Have you always been interested in a law enforcement career, but don’t know where to start? Are you logical, rational and consistent in the way you approach things? Do you get satisfaction out of helping people?
Studying Criminal Justice in the Dallas County Community College District can prepare you for a variety of careers that’s limited only by your commitment and drive to succeed! There is a wide range of jobs available depending on your skills, abilities and education — from police officer to correction officer, constable, FBI or CIA agent, drug enforcement officer or U.S. marshal.
Our programs give you valuable knowledge in working effectively in corrections, probation, government and private security settings. Practical courses include dealing with criminal behavior, methods of criminology, public policy, interpersonal communication and ethical issues in criminal justice.
Sample Criminal Justice courses and electives include:
- Community Resources in Corrections
- Correctional System and Practices
- Court Systems and Practices
- Crime in America
- Criminal Investigation
- Juvenile Justice System
- Fundamentals of Criminal Law
- Legal Aspects of Law Enforcement
- Police Systems and Practices
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Additional courses such as sociology, public speaking, speech communication, math, composition, computers, Spanish and more will give you a well-rounded education.
In the Dallas County Community College District, the Criminal Justice program is offered at three of our seven colleges:
Criminal Justice Degree and Certificate Options
Cedar Valley, Eastfield and Mountain View colleges all offer two Criminal Justice associate degrees as well as three certificates for college credit. See Credit Courses, Degrees and Certificates for more details.
Important note: Before applying to any law enforcement agency, please check with its recruiters to see how many hours of study are required for admission. Requirements vary from agency to agency, and it is your responsibility to know the credit hours needed for the position you are seeking.
Peace Officer Training and TCLEOSE Licensing
Cedar Valley College, located in Lancaster, and Eastfield College, located in Mesquite, both offer state-certified Basic Peace Officer training courses and certification licensed through the Texas Commission of Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (TCLEOSE). These programs are administered through the Continuing Education Divisions at each college.
Students who successfully complete the Basic Peace Officer course are eligible to take the Texas Peace Officer examination, offered at both Cedar Valley and Eastfield colleges, and to perform law enforcement jobs at entry level. Specialized courses may also be used to fulfill the TCLEOSE-mandated 40 hours of training required for peace officers every two years.
Get more information on Cedar Valley College’s Law Enforcement Academy.
Get more information on Eastfield College’s Criminal Justice Training Center.
Other Degree and Certificate Options
Dallas County Community College District offers nearly 350 career and technical degrees and certificates, plus 36 academic degrees. For more information, see a chart of our degree plans by location.