Criminal Justice Fundamentals- TCC
Program Description
The Criminal Justice Fundamentals Technical Certificate of Credit is a sequence of courses that prepares students for criminal justice professions. Learning opportunities develop academic, occupational, and professional knowledge and skills required for job acquisition, retention, and advancement. The program emphasizes a combination of criminal justice theory and practical application necessary for successful employment. Upon completion of this technical certificate of credit may permit students to pursue entry level opportunities in the criminal justice field. Completion of the Criminal Justice Specialist Technical Certificate of Credit does not ensure certification of officer status in Georgia. Students must seek such certification from the Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council.
Occupational Trends
In Georgia there were 100,417 job opportunities in 2009 and 116,170 such opportunities expected in 2019, for a forecasted increase of 15,753 (or 16%) as compared to a national increase of 13% predicted for the same period. In general the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts the following: 2009 Occupational Jobs 100,417 2019 Occupational Jobs 116,170 Total Change 15,753 Total % Change 15.69%.
Education Programs
Students in criminal justice fields may participate in a range of educational opportunities ranging from on work experience in the field, private and public training centers, as well as certificate, diploma, and associate degree programs at technical and community colleges. In addition, bachelor's and advanced graduate degrees are available for students.
Job/Career Description
Criminal Justice is the study of processes put in place by the government in order to prevent, deter and control crime. An effective criminal justice system is a prerequisite for a functional, free society. Without ways to regulate or reduce crime, laws would have little meaning and society would suffer. Criminal Justice agencies include law enforcement, the courts and the prison system. Those pursuing the Criminal Justice Degree have professed an interest in helping to manage crime or enforce the law. The practice of criminal justice can take a variety of forms, including service as a corrections officer or probation officer, the study of forensics or criminology, service as a police officer or detective, or work in security administration or immigration. Those interested in criminal justice on a Federal level may opt for a career in the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Admissions Requirements
Must be 16 years of age
Completion of high school diploma or GED and submission of official transcript required to apply
Achievement of minimum program admission scores in Reading, English, and Math
Transfer of previous post-secondary credits will be determined by the Office of Enrollment Services
Student Performance/Graduation Requirements
Students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average and complete all required courses to graduate.
Curriculum
Program Outcomes
1. Attain academic, occupational, and professional knowledge.
2. Attain skills for acquisition, retention, and advancement.
Requirements List
Program Length= 1 semester
Total Credit Hours= 12
Program Cost= $2242