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.

Have questions?

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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.

VIEW REQUIRED COURSES

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)

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
Tech Center Programs – Receive college credit for completing an approved TECO Tech Center program

Program Length

60 credits

Full-time – 2 to 3 years

Part-time – 3 to 4 years

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

Police Officer
Law Enforcement Officer
Security Officer
Detective or Investigator
Criminal Justice Administrator
Crime Analyst
Emergency Communication Specialist
Loss Prevention Specialist

Gainful Employment

This program is designed to lead to gainful employment in a recognized occupation. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our Gainful Employment website.

AVERAGE SALARY RANGE

$32,000 – $40,000

Placement Rate

The average placement rate for Valencia College’s 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.

Request Information

If you are a future student and would like more information about this degree program, please complete the form below.

If you are a current student, please log on to Atlas and contact your assigned Career Program Advisor.

For general enrollment questions, assistance is available on a walk-in basis at the Answer Center, or contact Enrollment Services.

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If you are a prospective student who is interested in this degree and want to know more about it, please complete this form to contact a faculty member.
Currently Enrolled Valencia Students

All of Valencia’s A.S. degree programs have an assigned Career Program Advisor who can assist you in determining the best education plan for your goals and can help ensure that you get into the right courses. If you are a currently enrolled Valencia student, have questions regarding this program, and don’t know who your assigned advisor is, please log on to Atlas to contact your assigned Career Program Advisor.
Instructions
(Click on the "Student Tab." Go to “Student Resources” on the left side. Click on “Academic Support.” Select "AS Degree Help & Career Program Advisors." Click on “Contact Us” in the navigation bar).
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International Students
If you are an International Student and would like information about applying to Valencia College, visit our International Student website, or request information here:

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Need Help?

For general enrollment questions, assistance is available on a walk-in basis at the Answer Center or contact Enrollment Services.
407-582-1507
enroll@valenciacollege.edu

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