Introduction to Criminal Justice Certificate (IT51)

The Introduction to Criminal Justice Technical Certificate of Credit is a sequence of courses that introduces students to studies which may lead to 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.

Employment Opportunities

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 Criteria

  • Submit a completed application and application fee;
  • Be at least 16 years of age;
  • Submit official high school transcript or GED transcript;
  • Submit official college transcripts, if applicable;
  • Meet the following assessment requirements:
Test Reading Writing Numerical Algebra
Accuplacer 36 30 23 NA
Accuplacer (Next Gen) 218 222 223 NA
Compass 70 32 26 NA
SAT 16 15 18 NA
SAT 270 280 310 NA
ACT 14 13 14 NA
ASSET 37 38 32 NA
PSAT 16 15 18 NA
GED NA 145 145 NA
TABE 461 NA 442 NA

Criminal Justice Certificate Curriculum

The curriculum for the Introduction to Criminal Justice Certificate program is designed for the semester system. A student may enter the program fall and spring semesters. To graduate, students must earn a minimum of 12 semester credit hours. The program requires a minimum of 180 contact hours and generally takes 1 semester to complete.

Additional Notes

Conviction of a felony or certain misdemeanors may prohibit employment in the law enforcement field.

Program Courses

Occupational Courses (12 Credits)

CRJU 1010Intro to Criminal Justice

3

CRJU 1030Corrections

3

CRJU 1040Principles of Law Enforcement

3

CRJU 2050Criminal Procedure

3

NOTE: * “C” or higher grade is required for this course.

Program Costs

Tuition/Fees: $1,570

Books/Supplies: $750

(Costs are estimates and are subject to change.)