A CAREER IN CRIME THAT PAYS
Be on the good side of the law, and get on the path to a great career in criminal justice.
Criminal justice is a rewarding career choice, both personally and financially. In fact, the S.C. annual mean wage for police and sheriff patrol officers is $45,160 according to 2020 reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Turn to TCL, and make a living out of being on the right side of the law.
The Program
The Criminal Justice (CRJ) Associate Degree program provides a comprehensive review of the entire criminal justice system including the court system, law enforcement and corrections. TCL’s well-rounded curriculum includes electives in specialty areas such as forensics, juvenile law, and criminalistics.
Technical College of the Lowcountry’s 66-credit-hour associate degree program can be completed in as little as four full-time semesters. Courses include general education, criminology, police administration, ethics, research, report writing, and more.
Plus, this program is eligible for the S.C. Wins Scholarship, which can pay up to $65 per credit hour.
Related Programs
Career Coach
Request More Info
Quick Facts
A GREAT CAREER
The S.C. annual mean wage for police and sheriff patrol officers is $45,160
EXPERT INSTRUCTORS
Learn from faculty experts who have a variety of law enforcement backgrounds.
IN-PERSON OR ONLINE
Choose to complete this degree 100% online or through in-person classes.
ACCREDITATION
Technical College of the Lowcountry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award Associate Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Technical College of the Lowcountry.
PROGRAM COST
Tuition: 66 credits x $200 per credit = $13,200.
Remember, this is before S.C. Lottery Tuition Assistance and other financial aid, which could drop your costs by more than half. In fact, after financial aid, many TCL students attend for free. See more about paying for TCL.
*Based on Fall 2021 in-state, in-service-area tuition. Your actual cost may differ. Does not include fees, books and other costs. Qualifications vary; all subject to change.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
“A degree from TCL gives you an edge for landing a great career in criminal justice.
Michael Ricks
Program Director
FAQS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Career & Educational Opportunities
South Carolina law requires that police officers be at least 21 years of age at the beginning of their career. Security officers may enter the field at 18 years old. The officer must also pass written, psychological and physical examinations; meet height and weight standards; and undergo character and background investigations. Typically, law enforcement agencies in major metropolitan areas require at least an Associate degree.
Is this program right for you?
The program is a great fit for those who:
• Have a desire to give back to the community through public service
• Have a clean driving record and can pass a background check