Why You Need a Criminal Justice Certification

Why you need a criminal justice certification

Criminal justice is a rapidly evolving environment. As criminals become increasingly creative, industry professionals must follow suit to protect their communities. With over 750,000 full-time police officers and many other criminal justice professionals, many people within the United States are working hard to fight crime.

If you’re passionate about serving your community and interested in criminal justice, a criminal justice certificate is a logical step in advancing your career. This versatile certification is suitable as a stand-alone qualification or to augment your existing studies. Regardless of your vocational goals, it can only benefit you on your path to success.

What Is a Criminal Justice Certification?

Criminal justice certifications are separate certificates often embedded in a criminal justice degree program. At many colleges, it consists of fewer courses than a full associate degree, making it an ideal choice for students who have full-time jobs or family responsibilities. In addition to receiving an excellent education, you’ll also earn invaluable skills that prepare you for employment in law enforcement. You can learn more about your chosen role and increase your chances of finding a job that interests you.

What Are the Benefits of a Criminal Justice Certificate Program at MWCC?

Criminal justice is one of the fastest-growing job markets in the nation. A criminal justice certification from Mount Wachusett Community College will give you knowledge and skills specific to your area of study and professional aspirations. Other benefits include:

What Are the Benefits of a Criminal Justice Certificate Program at MWCC?

  • Affordable education: MWCC offers affordable degrees and certificates. If you’re already getting an associate degree in criminal justice, all credits from your certificate can go toward your degree.
  • Alternative degree pathway: If you have a job, family responsibilities or any other factors that prevent you from studying full-time, you can start with a certification and move on to an associate degree.
  • Enhanced professional opportunities: Criminal justice is a rapidly expanding job market, and certification gives you a competitive edge. It shows employers that you have commitment, specialized knowledge and skills, which can improve your job prospects in many areas of criminal justice.
  • Career advancement potential: Many employers favor candidates with additional certification for promotion and leadership roles. A criminal justice certificate may allow you to transition to specialized roles and enhance your earning potential. It also provides essential resources to set you up for a meaningful career trajectory.
  • Skills development: A criminal justice career requires specialized knowledge and soft skills. Our certificate program allows you to develop skills like critical thinking, problem-solving and effective communication, which are crucial for various roles within the justice system.
  • Networking opportunities: A certificate program at MWCC connects you with instructors and fellow students who share a similar passion for criminal justice. It will kick-start your professional network and provide valuable resources, mentorships and job leads upon completion.

What Can You Do With a Criminal Justice Certificate?

A criminal justice certificate can progress your trajectory in several directions. Certification is an excellent starting point if you want to continue your studies. You can progress from there to an associate degree or you can use it to augment your existing associate degree as you’ve already completed the work. It also forms an excellent baseline for your career.

In addition to continuing your studies and becoming a police officer, some of the many paths you can follow after certification include:

  • Fish and game warden: If you are passionate about animals, you pursue a vocation ensuring safe, legal hunting and fishing. You can start a career at the state or federal level, but federal positions require a bachelor’s degree.
  • Paralegal: A paralegal assists attorneys in interviewing clients, conducting research and creating local documentation. Being a paralegal is a rewarding job in itself. It also gives you the hands-on experience to prepare for law school and pursue a career as a lawyer.
  • Dispatcher: A dispatcher fields emergency calls and sends out the correct law enforcement personnel. They are vital touchpoints between victims and law enforcement and must be able to remain calm in emergencies.
  • Juvenile correctional counselor: This job can make a difference in the lives of young offenders. You’ll coach and assist in various rehabilitation programs, mentoring the youth and helping them grow into happy and successful adults.
  • Victim advocate: As a victim advocate, you work with legal professionals to support victims of crime. A criminal justice certification is an excellent starting point for this profession. Still, you may need to further your education to progress.
  • Bailiff: If being in court appeals to you, a bailiff is an excellent career. A bailiff assists in all court proceedings, from helping the judge to providing security to the jury.

How to Choose a Criminal Justice Certification Program

Criminal justice is an expansive industry that can lead to many fulfilling careers. Choosing a certification that works for you is essential to get the most from your higher education. Some crucial considerations when selecting a certificate program include:

  • Career interests: Look for a certification that aligns with your professional interests. Many criminal justice certifications exist, and some are more specialized than others. If you’re exploring a new career or continuing your academic journey, a general certification may be best for your goals.
  • Instructor experience: When investing in your education, making the most of every moment is essential. Look for certification with a faculty of experts who can give you the knowledge and experience to progress in your career.
  • Next step: Your certification institution should have a clear progression path for those wanting to further their academic studies. For example, they should facilitate easy progression to an associate degree. They should also have transfer agreements with many colleges, allowing you to transfer your earned credits to a bachelor’s degree and beyond.
  • Support services: Your institution should offer robust support services, from academic advising to career counseling. Look for faculty and staff who care about their students and will go the extra mile to help you succeed.

Get Your Criminal Justice Certification With Mount Wachusett Community College Today

If a career in criminal justice is your calling, a criminal justice certification can set you on the right path. At MWCC, we can launch your career, augment your studies or put you on the path to an associate degree and beyond. Our criminal justice certificate gives you every possible option to advance your profession. It’s the perfect pathway into several fulfilling careers that directly impact your community.

We have transfer agreements with many Massachusetts colleges, so you can transfer your credits quickly and fast-track your academic success. Studying with us also means accessing a supportive network that shares your passions. No matter your education path, we’re here to make your educational dreams a reality. Request more information about this exciting opportunity, or apply online and start your criminal justice journey today!

Get Your Criminal Justice Certification With Mount Wachusett Community College Today