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Liberal Arts - Criminal Justice

Program Codes: LACJT.AA
Associate in Arts Degree

Criminal Justice Transfer is a program specifically designed for students applying to 4-year academic institutions offering bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice or a related field.

Criminal Justice is the study of the rule of law within a democratic society. The classroom learning experience focuses on law enforcement agencies like local and state police, as well as the FBI. Students also learn about the court system, including the role of the prosecutor and defense counsel. The correctional system plays a vital, yet sometimes ignored, role in society so students will study the culture of jails and prisons, the role of correction’s officers, along with treatment methods regarding offenders.

A strong general education core is combined with essential courses in Police Administration and Operations, Criminology, Forensics, Research and Statistics, and Law and Ethics.

Our Criminal Justice Transfer Program provides a solid foundation and a seamless transition to colleges and universities. We have a proven track record of success with our program transfers.

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  1. Articulate their place in human culture and the global society from a multi-disciplinary perspective acquired through the study of the social sciences, humanities, history, natural sciences, mathematics, arts, and languages.
  2. Explain the functions and responsibilities of law enforcement and corrections at various levels in the criminal justice system
  3. Evaluate the causal factors of crime
  4. Discuss the nature of crimes and offenses based on major theories and current issues
  5. Critique perspectives on legal principles and challenges inherent in the criminal justice system
  6. Use appropriate tools of research and analysis to produce effective written communication.
Contact the Department Chairperson

Recommended Course Sequence

Below are required courses and recommended course groupings and sequences for program completion.  Courses may have prerequistie or corequistie requirements.  Check course descriptions for details.

Semester I

Semester 2

OR

Semester 3

3

Select one of the following History sequences:

HIS-121 and HIS-122 OR HIS-131 and HIS-132 OR HIS-221 and HIS-222

3

Choose two modern language courses in sequence from either: CHN, FRE, GER, HIN, ITA or SPA. For students who completed at least two years of high school study in one modern language, their level of language will be determined by a placement test (excluding SPA-242).

3

Choose one 3-credit Mathematics or Science course designated in the course descriptions as General Education MST (GE MST).

Semester 4

3

Select one of the following History sequences:

HIS-121 and HIS-122 OR HIS-131 and HIS-132 OR HIS-221 and HIS-222

3

Choose two modern language courses in sequence from either: CHN, FRE, GER, HIN, ITA or SPA. For students who completed at least two years of high school study in one modern language, their level of language will be determined by a placement test (excluding SPA-242).

Total Credits 60

Contact Information

History and Social Sciences

Contact Name: Timothy Hack, department chair 
Contact Phone: 732.906.2590
Contact Email: HSS@middlesexcc.edu 
Department Web: https://www.middlesexcc.edu/history-social-science/


Frequently Asked Questions

What will students learn if they study Criminal Justice?

Students examine both the substantive and procedural aspects of criminal law. Particular attention will be given to the functions of the courts and special emphasis will be placed on major U.S. Supreme Court decisions. Students who choose the Correction Administration degree option or certificate will learn about relevant trends with regard to correctional institutions, as well as sentencing, judicial treatment and correctional management philosophies. With the Police Science degree option, students will learn police procedures, constitutional law and community policing.

Are there any requirements that must be satisfied taking courses in the major?

Algebra I is a prerequisite for all majors. Algebra I competency may be verified with a passing score on the College’s placement test or completion of the appropriate course. Students also need a grade of “C” or better in one year of high school laboratory science or in BIO-010 or CHM-010.

Can students transfer to a four-year college or university?

The Statewide Transfer Agreement for New Jersey ensures that students who earn an A.A. or A.S. degree at a community college will have those credits fully transferable to a New Jersey public four-year institution, will have completed half of the credits required for a basic four-year degree and will have completed all of the lower division general education requirements. In addition, articulation agreements with private institutions may provide similar transfer provisions. Students should discuss the transfer process with an advisor.

How long will it take to complete this degree?

Once students complete developmental coursework (if needed), the degree can be completed in two years of full-time study. They can shorten the amount of time by taking courses in the summer and winter sessions.

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