(Christanna and John H. Daniel Campuses)
Award: Associate of Applied Science
Length: Sixty-six credit hour program
Purpose: The purpose of the program is to prepare students for careers and promotional opportunities in various criminal justice agencies, and to supplement the specialized training provided by corrections and law enforcement academies, and other criminal justice agencies.
Program Goals: A student completing the Criminal Justice program should: (1) demonstrate a sound understanding of the three major components of the criminal justice system; (2) demonstrate an understanding of criminal behavior and of the major causes of crime and delinquency; (3) demonstrate an understanding of the ethical issues involved in working in the criminal justice system; (4) demonstrate an understanding of the substantive and procedural law and its impact on the criminal justice practitioners and society; (5) demonstrate a commitment to the continued development and maintenance of effective written and oral skills; (6) and given a case study or crime scene scenario, the student should be able to effectively investigate, and analyze the situation.
Although the program emphasizes practical knowledge for operational personnel at all levels, it may also satisfy freshman and sophomore transfer requirements for those students who desire to complete a four-year bachelor’s level program in criminal justice, or the administration of justice. Students who plan to transfer to a senior college or university to complete a baccalaureate degree program are encouraged to consult with their advisor and the senior institution to which they plan to transfer for assistance in planning their program.
SVCC has formal program transfer agreements with the following Colleges and Universities: Longwood University, Old Dominion University, Ferrum College, and Virginia State University.
Occupational Objectives: This program provides practical knowledge for correctional officers, correctional supervisors and administrators, local and state law enforcement officers, and others responsible for the administration of justice.
The following occupational titles represent examples of possible employment opportunities:
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Correctional Officer
- Jail Correctional Officer
- Corrections Supervisor
- Private Security Officer
- Commercial and Industrial Security Officer
- Crime Scene/Evidence Technician
- Local Probation Officer
- Game Warden
- Private/Governmental Investigator
- Public Safety Officer
It should be noted that certain criminal justice agencies and positions require applicants: to be in good physical condition and be free of any mental or physical condition which might adversely affect his/her performance, have normal vision and hearing, weight must be proportional to height, be of good moral character, and not have felony or serious misdemeanor convictions. Background investigations prior to being hired may include criminal, traffic, financial, social, and psychological evaluations. Students are encouraged to check with any prospective employing agency in order to determine any special employment requirements. Students with disabilities are eligible for admission to the program.
Program Description: This program is structured around a central core of courses which offer the student an understanding of the police, courts, corrections, substantive and procedural law, evidence, criminal behavior, causes of crime and delinquency, and crisis intervention. Electives include: forensic science, private investigation, forensic psychology, criminal investigation, and firearms and marksmanship training. Instruction includes both the theoretical concepts and practical applications needed for success in criminal justice or related fields. Students are urged to consult with their faculty advisor or a counselor for assistance in planning their programs and selecting electives.
Contact For More Information:
Alfonzo Seward 434-949-1092
Gainful Employment: http://files.southside.edu/GE-17/Admin_of_Justice
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