Administration of Justice Associates Degree Program Overviews

An Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Administration degree program provides students with a broad overview of the criminal justice and legal systems in place in the United States. It can prepare students for further study or for entry-level positions in the law enforcement or legal field.

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Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Administration

Community colleges and some universities are the types of schools most likely to offer 2-year degree programs in the administration of justice. Such programs are designed to be entry-level and provide students with a basic introduction to criminal justice, law enforcement, the U.S. legal system, theories of crime and delinquency and the corrections system.

Students enrolled in an associate's degree program in criminal justice administration learn about the history and current functions of the U.S. criminal justice system as well as to differentiate between local, state and federal systems of justice. They also study theories as to what causes crime in the country and learn the proper legal punishments for various offenses. Many programs include electives that cover psychology, sociology, social issues or race relations.

Education Prerequisites

Associate's degree programs covering criminal justice administration are typically entry-level in nature and accept students who have no academic history greater than a high school diploma or GED. However, such programs often require students to complete general education courses in humanities, history, mathematics and social science while completing core courses.

Program Coursework

The core courses provide students with a foundational background in several aspects of the criminal justice system. Specific courses may include:

  • Introduction to criminal justice
  • Corrections
  • Law enforcement
  • The court system
  • Community policing
  • Juvenile crime
  • Theory of criminal behavior
  • Criminal investigation
  • Ethics

Popular Career Options

Many jobs in the fields of criminal justice and corrections require employees to have at least a baccalaureate degree. However, there are positions available to graduates of an associate's degree in administration of justice, including (some may require additional training):

  • Correctional officer
  • Police officer
  • Jailer
  • Juvenile hall counselor

Continuing Education Options

Associate's degree programs in criminal justice administration make for great entry-points into baccalaureate degree programs. Graduates can choose from among several specializations in the field, including law enforcement, corrections and criminal justice administration. Master's degree programs covering the administration of justice prepare students for management and leadership roles within the criminal justice field.

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