Mountain Empire Community College
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Criminal Justice

Name E-mail Phone Number
Robert England rengland@me.vccs.edu 276-523-2400, ext. 327
Cindy Ringley
cringley@me.vccs.edu 276-523-2400, ext. 264
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

Jennifer Page
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.
Jason Stanley 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
Students use a ballistic comparison microscope and study crime scene evidence in MECC’s forensic science lab.
Students receive firearms training at MECC’s firing range.
Andrea Vowell is MECC’s first female graduate of Criminal Justice to become a Virginia state trooper.

Updated March 7, 2008                                      Contact MECC                                      MECC Home