Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Online (A.S.)

Mission

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice provides a foundation for understanding practical realities in criminal justice through application of theory. The program is designed to enhance career-potential for practitioners, develop individuals for baccalaureate studies, and prepare students for entry-level criminal justice professions. A law enforcement concentration leading to P.O.S.T. basic peace officer certification is offered for qualified individuals.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students in the Associate of Science in Criminal Justice (A.S.) program will:

1. Explain the infrastructure of the criminal justice system including police, courts, and corrections.
2. Demonstrate the ability to access and apply professional / scholarly literature when addressing issues in criminal justice.
3. Evaluate existing or proposed criminal justice policies or practices.
4. Articulate ethical implications of decision- making in the criminal justice profession.
5. Apply course information to experiences gained through employment or interaction with criminal justice related institutions.

Law Enforcement Concentration – P.O.S.T. Option

The Law Enforcement Concentration – P.O.S.T. option provides qualified individuals a pathway to earn basic peace officer certification through the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (P.O.S.T.). The concentration consists of specialty criminal justice courses that satisfy academic degree requirements and training requirements for the award of Georgia basic peace officer certification. Students must complete the following law enforcement concentration courses at Reinhardt University with a grade of C or higher and meet P.O.S.T. requirements: CRJ 206; CRJ 215; CRJ 254; and CRJ 275. These major courses are not available online and must be taken in person. Credit from other institutions, irrespective of title or description, will not be accepted to satisfy law enforcement concentration coursework. Applicants must meet specific entrance standards established by the Reinhardt University Public Safety Institute and be approved by the Georgia P.O.S.T. Council to enroll in courses leading to the concentration.