At Lamar Institute of Technology you can get the education you need to get started or move ahead in a challenging career in criminal justice, law enforcement, fire protection, emergency medical services, or homeland security. The Public Service and Safety Department offers Certificate programs, Associate of Applied Science programs, and an Associate of Science program. Each degree helps students jump start their careers with Federal, State, Local, and Private Sector jobs. The Associate of Science degree also prepares the graduate to transfer into a four-year degree. Examples of careers in public service are: Corrections, Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, Firefighting, Crime Scene Technician, Customs and Border Protection, Citizenship and Immigration Services, Domestic Nuclear Detection, Emergency Communications and Management, Intelligence and Analysis, Operations Coordination and Planning, Private Security Management, Private Investigation, Transportation Security, and the United States Coast Guard. Not sure which public service career option is right for you? Take a look at programs offered within the Public Service & Safety Department and then give us a call or send us an E-mail. We look forward to discussing the many career and educational opportunities available here at Lamar Institute of Technology.

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) and the Regional Police Academy Program Advisory Committee establish eligibility. You must be at least 21 years of age, a high school graduate (or possess a GED certificate), and in excellent physical and emotional condition. Look at the Regional Police Academy section for details on requirements and contact the Regional Police Academy Director at (409) 880-8022 for answers to any questions you might have. The phone number for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement is (512) 936-7700.

The Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) and the Fire Protection Technology Program establish eligibility criteria for Fire Academy students. Fire Academy students must 1) be at least 18 years of age, 2) be a high school graduate or possess a GED certificate, and 3) be in excellent physical condition. For additional details about requirements and qualifications regarding the Fire Academy, please contact the program coordinator at (409) 832-5041. The Texas Commission on Fire Protection may be contacted at (512) 936-3816.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Emergency Medical Services Program establish eligibility criteria for EMS students. EMS students must 1) meet with the program director; 2) take the WorkKeys Reading exam and score a Level 5; and 3) pass a criminal background check. Students scoring below the required Level 5 on the WorkKeys must see the EMS program director. Look at the Emergency Medical Services section for details and contact the program director at (409) 839-2087 for answers to any questions you might have. The phone number for the Texas Department of State Health Services is (512) 776-7111.

You may qualify for financial assistance or scholarship for the academy or any other classes at Lamar Institute of Technology. Contact the Financial Aid/Scholarship Office for an application when you enroll. The phone number for the Student Financial Aid/Scholarships office is (409) 880-2037.

Completion of any educational program does not guarantee employment. Students enrolled in the Public Service and Safety Department programs receive basic training necessary for entry into the challenging field of public service and safety. Experienced and qualified instructors provide training. Graduates gain tremendous satisfaction knowing that they are helping and protecting others. Graduates should research the classified advertisements and the internet to identify employment opportunities.