Associate - Criminal Justice

Rapid growth of the modern criminal justice system is creating a demand for skilled workers as never before in local, state and federal systems, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Today's criminal justice workforce must be knowledgeable and skilled in every component of the system to address the public's demand for protection and services. Educated and skilled individuals are needed, from the traditional roles of law enforcement, security and corrections, to work with victim advocacy, juveniles and social services.

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is designed to help prepare students to enter the criminal justice field in a variety of first-tier positions. Students of the program are exposed to the foundational areas of the discipline: investigation and law enforcement, law and courts, and corrections and parole. The program also addresses juvenile delinquency and the juvenile justice system.

Career Opportunities

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice offers an up-to-date education that can help prepare students to pursue a career as a:

• Campus Security Coordinator
• County Clerk
• Social and Human Services Assistant
• Security Dispatcher
• Peace Officer Trainee

Challenging, Relevant Coursework

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice features industry-relevant coursework taught by faculty members with real-world experience in the field. Some of the key topics addressed in the degree program include an introduction to criminal justice, criminology, police work, corrections, criminal courts, and criminal law.

Students who successfully complete the program should be able to:

• Demonstrate appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for entry-level positions in the profession.
• Demonstrate foundational knowledge of criminal investigation and law enforcement.
• Demonstrate appropriate knowledge of juvenile delinquency and the juvenile justice process.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of criminal law and the legal process.
• Demonstrate knowledge of corrections and its alternatives.

Concentration courses for this program include:

• Juvenile Delinquency
• Policy Systems
• Corrections Systems