The Criminal Justice Associate in Science (A.S.) degree at Valencia College is a two-year program that 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. Valencia’s Criminal Justice program 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. 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 Available:

Homeland Security

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