Protect, serve and succeed. Start your Criminal Justice career here!
Some people are driven to act. When the unexpected happens, they instinctively step in to help. While others may hesitate, peace officers step forward — ready to serve, protect, and help those in need.
At CLC, we offer a one-year certificate, a two-year criminal justice degree, and a conservation officer program, all designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in law enforcement. Our expert instructors bring decades of real-world experience to the classroom, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed.
Our programs meet Minnesota Peace Officer licensing standards and are certified by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). With personalized support and hands-on training, we’ll help you confidently take the next step—passing the POST exam and launching your career in public service.
Are you ready to answer the call?
Location: Brainerd Campus
Fast Facts
You’ll learn to process crime scenes from the preliminary stage through disposition, as well as criminal law, constitutional law, Minnesota traffic code, and the relationships between law enforcement, courts and correctional systems.
We maintain strong partnerships with regional peace officer agencies, providing you with a diverse range of internship opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
Expert-led, hands-on training
US Annual Job Openings 53,800
Currently Employed
674,200
The CLC Promise
Central Lakes College promises to provide you with an extraordinary education
that is affordable, accessible and enhances quality of your life.
Program Instructors
*Source: CareerOneStop – US Dept. of Labor