Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice

The criminal justice program provides students with an understanding of the nature of crime and the personnel, institutions and process that prevent or respond to crime. Students learn both the theory and practice of the criminal justice system. The curriculum covers crime and criminal behavior, law enforcement, courts, and corrections. It provides a solid foundation for further study or entry into a variety of criminal justice professions.  Students must obtain an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher for successful degree completion. 

Intended Program Outcomes 

• Explain the structure of the American criminal justice system in terms of its major components (i.e., police, courts, and corrections) and the functions they serve.  
• Measured by effectively communicating thru reading and writing assignments as well as exams. 
• Communicate in writing to express solutions in criminal justice topics. 

Measured by completing writing assignments that demonstrate effective critical thinking to identifying and defining problems and then formulating conclusions based upon reading assignments.  

• Apply critical thinking skills to analyze and solve a variety of complex problems in the criminal justice environment. Assess the philosophy, theories, policies, practices, processes, and reforms of the criminal justice system

Measured thru completion of writing assignments and exams as well as a series of class discussions. 

• Use technology to develop specialized technical knowledge and skills relevant to the field of criminal justice. (computer & writing skills)

Measured by demonstrating basic technology skills for class success, i.e. computer, research, on-line discussions.

• Review the major historical and contemporary issues facing the criminal justice system including events, information, programs, policies, and concepts that affect the operation of criminal justice agencies as well as issues of society ethnic and gender diversity. 

Measured by reading and writing assignments as well as exams. 

Degree and Certificate Options