Criminal Justice: A.A.S.

Program Mission

The Criminal Justice A.A.S. program prepares students for various positions throughout the field of criminal justice, as well as to continue their education. Core courses are taught by faculty with real-world experience. The program features a blend of SUNY General Education and Liberal Arts requirements along with technical coursework specific to criminal justice. This program promotes critical thinking, professionalism, ethical responsibility, and examines current issues surrounding the criminal justice system. With specific advisement, and through articulation agreements, the program also prepares students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related programs.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the Criminal Justice AAS will be able to:

Identify and describe the components, participants, and processes of the criminal justice system.
Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts of ethics and due process as they apply to the criminal justice system.
Demonstrate effective communication skills necessary for success in the criminal justice field.

If you’re looking for a career in the criminal justice field, the AAS in Criminal Justice is for you. Graduates are prepared for positions such as: law enforcement, crime analyst, dispatcher, security, corrections, crime prevention, private investigation, court administration, intake specialist, juvenile caseworker, victim advocate, community service officer, and more. Students may also transfer to a four-year institution through specific advisement, which provides additional career opportunities in probation, parole, pretrial services, child and adult protection services, law, and more.

This program is intended to provide:

An instructional environment that encourages critical thinking and professionalism
Knowledge and understanding necessary to work in the field of study
Career preparedness opportunities
The opportunity to collaborate with the community through service learning activities
Interaction with experienced faculty, guest speakers, common hours, and campus presentations
The opportunity for seamless transfer and success at four-year institutions (with specific advisement)