Criminal Justice Technology
Associate of Applied Science
Overview
In the criminal justice technology program at COTC, you learn to become an excellent communicator; explore a multifaceted system that includes the courts, policing, probation, corrections and homeland security; and apply hands-on technical training in basic investigations and firearms.
By completing this degree, you’ll be ready to begin working in criminal justice right away. You’ll also be prepared to continue your education if you choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Graduates with an associate degree in criminal justice technology can go on to pursue careers as:
- federal agents
- criminal investigators
- court bailiffs
- juvenile probation officers
- adult probation officers
- correction officers
Future Start Dates
Admission Requirements
This is an open enrollment program. To be admitted, you must submit a free application for admission and complete the standard steps to enroll.
You must be 18 years old to enroll in the LET 107 Basic Handgun course.
Plan of Study
Associate Degree
Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Technology
A “C” (2.00) grade or better is required in all LET courses to proceed in subsequent criminal justice, law enforcement and public service courses and to graduate from the criminal justice technology program.
Total hours required: 63
Autumn Semester |
||
---|---|---|
Composition I* |
3 |
|
Human Nutrition |
2 |
|
Introduction to Criminal Justice |
3 |
|
Introduction to Statistics* |
3 |
|
Introduction to Psychology* |
3 |
|
Total |
14 |
|
Spring Semester |
||
Composition II* |
3 |
|
Ethics in Criminal Justice |
2 |
|
Constitutional Law & Courts* |
3 |
|
Public Administration |
2 |
|
Introduction to Homeland Security* |
3 |
|
Abnormal Psychology* |
3 |
|
Total |
16 |
|
Summer Semester |
||
Basic Handgun |
2 |
|
Criminal Law and Procedure* |
2 |
|
Basic Investigations |
2 |
|
Juvenile Process* |
3 |
|
Probation and Parole* |
3 |
|
Introduction to Sociology |
3 |
|
Fundamentals of Communication |
3 |
|
Total |
18 |
|
Autumn Semester |
||
Introduction to Corrections* |
4 |
|
Drugs in the Criminal Justice System* |
3 |
|
Criminology* |
3 |
|
Human Diversity* |
3 |
|
Criminal Justice Practicum* |
2 |
|
Total |
15 |
*Course may have prerequisites. Please check the course description to view all prerequisites and requirements.
The college reserves the right to change curricula without notice.
Published: March 2024
Program Outcomes
Statement of Purpose
The program addresses the functions and organization of the criminal justice system, integrating critical thinking, decision-making skills and the understanding of different cultures, ethics and social problems into the curriculum. The program provides students with comprehensive and practical knowledge that addresses the diverse professional areas of the criminal justice system that include policing, courts, probation and parole, and homeland security.
Program Outcomes
- Demonstrate competency requirements in entry-level position in CJ system.
- Demonstrate knowledge through the study of gen ed courses with enhanced communication skills and a comprehensive knowledge of human behavior dynamics through the behavioral science courses.
- Identify and demonstrate problem-solving skills.
- Perform their professional duties with the highest regard for the U.S. Constitution.
- Develop independent and lifelong learning habits.
- Prepare to transfer to a four-year college or university to receive a baccalaureate degree in criminal justice after completing their associate degree at COTC.
Transfer Options
Students interested in continuing their education to pursue a bachelor’s degree can consider transferring to a four-year college or university. COTC has transfer agreements with the following four-year colleges:
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I complete the criminal justice technology associate degree?
Students who enroll full time may complete the criminal justice technology associate degree in four semesters.
Can I take classes online or face-to-face?
Classes in the criminal justice program require hands-on learning and are only offered face-to-face, so you should plan to be on campus to complete this degree. Some general education courses may be available and completed online.
What financial assistance is available to help me pay for college?
COTC awards more than $1 million in scholarships to students each year.
Every student is encouraged to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for grants, scholarships and loans. Students who complete the FAFSA are automatically considered for some scholarships. Other scholarships require an application.
See Paying for College for more information, or connect with the Office of Student Financial Services at 740.366.9435 or email NWK-studentfinancialservices@mail.cotc.edu.