If you’re interested in a rewarding career where you can make a real difference in the world, consider earning a Criminal Justice A.A.S.! This program differs from the traditional A.S. program, as it is designed for graduates to go directly into police and security work. The degree is often combined with a 30-credit Police Basic Training program.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of police and detectives is expected to increase by 7% between 2016 and 2026. The A.A.S. Criminal Justice degree prepares students for this with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for entry-level positions as police officers, corrections and community supervisors, and security guards in the private sector. This program is also ideal for corrections or police professionals already working in their chosen fields who are looking to earn a degree for self-improvement and advancement.
More than 80% of graduates who also completed the Police Basic Training program are currently employed as police or corrections professionals. Completion of both programs leads toward New York State municipal police certification. The combined programs provide an ideal situation where students graduate already prepared for employment, saving their communities significant time and community resources for training.
Many Criminal Justice A.A.S. graduates do exceedingly well as developing professionals and are now in leadership positions. Graduates perform meaningful work in their community while also earning attractive salaries and benefits. Potential earnings in New York State average $78,930 at the 50% mark, which increases if employment is found with state or federal entities.
Sophie Epstein, a recent graduate, says, “I loved the Criminal Justice program at SUNY Ulster. I strongly feel that the program helped to better prepare me for success in both Police Basic Training and my career in law enforcement! The professors teach you so much more than what is in the textbooks – they teach based on their experiences in law enforcement, which made class very enjoyable! I would recommend the program to anyone who is considering entering the law enforcement field, or anyone who is looking to learn more about the criminal justice system!”
