Criminal Justice

CTE Pathways: Human Services

Investigate a future helping others

Get a head start on a career of service to the community in our Criminal Justice program. Whether you’re interested in becoming an attorney, police officer, detective, forensic scientist or any other role in law enforcement and the legal system, this program gives you the knowledge and hands-on experience to build a solid case for a successful career as you -

  • Discover the basics of law enforcement
  • Dig into criminal law, forensics, the court system and investigations
  • Process mock crime scenes
  • Practice evidence collection and finger printing
  • Learn emergency response and CPR
  • Use cutting-edge equipment and technology
  • Work with real federal agents and local law enforcement professionals in mock scenarios
  • Take advantage of job shadow experiences
  • Discover opportunities to earn free college credit

Tools & Equipment

  • Alternate Light Sources (ALS) & UV Lamps 
  • Cameras
  • Drones
  • Fingerprinting
  • Fire Casings
  • Handcuffs
  • Master Collection Kits
  • Patrol Vehicles

Through this program, you’ll be prepared to earn -

  • CPR
  • NECI 911 Police and Fire Dispatching
  • Stop the Bleed
  • FAA TRUST (Drone)

Up to 18 free college credits available*

*Students must meet requirements. 

The number of credits varies by college.


Future Career Options

After High School

  • Corrections

  • Entry-Level Court Clerk or Bailiff

  • Military (enlisted)

  • Security Guard

  • TSA Security Screener

With Additional Training or College

  • Administration

  • Corrections Officer

  • Dispatcher

  • Entry-Level Probation/Parole Officer

  • Federal Agent (USSS, DEA, ATF, HSI, FBI)

  • Forensics Scientist

  • Management

  • Michigan State Police/DNR

  • Paralegal

  • Parole or Probation Officer

  • Police Officer

Future Earning Potential

The range of pay for professionals in Criminal Justice covers a broad range and depends upon many factors. Below are annual salary ranges for a few roles this program may lead you into.

  • Security Guard - $24,000-$46,000

  • Forensic Technician - $29,000-$81,000

  • Police/Fire/EMS Dispatcher - $35,000-$59,000

  • Paralegal - $36,000-$92,000

  • Police Officer - $37,000-$81,000

  • Corrections officer - $42,000-$75,000

  • Probation Parole Officer - $49,000-$77,000


Classes are taught at:

Kent Career Tech Center

Ben Hawkins Grand Rapids Police Officer from 2008-2019
Jessica Ramirez Crime Scene Response Team for the Michigan State Police from 2016 until 2023
John Nelson Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps in both the Artillery and Infantry.
Mark Schultz 23 years at Canton Township Police Department

Related Programs

Criminal Justice