Program: S6125 (from earned AA) or S6175 (from earned AS)

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree at Polk State College provides information and skillsets related to crime and criminality, as well as society’s crime control mechanisms. The curriculum includes content related to deviant behavior, criminal investigations, corrections, the court system, and criminal justice administration. It prepares the student for a variety of professional careers within the field of criminal justice.  

The degree provides a broad overview of the interdisciplinary field of criminal justice, integrating  criminology, sociology, psychology, legal concepts, public policies, and causes and preventative measures related to criminal behavior. A graduate of the Criminal Justice Program is prepared to begin an entry-level career as a law enforcement, corrections, probation, or parole officer; private or industry-based security officer; or to apply for a variety of other criminal justice opportunities. 

This degree is also beneficial for a current law enforcement employee who is seeking incentive benefits or career advancement. In addition, an individual who successfully completes this program is prepared for graduate studies in criminal justice-related fields. 

Concentration in Crime Scene Investigations

The Crime Scene Investigations Concentration of the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program provides the student with opportunities to master techniques for identification, collection, preservation, analysis, and development of physical and latent evidence. The student develops essential skills needed to conduct criminal investigations, protect and record vital evidence, ensure accurate evidence analysis, interpret amendments related to evidence collection, and document the crime scene and evidence for presentation in a court of law.  

A student entering this baccalaureate program with an Associate in Arts degree must choose program code S6125. 

A student entering the program with an Associate in Science degree must choose program code S6175. 

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is able to:
PLO 1: Compare and contrast the basic theories, patterns, typologies, and causes of crime. 
PLO 2: Examine the roles of the police, courts, and corrections. 
PLO 3: Apply criminal justice theories, legal concepts, and ethical principles to crime-related problems. 
PLO 4: Differentiate between the structures, functions, and interactions of key institutions in the field of criminal justice. 
PLO 5: Implement policing philosophies to include the evaluation of criminal evidence, investigation strategies, and surveillance techniques. 
PLO 6: Evaluate correctional philosophies as these relate to historical and current dilemmas in corrections. 
PLO 7: Outline legal due process, criminal procedures, the defendant’s rights, the victim’s rights, and Constitutional rights.

Crime Scene Investigations Concentration:

Upon successful completion of this program concentration, the graduate is able to: 
PLO 1: Demonstrate the essential skills needed to conduct criminal investigations, including identification, collection, and preservation of the evidence in a crime scene. 
PLO 2: Record vital physical and latent evidence to be presented in a court of law.  
PLO 3: Distinguish and discuss the amendments related to evidence collection. 
PLO 4: Demonstrate and apply critical-thinking skills, analytical abilities, research competencies, and effective written and oral communications.