This degree is the starting point for law enforcement, the court system, corrections, government agencies like the FBI, CIA and Homeland Security, Parole, Probation, Crime Scene Investigation, and Forensics
Degree & Certificate Options

Criminal Justice

AAS
Associate of Applied Science Degree | 66 Credits
Direct to Work

Criminal Justice Transfer

AA
Associate of Arts Degree | 60 Credits
Colorado Guaranteed Transfer

Homeland Security

CERT
Certificate | 30 Credits
Direct to Work, Stackable

Law Enforcement

CERT
Certificate | 18 Credits
Direct to Work, Stackable
If you are looking to pursue a career in any areas of criminal justice, like policing, court administration, or victim services, to name a few, CCD's Criminal Justice program is right for you.

As a student in the criminal justice program, you will be provided with instruction in all parts of the criminal justice system. This program features skill-based learning from industry experts along with hands-on experience in the classroom aligned with current industry trends.

This program will also advance careers for current professionals and provide the foundation to transfer to a four-year college or university. In addition, if you are interested in pursuing a career in law, you will find the study of criminal justice at CCD a great place to begin that journey.

criminal justice system instruction
Obtain a solid foundation for further study or entry into various criminal justice professions

While here, you will be introduced to both the theory and practice of the criminal justice system. Leave this program with an understanding of the nature of a crime and the personnel, institutions, and processes that prevent or respond to crime. Learn about the structure and function of the judicial system and the roles of those inside of the courtroom through various legal studies electives.

The curriculum covers crime and criminal behavior, law enforcement, courts, corrections, security, and crime scene investigation.

It helps provide a solid foundation for further study or entry into various criminal justice professions.

CCD Criminal Justice demonstration
More Information About the Program

Academic support is provided through CCD's Excel Zone, which helps students succeed by offering a variety of learning opportunities. We are located on campus on the 4th floor of the Confluence building.

CCD Online offers fully online certificates and degrees, and individual online courses to help match your busy schedule. This program offers 100 percent of its degree either online or through a hybrid program.

Your first step is to see if online learning is right for you. Online and hybrid environments offer much more flexibility but require more self-direction and self-discipline. Certain work habits, learning styles and skills contribute to a successful online or hybrid learning experience.

Online Experience Questions?
303.352.6785 | TLC@ccd.edu

Some programs and/or courses may require additional fees in addition to the base tuition and fees. High-cost course fees are used to support the maintenance and development of the course labs and are embedded within your general tuition.

View the 2024-2025 Course Specific Fees

This program is eligible for federal financial aid.

Your first step is to connect with the Financial Aid office to discover how you can afford college. Our dedicated staff and support services help you wade through all the legal language and get you past the first hurdle to completing your educational goals.

In addition, CCD has $1,000,000 available in scholarships. Learn More!

The criminal justice designation associate degree is a guaranteed transfer (GT) program

GT programs enable all college students to complete their first two years of college here at CCD and then transfer to any public college in Colorado as a junior. It is called the DWD program (Degrees with Designation). This program saves you money and time.

A two-year degree from CCD can lead to a four-year degree from:

  • Colorado Mesa University
  • Colorado State University - Global Campus
  • Metropolitan State University of Denver
  • University of Colorado - Colorado Springs
  • University of Colorado - Denver
  • University of Northern Colorado

What Can I Do with My Major?

Police officers protect lives and property. Detectives and criminal investigators gather facts and collect evidence of possible crimes. Correctional officers are responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. Employment of police and detectives is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026.

Studying criminal justice gets your foot in the door to enter careers that are essential to any city.

  • Police Officer
  • Correctional Officer
  • Private Investigator
  • Forensic Science Technician

How Much Can I Expect to Earn?

The median annual wage for police and detectives was $74,910 in May 2023. Correctional Officer's wages average $53,300 ($25.62 per hour) in May 2023.

The information provided here is by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook.

The homeland security certificate seamlessly transfers to the A.A.S. criminal justice degree. Complete a certificate and start working while you study and finish your associate degree.

Important Dates