In addition to dedication and motivation, degree hopefuls should have a high school diploma with a 2.0 minimum cumulative grade point average. Applicants should also aspire to maintain a 2.0 grade point average throughout the entire course of study. Potential degree recipients should exhibit excellent moral behavior through a clean criminal record, meaning no felony convictions or outstanding warrants before acceptance into, and during completion of, the program.
In addition to providing the opportunity for a stable career, a degree in law enforcement also gives graduates other life skills. Many graduates of a criminal justice program acquire excellent interviewing skills that give them the confidence needed to land a high-paying corporate position. Graduates also attain human relation and crisis resolution skills that help them provide solutions to problems on a daily basis. Individuals holding an associate degree in criminal justice can be assets to any company, regardless of the industry.
Offering the traditional experience, the associate degree in law enforcement at Youngstown State University offers three concentrations or tracks: police track, corrections track and loss prevention/assets protection track. Whereas the police and corrections track closely deal with the enforcement of state and federal laws, loss prevention and asset protection concentrates on the recovery of stolen goods. Loss prevention specialists are hired by many department stores to monitor products and stop thefts in progress. YSU requires a total of 64 semester hours for an associate degree, with 12 hours devoted to the chosen track.
Although it is on the East Coast, those living on the West Coast desiring to obtain an associate degree in law enforcement from Virginia College may graduate from the school. The associate degree in criminal justice is one of many degrees that the college offers completely online. With the primary focus of helping the student succeed in all aspects of criminal justice, Virginia College is perfect for working adults and students who want to pursue careers in courtroom administration, juvenile delinquency case management, and other areas of law enforcement. Aside from fulfilling the standard requirements of any criminal justice program, applicants must also have a strong desire to improve the quality of life in their communities.