Criminal Justice

👮‍♂️ Is This a Good Fit for You?
🔍 Prerequisites: Criminal Justice Program
Must be a Junior or Senior

This program may be a great fit if you:


✅🕵️ Are highly motivated and curious about the justice system, law enforcement, and public safety.

✅📸 Are prepared for a rigorous curriculum that includes classroom study of criminal investigations, crime scene procedures, policing, and court systems—alongside real-world exposure through ride-alongs and shadowing with Henrico County PD, state police, jails, and sheriff’s offices.

✅📜 Want to earn professional certifications such as NOCTI, Workplace Readiness Skills (WRS), and potentially 911 dispatch certification.

✅👔 Are prepared to follow strict expectations for professional attire and grooming—students are expected to dress in workplace attire daily, reflecting the standards of law enforcement and public safety careers.

✅🏃 Understand that this program includes a physical component—students may participate in light physical training (PT), handcuffing techniques, and police escort procedures as part of their hands-on learning.

If you’re ready to explore the foundational practices of law enforcement and build a strong base for future careers in criminal justice, this program could be the perfect next step.

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students talks with police officer

Program Description

1 years – 3 credits – Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage (Additional Location: ACE Highland Springs)

This program is designed to be completed in one year during the 11th or 12th grades.

Criminal Justice I (1 credit): Students are introduced to law, public safety, corrections, and security practices. Students examine contemporary issues in the criminal justice system and explore crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, court procedures, policing, and juvenile justice. This course provides a foundation for careers as lawyers, crime scene investigators, emergency communications professionals, and law enforcement and corrections officers.

Criminal Justice II (2 credits): Students apply knowledge learned in Criminal Justice I through practical scenarios involving crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, and crisis intervention. Students explore trends in correctional standards and in identifying and preventing terror threats. This course prepares students for careers as lawyers, crime scene investigators, emergency communications professionals, and law enforcement and corrections officers.

Program Structure and Benefits

  • Career Technical Student Organization - SkillsUSA: This organization prepares students for careers in the health sciences.

  • Real-World Experience: Students will gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and practices, preparing them for real-world criminal justice settings. Students in this class have the opportunity to participate in ride-alongs with Henrico County PD, shadow and observe the duties and responsibilities of state police, Henrico PD, Henrico jails, and the local sheriff's offices. Students also may have the opportunity to receive 911 dispatch certification.

  • Certifications: Those who complete the program are eligible to earn their NOCTI and Workplace Readiness Skills (WRS) certifications.

  • Dual Enrollment: Students can earn transferable college credits through our partnership with Reynolds Community College.

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