Title
Criminal Justice
Associate of Science (AS) - 60 credits
About this program
The Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice prepares students for careers in law enforcement. M State's Criminal Justice program has been designated a Professional Peace Officer Education Program by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training. Students seeking a career in law enforcement will be prepared for and offered the opportunity to complete all educational and practical requirements necessary to apply for peace officer licensing. The internship program provides students with comprehensive training to develop additional skills in critical thinking, communications and practical application. Criminal Justice faculty have extensive academic and practical experience within the field. Students seeking an AS in Criminal Justice are required to declare that intention prior to the second semester of coursework.
Acceptance into the program is contingent on the student's completion of at least 12 credits of required general education courses. Achievement of a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher. Successful completion of a personality assessment provided and evaluated through M State. [^Approximate cost = $140] Completion of a criminal background check through the State of Minnesota or applicable state. [^Approximate cost = $15] Achievement of at least a C in all Criminal Justice classes. Completion of a required initial advising session with the program coordinator. Note that expenses listed in brackets above and marked by ^ are not eligible for financial aid.
If there are more applicants who meet the above criteria than the program can accommodate, applicants will be selected based on program application date. Registration to some Criminal Justice courses is restricted to AS degree students unless approved by the program coordinator.
Program outcomes
- Students will gain basic knowledge and career skills, and develop values and attitudes consistent with professional career employment opportunities within the criminal justice system.
- Students will participate in quality learning experiences that will help to prepare each student for the challenges of their selected career choice.
- Students will be afforded the opportunity to gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and values needed for the smooth transition to an advanced degree program within criminal justice fields of study.
- Students, interested in law enforcement, will acquire the necessary academic requirements for peace officer licensing set forth by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officers Standards and Training.
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of maintaining effective collaborative relationships with all federal, state, and local criminal justice organizations, human service agencies, area communities, and community-based organizations.
- Students will develop a code of behavior consistent with the professional attitudes and ethical standards expected of police officers and criminal justice professionals.
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of community involvement and service through internships, volunteer opportunities, and community service projects.
Employment
The career opportunities for students in the field of Criminal Justice are constantly growing. The high standards set by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training make graduates of MSCTC's Criminal Justice A.S. Degree program in demand in Minnesota and across the United States. Just a few of the possible career choices available to Criminal Justice students are: local, state, and federal law enforcement, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Corrections, private security, homeland security, and local corrections officer.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. More information can be found at
www.minnesota.edu/accreditation.
