Criminal Justice Services Program Skills Guide

Recommended High School Level Background Courses

• Composition

• Interpersonal Communications

• Speech

• Literature

• Foreign Language

• Basic Math

• Algebra

• Statistics

• U.S. Government

• Economics

• Cultural/Ethnic Studies

• Psychology

• Sociology

• Anthropology

• Life Science

• Law

• Keyboarding

• Computer Applications

• Safety & First Aid

• Personal Fitness/Wellness

• Drivers Education

Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job

Careers within the criminal justice profession are centered on the premise of ‘To Protest and Serve.’ There is a vast array of positions within the criminal justice profession with emphasis on Law Enforcement, Courts and Corrections. The criminal justice professional is an entrusted member of society with the responsibility and obligation to promote safety and security in our ever changing diverse society. Projected employment opportunities within the criminal justice profession are good with average national salaries.

Reading, Writing and Communication Skills

Students preparing for a career in criminal justice are required to read, write and speak proficiently. Students are encouraged to strengthen these skills in an effort to become more articulate, detailed and observant which are crucial skills utilized in the criminal justice profession. Report writing and ability to communicate is a critical component of any criminal justice career path.

Social Science Courses

Students are encouraged to have a broad spectrum of courses focusing on individual and human behavior. Understanding how people respond to situations in our ever changing diverse society will assist the criminal justice professional respond in an effort to promote safety and security.

Computer and Research Skills  

All categories of the criminal justice field require usage of computers to conduct their duties. Keyboarding skills, word processing, data entry, developing and utilizing spreadsheets and power point are the primary applications that will be utilized in the profession. Conducting research is another key skill requiring extensive use of the computer, internet and other data collection resources.

Physical Fitness and Wellness  

Many careers in the criminal justice field can be fast-paced and dangerous work, particularly for police officers and correctional officers. They must use physical skills to perform their jobs and protect themselves and others. Criminal justice professionals are encouraged to live a healthy lifestyle and maintain a state of wellness to respond to the demands and stressors of the profession such as varied work hours and working with individuals who may challenge authority.