Criminal Justice, AAS

This degree is designed to prepare students for careers in the criminal justice field as well as prepare them for future academics and training. Students will become familiar with the components and processes of the criminal justice system as well as studying the areas of law, corrections, investigations and procedures at a more comprehensive level. Students will also examine social and criminal  justice issues through multiple perspectives.

Students who have prior felony convictions may be excluded from numerous criminal justice career opportunities. Students, who have prior misdemeanor charges or excessive civil infractions, including traffic citations, may be denied an opportunity for practicum experience or employment within the criminal justice field. In addition, students should note that the people they associate with may inhibit the College from finding an adequate internship. Students who do not complete the practicum will not be able to complete the requirements for the degree. Tattoos are not considered part of professional appearance and must be covered whenever you are in the practicum setting or professional role. All students entering the program must adhere to the division’s Substance Abuse Policy.

Program Learning Outcomes

Learners will be able to:

1. Differentiate between the three main components of the criminal justice system; police, courts, and corrections and their roles at the federal, state, and local levels.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate codes of professional ethics and the capability to critically and reflectively engage ethical issues in criminal justice, particularly questions of social responsibility and professional decision making.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the theories, principles, judicial and correctional processes, legal institutions, and methods of law enforcement.
4. Analyze the effects of current political and social issues on the function of the criminal justice system in today’s society.