Criminal Justice and Spanish Cultural & Language Competency Certificate
Offered by: Criminology and Criminal JusticeThe Certificate in Criminal Justice and Spanish Cultural & Language Competency prepares students to speak conversational Spanish and to gain competency in Spanish cultures and literature. This certificate represents a valuable credential for those seeking to enter a criminal justice profession that often demands practical skills in understanding and working with diverse cultures.
Why Choose This Certificate?
In 2016, the US Census Bureau reported that Hispanics constitute 17.6% of the US population. In 2014, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reported that 22% of the US prison population is Hispanic. In 2015, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reported that the proportion of Hispanic police officers has more than doubled (to 12%) since 1987. In addition, the US Department of Justice has reinforced the importance of US-Mexican law enforcement cooperation in combating serious threats such as the drug trade and human trafficking. The relevance of Hispanic culture in the criminal justice system is clearly significant.
What Will You Learn?
This certificate is designed to enhance your knowledge of the Spanish language and culture and its significance in the criminal justice professions. Criminal justice graduates with Spanish competency will distinguish themselves from others entering the field. This is because you will be able to converse with Spanish-speaking law enforcement officers, witnesses, or clients and make yourself more marketable in areas with large Hispanic populations.
Career Opportunities
With this certificate, and a Criminology and Criminal Justice degree, you can pursue any number of traditional criminal justice jobs and you will be better prepared for career paths with the US Customs and Border Protection, FBI, DEA and TSA, as well as state and local authorities in areas with a high Hispanic population.