Prepare for a career in criminal justice, including law enforcement, corrections and related fields. Choose from certificate programs or an associate’s degree that enables you to transfer to a four-year college.
Careers
The Criminal Justice program prepares adults for the rigors and responsibilities of these important careers. Traditional classroom instruction is combined with "in-the-field" internship opportunities, jail and prison tours, and police ride-alongs, giving you the balanced training, experiences and connections you need to begin a rewarding career in criminal justice.
Transfer
Any associate's degree earned through the Criminal Justice program is also a Direct Transfer Associate, which is transferable to any public or private four-year college or university.
Central Washington University offers its Law and Justice bachelor's degree program on the Pierce College Fort Steilacoom campus, providing Pierce students an easy, convenient way to earn a four-year degree.
Transfer Institution Information
Course Maps
No prerequisite courses are required for the Criminal Justice program, but students are advised to take a skills assessment test through the testing center to ensure successful class placement.
Most associate's degrees can be earned by a full-time student in about two years, while certificates take roughly a year to complete. The Criminal Justice program certificates and degrees require 35–104 credits.
Career Pathway Course Maps
About the Program
Any past criminal history may be detrimental to finding a job in the Criminal Justice field. If you have these concerns, we encourage you to speak with a Criminal Justice program advisor.
Women of Justice Forum
The Women of Justice Forum is designed to shine a spotlight on women in a variety of criminal justice careers. Attendees have the unique opportunity to learn more about the inspiration, challenges and triumphs of nontraditional voices of the criminal justice system. The event features a panel of women who share their experiences working in what many consider to be a male-dominated field.