Criminal Justice
Associate in Science (A.S.)
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
IMPORTANT
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’s School of Public Safety, and pass the state certification exam.
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Read our FAQsPROGRAM DETAILS
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
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.
- Homeland 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
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:
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- Industry Certifications – Receive college credit for approved Industry Certifications
- Tech Center Programs – Receive college credit for completing an approved Osceola Technical Center program
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Program Length
60 credits
Full-time – 2 to 3 years
Part-time – 3 to 4 years
You want to step up. We have a path to a bachelor's.
Prepare for a supervisory or management role in your field with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business and Organizational Leadership. After completing your A.S. degree, build on your skills and expand your career opportunities by continuing your education at Valencia College and earning a bachelor’s degree. We encourage you to meet with a career program advisor to create your personalized education plan.
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.
Visit Career Coach to explore careers, salaries, job demand and related degrees.
Need Help?
For general enrollment questions, assistance is available through our virtual Answer Center or by contacting Enrollment Services.
