Law Enforcement / Criminal Justice Program

The Criminal Justice program at Volunteer State Community College is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the key components of the criminal justice system (i.e., law enforcement, law/courts, and corrections). The program offers a two-year Associate of Science (AS Degree) Associate of Applied Science (AAS Degree) and a one year Technical Certificate in Criminal Justice. Students may choose to pursue the Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science or Technical Certificate. Students who wish to transfer to a four year college or university to complete a baccalaureate degree will complete an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science with additional general education coursework.

The Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science and Technical Certificate in Criminal Justice provides the necessary skills and education you will need to prepare for entry-level careers in criminal justice or advancement within the justice system. The multi-disciplinary approach of the program allows students to choose from one of four areas of concentration:

1. Law Enforcement,
2. Probation and Parole,
3. Management in Criminal Justice, and
4. Corrections.

Instruction

Providing quality education throughout its 12 county area, the Criminal Justice program at Vol State is designed to encourage academic excellence and integrity. The instructors in the Criminal Justice program have a wealth of practical experience and education in the criminal justice field and encourage their students to be critical thinkers and problem solvers. The instructors are encouraged to take a hands-on approach to teaching and involve the students in activities and exercises that provide them with a “real world” understanding of various elements of the criminal justice system.