Criminal Justice

Division of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
Associate Dean: Deborah Beall

A rewarding, action-oriented career in Criminal Justice begins with a balanced combination of law enforcement theory and practical experience. Anchored in a solid curriculum that includes liberal arts courses, the Criminal Justice program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, security, investigation, corrections, military intelligence, and other related professions. To qualify for positions in the criminal justice field, graduates usually must pass a written civil service examination, physical agility tests and are subject to background investigations.

Graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, the causes of criminal conduct, and the response to criminal behavior;
• Demonstrate beginning application of law;
• Understand the value of ethical behavior in the administration of justice;
• Apply critical thinking in criminal justice;
• Apply beginning technical proficiencies;
• Use appropriate communication skills;
• Demonstrate awareness of our pluralistic society to foster understanding and tolerance.

Hands-on experience combines with studies in government, law, psychology, and literature to develop the competence needed for the variety of demands placed daily on criminal justice personnel. Recognized throughout the northeast as an exceptional educational facility, SUNY CCC features state-of-the-art investigative tools. It is also a New York State regional training center that certifies law enforcement officers.

Newly added to this program is a Law Enforcement Track. Students who choose this option will attend CCC’s Southern Tier Law Enforcement track typically in their fourth and final semester. Graduates in the Law Enforcement Track will have attained a level of expertise in the areas of New York State laws, crime scene investigations, physical training, defensive tactics, emergency medical services, emergency vehicle operations, and many other ancillary police activities sufficient for New York State Phase I Certification. Graduates will receive both an Associate in Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice and Police Basic Training certification. Students interested in this option must apply; acceptance is not guaranteed and is determined in part based on successful completion of a background check, physical fitness requirements, and an oral board interview.

*Note that the Southern Tier Law Enforcement Academy is offered in the Spring semester only. Students who begin this program in Spring or Summer semesters will require careful advising to ensure preparation for an academy session prior to their final semester.