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.

a group of male and female paralegals holding legal papers in a courtroom

Paralegal Studies

Training you for a rewarding career in public safety

collage of a police officer working on a laptop in his cruiser and a gloved person dusting for fingerprints

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.

Public Safety

MEdian Salary in the Tampa Bay area

Paralegals and Legal Assistants
$62,420

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Emergency Management Directors
$82,300

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Forensic Science Technicians
$57,950

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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.

collage of men doing situps in a gym, instructor and student at a firing range and a firefighter holding a water hose

Attend a public safety academy and make a difference

Serve the public and yourself by attending one of our public safety academies, including law enforcement, corrections, equivalency of training and firefighting.

Help develop lasting public policy

In our Public Policy and Administration program, you'll learn the ins and outs of governmental processes, policies and economics, and learn to use the critical thinking and analytical skills needed to effectively solve the challenges of a changing and diverse society.

Public Policy and Administration B.S. Degree

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.

Logos for All Children's Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

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.

group of people sitting at a dais

Partnership with the City of Seminole

Each year, one public policy student or graduate who had been recognized for their achievements is chosen for a one-year paid position with the City of Seminole in the Frank Edmunds Public Service Associate in Training program. The trainee is assigned by the city manager and rotates through four departments: administration, public safety, community development and public works.

Others Like You

  • Charles McAbee

    A lot of my classes applied directly to dealing with issues at my job.

    Charles McAbee

    Lead distribution operator
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  • Mecca Bellmore Serfustini

    I was completely prepared by SPC to do this job.

    Mecca Bellmore  Serfustini

    Read More about Mecca Bellmore
  • Rafael Murga

    I never would have stood out if not for being a Public Policy student at SPC.

    Rafael Murga

    eBusiness Specialist
    Read More about Rafael

Public Safety, Public Policy and Legal Studies News

a group of first responders in uniform gather with supporters in front of a stage

May 22, 2026

First Responders Complete Applied Mental Health Program

A total of 14 graduates earned the Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate from SPC.

male police officer wearing a blue uniform sitting in the front seat of his patrol car

May 01, 2026

First Responders to Graduate with Mental Health Certificates

Graduates will advance mental health support within law enforcement and their communities.

group shot of Second Cohort of Officers Completing Mental Health Certificate

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.

View all news stories

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