Accelerated Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Interests DeKalb Assistant Police Chief
Assistant Chief of Police for DeKalb County Tanya Detrich and Training Officer Major Jim Helms visited the Clarkston Campus of DeKalb Technical College (DTC) to discuss career development opportunities for police officers with DeKalb Technical College President Dr. Robin Hoffman and other professionals responsible for the Accelerated Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. The group discussed ways to work in a collaborative effort to best reach the officers. “I like the idea of partnering to see how we can help our veteran officers,” said Assistant Chief Detrich.
“This collaborative effort provides an opportunity for those in law enforcement to continue their education and enhance their job skills. We are very proud of our partnership with the DeKalb County Police Department," said DeKalb Technical College President Robin Hoffman as the group discussed the benefits of the Accelerated Program.
DeKalb Technical College President Dr. Robin Hoffman & Assistant Chief of Police for DeKalb County Tanya Detrich
DeKalb Technical College, under the guidance of DTC instructor Virgil Costley, an attorney and former Judge, has developed an Accelerated Associate Degree Program in Criminal Justice. The programs are designed to maximize success by adding course exemption exams for State certified officers. Flexible course hours include traditional classes and web-based education options. The program features courses in Homeland Security, Cybercrime Investigations, Constitutional Law, and Criminal Procedures. “The program aims to increase the acquired number of associate degrees issued to law enforcement officers in the State of Georgia,” explains Valerie Brown and Beverly Thomas, both instructors in the program.
Financial Aid is available for qualified applicants and the classes are offered in a flexible manner to allow ease of completion.
“I am an advocate of additional education for Officers,” said Major Helms. “An educated Officer makes a more well-rounded Officer.
Assistant Chief Detrich assured the group that Chief Bolton was a proponent of higher education and discussed ways to promote the program to Officers. “With the convenience, flexibility, and financial aid possibilities of the accelerated program, I am 100% in favor of the program,” shared Detrich.
For more information on this program and other criminal justice and paralegal studies programs, contact Valerie Brown in Clarkston, 404-297-9522, ext. 1148; or Beverly Thomas in Covington, 770-786-9522, ext. 3218.
