Associate in Science
Criminal Justice
Empower Your Future: Discover our Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice A.S. degree prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and related fields. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with technical knowledge and practical skills, taught by experienced professionals.
Students can earn up to 30 credit hours through completed FDLE programs and benefit from reverse articulation with Lake Tech. The program also provides hands-on learning opportunities with local agencies.
Graduates are eligible for increased salary potential in Florida law enforcement and corrections. Courses are available in-person and online at Leesburg and South Lake campuses.
Overview
The Criminal Justice AS degree program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare students to work as criminal justice practitioners/supervisors/managers in law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, juvenile courts, crime laboratories, and mobile units dealing with physical evidence, etc. The program can also provide supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in these occupations (SOC 33-1012). The program may also be beneficial to professionals seeking salary incentive benefits or career enhancement in the field.
Program Highlights
- In-Demand Careers: Criminal justice careers are in high demand across Florida, with a growing need for skilled professionals in law enforcement and corrections.
- Expert Instruction: All criminal justice coursework is taught by individuals with extensive, real-world experience or those actively working in the field, ensuring students receive practical, up-to-date knowledge.
- Articulated Credit Opportunities: Students who have completed the required FDLE programs can earn up to 30 credit hours articulated towards their degree, allowing for a smoother educational path.
- Reverse Articulation with Lake Tech: Students not yet eligible for the FDLE academy benefit from reverse articulation with Lake Tech, ensuring they do not take coursework they will later receive credit for at the academy.
- Hands-On Learning: Students will have the opportunity to participate in practical activities with local law enforcement agencies as part of their coursework, enhancing real-world experience.
- Career Advancement: Completing the AS in Criminal Justice can result in an increased salary for individuals currently working in law enforcement or corrections in Florida.
- Local Partnerships: Mt. Dora High School, Early College Criminal Justice Academy, & Lake Technical College.
Important Note: A student must successfully complete a Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) Basic Recruit Program to work as a law enforcement officer, pursuant to Chapter 943, Florida Statutes.
Program Length
The program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in two years when attending full-time.
Program Cost
Tuition costs for programs and courses at the associate’s degree level are $109.73 per credit hour. Additional costs will include textbooks, materials, and course fees.
Learn MoreScholarships
Students graduating from high school and enrolling at LSSC may qualify for other scholarships offered through the State of Florida. You will be notified of your eligibility after you apply to the College.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
There are many options to finance your education. You may be eligible for Federal Grants, Work-Study, State Grants, Federal Loans, and Institutional Scholarships. For more information and how to apply, please visit the Financial Aid page.
Learn MoreOutcomes
The average criminal justice salary in Florida is $33,579 per year or $16.14 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $29,250 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $66,300 per year.
Career Outlook
- Probation/Parole Officer
- Police Officer
- Corrections Officer
- <Non-Sworn Analyst
- Non-Sworn Evidence Technician
For a detailed breakdown of the curriculum and degree requirements, visit the Catalog page.
Yes.
No, you will still need to complete the state mandated academy.
Yes.
Yes.
If you are a full-time student, you can expect to complete the program in 4 semesters (2 years).
Yes, LSSC offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students should complete the FAFSA for consideration. Learn more.
LSSC provides academic advising, tutoring, and career services to help students succeed. Learn more.
Interested students should complete an application through the LSSC website and meet any necessary admission requirements. Apply.
A student must successfully complete a Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) Basic Recruit Program to work as a law enforcement officer, pursuant to Chapter 943, Florida Statutes.
Application Process
A student must have a high school diploma or GED to apply to Lake-Sumter State College.
01
Submit your Application
Submit your online application and $30 application fee
02
Transcripts
Submit high school/GED and prior college/university transcripts
03
Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and other financial aid forms
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