Purpose

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program provides a rigorous and practical foundation for students pursuing careers in public safety, law enforcement and the justice system. Through a curriculum rooted in applied learning, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including policing, judicial procedures and correctional operations. Courses are led by experienced faculty who bring professional expertise and contemporary insight into the evolving challenges and opportunities within the field. This associate degree also offers a seamless pathway into Wilmington University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program, enabling students to continue their academic journey and broaden their career prospects.

Program Competencies

  1. Exercise critical-thinking strategies, including reasoning, problem-solving, analysis and evaluation in criminal justice settings.
  2. Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
  3. Implement appropriate technology in criminal justice settings.
  4. Incorporate theoretical perspectives into criminal justice practice.
  5. Evaluate situations using ethical principles, codes and standards within the criminal justice field.
  6. Apply ethical, legal and economic accountability into professional criminal justice practice.

Curriculum

General Education Requirements (30-31 Credits)

Technology Requirement: CTA206, CTA210 or CTA326

ECO 105 Economics

ENG 121 English Composition I

ENG 122 English Composition II

Communication Requirement: ENG131 or COM300

PHI 100 Introduction to Critical Thinking

Social Science Requirement: PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology or SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology

HIS 381 Contemporary Global Issues

MAT 205 Introductory Survey of Mathematics

Natural Science Elective

FYE 101 First Year Experience (required only for students transferring fewer than 16 credits)

Criminal Justice Core (30 Credits)

CRJ 101 Survey of Criminal Justice

CRJ 205 Principles of Criminology

CRJ 206 Corrections and Rehabilitation

CRJ 301 Juvenile Justice

CRJ 304 Constitutional Law

CRJ 316 Criminal Law

CRJ 318 Criminal Investigation

CRJ 350 Technology Applications in Criminal Justice

CRJ 412 Ethics in Criminal Justice