Program Overview

AS in Criminal Justice (Online)

Build a Strong Foundation with Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice at Fisher College provides a comprehensive introduction to law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice, preparing you for entry-level careers in the public and private sectors. This program equips you with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system.

With a strong emphasis on social and behavioral sciences, the curriculum includes coursework in criminal justice, psychology, and sociology to help you understand the causes of crime, social control methods, and the role of law enforcement in diverse communities. You will also develop essential professional writing skills, including how to draft police and probation reports and conduct scholarly research.

Seamless Path to a Bachelor’s Degree: The AS in Criminal Justice program is designed for a smooth transition into Fisher College’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, ensuring every course you take applies directly to your continued education.

Program Requirements

Program Courses

• CJ101 Introduction to Criminal Justice
• CJ201 Corrections in America
• CJ210 Law Enforcement
• CJ215 Principles of Investigations
• CJ225 Criminal Court Process
• CJ240 Deviance and Social Control
• LA107 Criminal Law
• SO101 Introduction to Sociology
• SO105 Introduction to Criminology

Total Credits: 27

General Education Requirements

• CM105 Public Speaking
• CS101 Computer Concepts and Applications
• EN101 English I
• EN102 English II
• PS101 Introduction to Psychology
• Free Elective (3)
• Math/science/Computer Science Elective
• Humanities Elective
• Quantitative Reasoning

Total Credits: 33

Learning Outcomes

This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and the ability to:

• Discuss the development and philosophies of the disciplines of the criminal justice system as they relate to both adults and juveniles
• Describe and analyze the present day role, responsibilities, authority, and practices of the disciplines of the criminal justice system
• Demonstrate competency in understanding the nature of the relationship between and among the disciplines of the criminal justice system
• Explain the social and political forces which impact the criminal justice system, its practitioners, and its clients
• Discuss key theories of criminal behavior
• Apply professional standards of writing and research to criminal justice issues
• Demonstrate professional competencies to meet the needs of career opportunities and requirements for employment in the disciplines of the criminal justice system

Program Snapshot

• Credits: 60
• Term Length: 8 weeks
• Learning Format: Online
• Typical Time to Completion*: 10 terms; 20 months

*Based on continuous enrollment of two courses every term. Time to completion may be shorter based on eligible transfer credit or longer if course enrollment varies.

Additional Information

• Academic Calendar
• Tuition and Fees
• Financial Aid
• Faculty

Degree Pathways

• Students who have completed the Police Academy may be eligible for credits through Prior Learning Assessment.
• Police Career Incentive Pay Program: Fisher College is an approved vendor with the Police Career Incentive Pay Program (PCIPP). Police officers can earn degrees in law enforcement and criminal justice. The PCIPP provides educational incentives for regular full-time officers in participating cities and towns through salary increases.