Prepare for a Career in Law Enforcement

The criminal justice program of Lakeland Community College are designed to prepare persons to serve the community and its individuals in a variety of criminal justice settings.

As theory and practices form the basis for knowledge, skills, attitudes and values, students are required to observe and participate in class. Graduates are prepared to perform the basic duties and tasks associated with entry-level positions in criminal justice and corrections and/or continue their education with a bachelor or graduate degree.

To be eligible for this program, you'll need to meet the degree requirements, which may include background checks and physical fitness standards. Financial aid is available to qualified students to help cover the cost of your education.

Building a Strong Foundation for a Future in Criminal Justice

Lakeland's Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice degree equips you with the skills and knowledge to launch a fulfilling career in law enforcement, corrections or related fields. This program is designed to prepare criminal justice majors for success in the ever-evolving criminal justice field, whether your goal is to become a law enforcement officer, corrections officer or pursue a law enforcement technology specialization.

Our curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including criminal law, investigative techniques, crime scene processing, corrections procedures and pathways to criminal justice careers. You'll gain hands-on experience through simulated exercises and have the opportunity to explore specialized areas.

Some departments even award bonus points on entry-level and/or promotional exam to students who have successfully completed an associate degree in criminal justice. Therefore, the program provides educational and internship experiences that enable students to succeed at an entry-level criminal justice job or advance in their criminal justice career.

Professional Development is Available

Lakeland's Criminal Justice program also caters to working criminal justice professionals seeking to enhance their skillset and knowledge. We offer flexible learning options and may grant credit for law enforcement-related training you've already completed.

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
Ready to get Started?

Apply to Lakeland in just a few easy steps!

Contact our program director any time to talk through your options and find out of Lakeland's Criminal Justice program is a good fit for you.

Lakeland's Mock Crime Scene Room


Criminal Justice Program Overview


Secret Service Training

 

 

Layce Artman I graduated with my associate degree from Lakeland while at the same time graduating as Valedictorian from high school. I plan to attend the Holden University Center to complete my bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Layce Artman College Credit Plus

Michelle Timms One thing I really love about Lakeland and being in the honors program is that the teachers have small classes and they are very devoted to their students. My friends at four-year institutions are taking the same intro classes that I am, but in large lecture halls with a lot more students. Michelle Timms Associate of Arts

Staging Enabled