Criminal Justice, AA

The program in criminal justice provides a broad academic and multi-disciplinary foundation to prepare students for professional careers in law enforcement, the court system, corrections, and victim advocacy, as well as advanced academic studies.

Program Outcomes

At the conclusion of the program, students will be able to:

• Correctly define, identify, and explain criminal justice terminology.
• Analyze interaction between the three components of the criminal justice system.
• Develop an increased awareness of victims’ rights and issues.
• Be prepared to contribute to the field of criminal justice.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills with other criminal justice professionals.
• Demonstrate fundamental knowledge and comprehension of criminological theory.
• Be prepared to transfer to a four-year criminal justice program.

Notes:

• The field of criminal justice is experiencing growth that requires well-trained employees in law enforcement and corrections.
• Internships with various organizations are available for advanced students in criminal justice.
• Individuals considering a degree or employment in the criminal justice profession must be aware of strict qualifications.
• With an advisor’s permission, students may substitute a criminal justice course(s) for social science course(s) beyond the courses required for the AA or AAS degree.
• Students who are already certified law enforcement at the time of their enrollment at WNCC may be awarded the following credits upon certification verification and active enrollment:
  • CRIM - 1010 Introduction to Criminal Justice
      Credits: 3
  • CRIM - 2000 Criminal Law
      Credits: 3
  • CRIM - 2030 Police & Society
      Credits: 3
  • CRIM - 2260 Criminal Investigation
      Credits: 3

Associate of Arts

AA.4301 (61 credits)

A sample course of study is provided below. Students should consult their advisor early in their WNCC career to determine a curriculum best suited to their educational goals and transfer needs.