Criminal Justice Studies

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Criminal Justice Studies

Associate Degree

61 Credits | 2 Year

Financial Aid-Eligible

Ashland*, New Richmond*, Rice Lake*, Superior*, Online

*Combination of On Site, Online, and Hybrid instruction

Career Cluster: Law, Public Safety & Security

If you're passionate about helping and protecting others in your community, consider a career in the criminal justice field. Northwood Tech's Criminal Justice Studies program will prepare you with the skills to succeed in this constantly changing and evolving field. 

Program Overview

Protective services today require employees that are knowledgeable, ethical, have strong communication skills and are adaptable to ever-changing technological and societal changes. The Criminal Justice Studies Associate Degree program will prepare you for various positions in law enforcement, probation/parole, corrections, juvenile detention, police dispatching, security, or others. Additional positions in protective services may require a bachelors degree, such as with the FBI or other state/federal agencies.

Program Outcomes

Criminal Justice Studies graduates will be able to:

  • Illustrate the interrelationships of the three core components of the criminal justice system
  • Analyze situational responses
  • Apply communication skills as a criminal justice professional
  • Conduct investigations
  • Examine the professional code of ethics for a criminal justice practitioner
  • Explore personal wellness strategies for the criminal justice professions
  • Explain the role of criminal justice professionals in working with diverse populations

Technical Standards

In this program, students should be able to meet specific technical standards, which are the essential skills and abilities needed to be successful in a program, with or without reasonable accommodation. It is important to review and understand these standards before applying to the program. 

Learn More About Technical Standards for this Program

Virtual Meeting

Northwood Tech's reputation for providing employers with graduates who are equipped with the skills and latest techniques in the criminal justice field will make you a highly sought after individual. 


 

Criminal justice textbooks with handcuffs

Through case studies and group work, you'll develop the knowledge that will prepare you for employment.

Group of students participating in a group discussion

In just two years, you can have a successful career in the criminal justice field. 

Criminal justice instructor lecturing on policing strategies

Courses are relevant to the ever-changing field of criminal justice.


Academics

Classes are offered in person at each Northwood Tech campus. Coursework includes Policing Strategies, Criminal Justice Ethics, Probation/Parole, Traffic Law Enforcement and more. 

Club Activities

You can participate in the Criminal Justice Club, which provides you with additional opportunities to network and learn with professionals, attend meetings and field trips, and more. 

Learn the Latest Techniques

Northwood Tech's continuous networking with employers, professionals, and recent graduates will ensure your courses are up-to-date and applicable for your future career.  

Highly Trained, Passionate Instructors

Learn with highly-trained and passionate instructors who bring a multitude of experience to the learning environment. Every instructor is committed to your success. 


Required Courses

Criminal Justice Studies coursework includes Policing Strategies, Criminal Justice Ethics, Probation/Parole, Criminology, Traffic Law Enforcement and more. 

Explore the Required Courses

Featured Criminal Justice Studies Courses

10504167
|
UGRD
| 3 CR
Students will learn various policing strategies. Emphasis will be placed on community policing philosophies and problem solving using community resources. Understand how to identify and develop partnerships in the community to promote positive community relationships.
10504161
|
UGRD
| 3 CR
This introductory course explores the development of the American judicial system. Students will examine the operational procedures of the federal, state, municipal, and specialized court systems as they impact law enforcement and/or corrections.
10504184
|
UGRD
| 3 CR
This course will explore contemporary trends and key issues associated within the criminal justice field. Drawing from student experience in learning, students will come up with solutions for responding to current issues. Topics may include implicit bias, mental health, CIT (Crisis Intervention Training), drug/alcohol effects, social media and technology, homeland security, and other current issues. PREREQUISITE: 32 credits of 10504XXX coursework must be completed

Admissions and Tuition

Northwood Tech has an easy admission process that can be completed in one visit. Please see the details under the "Requirements and Application" section to get started.

Requirements and Application

Tuition and Fees

Northwood Tech breaks down the cost of education, so you'll have a good idea of how much your education will cost.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to help you pay for your education. It can come in the form of grants, loans, federal work-study, military and veterans benefits, division of vocational rehabilitation benefits, and scholarships. 

Learn More About Paying for College

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of the costs that you may incur while attending Northwood Technical College.

Learn More About Cost of Attendance

Estimated Total Program Tuition 2024-25*

Criminal Justice Studies

61 Credits | 2 Years

$10,048


*Tuition is an estimate and does not include any miscellaneous fees for various courses, tools, books, supplies or uniforms. Program book costs are in addition to tuition and fees and vary depending on course selection and where the books are purchased or rented. 


After the Northwood Tech Criminal Justice Studies Program

Upon completion of the program, you will earn an associate degree in Criminal Justice Studies.

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Transfer Center

Transfer your Northwood Tech credits to a four-year college to earn your bachelor's degree and beyond. 

View Transfer Center

 

Career Outlooks

Northwood Tech's graduates experience success. Learn more about the types of careers you can get after graduation.

View Career Options

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Contact

Choose a campus to view contact information, or for general assistance, please contact us.

Rice Lake Admissions Contact

Nicole Messicci

Admissions Advisor

715.788.7144

Contact

Ashland Admissions Contact

Jennifer Bednarik

Admissions Advisor

715.685.3039

Contact

New Richmond Admissions Contact

Sherry Rehnelt

Admissions Advisor

715.752.8136

Contact

Superior Admissions Contact

Anna Kalin

Admissions Advisor

715.319.7331

Contact

Basic Jail Officer Academy

The 200-hour Academy is designed for individuals who are interested in working in corrections.

Learn More

Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement 720 Academy

The Criminal Justice Academy students going through a simulation

This 720-hour Academy is designed for individuals who are interested in working as a law enforcement officer.

Learn More

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Attend an event or schedule a campus tour/program shadow.

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Take the Next Step

Are you ready to experience success? Northwood Tech staff are standing by to support you in reaching your educational and career goals, so do it. Take the leap.