Criminal Justice
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
During this course, enrolled students will work with personnel in the criminal justice and public service agencies (Vancouver Police Department, Sheriff's Office, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Courts, Juvenile Justice, Game Department, etc.), engage with guest speakers from those agencies, and experience classroom instruction in one or more of the criminal justice agencies. Skills and competencies taught will include an overview of the criminal justice system, law enforcement, community policing, criminal acts and impacts on society, the U.S. Constitution, Criminal Codes, work-readiness, and interpersonal communication and problem-solving skills.
Pathway:
Students in the Criminal Justice Program will learn:
- Criminal and civil law
- Investigative procedures
- Career options
- Law enforcement ethics
- How laws are created and can be changed
- Definition of crime and alternatives to incarceration
- What constitutes an illegal substance, and actions required
- How to defuse hostile situations
- Conflict resolution
- Record keeping, technical writing, and technology
- Understanding and working with diversity
- Professional development/leadership skills
- Safety issues as related to criminal justice
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
- Three high school credits per year
- Competency Certificate
- Possible cross-credit with home school approval
- Leadership opportunities through Skills USA-VICA
- Preparation for next level of education/training
- Opportunities for many scholarships
- Internship opportunities
- Successful completion of the program may result in credit towards Portland
Community College (up to three credits)
PREREQUISITES:
Ability to pass background check
Ability to work with people
Good written and oral communication skills
Own transportation
ORGANIZATIONS:
Possible enrollment in Skills USA (VICA).
Possible enrollment in Criminal Justice Explorer programs.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
Entry level:
- Local and state law enforcement cadets
- Records and reception clerk in local, state/federal juvenile and adult agencies
- Correction agencies
- Dispatcher
- Private and industrial security