Criminal Justice A.A.

Defend and advocate for justice

Get prepared to uphold the laws or prevent crime from occurring—now and in the future. With your Associate in Arts in Criminal Justice, you are guided by experienced faculty toward a clear pathway to graduation as you learn employable skills.

Your degree program uses an interactive lecture and discussion model. To ensure mastery of concepts, you do the day’s work before class and then interact with other students and the professor during class.

What can you do with an A.A. in Criminal Justice?

An A.A. in Criminal Justice ensures you’re prepared for a variety of bachelor’s programs—not just criminal justice. You can work in federal law enforcement, the courts and judicial process, and the corrections system.

Work with an Academic Success Advisor who recommends the best way to transfer.

Start right away with your associate degree in roles such as:

police officer
deputy sheriff
correctional officer

With additional education, you can become a:

federal agent
lawyer
juvenile caseworker
U.S. marshal

Highlights

Credit for Prior Learning

Receive college credit for what you already know.
100% Online

This degree can be completed 100% online. It’s up to you!
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).
Transfer Degree

Save money on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice.
Program Length: 2 Years

Finish in 2 years as a full-time student.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Maintain order in courts of law.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $36,986
  
  Median
  
  $59,126
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $114,974
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $17.78
  
  Median
  
  $28.42
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $55.27
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  45.8%
  
  Certificate
  
  20.84%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  33.35%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. May assist parents, arrange adoptions, and find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. In schools, they address such problems as teenage pregnancy, misbehavior, and truancy. May also advise teachers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $48,621
  
  Median
  
  $66,796
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $114,294
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $23.37
  
  Median
  
  $32.11
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $54.94
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5.51%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  68.66%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  25.83%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $63,299
  
  Median
  
  $116,336
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $230,149
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $30.43
  
  Median
  
  $55.93
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $110.65
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  8.93%
  
  Certificate
  
  6.72%
  
  Some college
  
  1.27%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5.33%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  63.38%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  14.38%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Guard inmates in penal or rehabilitative institutions in accordance with established regulations and procedures. May guard prisoners in transit between jail, courtroom, prison, or other point. Includes deputy sheriffs and police who spend the majority of their time guarding prisoners in correctional institutions.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $61,292
  
  Median
  
  $88,301
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $109,352
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $29.46
  
  Median
  
  $42.45
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $52.57
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  92.43%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  7.57%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Investigate and inspect persons, common carriers, goods, and merchandise, arriving in or departing from the United States or between states to detect violations of immigration and customs laws and regulations.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $63,448
  
  Median
  
  $116,306
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $132,050
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $30.50
  
  Median
  
  $55.91
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $63.48
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  39.01%
  
  Certificate
  
  10.12%
  
  Some college
  
  14.2%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  7.33%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  29.33%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Conduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws to prevent or solve crimes.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $57,860
  
  Median
  
  $106,343
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $174,854
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $27.81
  
  Median
  
  $51.12
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $84.06
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  32.48%
  
  Certificate
  
  19.72%
  
  Some college
  
  17.86%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  19.95%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  10%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Plan and direct disaster response or crisis management activities, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures for natural (e.g., hurricanes, floods, earthquakes), wartime, or technological (e.g., nuclear power plant emergencies or hazardous materials spills) disasters or hostage situations.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $64,765
  
  Median
  
  $108,859
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $185,314
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $31.13
  
  Median
  
  $52.33
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $89.09
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  4.55%
  
  Some college
  
  9.09%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  4.55%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  68.18%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  13.64%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

View more careers

Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

complete the admission process
choose an academic program
enroll in first-semester classes
get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

View program in catalog

Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
ENG 121	ENG 121 English Composition I Class Description This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
MTH 142	MTH 142 General Education Statistics Class Description This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Science or Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
PSY 121	PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology Class Description This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 121	CRJ 121 Introduction to Criminal Justice Class Description This course examines the legal process and the administration of justice in American society. Students will be exposed to the criminal process from the police function through adjudication, sentencing, and corrections, as well as the social, moral, and political issues involved in the administration of justice in a free society.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 121
Course Title	ENG 121 English Composition I Class Description This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 142
Course Title	MTH 142 General Education Statistics Class Description This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Science or Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PSY 121
Course Title	PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology Class Description This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 121
Course Title	CRJ 121 Introduction to Criminal Justice Class Description This course examines the legal process and the administration of justice in American society. Students will be exposed to the criminal process from the police function through adjudication, sentencing, and corrections, as well as the social, moral, and political issues involved in the administration of justice in a free society.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of MTH 142 and PSY 121.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ENG 122	ENG 122 English Composition II Class Description This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CMM 121	CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech Class Description For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
SOC 121	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 122	CRJ 122 Introduction to Policing Class Description This course examines the history, structure, and behavior of police in America. Students will be exposed to various topics, such as: the heritage of American policing; police systems including federal, state and local policing; the patrol function; police discretion; police-community relations; police accountability; and police and the Constitution.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 123	CRJ 123 Introduction to Criminology Class Description This course is designed to familiarize the student with the social and legal aspects of crime in American society. An emphasis is placed on the definition of crime and deviance, the nature and extent of the crime problem, the history of criminology, criminological theory, violent crime, economic crime, public-order crime, and victimology.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 122
Course Title	ENG 122 English Composition II Class Description This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CMM 121
Course Title	CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech Class Description For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 121
Course Title	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 122
Course Title	CRJ 122 Introduction to Policing Class Description This course examines the history, structure, and behavior of police in America. Students will be exposed to various topics, such as: the heritage of American policing; police systems including federal, state and local policing; the patrol function; police discretion; police-community relations; police accountability; and police and the Constitution.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 123
Course Title	CRJ 123 Introduction to Criminology Class Description This course is designed to familiarize the student with the social and legal aspects of crime in American society. An emphasis is placed on the definition of crime and deviance, the nature and extent of the crime problem, the history of criminology, criminological theory, violent crime, economic crime, public-order crime, and victimology.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of SOC 121.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
BIO 120	BIO 120 Environmental Biology Class Description This course focuses on the relationships between humans and the environment. Topics include ecology, population biology, modification of our environment, resource use, land use planning, pollution, and energy. The goal is to better understand the biological and social problems that human use and misuse of the environment cause. Students may not receive credit for both BIO 120 and BIO 140. NOTE: Required, local field trips are scheduled during several (approximate1/2) of the lab periods. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from field sites. This course is recommended for non-science majors needing a one-semester lab science course.	4	Credit for prior learning available
MUS 124	MUS 124 Music Appreciation Class Description This course introduces standard concert music through intensive guided listening. Representative works by major composers from each period are chosen to illustrate the principal styles, forms and techniques of vocal and instrumental music.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 124	CRJ 124 Introduction to Corrections Class Description This course examines the history, philosophy, and administration of corrections in America. An emphasis will be placed on philosophies of punishment, sentencing strategies, the prison community, alternatives to incarceration, and various reform efforts. Critical issues facing corrections will be examined.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 221	CRJ 221 Criminal Law Class Description This course explores the history and development of the criminal law as a system of social control. An emphasis is placed on legal principles and substantive law. Elements of a crime, specific statutes, and various affirmative defenses are analyzed.	3	Dual credit options available
HUM 127	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	BIO 120
Course Title	BIO 120 Environmental Biology Class Description This course focuses on the relationships between humans and the environment. Topics include ecology, population biology, modification of our environment, resource use, land use planning, pollution, and energy. The goal is to better understand the biological and social problems that human use and misuse of the environment cause. Students may not receive credit for both BIO 120 and BIO 140. NOTE: Required, local field trips are scheduled during several (approximate1/2) of the lab periods. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from field sites. This course is recommended for non-science majors needing a one-semester lab science course.
Credits	4
Credit for prior learning available

Course Highlights
Course Code	MUS 124
Course Title	MUS 124 Music Appreciation Class Description This course introduces standard concert music through intensive guided listening. Representative works by major composers from each period are chosen to illustrate the principal styles, forms and techniques of vocal and instrumental music.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 124
Course Title	CRJ 124 Introduction to Corrections Class Description This course examines the history, philosophy, and administration of corrections in America. An emphasis will be placed on philosophies of punishment, sentencing strategies, the prison community, alternatives to incarceration, and various reform efforts. Critical issues facing corrections will be examined.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 221
Course Title	CRJ 221 Criminal Law Class Description This course explores the history and development of the criminal law as a system of social control. An emphasis is placed on legal principles and substantive law. Elements of a crime, specific statutes, and various affirmative defenses are analyzed.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUM 127
Course Title	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of BIO 120, MUS 124 and HUM 127.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
PSC 122	PSC 122 State and Local Politics Class Description This course introduces students to state and local politics in the United States. It is designed to help students better understand the political institutions and processes of subnational governments. The course adopts a comparative political systems approach that focuses on the variation found among state and local governments. The purpose of the course is to understand why these differences exist, and what effect they have on both the electoral and policy making processes and their outcomes.	3	Online/Virtual options available
PHI 125	PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics Class Description In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.	3	Global citizenship Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 222	CRJ 222 Criminal Procedural Law Class Description This course exposes the student to the field of criminal procedural law. The course will examine certain civil liberties guaranteed in the Bill of Rights to the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions and how they relate to law enforcement procedures of arrest, search and seizure, and interrogation. An emphasis will be placed on the rulings of the U.S. Supreme and Federal Appellate Courts as well as on the rulings of the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts. Basic rules of evidence and formal charging will also be discussed.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CRJ 229	CRJ 229 Juvenile Delinquency Class Description This course examines juvenile delinquency in American society, including the historical, behavioral, legal, and correctional aspects of delinquency. Emphasis is placed on the nature and extent of delinquency in the United States, the traditional theories of delinquent behavior, and the legal processing of juvenile offenders.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
ESC 128	ESC 128 Great Mysteries of the Earth Class Description This course is for those interested in examining mysteries, myths, and pseudoscience of the natural world through the application of the scientific method. Content areas such as creation and history of the Earth, mysterious places and landforms, mythical creatures and the fossil record, epic natural disasters, and the power of crystals will be explored. Major topic examples may include Atlantis, Talismans and Crystal Healing, Noah’s Flood, and Bigfoot.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PSC 122
Course Title	PSC 122 State and Local Politics Class Description This course introduces students to state and local politics in the United States. It is designed to help students better understand the political institutions and processes of subnational governments. The course adopts a comparative political systems approach that focuses on the variation found among state and local governments. The purpose of the course is to understand why these differences exist, and what effect they have on both the electoral and policy making processes and their outcomes.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PHI 125
Course Title	PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics Class Description In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
Credits	3
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 222
Course Title	CRJ 222 Criminal Procedural Law Class Description This course exposes the student to the field of criminal procedural law. The course will examine certain civil liberties guaranteed in the Bill of Rights to the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions and how they relate to law enforcement procedures of arrest, search and seizure, and interrogation. An emphasis will be placed on the rulings of the U.S. Supreme and Federal Appellate Courts as well as on the rulings of the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts. Basic rules of evidence and formal charging will also be discussed.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CRJ 229
Course Title	CRJ 229 Juvenile Delinquency Class Description This course examines juvenile delinquency in American society, including the historical, behavioral, legal, and correctional aspects of delinquency. Emphasis is placed on the nature and extent of delinquency in the United States, the traditional theories of delinquent behavior, and the legal processing of juvenile offenders.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ESC 128
Course Title	ESC 128 Great Mysteries of the Earth Class Description This course is for those interested in examining mysteries, myths, and pseudoscience of the natural world through the application of the scientific method. Content areas such as creation and history of the Earth, mysterious places and landforms, mythical creatures and the fossil record, epic natural disasters, and the power of crystals will be explored. Major topic examples may include Atlantis, Talismans and Crystal Healing, Noah’s Flood, and Bigfoot.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of PSC 121, PHI 125 and ESC 128.

Total Credit Hours

60

Learn how CLC helps you transfer

Explore transfer options

Start at CLC and continue with a 4-year school to earn your bachelor's degree. CLC has partnerships with many colleges and universities, covering a wide range of programs.

Our Guaranteed Transfer Partnerships (GTAs) with a select number of schools guarantee admission to students who meet specific criteria.

Criminal Justice at CLC

Get the bigger picture

An A.A. in Criminal Justice is just one possible way to study legal studies and public safety. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Criminal Justice Program Overview

Apply now: It's easy and free

Complete the application form to begin your program.

Then a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions and get you onboarded. Explore steps to apply at CLC.

Apply to CLC

Frequently asked questions

The Associate in Arts in Criminal Justice is 60 total credit hours and takes an average of 2 years to complete. Develop your knowledge and skills in:
- verbal and written communication skills
- critical thinking
- intrapersonal skills
- interpersonal skills
- computer software proficiency
Most of your courses are focused on general education requirements in this program. Compared to the Associate in Applied Science in criminal justice, the A.A. requires fewer criminal justice classes, so you graduate ready to transfer to a 4-year university in about the same time.
Make your decision to stay with the transfer A.A. or switch to the career A.A.S. degree by completion of your second semester.
CLC's criminal justice program reflects the larger ethnically diverse community of the college. College of Lake County is committed to ALL students. You are welcome here. Learn about our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
You can complete your Criminal Justice degree 100% online or in person. Attend class in the way that works best for your learning style.
- Virtual Live: Learn remotely in real-time. Take classes taught live via Zoom.
- Online: Have the flexibility to complete coursework without scheduled meetings while staying actively engaged in a fully online environment.
- In-person: Keep your degree on track with classes that meet face-to-face, providing you with opportunities to interact in person with faculty and peers.

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Visit us

Get a feel for life on campus when you register for a tour. We'd love to show you around. Oh, and bring family and friends along for the fun, if you want!

Take a tour

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!

Defend and advocate for justice

What can you do with an A.A. in Criminal Justice?

Highlights

Credit for Prior Learning

100% Online

Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Transfer Degree

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

Bailiffs

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Child, Family, and School Social Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Compliance Managers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Correctional Officers and Jailers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Customs and Border Protection Officers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Emergency Management Directors

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help getting started?

Recommended Pathway

Icon Key

Semester 1 14 Credits

Semester 2 15 Credits

Semester 3 16 Credits

Semester 4 15 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Learn how CLC helps you transfer

Criminal Justice at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Apply now: It's easy and free

Frequently asked questions

How long is this program?

Will I belong at CLC?

Can I take my classes online?

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

Request info

Visit us

Get started