The Criminal Justice program provides students the basic competencies involved in criminal justice, legal and investigative ethics, criminal law and procedure as well as juvenile justice and criminal courts. Many legal assistants, law enforcement professionals, as well as court and corrections officials have acquired a background understanding in Criminal Justice in order to better inform their positions and every day actions on the job. An increasingly complex field, with the capability of DNA evidence, the growing privatization of correctional facilities and multifaceted discussions on changes in federal sentencing legislation, criminal justice professionals have a background that is applicable in a variety of fields. Ideal for anyone looking toward a career in this fascinating field as well as experienced professionals looking for additional education, the Criminal Justice Professional program has a variety of applications.

The American criminal justice system is one of the most unique and robust legal frameworks in the world. Facing a host of issues from overwhelming corrections populations to evolving search and seizure methods within the confines of the Fourth Amendment, professionals working in the Criminal Justice system require a comprehensive understanding of the various issues facing all of the players in the legal system on the criminal side as well as the societal and utilitarian principles affected by these decisions every day. Beyond that, the amount of technology changes for law enforcement and other security and investigative agencies requires a broad understanding of the criminal justice system overall.

The Criminal Justice program offers a comprehensive look at the American criminal justice system, particularly from the legal side. Understanding what's required for a conviction, the standards by which defendants are measured and the ins and outs of evidentiary considerations are imperative for anyone working in law enforcement, investigation or security as well as individuals working for companies that serve these fields. The Criminal Justice program brings together a strategic sample of topics that ensure learners complete this track with the knowledge and skills they'll require to excel in these fields.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

• Define key terms related to the justice system
• Examine the justice system
• Analyze concepts related to criminal law
• Compare and contrast theories of crime
• Evaluate the impact history has had on the American justice system
• Examine issues and emerging trends in criminal justice
• Define terms related to criminal law
• Examine the purpose and function of criminal law
• Assess legal issues as presented in court cases
• Analyze key concepts related to criminal law
• Examine various laws
• Define key concepts related to ethics
• Explain the impact of ethical decisions
• Explain the relationship between values, morals, ethics, and critical thinking
• Compare and contrast philosophies related to ethics
• Analyze the process of making ethical decisions
• Examine ethics in the criminal justice system
• Evaluate methods used to address ethical misconduct in society
• Use Microsoft Office®

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the opportunity to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam(s) essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field.

National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Criminal Justice (CJ-PRO)

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.  As learners progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.