Criminal Justice

Schoolcraft offers two criminal justice associate in applied science degrees to help prepare students for a career and quick advancement in this public safety field. The criminal justice AAS degree is geared toward working professionals in the field who are looking to enhance their on-the-job training with specialized criminal justice courses in communication, computing, health and human relations. This degree also helps students develop the skills needed to investigate human behaviors and take the appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the society.

The second criminal justice AAS degree with the academy is aimed at students aspiring to law enforcement careers and who want police academy experience in addition to the academic credentials. After completing the academy, students will be eligible to take the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) Certification Exam which is a prerequisite for law enforcement employment in Michigan.

Both degrees help students expand their knowledge of the criminal justice system, including criminal law, police field operations and criminal investigation. They will also gain an understanding of the sociological, psychological, biological and environmental factors that cause deviant or criminal behavior.

Students who want to pursue a career as a law enforcement officer should review the “Employment Standards for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers” at www.michigan.gov/mcoles prior to beginning this area of study to ensure they meet certain psychological and physical requirements.

Programs

Career Programs