Administration of Justice
The field of criminal justice is one of the fastest growing fields in America. As our society becomes more complex and technologically advanced,
the need for professional criminal justice personnel increases. The instructors at Southside Virginia Community College are dedicated to the
task of preparing individuals to enter this important and exciting field. Take some time and explore these pages. If you are ready to continue
your education or to start a new adventure, contact us.
 The Program
The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Administration of Justice is designed to provide comprehensive training in rehabilitation theory
and practices or in law enforcement theory and practices. The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students preparing for criminal
justice careers and to supplement the specialized training provided provided by corrections schools, police academies, and other professional
programs for in-service personnel. In addition, students who currently work in the criminal justice field may qualify to receive college credit
for their training and work experience. For more information concerning this click on Articulation Agreements.
Southside Virginia Community College fully supports Tech Prep linkages with high schools. Currently Law Enforcement is taught by the college
in several high schools in our service region. By taking this course and other Dual Enrollment courses offered by the college, students can
get a head start on their college career.
Although the program emphasizes practical knowledge for operational personnel at all levels, it may also satisfy freshman and sophomore requirements
of four year institutions. The program has several 2+2 agreements with surrounding four year institutions. A 2+2 agreement allows the student to
complete their freshman and sophomore year work at Southside before transferring to finish their Bachelor requirements at the four year institution.
Ask an advisor or counselor for more details or a list of the participating schools.
In addition to an Associate in Applied Science Degree in the Administration of Justice (68 credits), Southside also offers a Certificate in
Administration of Justice (34-35 credits), a Certificate in Fire Science (34-35 credits), and three Career Studies Certificates in Law Enforcement,
Corrections, Private Investigations (15-18 credits).
The following is a partial list of careers that the program prepares the student for:
- local, state, and federal law enforcement officer
- local, state, and federal corrections officer
- game warden / animal control officer
- criminal investigator
- crime scene technician, forensic scientist
- private investigation
- security officer
- probation/parole officer
- loss prevention officer
- crime prevention specialist
- fire protection officer
- emergency service responder
What's New
Campus Safety Officer Program
This program allows Christanna students the opportunity to earn college credit while performing a needed service to the campus.
Students enrolled in this program are issued a badge, uniform, and radio. They earn college credit (ADJ-152, ADJ-190) while
working with campus security. Students successfully completing the program learn observations skills, report writing, communication
skills, and have the opportunity to meet and work with law enforcement officials in the surrounding jurisdictions. Duties of Campus Safety
Officer's Include:
- Assisting visitors
- Patrolling the campus (Foot/Bike)
- Escorting faculty and students to their vehicles at night
- Parking decal registration/Parking enforcement
- Assisting night-time administrators
- Securing unused equipment and classrooms
- Assisting law enforcement officers in the investigation of incidents on campus
- Adhering to policy and procedures set forth by the college and the CSO policy manual
Most students find the program to be challenging and rewarding. It is a great resume builder as it prepares the student for work in law enforcement and corrections.
Certificate in Fire Science
Interested in a career in fire science? SVCC has recently begun a certificate program in the field. There are plans to offer an
Associate Degree in Fire Science in the future if there is enough interest. Careers in Fire Science include:
- Firefighter
- Arson Investigator
- Fire Prevention Specialist
Certificate in Private Investigation
Courses
This program is structured around a central core of courses which offer the student an understanding of law, criminal behavior, corrections, Constitutional rights, court procedure, law enforcement, and criminal investigation. In addition to the core classes, the student may choose electives that pertain to the particular field they plan to enter.
Below is a partial list of elective courses in the Administration of Justice Curriculum:
- Firearms and Marksmanship
- Private Investigator Certification
- Forensic Science
- Defensive Tactics
- Campus Safety Officer
- Students are urged to consult with their advisor for assistance in planning their program and selecting their electives.
Students in the Administration of Justice program are diverse. Some have just graduated high school while others come seeking their second career.
Many of our students work rotating shifts and/or have family obligations that make traditional class attendance difficult.
Due to this fact, the ADJ program offers classes in a variety of formats and at a variety of locations throughout our service area.
Administration of Justice classes are held during the day, evening, and weekends. In addition much of the curriculum can be taken through cyber
courses or independent study. Credit can also be earned through the participation of ride along programs and internships. If you are interested
in starting or completing your degree, Southside has a format that can accommodate any schedule.
Instructors
- Chad Patton (Christanna Campus, Alberta)
- Doug Whaley (Daniel Campus, Keysville)
- Lynn Harvell(ADJ Adjunct)
- Dee Gillis (ADJ Adjunct/Dual Enrollment)
- Ron Posey (ADJ Adjunct/Dual Enrollment)
- Tim Royster (ADJ Adjunct/Dual Enrollment)
- Buddy Hyde (FIR Adjunct)
Quotes from Alumni
The Administration of Justice Program is the place to be if you are seeking quality education leading to a profession in the criminal justice field. Don't take our word for it, listen to what our students say:
Chris Baird
SVCC Graduate, Associates in Applied Science for the Administration of Justice
Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office.
"Southside prepared me for the challenges that I encountered in my new career."
Kyle Jackson
SVCC Graduate, Associates in Applied Science for the Administration of Justice
Brunswick County Sheriff's Office.
"Thanks to the Administration of Justice Program at Southside, I was able to attain my dream job."
David Allen
Doug Pond
Jay Jordan
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