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The Associate of Applied Science degree in Criminology and Justice Studies prepares graduates for para-professional positions in the field of criminal justice studies. The program can serve as a foundation for advanced study in several areas, including retail security, industrial security, forensics, law and corrections. Graduates typically seek employment in probation offices, social service agencies, courts, local law enforcement offices and crime labs.

The Criminology and Justice Studies major includes the following optional concentration:

The Peace Officers Training Academy concentration is open only to students admitted to the Kent State Basic Police Academy. The coursework covers the basics of defensive tactics, firearms, driving, traffic, patrol, civil disorders and first aid. In addition, students learn investigative methods and the fundamentals of policing, the criminal justice system, constitutional law and homeland security.

Students may declare the Criminology and Justice Studies major without a concentration. That course of study is ideal for students interested in the structure, functions and issues within the criminal justice system, as well as those who want a pathway to complete Kent State’s B.A. degree in Criminology and Justice Studies.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Explain the structure and function of the criminal justice system, namely police, courts and corrections
• Explain criminal law and how it intersects with and impacts society
• Explain and compare the theories on crime, criminality and criminal justice practices
• Communicate the experiences of marginalized populations within the criminal justice system.

Delivery: Fully Online (Peace Officers Training Academy concentration not offered); mostly online and in person. Trumbull Campus (Peace Officers Training Academy concentration).