Criminal Justice Cluster

Criminal Justice Program Description - One-Year Program The Criminal Justice program prepares students to pursue a career in Law Enforcement, Corrections or Courts. The Criminal Justice program is designed to introduce students to the field of Criminal Justice through education, exposure and training. Learning Criminal Justice is a combination of classroom lessons, practical "hands on" training, field training and participation in the 18-week Police Academy in the Spring Semester. Certified Police Officers, Emergency Medical Technicians and Lawyers are just a few of the many professionals who train the Criminal Justice students. The Criminal Justice program at KCTC is a wonderful way to explore all career opportunities in the field of Criminal Justice. Interested students are admitted by participating in a selection process designed to model hiring processes in the field of Criminal Justice. The student application packet must be completed and two letters of recommendation from the home school submitted to KCTC. Students must have at least a 2.5 grade point average. Students must pass a criminal background check. If the student meets these standards, they will participate in the oral boards interview process. Students who complete the Criminal Justice program have the opportunity to earn college credit in Criminal Justice. Content Areas Criminal Law and Crime Prevention Arrest and Search Procedures Criminology and Psychology Crime Scene Process Investigations, Forensics Traffic Control Patrol Techniques Searches, Restraints, Weapons, Crowd Control Personal Safety Reports and Desk Duties First Aid, CPR, First Responder Public Relations Court Procedures Inmate Transfer and Supervision Written, Face-to Face, Electronic Communications Human Relations and Ethics Basic Rights and Responsibilities Personal Health and Safety Helpful Experience and Aptitudes Interest in law enforcement and crime prevention Willingness to perform potentially dangerous work Ability to remain calm under pressure Interest in serving people Mature attitude, good physical conditioning Strong reading, math, and science skills Career Entry Opportunities Without additional training: Security Guard More Career Opportunities With additional college education: Police Officer (local, county, state, federal, military) Dispatcher Corrections Officer Parole Officer Security Detective Lawyer Juvenile Court Counselor Specialist in Arson, Ballistics, Serology, Fingerprinting, Polygraph Most criminal justice careers require postsecondary education. Programs are available in the West Michigan area. The Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University and Michigan State University offer Associate, Baccalaureate, and/or Masters degrees. Articulation agreements will be available to students successfully completing the two-year KC/TC program. The student must be aware that a criminal background check is required for college program admission.