Criminal Justice, AS

The mission of the Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program is to present a professional, academic criminal justice curriculum that develops knowledge and social awareness necessary for an entry level position, or advancement in a current position, in the criminal justice field. Students will gain an understanding of methods and techniques used in the field, as well as, the necessary skills. The academic requirements will prepare the student for further academic study.

The program addresses issues, topics, and trends in three basic components including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students will gain an understanding of appropriate theory, but will also gain an inside view of the operations and processes of these components through interaction with criminal justice practitioners, field trips, and the completion of an internship. Students in the Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program have the option to complete the program online, or via a combination of onground and online.  Students are required to earn a minimum grade of “C” in all major courses.

Goal/Learning Outcomes

The program will provide students with the knowledge and social awareness necessary for an entry level position or advancement in a current position within the criminal justice field.

1. Students will develop an understanding of fundamental theoretical criminal justice concepts necessary for employment in an entry-level position within the criminal justice field.
2. Students will develop effective communication skills.
3. Students will gain knowledge of commonly held professional and ethical principles and practices utilized in the field of criminal justice.

Admission

All students must minimally meet the requirements for general admission to South College. General admission to South College does not guarantee admission to the program. Program admission is not granted until a student has successfully completed 8 hours in the major curriculum at South College, earning the minimum grades required by the program. CMJ 1111   must be successfully completed.

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is currently offered at the Knoxville, Asheville, and Nashville campuses (Hybrid), as well as Online. Major courses may only be available in online format.