Criminal Justice

Program Overview

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The Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice prepares students for entry-level law enforcement and related careers. The program focuses on developing knowledge and skills in criminal justice, including understanding the system, investigating crimes, and practicing effective communication. Students can choose from a variety of electives to tailor their degree to their interests and career goals. The program is typically completed in two years of full-time study and is accredited by the American Criminal Justice Association.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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The program focuses on developing the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the field, including:

• Understanding the criminal justice system and its various components
• Learning about the different types of crime and their causes
• Developing investigative and analytical skills
• Practicing effective communication and interpersonal skills

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Outline:

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The Criminal Justice AAS program consists of 61 credit hours, divided into the following categories:

• General Education Requirements: 15 credit hours
• Criminal Justice Core Courses: 33 credit hours
• Criminal Justice Electives: 13 credit hours

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Criminal Justice Core Courses:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Introduction to Law Enforcement
• Criminal Investigations
• Criminology
• Juvenile Justice
• Corrections
• Police Administration
• Criminal Procedure
• Constitutional Law
• Ethics in Criminal Justice

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Criminal Justice Electives:

Students can choose from a variety of electives to tailor their degree to their specific interests and career goals. Some popular electives include:

• Crime Scene Investigation
• Forensic Science
• Victimology
• Cybercrime
• Homeland Security
• Community Policing

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Modules:

• Each course in the program is a separate module, with its own syllabus, schedule, and learning objectives.
• Modules typically consist of lectures, readings, discussions, assignments, and exams.
• Some modules may also include practical exercises, such as simulations or mock trials.

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Assessment:

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Student performance in the program is assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams (midterms and finals)
• Quizzes
• Assignments (e.g., essays, case studies, research papers)
• Projects
• Presentations
• Class participation

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Teaching:

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The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Active learning exercises
• Group discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Guest speakers

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Other:

• Students in all degree programs are required to take at least one Civic Engagement (CE) course to graduate.
• The program also offers a variety of optional activities and resources to help students succeed, such as tutoring, advising, and career services.
• The Criminal Justice program is accredited by the American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA).