Criminal Justice
Protecting Communities, Changing Lives
Our Criminal Justice program prepares you for a rewarding career in law enforcement, corrections or homeland security. Through hands-on training and practitioner-oriented instruction, you'll develop essential skills for the criminal justice field. You will learn to process crime scenes, collect evidence, report writing and effective communication skills, and implement evidence-based practices in various settings. Our specialized tracks let you focus on adult and juvenile corrections, law enforcement or homeland security while building a strong foundation in criminal justice principles. We prepare you to serve your community, make a difference and pursue advancement in this vital profession.
PROGRAM GOALS
Understanding Criminal Justice Systems
You will understand the history, philosophies and operations of America's criminal justice, court and corrections systems. In addition, you will learn how these systems work together, exploring their connections and roles in maintaining public safety and administering justice.
Investigation and Reporting Skills
You will develop practical skills in criminal investigation, evidence handling and professional report writing. This includes learning proper procedures for processing crime scenes, documenting incidents and preparing reports that meet legal requirements for law enforcement and court proceedings.
Ethical Decision-Making
You will learn to make ethical decisions in challenging situations by understanding the moral responsibilities of criminal justice professionals. You’ll explore the importance of integrity, fairness and respect for individual rights while upholding public safety and the law.
Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills relevant to careers in law enforcement and the broader justice system. You will be prepared for an entry-level position such as a police officer, correctional officer or security officer as well as pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related field.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$9,350 (A.A.) / $9,172 (A.A.S.)
CREDIT HOURS
62 (A.A.) / 61 (A.A.S.)
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
Adult & Juvenile Services and Corrections
A.A.S.
Locations: Lincoln / Online
Adult & Juvenile Services and Corrections specialization teaches evidence-based practices for working in community-based correctional services, institutional corrections, secure mental health facilities and juvenile justice agencies. You will learn about the unique challenges of working with both adult and juvenile populations with specialized training in helping rehabilitate offenders while maintaining safe correctional environments.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$9,417
CREDIT HOURS
61
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
Law Enforcement & Homeland Security
A.A.S.
Locations: Lincoln / Online
The Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement & Homeland Security specialization prepares you to serve as law enforcement officers or professionals in government agencies. You will gain a solid foundation in the overall criminal justice system while learning about criminal investigations, threat assessment, emergency management, communications and reporting techniques.
ESTIMATED TUITION
$9,143
CREDIT HOURS
61
PROGRAM LENGTH
4 Terms
SCHEDULE
Full-Time / Part-Time
STARTING TERM
Fall / Spring
WHY SCC?
Can I take classes online or do I need to attend in person?
We make it easy to balance your education with work or family responsibilities by offering flexibility with our class schedule. You can choose in-person classes or online courses to fit your schedule.
What makes SCC's Criminal Justice program different from others?
Our program features hands-on learning in specialized spaces like our jail cell and CSI lab. You'll work on mock crime scenes, hear from guest speakers and use state-of-the-art virtual reality systems. In addition, our small class sizes mean you'll get personalized attention from instructors who have at least 20 years of real-world experience.
Can I get credit for my previous work experience in criminal justice?
Our Credit for Prior Learning program recognizes life and work experience outside the classroom. If you have relevant work experience or academy training, it may count toward your degree, saving you time and money.
Can I transfer to a four-year college after completing my degree at SCC?
Our Associate of Applied Science degree is designed for those who want to start working right after graduation. If you want to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you will take the Associate of Arts degree path.
CAREER OUTCOMES
Police Officer
Police officers maintain public order and safety, respond to emergencies, investigate crimes and enforce laws to protect people and property. They patrol assigned areas, make arrests and document incidents through detailed reports.
Correctional Officer
Correctional officers supervise individuals who have been arrested or sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. They maintain security, prevent disturbances, enforce rules within facilities and support rehabilitation efforts.
Criminal Investigator
Criminal investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses and build cases to solve crimes. They work for various agencies including police departments and federal organizations, often specializing in specific types of crimes. In many agencies, you may have to be a police officer for a specific number of years before moving up to investigator in a specialized unit.
Next Steps
Program Chair