Criminal Justice students graduating
with an Associate of Applied Science degree in
Police Science or Corrections can find employment
with local, state, and federal law enforcement
agencies; adult and juvenile correctional
facilities; private security firms; and related
places of employment.
Get Started with a Certificate
Individuals may begin their training in the oneyear
Administration of Justice Certificate
program. This certificate offers options in both
law enforcement and corrections.
Internships
MECC Criminal Justice students have
the opportunity to gain on-site training
through internships with local agencies.
Entrance requirements for police and
corrections personnel may include:
- Passing a physical examination and a
physical agility test.
- Holding United States citizenship.
- Possessing a valid driver’s license.
- Meeting visual and hearing requirements as
established by specific agencies.
- Being of good character and reputation as
established by a background investigation,
which may include a polygraph examination,
educational achievements, prior work
experience, credit history, and both criminal
and traffic record checks.
Employers prefer Criminal
Justice personnel who:
- Possess college training.
- Possess excellent oral and written communication
skills.
- Possess good judgement.
Salary
Entry-level salaries in Virginia are
$20,680. Salaries can range from
$26,840 to $40,000 with
experience.
The demand for Correctional and
Police Officers is expected to
increase 21-35 percent through
2010.
Student Spotlight

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Jennifer Page, a graduate of MECC’s Corrections Program,
is a Juvenile Probation Officer for the Wise County Court Service Unit. She received a BS
degree in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University.
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Jason Stanley, a graduate of MECC’s Police Science Program, is a Virginia State Trooper. |
You will find other MECC graduates at:
Big Stone Gap Police Department,
Gate City Police Department,
Johnson City Police Department,
Knoxville Police Department,
Lee County Sheriff’s Department,
Norton Police Department,
Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office,
Red Onion Correctional Facility,
Scott County Sheriff’s Office,
Virginia State Police,
Wallens Ridge Correctional Facility,
Weber City Police Department,
Wise County Sheriff’s Department
Professional Organizations