Criminal Justice
Associate in Science (A.S.)
The Criminal Justice Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College prepares you to go directly into a specialized career in the criminal justice field.
To a great extent, the safety, order and freedom of our democratic society depends on our criminal justice professionals. The complexity of today’s diverse communities demands more than ever that criminal justice professionals are broadly educated and highly trained. The Criminal Justice program at Valencia College is designed to provide the best possible education for students preparing for challenging careers in law enforcement, corrections, private/industry security and other criminal justice fields. Job opportunities may include Corrections Officer, Crime Analyst, Criminal Justice Administrator, Detective, Investigator, Emergency Communication Specialist, Law Enforcement Officer, Loss Prevention Specialist, Police Officer, Security Officer and more. It offers a broad background in the history and philosophy of criminal justice; the management and operation of modern criminal justice agencies; the social, psychological, and cultural aspects of society; and the laws impacting criminal justice functions.
Specializations:
- Homeland Security
Regardless of any degree work completed, in order to be a sworn law enforcement or corrections officer in the state of Florida, you must successfully complete a state-certified training academy program such as the Law Enforcement or Correctional Officer programs offered by Valencia College School of Public Safety, Legal Studies, and Education, and pass the state certification exam.
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Program Details
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
Review course descriptions, important dates and deadlines and other programs details in the official college catalog.
Related Certificates
Valencia’s certificate programs can put you on the fast track to reaching your career goals. They are designed to equip you with a specialized skill set for immediate employment or career advancement. Most can be completed in one year or less.
- Home Security Specialist (9 credits)
- Homeland Security Law Enforcement Specialist (15 credits)
- Criminal Justice Technology Specialist (24 credits)
- Hospitality Security Specialist (9 credits)
Alternative Ways To Earn Credit
Did you know that you may already be eligible to receive college credit toward this program? Check out these opportunities:
- Industry Certifications – Receive college credit for approved Industry Certifications.
- Technical College Programs – Receive college credit toward this program for completing an approved Osceola Technical College program.
PROGRAM LENGTH
60 credits
Bachelor of Applied Science Degree
If safety is your chief concern, prepare for a leadership role in law enforcement, fire rescue, emergency medical services or public and private protective services at Valencia College. Gain entry into this program with any A.A. or A.S. degree from a regionally accredited institution.
Career Outlook
Learn How To
- Investigate complaints and respond to traffic emergencies.
- Detect crimes, arrest violators and issue citations.
- Oversee individuals in jails and prisons.
- Use computers to search for information on suspected criminals.
Job Outlook
Career opportunities continue to be excellent for those wishing to enter the criminal justice profession. with a wide variety of opportunities available in police departments, sheriff’s offices, prisons, courts, probation and parole agencies, and private industries. A more security-conscious society as well as population growth will contribute to the increasing demand for police services.
Potential Careers
- Corrections Officer
- Crime Analyst
- Criminal Justice Administrator
- Detective or Investigator
- Emergency Communication Specialist
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Loss Prevention Specialist
- Police Officer
- Security Officer
AVERAGE SALARY RANGE
$32,000 - $40,000
Placement Rate
The average placement rate for Valencia College A.S. degree and certificate programs ranges between 90 – 95% according to the latest FETPIP data.
Career Center
Job search strategies, employment readiness tips and more at four on-campus locations.
Visit a Career CenterRequest Information
If you are a current student, please log on to your student portal account and contact your assigned Student Success Coach.
If you are a future student and would like more information about this degree program, please complete the form below.
Need Help?
For general enrollment questions, assistance is available through our First Stop (Answer Center) or by contacting Enrollment Services.
407-582-1507