Administration of Justice, AA (AJS.AA)

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The Associate of Arts in Administration of Justice prepares students for employment in the area of judicial studies, law enforcement, and corrections. This program provides students with opportunities for continuing education and professional growth such as career promotions. Students wishing to transfer to four-year institutions will have the academic foundation applicable to various career fields such as correctional or patrol officers, deputies, park rangers, fish and game wardens, and court officers. For more information regarding the Administration of Justice, AA, see the Administration of Justice webpage.

Note: For a course to be eligible for transfer, the student must receive a “C” or better. Acceptance of a transfer course is determined by the receiving institution.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

Employ ethical considerations and professional standards in the administration of justice, enabling students to navigate moral dilemmas in criminal justice scenarios. (1, 3, 4, 5)
Analyze criminal justice data to make informed decisions and contribute to evidence-based practices within the field. (2, 4, 5, 6)
Utilize critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills as required by criminal justice professionals. (2, 3)
Work in a variety of careers in the criminal justice sector, including public law enforcement agencies. (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

Recommended Program Pathway

NOTE: Courses with an asterik (*) indicates the course is a program requirement.

First Semester: 15 credits

ENG 101 - English Composition I Credits: 3 *
PHI 101 - Introduction to Philosophy Credits: 3 *
AJS 101 - Introduction to Administration of Justice Credits: 3 *
AJS 109 - Substantive Criminal Law Credits: 3 *
MAT 142 - College Mathematics Credits: 3 or higher
NOTES:
- Review your academic plan and confirm your course sequence with advisor.
- Ensure financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans are up to date.
- Explore campus resources such as tutoring, student life, and career services.

Second Semester: 19 credits

AJS 212 - Juvenile Justice Procedures Credits: 3 *
AJS 230 - The Police Function Credits: 3 *
SOC 131 - Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3 *
ENG 102 - English Composition II Credits: 3 *
POS 120 - American National Government Credits: 3
Any course within the Natural Sciences category of the AGEC Credits: 4
NOTES:
- Research career interests or transfer options related to your program of study. (If interested in transferring to another college or organization, start reviewing requirements and opportunities.)
- Use academic success resources to strengthen study strategies and time management.
- Check your progress and adjust as needed to stay on track.

Third Semester: 15 credits

AJS 240 - The Correction Function Credits: 3 *
AJS 260 - Procedural Criminal Law Credits: 3 *
PHI 151 - Ethics Credits: 3 *
PSY 101 - Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3 *
COM 121 - Interpersonal Communication Credits: 3
or
COM 151 - Public Speaking Credits: 3
NOTES:
- Review progress toward graduation and update your academic plan if needed.
- Prepare application materials such as resumes, personal statements, or transfer documents.
- Track important program deadlines, testing requirements, or prerequisites.
- Apply for or schedule any required exams, certifications, or licensure assessments as needed for your program.

Fourth Semester: 18 credits

AJS 225 - Criminology Credits: 3 *
AJS 245 - Ethics in Criminal Justice Credits: 3 *
AJS 270 - Community Policing Credits: 3 *
AJS 275 - Criminal Investigation Credits: 3 *
PSY 234 - Social Psychology Credits: 3
or
PSY 270 - Abnormal Psychology Credits: 3
Any course within the Social and Behavioral Sciences category of the AGEC  Credits: 3

Suggested additional Social and Behavioral Sciences AGEC  courses:
PSY 234
SOC 132
SOC 133
SOC 136
SOC 140

Course substitutions allowed for General Education in the AGEC  as long as it is relevant to the program in place of a COM course:
SPA 101  and/ or SPA 102
ENG 136
ENG 138  in place of PHI 101/ PHI 151
ASL 101  and/ or ASL 102
NOTES:
- Submit your graduation application and verify completion of eligibility.
- Finalize applications for transfer institutions, programs, or certifications, if applicable. (If planning to transfer, confirm all necessary materials and deadlines.)
- Ensure that all financial obligations, forms, and holds are cleared.
- Celebrate your accomplishments and explore the next steps, including transfer, employment, or continuing education.