Overview
The criminal justice degree is designed to prepare students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, or the courts. In addition, it also serves as the academic foundation to transfer on to complete a baccalaureate degree. For those already in the career field the program provides educational progress for promotion and other career development purposes.
Why Great Bay?
A strong academic curriculum taught by faculty with extensive experience in the field of criminal justice. ALSO OFFERED 100% ONLINE. Students have the option of a traditional format – face-to-face hybrid – or as a 100% online program. To accommodate the needs of an online student, Great Bay offers an advising component specific to the program.
Students completing the program are prepared to work in local or state law enforcement as an officer, in corrections as an officer, or within the state and federal court systems.
Guest speakers come from law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice and the courts.
Career Options
- Law Enforcement
- Security Guard
- Corrections
- Juvenile Justice
- Victim Advocacy
- Court Officer
Related Degrees
- Homeland Security Certificate
- Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree
- Psychology Associate of Arts
Faculty Q&A: Meet Eric Kulberg
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Total Overall Credits: 62-64
Program Specific Requirements
Applicants should be aware of the basic health and fitness requirements for many careers in the criminal justice field.
Prospective students with special needs or limitations that may affect their internship placement and/or potential employability are encouraged to discuss their career goals with their faculty advisor.
Students participating in internship and field experiences must demonstrate the emotional stability required to exercise sound judgment, accept direction and guidance from a supervisor or faculty member.
Students must establish rapport and maintain sensitive interpersonal relationships with employees, customers and clients. Students participating in an internship are required to follow the Great Bay Community College immunization policy.
Program Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program of study, students should be able to:
- Analyze various theories of crime causation, societal responses, and crime prevention and treatment strategies, considering their implications for law enforcement practices.
- Evaluate constitutional principles, laws, and judicial procedures that govern law enforcement agencies, protect citizens’ rights, and regulate the admissibility of evidence in criminal cases.
- Examine the criminal justice system’s roles, structures, and procedures, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and juvenile justice agencies.
- Develop critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills to address complex situations and dilemmas in criminal justice effectively.
- Demonstrate effective communication skills, both written and oral, to convey information clearly, prepare reports, and present logical arguments within a law enforcement or criminal justice context.
- Develop and execute a comprehensive project or internship experience that integrates and applies the knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired throughout the criminal justice program, addressing a contemporary issue or challenge faced by law enforcement agencies or criminal justice organizations.
