Foundations of Criminal Justice
This certificate provides the basic knowledge necessary to prepare for entry-level jobs in the law enforcement system.
This is a G3 program. Students may qualify for free tuition, fees, and books.
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Program Information
Purpose
This certificate introduces students to the core principles, systems, and practices within the criminal justice field. It prepares them for entry-level roles (such as corrections officer, police cadet, or legal assistant) and lays the groundwork for further education.
Program Outcomes
- Understand the structure and function of the criminal justice system.
- Learn Legal Principles, constitutional rights, and ethical standards.
- Explore career pathways in law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
Credits scaffold into the advanced criminal justice certificate, and associate of applied science degree in criminal justice. General studies students can add this certificate to their program using criminal justice courses listed as general transfer electives.
- ADJ 100 Survey of Criminal Justice
- ADJ 110 Introduction to Law Enforcement
- ADJ 201 Criminology
- ADJ 233 Multiculturalism in Policing
Occupational Objectives
Certificate holders may pursue careers in law enforcement, (Police officer, Deputy Sheriff, State Trooper, Corrections Officer, Probation officer, or civilian positions such as dispatcher, evidence technician, and victims’ advocate. Additional testing, a background check and training are required for various positions.