Program: AS-25900

The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice Technology degree program is designed to prepare an individual with the cross-functional skills necessary for entry into the criminal justice profession. The program curriculum focuses on organizations and administration within the criminal justice system and includes the fields of corrections, criminal law, juvenile justice, and criminal investigation.

This degree program prepares the individual to work in law enforcement, corrections, the probation and parole arenas, private and industry security positions, and other criminal justice fields. It also provides an educational path for any sworn officer who has passed Florida’s certification examinations in law enforcement, corrections, and the probation and parole fields. This program is also beneficial for an employee of a criminal justice agency who is seeking incentive benefits or career enhancement.

Certain courses in this program require placement at the college level or satisfaction of developmental education requirements in reading, writing, and mathematics.

Note: Regardless of any degree earned, in order to be a sworn law enforcement or corrections officer, an individual must successfully complete a state-certified training academy, such as Polk State College’s Institute of Public Safety, and pass the state examination.

Sworn Law Enforcement or Corrections Officers

A student who has passed the Florida Criminal Justice Law Enforcement certification exam or Correctional Standards certification exam is eligible to receive articulated credits toward this degree program. The student should see an advisor or refer to Polk State College’s Criminal Justice Program website at http://www.polk.edu/cj for details. The individual must present proof of successfully passing the state examination to the Registrar’s Office prior to graduation to be awarded these credits.  

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate is able to:
PLO 1: Discuss and apply the concepts and principles of the criminal justice system and  criminology.
PLO 2: Identify and discuss criminal investigation procedures, including the rules that govern obtaining and using evidence.
PLO 3: Identify and describe the purpose and goals of the corrections system.
PLO 4: Describe the causes and challenges of juvenile delinquency.
PLO 5: Explain the role of law enforcement administration in the criminal justice profession.
PLO 6: Describe and apply law enforcement operational procedures.
PLO 7: Interpret criminal and constitutional law, including significant case rulings affecting the criminal justice system.
PLO 8: Identify issues related to human diversity in the criminal justice system.
PLO 9: Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.