Transfer - Associate in Arts degree
CONTACT PERSON: Joe Ellefson • Schafer Hall 202 • 224-5436 • Joe.Ellefson@bsc.nodak.edu

bachelor’s degree programs. Since each school has slightly different requirements to complete the degree, it is important that students be in contact with the transfer school when planning a program of study.

Major concentration options include law enforcement, corrections and security. Those who complete the two year program may also find employment in certain sectors of the criminal justice field, but careful consultation with program personnel is recommended before such a decision is made.

The criminal justice options provide a broad professional background for students entering these career fields. A working knowledge of the various systems is provided by the criminal justice courses, with sociology and psychology courses aiding in the understanding of human behavior. Students should seek familiarity with bureaucratic structures and systems.

An Associate in Arts degree is awarded to those who complete requirements for the two-year degree.

Career Possibilities: Police Officer, Corrections Officer, Detective, Security Officer, Youth Bureau Officer, Narcotics Investigator, Parole/Probation Officer, County Sheriff, Highway Patrolman, Industrial Security Chief.

Technical/Online Option - Associate in Applied Science degree
CONTACT PERSON: Joe Ellefson • Schafer Hall 202 • 224-5436 • Joe.Ellefson@bsc.nodak.edu

The Criminal Justice program leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree is comprised of professional and general education courses and is designed to provide the student with a broad exposure to criminal justice theory and process. Students will also be exposed to contemporary issues and problems, along with sound philosophical insights for understanding society and the ideals of the United States system of justice.

The curriculum provides a balanced approach to both law enforcement and corrections, with supporting courses that enhance both perspectives. Students follow a more focused curriculum that allows learning the fundamentals of the field without completing the more general college requirements of the Associate in Arts degree.

The program was developed in conjunction with active criminal justice professionals who serve as members of an advisory committee.

Prospective criminal justice students should be aware that criminal justice and security employment candidates are subject to extensive background checks that may include drug screening, polygraph testing, physical and psychological examinations, and oral and/or written proficiency examinations.

Successful completion of the program does not necessarily guarantee that students will obtain employment in the field of criminal justice. The goal of the program is to provide students with an educational opportunity that prepares them for the rigors of employment competition within the scope of criminal justice career planning.

The candidate for the Associate in Applied Science must complete 60 semester hours with a cumulative grade point of 2.0.

While not designed as a transfer program, with careful course selection, graduates could complete the appropriate prerequisites to continue on with a four-year degree program.

Career Possibilities: Police Officer, Corrections Officer, Investigator, Security Officer, Deputy, Industrial Security Officer, Halfway House/Residential Facility Staff.