About Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety while providing a strong foundation for continued education.
At CMCC, students develop skills in criminal law, investigation, policing, report writing, and public safety while gaining an understanding of how the justice system operates in real-world settings. The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and applied problem-solving in criminal justice environments.
Students can enter the workforce, transfer to a four-year institution, or continue into CMCC’s Police Operations Advanced Certificate, which builds on the associate degree with upper-level law enforcement preparation and applied police operations training.
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Coursework
The Criminal Justice program combines foundational coursework with specialized electives that reflect real-world law enforcement and public safety scenarios. Students build core skills while exploring topics such as forensics, investigations, and emergency response.
Law, Procedure, & the Justice System
- CRJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice
- CRJ 122 Criminal Law and Report Writing I
- CRJ 201 Civil Liberties
- CRJ 212 Criminal Investigation and Report Writing II
Investigation, Forensics, & Field Work
- CRJ 227 Crime Scene Photography
- CRJ 231 Death Investigations
- CRJ 250 Criminalistics
- CRJ 275 Crime Scene Management
- FRN 101 Introduction to Forensic Science
Specialized Topics & Real-World Scenarios
- CRJ 124 Situational Use of Force
- CRJ 202 Introduction to Emergency Management
- CRJ 209 Terrorism and Homeland Security
- CRJ 240 Interview and Interrogation
- CRJ 257 Community Policing
- JUS 232 Criminal Psychology
- JUS 260 Organized Crime
Continue the Journey
Where Graduates Transfer
Graduates of the Criminal Justice program transfer to four-year institutions to pursue bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, law enforcement, homeland security, public administration, and related fields, while also having the option to enter or advance in the workforce.
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What careers can this program lead to?
Graduates are prepared for roles such as police officer, correctional officer, security specialist, and positions in areas like homeland security, emergency management, and public safety. Many students also use the program as a stepping stone to advance within the field.
Can I transfer after completing this program?
Yes, many students transfer to four-year institutions to pursue bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, homeland security, public administration, and related fields. This program provides both career preparation and flexibility for continued education.
How is Criminal Justice different from the Justice Studies program?
Criminal Justice is more career-focused and prepares students for entry-level roles in law enforcement and public safety. Justice Studies is designed primarily for transfer and focuses more on analyzing social systems, policy, and broader justice-related issues. Students looking for hands-on, career-oriented training typically choose Criminal Justice.
What is the focus of the Criminal Justice program?
The Criminal Justice program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety while also providing a foundation for continued education. Students develop skills in criminal law, investigation, communication, and real-world problem-solving.
Your Future at CMCC
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