Certificate in Criminal Justice
The certificate program in Criminal Justice is designed to provide students with both theoretical and applied professional development in the field of criminal justice. The theories of criminology as well as the judicial, law enforcement and correctional systems will be studied. This program is designed for those wishing to enter this exciting and growing field, as well as for current professionals who wish to further develop their knowledge or who wish to prepare for graduate studies in the field.
The Criminal Justice program prepares individuals for many career opportunities:
- local, state, and federal law enforcement
- corrections
- probation
- juvenile justice
- court advocacy
- mental health and human services
- private security
JOB OUTLOOK IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Employment of police and detectives is expected to grow 10 percent over the 2008–18 decade, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Population growth is the main source of demand for police services.
Education requirements range from a high school diploma to a college degree or higher. Most police and detectives learn much of what they need to know on the job, often in their agency's training academy. Civil service regulations govern the appointment of police and detectives in most States, large municipalities, and special police agencies, as well as in many smaller jurisdictions. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 21 years old, and meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Education and Training
Applicants usually must have at least a high school education, and some departments require 1 or 2 years of college coursework or, in some cases, a college degree. Physical education classes and participation in sports are also helpful in developing the competitiveness, stamina, and agility needed for many law enforcement positions. Knowledge of a foreign language is an asset in many Federal agencies and urban departments.
State and local agencies encourage applicants to take courses or training related to law enforcement subjects after
high school. Many entry-level applicants for police jobs have completed some formal postsecondary education, and
a significant number are college graduates. Many junior colleges, colleges, and universities offer programs in law
enforcement or administration of justice. Many agencies pay all or part of the tuition for officers to work toward degrees in criminal justice, police science, administration of justice, or public administration and pay higher salaries to those who earn one of those degrees.
- information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
PROGRAM OF STUDY
The program consists of the eight courses listed below, at least five of which must be taken at Assumption College.
Required Courses
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Introduction to Corrections
• Introduction to Law Enforcement
• Criminal Law & Procedures
• Social Problems
• Criminology
• Juvenile Delinquency
• Violent Crime
