Program Description
The criminal justice system comprises three components: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Each of these fields are actively recruiting entry-level positions. If you’re looking for an edge in this hiring process, this certificate program can provide you the pathway in securing a promising career in the criminal justice system.
This certificate program is designed to prepare you for an entry level position in any of the three criminal justice components mentioned above. You will learn the principles of law enforcement, criminal laws and procedures, community and institutional correctional philosophies and the functions and structure of the local, state, and federal courts systems. Students will learn how to analyze and address various public safety concerns/threats with a measured and balanced solution approach philosophy.
This two-semester certificate program provides students with classes designed to introduce them to each component of the criminal justice system with an emphasis on how these components relate to, interact with, and compliment one another while seeking public safety and equal justice for society. After completion of this certificate program and for those students wishing to pursue a degree program, this certificate is stackable and provides students with a pathway to complete our 61-credit Associate of Arts Criminal Justice Degree Program.
Program Objectives
- Introduce students to the field of criminal justice through the examination of historical data, statistical information, theories of crime causation, social control strategies, development of laws, and evaluation of criminal justice system policies, procedures, and trends.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the US Constitution and the allocation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government; the relationship between the federal government and the states; and individual constitutional rights, including equal protection and due process of law.
- Develop effective verbal and written communication skills, analytical review of evidence and development of criminal cases for prosecution.
- Demonstrate basic knowledge on how the three components of the criminal justice interrelate and support one another in the promotion of public safety.