Criminal Justice

 

Overview & Outcomes

Shoreline's program is one of the most respected sources for criminal justice education in the State of Washington. All of the faculty are either former or current law enforcement professionals.  We offer a variety of courses to prepare students for either immediate employment or transfer to a 4 year college or university. The program is further enhanced by an Advisory Board made up of working professionals in the field, from street level to command level officers.

 

Shoreline graduates are have been employed in the following capacities:

• Washington State Patrol
• municipal and county law enforcement
• federal agencies
• the practice of law
• private security
• private investigations
• corrections
• social service agencies
• as criminal justice professors and authors

Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary program that studies crime and society's response to crime. Students will gain knowledge of the criminal justice system, legal procedures and U.S. law. The program explores relevant ethical and social issues and promotes self-awareness. Students will also develop skills in human relations, leadership, analytical reasoning and communication and learn methods for effective police patrol and strategies for preventing and investigating criminal activities. 

 

How the Two Degrees are Different

The 90 credit Associate in Arts transfer degree is designed to meet the general education requirements at Washington State four-year institutions and prepares students for entrance in baccalaureate degree programs in Law and Criminal Justice.

 

The 90 credit Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences degree prepares graduates for employment in municipal, county, state or federal law enforcement, juvenile and adult correction facilities, private and corporate security/investigation firms.

 

Career Opportunities—What can I do with a Degree in Criminal Justice?
Students who study Law and Criminal Justice are prepared for a broad range of careers in the criminal justice field.  Criminal Justice is also an excellent major for graduate study in criminology, forensic psychology, social work, and law. The employment outlook is very good with job growth expected to continue over the next decade. Successful employment in many positions – particularly law enforcement positions - is dependent upon passing competitive entrance examinations, meeting various medical requirements, and passing background investigations. Good performance and additional training can enhance opportunities for advancement.