Criminal Justice Studies, AAS

B&SC Code: CJST
CIP Code: 43.0103
New York Hegis Code: 5505
Available online in all states

Program: CJST

This program includes the study of the United States court systems, correctional organizations, law enforcement agencies, and both public and private security venues.  Students will be provided with a survey of the skills and abilities necessary to adapt to the changing technology tools that are growing in use across the justice field.  Students will also explore the nature and extent of crime and delinquency, and the cause and explanation of deviant behavior.  This program is designed to provide graduates with a balance of theory and practice that will enhance their preparation for the varied criminal justice fields.  Reading, writing, critical thinking skills, and ethical decision-making are rigorously applied and developed throughout the program.

Graduates of this degree plan will achieve the following program and institutional outcomes:

• Identify and characterize the history and components that comprise the justice system at the federal, state, and local level.
• Identify and address safety and security issues.
• Prepare professional documents that meet the standards of the justice system.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the various theories that explain criminal behaviors and programs designed to address them.
• Develop essential communication skills to interact effectively with supervisors, peers, and the public in the various justice professional settings.
• Evaluate substantive and procedural criminal law.
• Utilize current technology and resources to identify a research need, locate and evaluate necessary  and available information, and then use it appropriately to communicate findings in visual, written, or oral formats.
• Integrate new and prior knowledge, skills, and behaviors acquired through learning to engage in career, life, and academic pursuits.
• Examine individual thinking strategies through reflection, analysis, and evaluation to adjust learning processes focused on continual improvement.
• Follow established methods of scientific inquiry and quantitative reasoning to form conclusions and make decisions.
• Assess academic, life, and career situations that promote cultural sensitivity, global and economic awareness, and a sense of belonging.