Criminal Justice, A.S.
Download PDF(60 credits)
The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice provides students with a foundation in the criminal justice system and the social, legal, and ethical issues that shape crime and justice in the United States. Through the study of criminology, policing, courts, corrections, and criminal law, students develop the analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills needed for entry-level careers or continued study in criminal justice.
The program prepares graduates to transfer seamlessly into a bachelor's degree program or pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, security, community services, and related fields. Students gain an understanding of the relationships among criminal justice institutions while examining the impact of law, policy, and society on individuals and communities.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of a degree in Criminal Justice, students will:
- Explain the roles and functions of policing, courts, and corrections within the American criminal justice system.
- Apply professional terminology accurately and appropriately in academic and professional settings.
- Describe major criminological theories and their application to criminal behavior.
- Analyze criminal justice issues using critical thinking, research, and effective written communication.
- Demonstrate an understanding of constitutional principles and the foundations of criminal law.
COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE (30 credits)
EN 106 - Written Expression I
EN 107 - Written Expression II
- Fine Arts (designated course)
- History (designated course)
- Literature or Languages and Cultures (designated course)
- Mathematics course (designated course)
- Philosophy course (designated course)
- Religion course (designated course)
- Science course (designated course)
- Social Science course (designated course)
Review the Liberal Arts Core catalog page for a comprehensive list of courses approved for each requirement.
DISCIPLINE-SPECIFIC (21 credits)
CJ 111 - Introduction to the Criminal Justice System
CJ 231 - Deviance and Criminology
CJ 232 - Juvenile Delinquency
CJ 233 - Corrections
CJ 234 - Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
CJ 248 - Correctional Administration
SO 242 - Race, Ethnicity and Racism