Criminal Justice Certificate of Achievement

Units: 28.0 - 29.0 units

Criminal Justice is the study of the causes, consequences and control of crime. The program is designed to acquaint preservice and in-service students with the principles and practices of criminal justice systems in America. Although the program’s curriculum allows for the development of depth in one of the subject’s major systems (i.e., law enforcement, juvenile justice, courts or corrections), the objective of this certificate is to familiarize students with concepts in all of the above areas. The Criminal Justice program is both academic and professional in that it is an interdisciplinary approach to relating intellectual issues and practitioner perspectives to the challenge of crime in a free society. Consequently, the program provides preparation for employment with a related agency.

Program Learning Outcomes

• 1. Analyze the historical perspective, cultural evolution, and the origin of criminal law.

• 2. Describe the steps of the legal process, including prearrest, arrest through trial, sentencing, appeal and correctional procedures.

• 3. Evaluate the influences and consequences of crime, including social and psychological factors.

• 4. Recognize the influence of multicultural factors as they relate to the criminal justice system.

• 5. Describe the importance of professional ethics in the major areas of the criminal justice system.

• 6. Acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for obtaining employment in a variety of areas, including the court system, law enforcement, and corrections/community supervision.

Program Requirements