Schoolcraft program code # AAS.00259
In this program, the criminal justice courses are restricted to students who are officially admitted to this program.
The criminal justice system is a highly specialized field. Law enforcement officers are employed by 40,000 local police agencies nationwide as well as county sheriffs’ departments. Law enforcement officers must be prepared to interact with the public in a position of responsibility and authority. Knowledge of the criminal justice system, including criminal law, police field operations, criminal investigation and human relations enhances the professionalism of the criminal justice system.
After completing the Police Academy (CJ 287), students may become certifiable by passing the MCOLES Certification Exam. Certification is valid for one year. Pre-service students, who are not employed by a law enforcement agency, must complete 41 credit hours of course work for the associate degree before taking CJ 287.
Students who satisfactorily complete all college and program requirements qualify for an associate of applied science degree.
Becoming a law enforcement officer requires candidates to meet certain psychological and physical requirements. Please review “Employment Standards for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers” available at www.michigan.gov/mcoles prior to beginning this area of study.
Program Outcomes
- Apply scientific concepts to the collection and preservation of evidence and laboratory techniques for investigation and possible courtroom presentation
- Identify methods of problem solving, crime prevention, and community policing while applying the knowledge in a critical, creative, and ethical manner
- Evaluate and use police information technology effectively and in an ethical manner
- Adhere to the professional nature of Michigan law enforcement officers as they interact with other members of the Criminal Justice System
- Apply the purpose and functionality of constitutional, statutory, and administrative law to contemporary law enforcement
- Conduct and document a thorough traffic investigation to include: traffic laws, vehicle stops, traffic control, enforcement and crashes
- Qualify to be certifiable as a Police Officer by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards by successful completion of program and individual courses
- Meet all pre-employment requirements for certified police officers as specified by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards
- Demonstrate competency in police physical skills to include mechanics of arrest and search, first aid, firearms, emergency vehicle operation, and health and wellness
- Recognize the relationship between mental health and the criminal justice system.
- Practice enhanced interpersonal communication strategies as it relates to community policing.
- Evaluate the relationship between the courts, prisons, probation and parole.
- Examine constitutional law, specifically the 4th, 5th and 6th Amendments.
Related Program Opportunities
See Additional Criminal Justice Programs
Career Information
Explore career choices, wages, job opportunities and more: Career Coach - Criminal Justice AAS Degree with Academy
Creating Your Academic Plan
Not all courses are offered each semester. Students should work with an academic advisor to develop a schedule that will work for them. Students planning to transfer should check the transfer institution’s requirements/guides or discuss their options with an academic advisor. Number of credits may vary depending on the course selection.
