Criminal Justice

Schoolcraft offers two criminal justice associate of applied science degrees to help prepare students for a career in the field of public safety. The criminal justice associates degree prepares working professionals in the field who are looking to enhance their on-the-job training with specialized criminal justice courses related to interpersonal communication, criminal investigations, ethics, cyber crimes and health and human relations. This degree promotes the development of the skills needed to understand human behaviors and take the appropriate measures to ensure the safety of society.

The second criminal justice associates degree with the academy is designed for students aspiring to law enforcement careers 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 are sponsored by a police agency are eligible to earn a skills certificate of completion in lieu of the academy + associate degree credential (see academic advisor for more information).

Students who already possess an associates degree or higher, can earn a certificate of completion after completion of the academy.

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

Transfer Programs

MiTransfer Pathway - Criminal Justice