Career Summary

Administration of Justice careers continue to be some of the fastest growing occupational fields in the nation today. Financially and professionally rewarding employment may be found in such areas as prevention, discovery, control and treatment of crimes and criminals on the local, state, federal, and private sector levels. The general field of Administration of Justice can be broken down into four main categories: Law Enforcement, Corrections, Courts, and Private Security Services. All four areas offer a great opportunity for advancement, personal growth, and fulfillment to well-trained candidates. Those individuals who have the aptitude and sense of commitment to public service and who want to make a difference in their communities should strongly consider the law enforcement career path.

Law Enforcement Officers are charged with responsibility to keep our cities crime and corruption free. They patrol the streets, respond to emergencies, make arrests, interview witnesses, write reports, enforce traffic laws, and build community relations. To succeed as a Police Officer, one must demonstrate high standards of honesty and integrity as well as compassion and respect for the rights and diversity of all people. Police work offers challenge, excitement, variety, teambuilding, and job satisfaction, as well as excellent salary and benefits.

Correctional Officers are responsible for monitoring and supervising inmates in jails, reformatories, penitentiaries, half-way houses, and juvenile-detention facilities to ensure their compliance with rules and regulations. Their job includes admitting and processing offenders, inspecting their cells, escorting them to various locations, overseeing their work and recreational activities, stopping disputes and fights between prisoners and restraining them if necessary. Correctional officers keep written logs of residents' conduct, documenting their behavior, daily routine and work performance, and report their observations to the Superintendent or Warden of the correctional institution.

Bailiffs, also referred to as marshals or court officers, are responsible for maintaining courtroom safety and order. Their duties range from enforcing courtroom rules, assisting and protecting judges, guarding juries and other participants during hearings and trials to delivering court documents and running errands.

Security Guards or security officers, patrol and protect property against fire, theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activity. They safeguard their employer’s investment, enforce laws on the property, and deter criminal activity and violations. Security guards write comprehensive reports outlining their observations and activities during their assigned shift. They also may interview witnesses or victims, prepare case reports, and testify in court.

Program Description

The GCC Administration of Justice program offers a Certificate of Completion and an Associate of Science degree options. The core curriculum and electives cover the study of the theory and practice of administration of justice in America, law enforcement, private security, the court and corrections systems. The coursework provides individuals an opportunity to obtain the necessary knowledge of Administration of Justice and skills required for police, correctional, probation and/or parole officers, investigators, and private security guards. GCC program graduates often choose to continue their education at a four-year college/university.

Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree should meet with an academic and/or transfer counselor to discuss their specific transfer requirements.

Key Skills and Characteristics

• Honesty, integrity, sound judgment, and a keen sense of responsibility.
• Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
• Ability to exercise critical thinking skills, good judgment and social perceptiveness.
• Capacity to work well with people and remain composed in stressful situations.
• Willingness to actively serve many social needs of the society.

Related Career Titles

*Police Officer  *Deputy Sheriff  *Customs Agent  *Drug Enforcement Officer  *Border Patrol Agent  *Store Detective * Evidence Technician  *Highway Patrol Officer  *Police Clerk *Accident Investigator  *Criminal Investigator  *Fingerprint Classifier  *Security Specialist  *Police Dispatcher  *Probation Officer  *Jailer

Please visit the GCC Career Center to research detailed occupational information and learn more about your selected career path.