OTTAWA – Police officers will be granted nine credit hours toward an Illinois Valley Community College criminal justice degree or certificate, Criminal Justice Program Coordinator Kevin Hermes announced today.
Beginning this fall, State of Illinois-certified officers will be eligible for the credit hours, Hermes said.
Criminal Justice will host an Information Session 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 17 at Ottawa Center, 321 W. Main St., to discuss that program enhancement and other topics.
“We are pleased to recognize the education certified police officers have completed. These credits will bring them closer to completing their degree or certificate, advancing them in their current job or leading to another criminal justice field,” said Hermes.
The credits are for CRJ 2010 Criminal Investigation, CRJ 2020 Criminal Law, and one, three-credit elective option within a criminal justice program.
To qualify, students must provide documentation showing completion of no less than 560 hours of basic police academy training from an Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board police academy. Documentation includes police academy transcript and a copy of the state of Illinois Peace Officer Certification.
Regarding the information session, Hermes said, “Current high school or IVCC students, potential students and police officers are all welcome to attend to learn about our program, the different fields within criminal justice and changes to the program.
“Criminal justice goes beyond the squad car. From court reporting to private security to community relations, there’s something for everyone to better serve the community,” he said.
RSVP at www.ivcc.edu/events. Call Hermes for information at (815) 224-0491.
