The Selected Topics in Criminal Justice Certificate of Credit is a sequence of courses that introduces the student to specific matters that are of distinctive relevance to criminal justice. Learning opportunities develop knowledge that is used as a basis for job related training as an entry point for a diploma or degree program, or pursuit of entry level job acquisition. The Selected Topics in Criminal Justice Technical Certificate contains sufficient hours for in-service law enforcement to meet the college requirements of the Intermediate Certificate of the Career Development Program of the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training 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 |
55 |
60 |
34 |
NA |
| Accuplacer (Next Gen) |
224 |
236 |
229 |
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 |
Selected Topics in Criminal Justice Certificate Curriculum
The curriculum for the Selected Topics in 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)
Program Costs
Tuition ($100 per credit hour): $1,200
Fees ($385 per semester): $385
Books/Supplies: $750
(Costs are estimates and are subject to change.)