Criminal Justice
Public concern with rising crime rates and the increasing role of law enforcement in public service work has contributed to the growth of criminal justice agencies throughout the nation. There is a broad range of employment opportunities for men and women in all components of the Criminal Justice System. This Criminal Justice Program offers an education to students in the varied aspects of law enforcement, court procedures and corrections. A foundation of knowledge is provided for those interested in becoming competitive candidates for these rewarding and challenging positions.
Students completing the Criminal Justice program will acquire the practical knowledge and skills to successfully pass the Criminal Justice Law Enforcement Vocational entrance exams and academy programs as well as attaining the academic skills necessary to transfer and complete a four year university degree in Criminal Justice and related fields.
Students will also gain a working understanding of the diverse aspects of the community that the Criminal Justice system serves. In addition, through Civic Engagement and Service Learning community projects, students will actively participate as members of their community in promoting the Criminal Justice community.
The Criminal Justice Program is designed to qualify students for entry into the field of law, law enforcement, private security or corrections directly from Ventura College, as well as for those who desire two years of criminal justice study for transfer to the State University system or law school. California certificated instructors, with criminal justice and/or legal experience, teach all Criminal Justice courses offered at Ventura College. Full college credit is granted for each course successfully completed, and a Certificate of Achievement or Associate in Science Degree is awarded upon completion of the respective program chosen.