Law Enforcement Certificate (CJLC)

Developed in cooperation with the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Law Enforcement Certificate program prepares students for a career in law enforcement. The certificate combines specialized criminal justice and general education coursework to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to compete for entry into the Massachusetts law enforcement field. All of the credits earned in the certificate program can be applied to an associate’s degree in criminal justice, which may result in increased compensation under the Quinn Bill.

There are several good reasons to pursue or continue your education in criminal justice. 1) It is one of the fastest growing job markets in the nation. 2) As crime changes and criminals become more sophisticated, criminal justice professionals must increase their knowledge, skills, and sophistication in enforcing laws. 3) The public continues to demand higher standards and effectiveness of law enforcement officials. 4) Through various pay incentive programs, police may receive salary increases by pursuing higher education. 5) Criminal justice is also a good foundation for those pursuing a career in law. MWCC’s outstanding criminal justice faculty includes working practitioners and instructors with expertise in law enforcement, prosecutorial systems, and corrections.

 

Campus/format: This program can be completed during the day at the Gardner Campus.

Special requirements: Students enrolled in this certificate are not eligible for life experience, police academy, armed services, or Tech Prep credits and are limited to six credits total in CLEP, DANTES, and challenge exams. Only courses completed at institutions accredited by the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools may be transferred into the program. A Criminal and Sexual Offender Records Information (CORI/SORI) check is required for student interns. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations.

Helpful hints: Academic and career advising sessions with a criminal justice advisor are highly recommended. Cooperative education, volunteer, and/or service learning experiences may increase chances of employment. Students who are pursuing a career in law enforcement or police services are encouraged to complete the associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.

Transfer options: All courses may be applied toward MWCC’s Criminal Justice degree. Consult with your academic advisor.

Earning potential: Varies depending on education level and position.

 

Number

Suggested Course Order

Cr.

Prerequisites/Notes

CJU131

Introduction to Criminal Justice

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement. This course should be taken during a student's first semester in the program.

CJU133

Criminal Law

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement

ENG101

English Composition I

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement

SOC103

Introduction to Sociology

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement

CJU220

Technical Writing for the Criminal Justice Professional

1

ENG101

PSY105

Introduction to Psychology

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement

CJU134

Criminal Procedure

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement

CJU140

American Policing

3

ENG100, RDG100, or placement
CJU232 Introduction to Criminology 3
SOC103

THE113

Speech

3

ENG101

 

Total:

28

 
Elective courses by abbreviation

 

 

Technical Standards*

*general information about technical standards and accommodation.

Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

  1. Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
  2. Communicate and assimilate information in either printed, signed or computer voice format.
  3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
  4. Observe, investigate, make appropriate determinations at mock crime scenes, and problem solve.
  5. Function as a team leader, including giving directions and advocacy.
  6. Maintain cleanliness and personal grooming consistent with close personal contact.
  7. Learn to operate a computer, with or without adaptation.

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