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
- Define the theoretical perspectives of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the terms and concepts related to the criminal justice system.
- Learn and apply various hands-on skills related to the criminal justice system.
Certificate Notes
*Students who enroll in, and successfully complete, the Penn Highlands Police Academy (Act 120) will also receive an 18-credit Criminal Justice Certificate. Once graduated, these students will receive a Diploma from the police academy and a CRJ Certificate. Students who do not enroll in the Penn Highlands Police Academy Act 120 Program are eligible to enroll in the CRJ Certificate Program for enhanced career credentials. All credits earned in the Certificate Program will transfer into the 61-62 credit CRJ Associate of Arts Degree Program. All credits and classes are sequentially offered beginning in the Fall and completing in the Spring semesters. Thus, this certificate can be obtained by students in two semesters.
**Due to the continued experiential learning curriculum in the police academy, police academy cadets will not be required to complete 9-CRJ credits prior to qualifying for CRJ 295 credits.