Associate in Science Degree Program
Hegis Code: 5505
NYSED Code: 79415
Program Description
Students who complete this program earn an Associate in Science degree. The Criminal Justice program is designed to offer an educational experience for criminal justice practitioners, individuals seeking employment in the field, and concerned citizens wishing to become better informed about the administration of justice. Graduates can expect their college studies to prepare them to go on to baccalaureate studies or to accept employment related to criminal justice.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the completion of the AS in Criminal Justice Degree program a student will be able to
- Demonstrate an understanding of the overall criminal justice system in the United States, its history, development, organization, and procedures;
- Describe the development and sources of law in the United States;
- Define and explain the basic precepts of criminal law as it applies to the state of New York;
- Summarize theories of the nature of crime, the causes of criminal behavior and the methods of treating and preventing crime;
- Describe the problems associated with the major sources of crime data;
- Discuss the social, gender, age, and racial differences in crime rates;
- Explain the role and function of police including police agencies relationships with their communities;
- Define and explain the major reform movements which have substantially impacted the policing profession in America;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the American judiciary by describing the dual court system and their respective levels;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the correctional system from its beginning through modern trends including the basic structures of adult and juvenile corrections;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the U.S. Constitution and the constitutional implications of criminal procedure in the United States as applied to arrest, use of force, and search and seizure;
- Demonstrate an understanding of the current trends, problems and concerns of contemporary criminal justice, including terrorism, hate crime, cyber crime, and societal violence;
- Demonstrate an understanding of and a commitment to the moral, ethical, and legal obligations of criminal justice professionals;
- Research current criminal justice topics and issues and apply them to operational activities;
- Utilize critical thinking and problem solving skills to formulate, present, and defend logical arguments;
- Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate using multiple mediums (oral & written) individually and collectively;
- Develop techniques of working productively with others.
Employment Potential
Graduates of the program have obtained professional careers in the criminal justice system at the local, State, and federal levels. Although some graduates begin their careers immediately after completing this Associate in Science degree, most continue their academic studies at a four‐year institution and embark on their careers after completing baccalaureate degree requirements. In addition, some graduates become lawyers after attending law school.
SUNY Ulster’s Criminal Justice graduates are currently pursuing careers with the Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Customs, Border Patrol, New York State Police, New York Department of Corrections Services, New York State University Police, New York/New Jersey Port Authority Police, Ulster County Sheriff’s Department, Ulster County Probation Department, and various local police departments, including New York City.
Requirements for Program Entry
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Satisfactory placement in Entering Student Assessment
Developmental Assistance Available
For students who do not meet basic reading and math requirements or who have other learning issues, extra assistance is readily available through SUNY Ulster’s Learning Center, The Gary and Janaki Math Center, the Writing Center, the Peer and Friend Tutor Program, and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors.
For More Information
admissions@sunyulster.edu
1‐800‐724‐0833 ext. 5018 or 5022
James Truitt
Chairperson, Criminal Justice and Human Services
Office: Hardenbergh Hall, HAR 120
Phone: 800:724‐0833, ext. 5156 or 845:687‐5156
E‐mail: truittj@sunyulster.edu
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