Criminal Justice Studies, A.A.S.

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Program Code: SS180

The Criminal Justice Studies degree provides the student with an introduction to the nature of crime and the methods of preventing or reducing the commission of crimes, as well as prosecution and punishment of offenders. Students come to understand and appreciate both the substantive and procedural aspects of criminal justice through the study of relevant historical and philosophical concepts, court decisions, statutes, and professional practices.

While uniformed law enforcement officers may be the most visible professionals in criminal justice, many excellent opportunities exist outside of police-related work. Career opportunities are available in several fields: the criminal court system, corrections and human services, and both public and private investigative agencies. Some of the most challenging issues facing society are the subject matter of criminal justice studies. Trained criminal justice personnel who can apply their academic competence and technical skills to crime prevention and detection can be of significant support to communities and institutions as they face those fundamental challenges. Qualified women and minorities, historically underrepresented in this field, can expect to be actively recruited.

This degree provides opportunities for students seeking immediate entry-level positions in the criminal justice field, for advancement in current employment and as a foundation for further study in the field. However, students who plan to continue their education beyond the associate degree level should consult an academic advisor in the Criminal Justice program regarding the use of this degree for transfer purposes.

This degree is available through the following options:
1) An entirely distance education format in which the student may take all courses through the “on-line” method,
2) the traditional campus classroom format, or
3) by a combination of course selections from both the “on-line” and traditional campus classroom choices.

General Education Requirements: 22 Semester Hours

ENG 101 - Rhetoric *
ENG 102 - Rhetoric
PSYC 101 - General Psychology
SOC 101 - Introduction to Sociology
BUS 111 - Principles of Business Communications
Group III: Humanities/Fine Arts - Select one course from this category. 3 credit hours

Group IV: Math/Sciences - Select one course from this category. 4 credit hours.

Major Core Requirements: 27 Semester Hours

Major Core Electives: (Select from the following courses) 18 Semester Hours

Total Required Hours: 67 Semester Hours

Special Program Notes:

Many employers in the criminal justice and law enforcement field may require employees to submit to mandatory medical examinations, physical agility tests, personal background checks, and drug testing as a condition to their hiring and continuing employment. Certain physical impairments may bar affected students from employment in many aspects of the criminal justice and law enforcement profession. Questions or concerns regarding these requirements should be directed to the coordinator of the Criminal Justice Studies/Law Enforcement programs.