Degree: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Program description. The Criminal Justice program is designed for persons seeking a career in the expanding fields of law enforcement, court administration, corrections, probation and parole, social services or the private security industry. In addition to skills-based knowledge that helps prepare students for successful careers in the criminal justice system, the curriculum also examines theoretical and ethical aspects of the criminal justice system. Topics include the history, structure, and function of the criminal justice system, ethical considerations for the criminal justice professional, theoretical explanations for crime, and effective communication. Coursework also provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue a four-year degree. All students must take the Criminal Justice Area Concentration Achievement Test (ACAT) examination to fulfill graduation requirements.
Typical job opportunities: Specific entry-level careers may include police officer, deputy sheriff, correctional officer, crime scene technician, court records clerk, probation officer, telecommunications officer, loss prevention officer, security officer, code enforcement officer, juvenile case worker, fish and wildlife officer, private investigator or crime victim advocate.
Program outcomes. Upon completion of the Criminal Justice program, the graduate will have developed the skills, knowledge and abilities to accomplish the following:
I. Demonstrate an understanding of the history, structure, and operations of the American Criminal Justice System.
II. Demonstrate the ability to integrate and apply analytic skills and substantive knowledge to specific and criminal justice issues.
III. Identify the criminological theories and their application to contemporary public policy.
IV. Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in relation to the field of criminal justice professions.
V. Construct and evaluate strategies to address ethical/moral challenges faced by criminal justice practitioners.
Contact(s): Liberal Arts Department, (865) 694-6475