For students who already hold an associate degree in policing or law enforcement, this track shifts the focus from patrol-level duties to the leadership responsibilities that come with rank. You'll study how supervisory decisions, use-of-force policy, and community trust intersect to shape department outcomes.
The program builds directly on field experience gained at the associate level, adding the policy analysis and personnel management skills needed for advancement. Graduates are prepared for sergeant, lieutenant, and other supervisory tracks within municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies.
CJ 125Introduction to Criminology
Surveying the major theories that attempt to explain why crime occurs and who commits it.
- Origins of criminological theory
- Biological, psychological, and sociological explanations of crime
- Measuring and classifying criminal behavior
SS 126Sociology
Examining how social structures, institutions, and group dynamics shape individual and collective behavior.
- Socialization and social institutions
- Stratification, inequality, and social class
- Group behavior and deviance within society
CJ 448Corrections
Introducing the philosophy, structure, and daily operation of the American correctional system.
- History and goals of punishment
- Institutional vs. community-based corrections
- Classification and management of offender populations
CJ 493Issues in Criminal Justice
Analyzing current controversies and emerging challenges facing the criminal justice system.
- Contemporary policy debates
- Balancing public safety and civil liberties
- Evaluating reform proposals and their impact
CJ 519Criminal Procedures
Studying the constitutional rules that govern arrest, search, seizure, and trial.
- Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendment protections
- Procedures from arrest through sentencing
- Exclusionary rule and its exceptions
CJ 585Investigation
Covering the principles and techniques used to gather, document, and preserve criminal evidence.
- Crime scene processing fundamentals
- Interviewing witnesses and suspects
- Chain of custody and case documentation
LLS 642Introduction to Laws
Providing a foundation in legal systems, sources of law, and how statutes are interpreted and applied.
- Structure of the American legal system
- Statutory, case, and constitutional law
- Legal reasoning and interpretation
CJ 720Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
Comparing how different countries organize policing, courts, and corrections.
- International models of policing and courts
- Cultural and political influences on justice systems
- Lessons from cross-national justice reform
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Specialist Courses
6 Courses
JUJ 035Research in Criminal Justice
Introducing research design and data analysis methods used within criminal justice practice.
- Formulating research questions
- Quantitative and qualitative data collection
- Interpreting and reporting findings
POL 400Police Leadership
Examining leadership styles and decision-making responsibilities within police organizations.
- Leadership theory in law enforcement
- Ethical decision-making under pressure
- Building accountability within a department
POL 534Introduction to Victimology
Exploring the experiences of crime victims and their role within the justice process.
- Victim rights and services
- Patterns of victimization
- Victim-offender relationships
POL 552Introduction to Policing
Surveying the history, organization, and daily functions of modern police agencies.
- Evolution of policing in America
- Patrol operations and dispatch
- Police organizational structure
POL 607Introduction to Community Policing
Studying partnership-based strategies that connect police departments with the neighborhoods they serve.
- Principles of community-oriented policing
- Problem-solving partnerships with residents
- Measuring community trust and engagement
POL 876Police Technology
Reviewing the tools and systems officers use to gather intelligence and manage cases.
- Records management and case tracking systems
- Surveillance and forensic technology
- Data-driven policing strategies
$24,000
Total Program Cost
Fees are billed per term and are subject to change. Financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans are available to students who qualify.
Explore Financial Aid
Admission requires Associate Degree or equivalent credits.
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Submit Your Application
Complete the online application with your basic and academic details.
An admissions advisor reviews your application and any transfer credit.
Receive your decision, complete enrollment, and start your first term.
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