earn higher wages than smaller departments.

Crime Analyst Salary Breakdown

Entry-level (0-2 years): $45,000 – $55,000 per year
Mid-career (3-5 years): $55,000 – $70,000 per year
Experienced (6+ years): $70,000 – $90,000+ per year

Factors That Affect Salary

Location. Cities with high crime rates and larger police departments often pay more. Crime analysts in California and New York tend to earn higher salaries.
Experience. Analysts with more years in the field, advanced certifications, or leadership roles can negotiate higher pay.
Education and skills. Data science, GIS, or cybersecurity degrees may lead to higher-paying specialized roles.
Employer type. Federal agencies and private security firms typically offer higher salaries than local law enforcement.

Where do crime analysts work?

Crime analysts work in various settings, including law enforcement agencies, government offices, and private organizations. Their role involves analyzing crime data to support investigations and improve public safety. Understanding their environment and responsibilities can also help those exploring related fields—such as individuals researching how to become a crime scene investigator—gain insight into the broader landscape of criminal justice careers and how analytical roles complement fieldwork.

Local and state law enforcement agencies. Most crime analysts work for police departments or sheriff’s offices, helping officers track crime trends and allocate resources.
Federal agencies. Organizations like the FBI, DEA, and Homeland Security hire analysts to support national security and major investigations.
City and state government offices. Some analysts work outside law enforcement, using crime data to shape public policy and improve community safety programs.
Private security firms. Large corporations, financial institutions, and retail businesses employ analysts to prevent fraud, theft, and cybercrime.
Academic and research institutions. Universities and think tanks hire analysts to study crime patterns and assist in policy development.

A background in law enforcement, data analysis, or criminal behavior helps analysts secure roles in these fields. Some professionals even transition from social work or psychology careers, with degrees like a DSW degree (Doctor of Social Work) providing insight into criminal behavior and rehabilitation strategies.

What are the career advancement opportunities in crime analysis?

Crime analysts can leverage their analytical expertise to transition into roles with increased leadership and strategic responsibilities. As professionals gain experience, positions such as senior analyst, supervisor, or strategic consultant become attainable. Advanced training and further education can open doors to these roles by enhancing managerial skills and an in-depth understanding of emerging data technologies. Pursuing additional studies, such as a criminal justice degree online, equips analysts with broader strategic insights and interdisciplinary skills needed for higher-level decision-making. Networking within the industry and earning specialized certifications further support career progression by demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Can crime analysis lead to more lucrative criminal justice careers?

Advanced crime analysis skills not only enhance investigative capabilities but can also open doors to higher-level positions within the criminal justice system. Seasoned analysts who continually update their expertise with emerging data technologies and interdisciplinary tools often transition into strategic roles, specialized consulting, or managerial positions. These pathways can significantly boost earning potential and career stability. For detailed insights into broader career opportunities, explore the highest paying jobs you can get with a criminal justice degree.

How can an advanced degree boost career prospects in crime analysis?

Pursuing an advanced degree can offer crime analysts a significant edge by deepening technical expertise and expanding strategic perspectives. An advanced program integrates legal studies with data analytics, preparing professionals for leadership roles that demand both analytical rigor and a thorough understanding of legal frameworks. For instance, an online master in legal studies equips candidates with specialized knowledge that complements their analytical skills, enhances problem-solving abilities, and facilitates a smoother transition into management or consultancy positions within law enforcement agencies.

Can legal studies enhance crime analysis effectiveness?

Integrating legal studies with crime analysis enables professionals to better interpret judicial processes, evidence protocols, and regulatory frameworks. This multidisciplinary approach facilitates improved collaboration with law enforcement and legal teams while ensuring adherence to ethical and legal standards. Furthermore, a solid understanding of legal fundamentals can refine investigative methods and data contextualization, making analysis more robust and actionable. Those seeking to complement their analytical expertise with legal knowledge may also explore opportunities such as the cheapest ABA-approved paralegal programs to gain affordable, foundational legal training.

How can hands-on experience enhance your crime analyst career?

Integrating practical experiences with academic instruction enables aspiring crime analysts to sharpen data interpretation and investigative skills through real-world applications. Interning at law enforcement agencies, participating in comprehensive simulation projects, and engaging in project-based collaborations provide the opportunity to validate theoretical insights under dynamic conditions. In addition, enrolling in targeted programs such as accelerated certificate programs for paralegals equips future analysts with a nuanced understanding of legal protocols that further enrich analytical accuracy.

What are the legal and ethical considerations in crime analysis?

Crime analysis involves handling sensitive information that demands strict adherence to legal frameworks and ethical standards. Analysts must ensure data confidentiality, implement unbiased interpretation methods, and comply with jurisdictional protocols to protect individual rights and public trust. Adhering to data security and privacy regulations is crucial when managing criminal records and investigative information, which requires continuous education on emerging legislation and industry best practices. Professionals should also be aware of specific field criteria, such as DEA job requirements, to maintain rigorous standards while supporting operational decisions.

What certifications can help you become a crime analyst?

Certifications can help crime analysts stand out in a competitive job market. While not always required, they prove expertise in crime analysis, data interpretation, and law enforcement practices. Many agencies prefer certified analysts because they have specialized training and industry-recognized skills.

Certified Law Enforcement Analyst (CLEA). The International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA) offers this certification, which covers crime mapping, statistics, and investigative analysis.
Crime and Intelligence Analysis Certification. Many colleges and training programs offer this certification, focusing on law enforcement data analysis and criminal behavior patterns.
Certified Criminal Intelligence Analyst (CCIA). Provided by the International Association of Law Enforcement Intelligence Analysts (IALEIA), this certification focuses on intelligence gathering and crime trends.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Certification. Since crime analysts use GIS tools to map and predict criminal activity, a GIS certification can improve job prospects.
CompTIA Data+. This certification proves expertise in data visualization, analysis, and database management, all useful for crime analysis.

Earning one or more certifications strengthens a crime analyst’s resume and can lead to higher-paying roles. Many professionals take certification courses to gain a competitive edge while working or finishing their degrees. Similarly, understanding crime scene technician job requirements—such as obtaining relevant certifications in evidence handling or forensic photography—can significantly boost employment prospects for those pursuing a hands-on role in criminal investigations. Certifications not only validate a candidate’s expertise but also demonstrate a commitment to professional development in a competitive field.

What crime mapping software do analysts use?

Crime analysts use specialized software to map and analyze criminal activity. These tools help law enforcement agencies visualize crime trends, predict future incidents, and allocate resources effectively. Crime mapping software is essential for identifying high-crime areas and improving public safety strategies.

ArcGIS. This powerful Geographic Information System (GIS) is used to map crime hotspots, track trends, and create detailed visual reports.
CrimeMapping.com. A web-based tool that provides public access to crime data, helping agencies share information with communities.
IBM i2 Analyst’s Notebook. A leading software for crime analysis that helps connect data points, identify patterns, and support investigations.
LexisNexis Risk Solutions (Accurint Crime Analysis). A tool that helps law enforcement agencies analyze crime data and manage investigations efficiently.
Microsoft Power BI. While not specifically designed for crime analysis, this data visualization software helps analysts create interactive reports and dashboards.
Esri Crime Analysis Solution. A specialized ArcGIS extension that offers law enforcement-specific mapping and analysis tools.

The chart below illustrates the homicide rates in the US by year, as reported by the CCJ in 2025.

What are the biggest challenges in crime analysis?

Crime analysis presents challenges for both new and experienced analysts. From handling large amounts of data to maintaining accuracy in crime reports, analysts must navigate several obstacles to succeed in this field.

Data accuracy and reliability. Crime reports often contain missing or inconsistent data. Analysts must verify sources and clean datasets to ensure accuracy.
Access to technology. Not all law enforcement agencies have advanced crime mapping software or data analysis tools, making it harder to track trends effectively.
Legal and ethical concerns. Analysts handle sensitive information and must follow privacy laws to prevent misuse of crime data.
Financial investment in education. Becoming a crime analyst requires a degree and specialized training. Many students look for online colleges that accept FAFSA to help with tuition while earning a degree in criminal justice, criminology, or data analysis.
Keeping up with evolving crime trends. Criminal activity changes with technology, requiring analysts to stay updated on new crime patterns and investigative methods.
Workplace stress. Crime analysts deal with disturbing crime data and high expectations from law enforcement, which can lead to stress and burnout.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming a Crime Analyst

Working as a crime analyst has given me a sense of purpose I never imagined. Seeing my data help detectives solve cases makes all the late nights worth it. It's not always easy, but knowing my work makes communities safer keeps me going. — Jennie

I wanted a career where I could use logic and data to make a real difference. Crime analysis is exactly that. Every day, I help law enforcement see patterns they wouldn't have noticed, and that leads to real change. — Michael

The stability of this career is something I don't take for granted. Law enforcement agencies always need analysts, and my skills in data and mapping will always be relevant. I know I made the right choice. — Astrid

Key Findings

68% of crime analysts hold a bachelor's degree, primarily in criminal justice, criminology, or related fields.
38% of crime analysts have a degree specifically in criminal justice, making it the most common major in the field.
4 to 6 years is the typical time required to become a crime analyst, including education and experience.
$60,253 per year is the average salary for crime analysts in 2025, with higher earnings in metropolitan areas and federal agencies.
12% homicide rate in major U.S. cities in 2024, down from 14.3% in 2023, highlighting the impact of data-driven crime prevention strategies.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Crime Analyst

What makes a good crime analyst?

A good crime analyst thinks critically, pays attention to detail, and understands data patterns. They use crime mapping software and statistics to identify trends. Strong communication skills help them present findings to law enforcement. They also stay updated on new crime methods and technology. Analysts must be ethical, ensuring data privacy and accuracy.

Is a crime analyst a detective?

No, a crime analyst is not a detective. Detectives investigate crimes directly, interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence. Crime analysts work behind the scenes, analyzing data to find patterns and predict crime trends. Their work helps detectives and officers make informed decisions.

What is an example of a crime analysis?

An example is mapping vehicle theft hotspots in a city. A crime analyst examines past reports, finds high-risk areas, and shares insights with police. Officers then increase patrols in those locations, reducing thefts. This data-driven approach improves crime prevention.

Is becoming a crime analyst worth it?

Yes, becoming a crime analyst is worth it for those interested in law enforcement and data analysis. The field offers stable job opportunities, competitive salaries, and a chance to improve public safety. Analysts play a key role in crime prevention, making a real impact.

References:

Hernández, A. (2025). Most violent crime rates have fallen back to pre-pandemic levels, new report shows. Stateline.
International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA). (n.d.). Implementing Crime Analysis. IACA.
International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA). (n.d.). Overview of Crime Analysis. IACA.
Leduc, A. (2023). Crime Analysts: Using Data to Make Communities Safer. In Depth. CNA.
Lopez, E. & Bozerman, B. (2025). Crime Trends in U.S. Cities: Year-End 2024 Update. Council on Criminal Justice.
Zippia. (2025a). Crime Analyst Education Requirements. Zippia.
Zippia. (2025b). Crime Analyst Salary. Zippia.