Criminal Justice
Serve your community while promoting public safety.
What is Criminal Justice?
In the Criminal Justice program, you will take in-depth criminal justice and law enforcement courses as well as writing, psychology, communications, government, sociology, and other courses to assist you on the job. When you have completed your degree, you will understand the theory, principles, and techniques used by police, court administrators, institutional corrections officers, and community supervision officers. You will know how to perform traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, follow due process and procedures, collect and preserve evidence, arrest and prosecute violators of the law, and supervise professionals in criminal justice fields. This program also provides you a foundation for a pre-law degree.
Getting Started
What are my degree, diploma, and certificate options?
- Criminal Justice AAS - Corrections Track
- Criminal Justice AAS - Criminal Justice Track
- Criminal Justice AAS - Law Enforcement Track
- Criminal Justice AAS - Security and Loss Prevention Track
- Computer Forensics Certificate
- Criminal Justice Core Certificate
- Criminal Behavior Certificate
- Community Reentry Specialist Certificate
- Law Enforcement Certificate
- Advanced Law Enforcement Certificate
- Advanced Technologies in Criminal Justice Certificate
- Security and Loss Prevention Certificate
- Industrial Safety and Security Certificate
How Do I Pay For This?
Worry no more. With the lowest tuition in Kentucky, financial aid options, and a helping hand to guide you through the application process, we have you covered. We'll help you reach your goals at a price that won't break the bank.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Earn Credit for Basic Training
Criminal Justice professionals can earn 13 college credits after successfully completing the state academy basic training program.
The Department of Criminal Justice Training & KCTCS articulation agreement awards graduates of the 16-week state academy basic training program with 13 credit hours toward the Criminal Justice AAS.
Other Information
Most potential employers will require that graduates have a criminal background check and security clearance. A felony conviction or a bad driving record could keep you from gaining employment. Also, keep in mind that some agencies will usually have physical fitness requirements.
Length of Program
You can earn an associate in applied science degree in two years if you maintain full-time status.
This information should not be considered a substitute for the KCTCS Catalog. You should always choose classes in cooperation with your faculty advisor to ensure that you meet all degree requirements.
