Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice Certificate

Certificate

This program is designed to give you a specific certification that can be immediately applied to your career.

What You'll Learn

Train in investigation, policy, and public safety for a purpose-driven career. 

You’ll develop a strong foundation in the legal system, criminal behavior, and community relations. Courses focus on policing, corrections, and investigative techniques while strengthening your communication and decision-making skills. Designed for quick entry into the workforce or advancement within the field, this certificate prepares you for roles in security, loss prevention, or law enforcement support—and serves as a first step toward an associate degree in criminal justice.

Earn the credits you need to hit the 60-hour requirement to become a New York State police officer.

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Where You’ll Go

Back of the head of a police officer.

Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers

$78,750
Median Salary
251
Regional Job Openings
Man in a cop's uniform gesturing for someone to stop.

Transit and Railroad Police

$96,900
Median Salary
7
Regional Job Openings
a group of police officers chatting.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

$94,425
Median Salary
34
Regional Job Openings

Salary information presented are estimates and can be different for each individual based on education, experience, and the specific employer. Labor market data is based on 2021 estimates derived from Lightcast (Career Coach | Lightcast)

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The careers listed above are just a starting point. Our programs mix together important concepts and hands-on skills—but that doesn’t mean your future has to follow the same script.  Find out more at Career Exploration & Support.

Tompkins County
NY State Police
NY DEC
Ithaca Police Department
Cortland County Sheriff
Cortland Police Department
Cortland County

Program Requirements

To graduate [ 30 credits + 2.0 GPA or higher ]

Additional Notes: 

  • Note: While ENGL 100 is not a required course for the Certificate, it is a prerequisite for ENGL 101 and other program courses. 
Stackable Program

Take on as much (or as little) as you want. Our microcredentials and certificates provide you with credits to apply to 2-year programs – when you’re ready!

Certificate
Career Degree
Transfer Degree