The Associate in Science degree in Criminal Justice addresses the causes of crime and ways to control it through the various components of the criminal justice system. The degree is broad based, covering law enforcement (against foreign and domestic criminal elements), the court system, and the correctional environment. Coupled with the degree’s general education requirements are core criminal justice courses that provide students with the background necessary to succeed in the criminal justice field. The Criminal Justice degree allows both pre- and in-service students to complete their degree on either a full- or part-time basis in preparation for professional careers. Alternatively, they may continue their studies through subsequent matriculation at a four-year college or university.
Upon successful completion of this degree, graduates are qualified for law-enforcement positions at various local, state, and federal levels.
The criminal justice degree has articulation agreements with Plymouth State University, Granite State College, and University of New Hampshire – Manchester.
Health Considerations
Many careers in the criminal justice field have health and fitness requirements. Prospective students with special needs or limitations that could potentially affect their internship placement and/or future employment should discuss their career goals with the Program Coordinator prior to admission.
Students participating in internships and field experiences must demonstrate the emotional stability to exercise sound judgment and accept direction and guidance from a supervisor or faculty member. They must also be capable of establishing a rapport and maintaining sensitive interpersonal relationships with employees of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, community groups, and the general public.
Character Expectations
Applicants need to know that employers complete background checks (including various internet social network sites) before hiring any applicant seeking a position that involves arrest or detention powers. Such background checks may be conducted before an applicant is accepted for an internship. Applicants with any evidence of a criminal record may not even be eligible for an internship. Because of these considerations, applicants are advised to discuss any concerns with the Program Coordinator.
Full-time Police Academy graduates will receive credit for the following:
CRMJ101W Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
CRMJ201W Criminal Procedures (3 credits)
CRMJ230W Justice and the Community (3 credits)
CRMJ270W Criminal Justice Internship (3 credits)
Liberal Arts (3 credits)
General Elective* (3 credits)
Full-time State Corrections Academy graduate will receive credit for the following:
CRMJ101W Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
CRMJ215W Corrections Operations (3 credits)
CRMJ270W Criminal Justice Internship (3 credits)
Liberal Arts Elective (3 credits)
General Elective* (3 credits)
Additional credits may be awarded for in-service courses at New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Academy on a case-by-case basis.
*Subject to review