Criminal Justice Degree Options

Award: Associate in applied science degree

Program location: Elkhorn Valley Campus, Fort Omaha Campus, Sarpy Center, South Omaha Campus, Online

This degree provides practical knowledge of the criminal justice system and operations. Study focuses on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and homeland security. The degree also explores the criminal justice system’s role within society.

Employment opportunities exist in a variety of local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, and security fields. Examples include police officer, deputy sheriff, probation officer, juvenile detention officer, correctional officer, crime scene investigator, and loss prevention specialist. Individuals considering a degree or employment in a criminal justice profession must be aware of strict employment qualifications. Factors that usually disqualify candidates from employment include a criminal record (e.g., theft, assault, murder), history of drug abuse, significant psychological/personal disorders, physiological disorders, neuromuscular dysfunction, and dishonesty. Criminal justice agencies carefully scrutinize candidates in order to select those who maintain the public’s trust and confidence at all times.

Options available under this degree are:

Criminal Justice - Corrections (CJCNO)

Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement (CJLEO)