Criminal Justice
Associate of Applied Science
Overview
The Protective Services Department is comprised of associate degree and certificate programs of study that can be completed in one to two years.
Following this pathway will help you earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Criminal Justice. For additional information concerning the Criminal Justice field of study or transferability, please consult with advisors for the Criminal Justice Department at (956) 721-5832.
Information
The Associate of Applied Science program in Criminal Justice is designed to meet the needs of persons seeking entry-level employment with or promotion within public or private agencies which maintain public safety, prevent crime, apprehend or rehabilitate criminals and insure social welfare. Selected courses are transferable to senior colleges or universities offering a baccalaureate degree in Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement. Students must consult with their advisor if planning to obtain a four-year degree as transfer courses vary at different institutions. Completion of the LC program prepares the graduate for entry-level employment but does not guarantee or imply employment in any law enforcement agency.
Visit www.laredo.edu/pathways to view guided pathways created for students who complete an AAS degree and the options for transfer. Speak with an academic advisor at your college to choose courses that will help you to transfer to a specific university.
Plan of Study
| Recommended Course Sequence | Semesters Offered | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | ||
| CRIJ 1301 - Introduction to Criminal Justice | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 2328 - Police Systems and Practices | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 2313 - Correctional Systems and Practices | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| ENGL 1301 - Composition I CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| MATH 1342 - Elementary Statistical Methods - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| OR | ||
| MATH 1314 - College Algebra - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 2 | ||
| CRIJ 1307 - Crime in America | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 1310 - Fundamentals of Criminal Law | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| SOCI 1301 - Introduction to Sociology - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective - History | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective - Humanities/Fine Arts Elective | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 3 | ||
| CRIJ 1313 - Juvenile Justice System | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 2323 - Legal Aspects of Law Enforcement | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| WECM Technical Course | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| PSYC 2301 - Introduction to Psychology - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| GOVT 2305 - American National Government - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 4 | ||
| CRIJ 1306 - Court Systems and Practices - CAPSTONE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 2301 - Community Resources In Corrections | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| CRIJ 2314 - Criminal Investigation | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| WECM Technical Course | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| GOVT 2306 - American State Government - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
|
WECM Technical Courses: CJLE 1327 Interviewing & Rep. Writing for Crim. Just. Prof. CJSA 1348 Ethics in Criminal Justice |
||
| AAS DEGREE MINIMUM: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS/PATHWAY TOTAL: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS | ||