Program Overview

Justice Studies - Criminal Justice Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Justice Studies - Criminal Justice Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the justice system and its institutions.

College and Program Learning Objectives

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to succeed in the field of criminal justice.

Course Requirements

The program requires the completion of 60 semester credit hours, including major core courses, liberal arts and science core courses, and electives.

Major Core Courses

• CIS1115 Computer Applications (3 Credits): Provides an introduction to computer technology with an emphasis on applications.
• JUS1100 Introduction to Justice Studies (3 Credits): Introduces the major institutions of justice in society, including justice in a free society, the police, courts, correctional services, and factors affecting the future of the justice system.
• JUS1110 Communication Skills for Criminal Justice Professionals (3 Credits): Examines the nature and importance of communication within the criminal justice system, including report-writing skills and the impact of report writing on the investigation and prosecution of crime.
• JUS2000 Career Development (3 Credits): Introduces students to the fundamentals of career development and career planning, including setting discipline-specific career goals, writing a professional resume and cover letter, and developing effective time management skills.
• JUS2201 Criminal Procedure (3 Credits): Introduces the methods and body of rules by which criminal law functions in a free society, including the collection and handling of evidence, police procedure, and arrest and interrogation procedures.
  • Prerequisite: JUS1100
• JUS2205 Criminal Law (3 Credits): Introduces the study of criminal law, including general categories of criminal law and defenses to criminal charges.
  • Prerequisite: JUS1100
• SOC2218 Police and Society (3 Credits): Introduces the history and traditions of American policing, examining the role of the police in advancing justice in a democratic society.
• SOC2220 Criminology (3 Credits): Introduces the various causes of crime in a free society, considering factors such as free will, biology, and subcultures of violence.
• Justice Studies Electives (6 Credits)

Liberal Arts and Science Core Courses

• ENG1105 Writing and Research (3 Credits): An introduction to expository writing, teaching students to use words with precision and strengthen their understanding and application of grammatical and rhetorical principles.
• ENG2205 Writing Through Literature (3 Credits): Further develops writing, reading, and interpretive abilities through critical engagement with literary texts.
  • Prerequisite: ENG1105
• HUM2225 Introduction to Ethics (3 Credits): Introduces the study of ethics and moral philosophy, including its historical development and major figures, and encourages critical thinking on ethical and moral issues.
• MAT2215 Statistics I (3 Credits): Introduces statistical methods and procedures, including the collection, analysis, and presentation of quantitative data.
• SCI2230 Forensic Science (3 Credits): Focuses on the application of science to law, introducing students to the field of forensic science through a hands-on approach.
• SOC1123 First Year Experience (3 Credits): Explores the challenges students face in pursuing and achieving a college degree, helping them identify their own challenges and implement a plan to address and overcome them.
• SOC2210 Introduction to Sociology (3 Credits): Examines social institutions that shape and influence individual and group behavior, with emphasis on examining contemporary social problems.
• SOC2231 Human Relations (3 Credits): Develops interpersonal skills for successful everyday interactions, focusing on challenges in workplace relationships and covering topics such as making a good impression, managing conflict, and providing exceptional service.
• Liberal Arts Elective (3 Credits)
• Free Electives (3 Credits)

Graduation Requirements

60 semester credit hours are required for graduation.

Eligibility and Employment Opportunities

Eligibility for some internships and employment opportunities in fields related to this program may require candidates to meet specific health requirements or pass criminal background checks prescribed by law. Law enforcement jobs typically require candidates to be physically and mentally fit, have a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, no felony criminal record, and the ability to be licensed to carry a firearm. A selection process involving qualifying examination and/or supplementary training may also be required. Job requirements for non-sworn personnel in criminal justice and related agencies vary.