AAS in Criminal Justice

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice program is an online program designed to give students a comprehensive introduction to the field of criminal justice. The program covers criminal investigations, forensic procedures, and the technical skills necessary to pursue an entry-level position in the field.* Coursework includes communications, mathematics, and an introduction to the criminal justice system, along with investigations, procedures, and various elective options in the field.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you are interested in applying to Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice, you should have an active interest in public safety. Work experience in security or law enforcement is not necessary but can be helpful in understanding the subject matter. Applicants to Kaplan University's programs should have a high school diploma or GED and be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. Since the program is offered online, applicants should have access to a computer.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice consists of 90 credits. Credit requirements are divided between 15 core credits, 40 major credits, and 35 open elective credits. Specific course requirements could change. If you are interested in enrolling in Kaplan University, speak to an Admissions Representative.

Criminal Justice Requirements

• 100/200-level Communication Course
• 100/200-level Mathematics Course
• 200-level Communication Course
• Eight Skills of the Effective Criminal Justice Student
• Introduction to the Criminal Justice System
• Criminal Investigation
• Criminal Procedure
• 100/200-level Major Electives
• Associate's Capstone in Criminal Justice
• 100-200-level Open Electives

What Are My Post-Graduation Opportunities?

Career Opportunities

After successfully completing Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice program, you could pursue employment opportunities with security companies, corrections, or law enforcement agencies. If you have a particular area of interest in the field of criminal justice (such as forensic psychology, computer crime, juvenile justice, or white collar crime), you may choose related courses when selecting electives. You could pursue these types of entry-level positions:

• Border patrol agent
• Security officer
• Customs enforcement
• Transportation security
• Court bailiff
• Court clerk

Advanced Degrees

Kaplan University's Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice program could help prepare you to pursue entry-level employment, or you may choose to further your education at the bachelor's degree level. Bachelor's programs include various areas of specialization in the field of criminal justice, such as law enforcement or homeland security. Here are several possibilities you might consider:

• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Corrections
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Forensic Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Computer Crime
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Juvenile Justice
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Homeland Security