Criminal Justice, Associate of Science
Department website: https://www.atu.edu/behaviorsci/
The Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice provides students with foundational knowledge and skills essential for careers in law enforcement and related fields. Our mission is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and practical application of knowledge in real-world scenarios.
This program prepares students for entry-level positions in various sectors of law enforcement, including local and state police agencies. The curriculum is designed to be responsive to the evolving needs of the criminal justice landscape, incorporating essential components such as hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for community engagement. Graduates will be well-prepared to enter the workforce or to continue their education in a Bachelor’s degree program in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or related disciplines such as Sociology and Psychology.
A degree in Criminal Justice provides a versatile foundation. Examples of careers that graduates often pursue include:
1. Law Enforcement and Public Safety
- Police Officer
- Deputy Sheriff
- Campus Security Officer
- School Resource Officer
2. Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Correctional Officer
- Juvenile Detention Officer
- Probation Aide
- Rehabilitation Technician
3. Legal and Court Services
- Court Clerk
- Victim Advocate
- Legal Assistant
4. Security and Risk Management
- Security Officer
- Loss Prevention Associate
- Private Investigator
- Social Services and Community Outreach
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Crisis Intervention Specialist