Careers in Public Service
At SPC you can prepare for a career that gives you the opportunity to be of service to your community, state or nation. Whether you seek a career in government, public service or the legal profession, our Public Safety, Public Policy, and Legal Studies programs are taught by highly qualified professionals and provide valuable internship opportunities.
Chart your path in paralegal studies
A career in the legal world is quite attainable and sustainable through our Paralegal Studies programs, approved by the American Bar Association. We offer an associate degree, a bachelor's degree and an advanced certificate program.
Training you for a rewarding career in public safety
Advance your public safety career by earning an academic degree from St. Petersburg College. We offer programs in Digital Forensics and Computer Investigations, Criminal Justice Technology, Crime Scene Technology, Emergency Administration and Management and Fire Science Technology.
MEdian Salary in the Tampa Bay area
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
$62,420
Emergency Management Directors
$82,300
Forensic Science Technicians
$57,950
Cutting-edge public safety training facilities
St. Petersburg College offers many real-world facilities to help you learn specific and employable skills. SPC's cutting-edge Fire and Public Safety Training Center offers simulations of real-life emergencies and is one of the most advanced in the state. Training facilities at the Allstate Center include a mock courtroom and jail, firing range, defensive tactics training room, and a road course for tactical and defensive driving training.
An Ethical Focus
The Public Safety, Public Policy and Legal Studies Department hosts the Applied Ethics Institute, which prepares SPC students to be responsible and ethical citizens as well as informed and active community participants. Students and groups have earned thousands of volunteer hours through the Institute's involvement in service organizations throughout Pinellas County, including All Children's Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary. The Institute also offers topical and interesting seminars, lectures, ethics training and continuing education programs.
Real-world facilities
The Public Policy and Administration facilities at the Seminole Campus include a 70-seat tiered classroom modeled after a city council chamber to give public policy students an authentic experience. The room also serves as a lab for a variety of public policy, administration and engagement activities and as a location for SPC's award-winning Model United Nations program.
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A lot of my classes applied directly to dealing with issues at my job.
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I was completely prepared by SPC to do this job.
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I never would have stood out if not for being a Public Policy student at SPC.
Public Safety, Public Policy and Legal Studies News
Aug 12, 2025
College Celebrates First Responder Graduates of Applied Mental Health Certificate Program
The 13 law enforcement professionals represent the program's second cohort.
Jul 22, 2025
SPC Will Honor Second Cohort of First Responders Completing Mental Health Certificate
A new group of active police officers are better equipped to navigate mental health issues now that they've earned their appled Mental Health Certificate from SPC.
Mar 28, 2025
Denis Phillips shares personal stories and humor at annual Goree lecture
Local weather expert Denis Phillips was the guest speaker at the annual Keith Goree lecture at the Workforce Innovation Hub at the Tarpon Springs Campus.