Criminal Justice

The Division of Business and Public Administration offers a Criminal Justice Program designed to prepare individuals for entry-level employment, and permit persons already employed in the field to upgrade their skills for advancement. Classroom activities are planned to provide instruction related to the skills needed in the criminal justice field.

Knowledge and skills gained through this program typically prepare for, or upgrade persons in, the following occupations:
 

Patrolman Deputy Sheriff Watchman/Guard Corrections Officer Parole/Probation Officer

All students in this program must complete a common general education core, a career support core, and an area of specialization. These are non-transfer programs designed for the career oriented student who desires to enter the job market after completion of the program or to enhance skills in his/her current employment. Southern has 2+2 transfer agreements with Franklin University and West Virginia State College. See your advisor of further transfer information.

Upon completion of this program, all graduates will be able to:

• examine the functions of criminal law as it relates to the criminal justice system

• identify the various roles and functions of the professional in the criminal justice system

• describe the landmark cases that currently govern the rules of arrest, search, and seizure

• describe the major theoretical explanations for crime and delinquency

• demonstrate basic skills in law enforcement/corrections

• apply current West Virginia law to various situations

• perform effective criminal justice techniques and methods

• demonstrate safe, effective use of weapons

• apply basic first aid techniques

• apply basic principles of human behavior

• investigate accident and crime scenes with proper documentation

• interview and interrogate suspects

Last Update - 05/23/2007