Lakeland Community College's Criminal Justice program is designed to prepare students for meaningful careers serving and protecting their communities in a wide range of criminal justice settings. Grounded in both theory and practice, the program emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and professional development to build the skills, knowledge, and values essential for today's criminal justice professionals.
A key strength of Lakeland's program is its faculty—courses are taught by current and former criminal justice practitioners who bring real-world experience directly into the classroom. This ensures students gain practical insight into the day-to-day realities of law enforcement, corrections, and the courts, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional application.
Students also benefit from extensive hands-on training using Lakeland's specialized facilities, including a mock crime scene room, forensic laboratory, and interrogation room. These immersive learning environments allow students to apply investigative techniques, process evidence, and practice interviewing and interrogation skills in realistic scenarios, reinforcing classroom instruction through experiential learning.
Graduates of the program are well prepared for entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, the courts, and related fields, or to continue their education toward a bachelor's or graduate degree. Through expert instruction and hands-on experience, Lakeland's Criminal Justice program equips students with the tools they need to succeed in a dynamic and evolving profession.
What Can I do with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice?
A criminal justice associate degree offers a cost-effective, rapid gateway into the field. It expedites career advancement by qualifying you for early leadership positions and adding automatic points to civil service exams. The degree prepares you for many different roles, including:
Police Officer
Customs & Border Protection Officer
Private Investigator
Deputy Sheriff
U.S. Secret Service Unformed Officer
Loss Prevention Officer
Highway Patrol Officer
U.S. Park Police
Security Officer
Wildlife Officer
Correctional Officer
Court Clerk
Ohio Investigative Unit Agent
Juvenile Justice Officer
Public Safety Dispatcher
Border Patrol Agent
Bailiff
Ohio Casino Control Commission Gaming Enforcement Agent
For those who transfer to a four-year institution and obtain a bachelor's degree, the opportunities can include:
Ohio Burea of Criminial Investigation Special Agent
Drug Enforcement Special Agent
Ohio Department of Taxation Criminal Investigator
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Crime Scene Investigator
Postal Inspector
Federal Bureau of Criminal Invistigation Special Agent
Probation and Parole Officer
U.S. Secret Service Special Agent
Victim Advocate
Earn Credits from your Academy
Academies are designed to introduce the pre-service officer to the SKAV's/skills, knowledge, abilities and values required of their chosen career.
In Ohio, corrections and police academies are organized by the state and combine both career SKAV's and academic enhancement. Therefore, Lakeland Community College's criminal justice department grants credit for successfully completing a State of Ohio Corrections Officer or Basic Police Academy.
Pursuing a Bachelor or Graduate Degree
Lakeland's Holden University Center Partnership Programs make it seamless for Lakeland students to continue their education toward a bachelor's or graduate degree in criminal justice. Explore your options from state colleges and universities right here in Lake County.
Holden University Center Partnership Programs in Criminal Justice Fields
Lakeland has been a very enriching and welcoming experience, making way for a great transition from high school to college. My experience here has been incredible so far. The extra clubs and events Lakeland has to offer gives you the chance to experience a college life on a fabulous budget. My biggest piece of advice is to take advantage of everything on campus: the events, the gym, the clubs, the food bank. Go ahead and get out of your comfort zone to try them out.
Autumn ReynoldsAssociate of Arts
My favorite thing about Lakeland is the perfect balance it offers between academic support and personal well-being. The quiet study areas are great for focused learning, and the gym helps me feel stay fit and energized. The supportive professors and mentors are always there to guide me. Plus, the wide variety of courses offered makes it great place to grown both academically and personally.
Mili JariwalaMedical Assisting and Associate of Science
