How is the threat of terrorism affecting you and your family? Should drug abusers go to prison or get treatment instead? Do you think murderers should be put to death? These are just a few of the questions you’ll consider as a student in the Law Enforcement Program at RVTC. You’ll also study the law, learn how the judicial system works, and explore the ins and outs of police departments and other law enforcement agencies.

You’ll learn how to clear a building in which an armed suspect is hiding, using paintball guns with role-playing in different scenarios. You’ll rappel from a four-story building. Over the two years, you’ll be exposed to many different careers through guest speakers, field trips, and shadowing experiences.

Certifications:
• Vermont State Police Marine Division
• National Association of State Boating Law Administration

YEAR ONE: Law Enforcement I
Credit: 3-4 elective credits
Eligibility: Students in grades 11 and 12
Prerequisites: Signed medical release
Schedule: Full year; 2 hours per day

In the first year, you’ll get a solid introduction to law enforcement. Through practical applications, classroom learning, and technology, you’ll learn what it takes to become a law enforcement officer. After each training section, you’ll take both a written and practical test to check your retention.

YEAR TWO: Law Enforcement II
Credit: 1 embedded social studies and 2-3 elective credits
Eligibility: Students in grade 12
Prerequisites: Grade of 70 or better in Law Enforcement I
Schedule: Full year; 2 hours per day

A continuation of your first-year training, Law Enforcement II will cover the many subsystems within the criminal justice system. You’ll explore ethics and develop your skills in problem-solving, analysis, team building, and communication. We’ll give you insight into police work, court procedure, and corrections, with a priority in the overview of the criminal justice process.
After you’ve completed this two-year program, you’ll be prepared to enter a post-secondary criminal justice program.