Central Penn College has launched a new Criminal Justice Certificate program, to give students a competitive edge and help meet the demand for correctional officers, law enforcement workers, and staff in related criminal justice fields.

This initiative builds upon a formal articulation agreement with the Pennsylvania State Police that allows enlisted and retired troopers to earn college credit for their academy training toward a Criminal Justice degree at Central Penn.

This certificate program comes at a crucial time, as recruiting and retaining qualified professionals in criminal justice, particularly corrections officers and state troopers, remains a significant challenge across the Commonwealth and the nation. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections recently established a dedicated Recruitment and Retention Division, implementing measures such as lowering the minimum hiring age to 18, allowing out-of-state applicants, and streamlining the hiring process to attract candidates.

Similarly, recent policy changes underscore a growing emphasis on skills and experience in state hiring practices. Governor Josh Shapiro has highlighted the importance of these attributes, notably by eliminating the 60-college-credits requirement for Pennsylvania State Police.

Central Penn College's Criminal Justice Certificate directly aligns with this shift, offering a focused curriculum that provides foundational knowledge highly sought after by employers. This 18-credit program, comprising just six courses, offers a deep dive into the core components of the U.S. criminal justice system, providing participants with a strong understanding of its structures, functions, and challenges.  

"We are thrilled to launch the Criminal Justice Certificate program, which is a direct response to the current workforce needs in Pennsylvania and complements our ongoing support for criminal justice professionals," said President Linda Fedrizzi-Williams. "This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about criminal justice and are looking to gain essential knowledge and a competitive advantage. The recent changes in hiring requirements by the state reinforce the value of targeted education and demonstrated skills, which this certificate provides."

Beyond providing a quick entry point into the field, the credits earned in this certificate program seamlessly transfer directly into Central Penn College's associate or bachelor's degrees in criminal justice. This offers a clear and efficient pathway for individuals who wish to further their education and career advancement.

Individuals ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career in criminal justice are encouraged to inquire for more information or apply today at www.centralpenn.edu.