Best Online Associate in Criminal Justice
Criminal justice degrees prepare students for diverse careers in areas like social work, security, and law enforcement.
Earning an associate in criminal justice provides the experience and academic credentials needed for entry-level roles in a variety of fields. Although many graduates pursue careers in law enforcement, a criminal justice associate degree also prepares students for careers in other areas, like paralegal work, security, and management.
Graduates enjoy strong job prospects. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects average job growth for private detectives and investigators, paralegals and legal assistants, and police and detectives between 2023 and 2033.
This guide ranks the best online associate in criminal justice programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and potential careers and salaries for graduates.
The Best Online Criminal Justice Associate Programs
North Central Missouri College
Trenton, MO- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in criminal justice should consider North Central Missouri College. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees seeking to advance in their studies can apply credits toward a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. They can also access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The school awards an average of $5,895 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. Typically, 95% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 21% receiving loans.
North Central Missouri College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Trenton, Missouri
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,440
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,370
- In-State$4,440
- Out-of-state$5,370
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate55%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,746
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Trinity Valley Community College
- Athens, TX
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Trinity Valley Community College supports 12 online associate degree programs from its main campus in Athens, Texas, including an AAS in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.
During their studies, enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Students seeking to defray the costs of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $5,818 in financial aid awards. The college notes that 82% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 20% receiving loans.
Trinity Valley Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Athens, Texas
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,500
- In-State$1,170
- Out-of-state$4,500
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate51%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,233
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Pensacola State College
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners looking for a flexible online associate degree program in criminal justice should consider Pensacola State College. Enrollees in the AS in criminal justice technology program benefit from a robust course curriculum, preparing them for the demands of the criminal justice field. Learners looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.
Throughout the program, students can access career services and academic advising. Additional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $5,565 in financial aid. The college notes that 75% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 7% taking out loans.
Pensacola State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Pensacola, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,887
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,547
- In-State$1,887
- Out-of-state$7,547
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled9,713
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Northeast Community College
- Norfolk, NE
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Norfolk, Nebraska, Northeast Community College provides online education across 13 associate degree programs, including its AAS in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Criminal justice degree-seekers can access comprehensive college resources, including career counseling, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Distance learners can qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $4,456. The college reports that 90% of students are awarded financial aid, with 21% receiving student loans.
Northeast Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Norfolk, Nebraska
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,970
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,170
- In-State$2,970
- Out-of-state$4,170
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,258
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Daytona State College
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Daytona State College supports 10 online associate programs from its main campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. Criminal justice students benefit from a rigorous core curriculum, industry-relevant coursework, and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates of the AS in criminal justice technology program can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and apply their college credits toward a four year institution.
A leader in student success, the college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other resources. Learners can also access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The average student is awarded $4,945 in financial aid, to offset the cost of education. The college notes that 71% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 22% taking out loans.
Daytona State College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Daytona Beach, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,072
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,960
- In-State$3,072
- Out-of-state$11,960
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled13,430
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
Spartanburg Methodist College
- Spartanburg, SC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Spartanburg Methodist College supports an online criminal justice associate degree program from its main campus in South Carolina. Criminal justice students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.
The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. Other institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The institution reports that 99% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 68% receive student loans.
Spartanburg Methodist College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina
Admission Rate: 61%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,750
- In-State$15,750
- Out-of-state$15,750
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate61%
- Students Enrolled933
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment7%
- AccreditationYes
Ulster County Community College
- Stone Ridge, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice program should consider Ulster County Community College. Criminal justice students prepare for a career in the field through relevant coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.
While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.
The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $6,567. The college notes that 81% of all students receive financial aid, with 11% taking out loans.
Ulster County Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Stone Ridge, New York
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,680
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,360
- In-State$4,680
- Out-of-state$9,360
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,550
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
Southeastern Community College
- Whiteville, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Southeastern Community College, a public, two-year college, offers two online associate degree programs to distance learners worldwide. Students in the criminal justice program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of a criminal justice career. Graduates can apply their earned credits toward a bachelor's degree, certificates, and educational credentials.
The college prioritizes student success through career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Criminal justice students can expect to receive an average of $5,788 in financial aid. Learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and loans to assist with educational expenses.
Southeastern Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Whiteville, North Carolina
Student-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,432
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,576
- In-State$2,432
- Out-of-state$8,576
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,524
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
San Antonio College
- San Antonio, TX
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Distance learners seeking flexible study in criminal justice should consider San Antonio College's online associate in criminal justice and law enforcement. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year college.
While enrolled, criminal justice students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can receive one-on-one guidance through virtual library services and academic tutoring resources.
Online learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, receiving an average of $5,601 in aid. The college reports that 78% of students are awarded financial aid, with 6% taking out student loans.
San Antonio College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Student-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,450
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,980
- In-State$6,450
- Out-of-state$13,980
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled19,499
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Lincoln Land Community College
- Springfield, IL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Lincoln Land Community College hosts four online associate programs, including an AAS in criminal justice program. The associate in criminal justice prepares students for the criminal justice field through comprehensive coursework. Students seeking further education can apply their criminal justice credits toward a bachelor's degree.
The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,377. According to the school, 74% of enrollees receive some form of funding.
Lincoln Land Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Springfield, Illinois
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,312
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,468
- In-State$6,312
- Out-of-state$9,468
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,446
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Fox Valley Technical College
- Appleton, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice program should consider Fox Valley Technical College. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can benefit from career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Online students can access virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students seeking to defray the costs of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $4,669 in financial aid. The college reports that 69% of students are awarded financial aid, with 15% receiving student loans.
Fox Valley Technical College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Appleton, Wisconsin
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,095
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,143
- In-State$4,095
- Out-of-state$6,143
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled12,239
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Ashland University
- Ashland, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Ashland University, located in Ohio, boasts two online associate degree programs, including its highly ranked associate in criminal justice. Students can build their knowledge of the criminal justice field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Enrollees looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits toward further undergraduate study.
Students can access numerous college resources, such as career services and academic advising. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 99% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 61% opting for student loans.
Ashland University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Ashland, Ohio
Admission Rate: 71%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $20,950
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $20,950
- In-State$20,950
- Out-of-state$20,950
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$6,540
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled5,091
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Keiser University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a flexible online AA in criminal justice should consider Keiser University. Students in the criminal justice program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of a criminal justice career. Graduates seeking to advance their studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, criminal justice students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 89% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Keiser University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808
Transfer Credit Accepted: Accepted
- In-State$19,808
- Out-of-state$19,808
- In-State$27,162
- Out-of-state$27,162
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled19,567
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Finger Lakes Community College
- Canandaigua, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
From its main campus in Canandaigua, Finger Lakes Community College boasts a highly-ranked online AAS in criminal justice, one of 20 online associate degree programs. The program builds foundational knowledge in criminal justice, preparing graduates for entry-level careers in the field. Criminal justice students can apply their course credits toward future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, criminal justice students can access college resources geared towards student success. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $5,990. Of its enrollees, the college reports that 82% receive financial aid and 25% take out loans.
Finger Lakes Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Canandaigua, New York
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,722
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,083
- In-State$4,722
- Out-of-state$7,083
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,649
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Herkimer County Community College
- Herkimer, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Herkimer County Community College's AAS in criminal justice is one of 16 associate degree programs offered remotely. Students in the criminal justice program prepare for the demands of the criminal justice field through instructive study and industry-relevant coursework. Learners can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and transfer their college credits to a four year institution.
The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-geared resources. Distance learners can further benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and other academic tutoring.
The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $6,877. Students benefit from financial aid, with 83% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.
Herkimer County Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Herkimer, New York
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,870
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,500
- In-State$4,870
- Out-of-state$7,500
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,396
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Fort Kent, ME
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Maine at Fort Kent, a public, four-year college, supports three online associate programs available to distance learners worldwide. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.
The college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources. The college supports its online learning community through online-specific resources, such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
Distance learners can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $6,573. According to the school, 94% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid and 31% opt for student loans.
University of Maine at Fort Kent at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Fort Kent, Maine
Admission Rate: 99%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,460
- In-State$7,170
- Out-of-state$11,460
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled1,589
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment56%
- AccreditationYes
Ocean County College
- Toms River, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A leader in online education, Ocean County College supports nine online associate degree programs, including its AS in criminal justice. Students in the criminal justice program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Learners seeking to advance their studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career services. Distance learners can access other resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The average financial aid award, the college reports, is $5,503. Approximately 59% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 16% receiving student loans.
Ocean County College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Toms River, New Jersey
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,170
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,750
- In-State$4,170
- Out-of-state$6,750
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Shoreline Community College
- Shoreline, WA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Looking for a flexible associate degree program in criminal justice? Consider Shoreline Community College's online AAAS in criminal justice. Criminal justice students benefit from a rigorous core curriculum, industry-relevant coursework, and experiential learning opportunities. Students seeking to advance academically can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
The college connects criminal justice students with career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources. Distance learners benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.
The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $5,555 in financial aid. Typically, 58% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 8% taking out loans.
Shoreline Community College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, two-year
Location: Shoreline, Washington
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,588
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,351
- In-State$3,588
- Out-of-state$6,351
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,884
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
St. Petersburg College
- Clearwater, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a flexible online associate in criminal justice should consider St. Petersburg College. The criminal justice technology program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a criminal justice-specific career. Students can transfer their course credits to a four-year college, in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Support services available for distance learners include academic tutoring and virtual library resources.
The college reports that the average student's financial aid award package is $8,559. Of the school's enrollees, 73% receive financial aid and 25% use loans.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Clearwater, Florida
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774
- In-State$1,943
- Out-of-state$7,774
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled28,853
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY Canton
- Canton, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
SUNY Canton, a public, four-year college, supports six online associate degree programs available to distance learners worldwide. The criminal justice program prepares students for the demands of the field through foundational and advanced coursework. After graduation, students can apply their college credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
While enrolled, criminal justice students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Other resources available for distance learners include academic tutoring and virtual library services.
The college connects students with numerous financial aid opportunities, reporting that enrollees receive an average of $9,262 in financial aid. About 95% of incoming students receive financial aid awards, and about 72% take out student loans.
SUNY Canton at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Location: Canton, New York
Admission Rate: 85%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,070
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $13,534
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$13,534
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled3,223
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Associates in Criminal Justice
2022
Online Associate’s in Criminal Justice Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
What Is an Online Associate in Criminal Justice Degree?
Online associate in criminal justice programs typically comprise around 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. General education requirements often constitute the majority of courses in an associate degree program. In addition to general education courses in areas like writing, mathematics, and the humanities, criminal justice students may take major courses in areas like criminal law, government, and psychology.
Students interested in pursuing entry-level careers in law enforcement or a related four-year degree benefit from earning a criminal justice associate degree online.
Featured Criminal Justice Programs
Choosing an Online Program
When choosing an online associate in criminal justice program, learners should consider factors like their goals, their current lifestyle and personal obligations, and their budget. Learn more about how to choose an online degree through the link below.
What Else Can I Expect From an Associate in Criminal Justice Program?
Online criminal justice associate programs often include courses in the fundamentals of law and ethics, the criminal justice system, and government. Some programs also include courses in psychology and public speaking.Associate in Criminal Justice Curriculum
Where Can an Associate in Criminal Justice Degree Take Me?
A criminal justice associate degree prepares graduates for a variety of careers in diverse areas. The following list outlines several common career paths for graduates.
Associate programs in criminal justice provide foundational knowledge of the criminal justice system, preparing students for entry-level roles like police officer, emergency management specialist, corrections officer, and probation officer.
Social workers support vulnerable and at-risk individuals and communities, helping them navigate a variety of challenges. These professionals connect clients with social service resources and work to keep families and children safe.
Sociology
Graduates of associate in criminal justice programs can pursue further study in sociology. Sociologists study human behavior within different social and cultural groups. Criminal justice programs provide a foundation for these studies, particularly with respect to criminal behavior and society.
Studies in criminal justice correlate closely with psychological studies. Many criminal justice programs include introductory courses in psychology, preparing students for further study in the field. Graduates can also pursue entry-level jobs related to psychology, including human resource specialist and psychiatric technician.
Criminal justice graduates can pursue entry-level legal studies positions, including paralegal, file clerk, and court messenger. Graduates may also pursue a bachelor’s in legal studies.
Criminal Justice Careers
An associate in criminal justice provides a strong foundation for a variety of jobs, both within and outside of law enforcement. Courses in criminal justice programs emphasize skills like critical thinking, leadership, ethics, and communication, preparing students for success in diverse roles. This section outlines several common careers for graduates.
