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Clayton State’s Criminal Justice program tops 100 in enrollment

Criminal Justice, one of Clayton State University’s newest baccalaureate degree programs, has topped 100 in enrollment in its inaugural semester.

“We expected a strong enrollment in this program, but this has exceeded our expectations,” said Gene Hatfield, chair of the Department of Social Sciences. The program, which officially began with the 2004 fall semester, has generated such commotion that prospective students, many of whom are already full-time law enforcement employees, are lining up to pursue the degree.

Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences Ray Wallace expressed his pride in the program’s high enrollment, remembering the work that went into bringing the degree to the university.

“We really moved quickly, but carefully, to get this program up and running,” he said. “It is gratifying to see these new students on campus for this important degree program.”

Kevin Demmitt, program coordinator for Criminal Justice, receives phone calls on a daily basis from interested students. He credits the program’s early success to the enthusiastic support of local criminal justice leaders such as Morrow Police Chief Charlie Sewell, who teaches part-time in the program. Sewell, in turn, believes the students are just as enthusiastic as the faculty.

“On several occasions class discussions have spilled over to the next class session because of the excitement of the students.ÊIt has been a real treat for me and I look forward to each class,” he said.

In addition to local support, Demmitt believes the location of the Morrow campus proves attractive to local law enforcement, giving law officials the opportunity to continue their education close to home. With such a community demand, growth shows no signs of slowing, he said.

While current law enforcement officers view Clayton State’s program as a means to further their education and advance their careers, many first-time students are choosing criminal justice with hopes of pursuing their own careers in law enforcement.

Senior Modesta “Margi” Clark of Locust Grove said she sees the opportunity to make a difference in a post-9/11 world.

“Our country has a new focus that is driven by negative actions, and Clayton State is preparing new leaders to be available to assist in that focus,” she said. “The opportunities in this field are growing by leaps and bounds. I’ll be ready!”

Clayton State’s criminal justice program was designed with the help of area police departments, municipal and county jurisdictions and Clayton State alumni who currently serve in law enforcement. Students in the program choose from an array of courses offered during the day, in the evenings and on-line. Criminal justice majors tailor coursework around a core of essential studies, which helps them meet their individual career goals.