Criminology & Criminal Justice

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For students interested in Detective class

Contact Information
Program Coordinator
Julie Schnobrich-Davis, PhD
RVAC 405
860.832.3139

Detective Programs

 

Detective Methodology Program

The Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice at Central Connecticut State University, in partnership with the Connecticut State Police, offers a comprehensive suite of educational opportunities designed specifically for state and municipal police detectives. This collaboration integrates both non-credit and credit-bearing options to support professional development and promote academic advancement in the field of major crime investigations.

This initiative was established under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Jay DelGrosso, a veteran of the Connecticut State Police with over three decades of experience, much of it focused in major crimes. L.t. Col. DelGrasso developed the Detective Methodology Program as part of a broader effort to standardize investigative practices and sure consistent, high-quality training for detectives across the state. The program creates a structured framework that combines training, education, and practical experience to ensure detectives are well-qualified to investigate major crimes. The program is officially endorsed by the Connecticut State Police Major Crime Methodology Program Advisory Board.

Pathways to Certification and Academic Advancement

The first step in this professional development process is the Basic Detective Certification, a non-credit, self-paced online course available exclusively sworn law enforcement personnel. Upon successful completion of the Basic Certification, detectives may continue their education through one of the two academic certificate programs:

Undergraduate Detective Certificate

Graduate Advanced Detective Certificate

Credits earned through these certificate programs can be applied toward the completion of a Bachelor's or Master's degree, allowing participants to further enhance their academic and professional qualifications

For more information, please contact Dr. Julie Schnobrich-Davis at j.schnobrichdavis@ccsu.edu

Programs

(Prerequisite for the undergraduate and graduate certificate programs)

This non-academic credit certification course has been developed by the Connecticut State Police and is designed exclusively for sworn law enforcement personnel. The program is delivered in a self-paced, online format to accommodate the schedules of active-duty professionals. This course reflects the State Police's commitment to excellence, professionalism and consistency in major crime investigations. The course provides a basic understanding of the fundamentals of investigation and gathering evidence.

As part of the enrollment process, all prospective participants are required to complete a preregistration survey. This step is necessary for verification and eligibility purposes. Once verification is complete, a registration link will be provided via email.

POSTC training credits will be considered upon completion.

The cost for the Basic Detective Certification Course is $195 (cost for CSP employees is $25).

Get Started

The Undergraduate Detective Certificate is an academic, credit-bearing program designed for individuals seeking specialized knowledge and professional development in the field of criminal investigations. Courses are taught by subject matter experts will extensive experience in law enforcement and major crime investigations.

Students complete four courses (12 credits) selected from a range of offerings focused on investigative methods, criminal law, crime scene analysis, and related topics. The curriculum is designed to enhance both theoretical understanding and practical application in investigative work.

Credits earned through the certificate program may be fully applied toward the completion of a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology. In addition, students may apply up to 12 credits earned through the Police Academy toward the B.A. degree, allowing for a streamlined academic pathway tailored to the needs of law enforcement professionals.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Identify key components necessary for understanding the investigatory process
  2. Describe legal and ethical practices for securing evidence and testitmony

Admission Requirements

The Graduate Advanced Detective Certificate is an academic, credit-bearing program designed for law enforcement professionals seeking advanced training in criminal investigations. Courses are taught by experienced subject matter experts with extensive backgrounds in major crime investigations and police practices.

Participants complete four courses (12 credits) selected from a range of graduate-level offerings focused on investigative techniques, criminal justice policy, and crime scene processing.

Credits earned through this certificate program may be applied toward the completion of ether a Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice or a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Criminal Justice Administration, providing a direct pathway for continued academic and professional advancement.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Apply investigative techniques to real world cases
  2. Assess the key elements necessary for an effective investigation
  3. Analyze legal and ethical practices for securing evidence and testimony

Admission Requirements