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CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Studying criminal justice at Normandale means you want to pursue a career where you are helping, protecting and advocating for people. If you want to help make a positive change in the lives of others - this is a great place to start.   

Our two-year criminal justice program prepares you to seamlessly transfer to a four-year Minnesota State university to earn a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. 

You’ll study a broad range of criminal justice topics and come away with a foundational understanding of the criminal justice system and your important role in it.   

You may otherwise be interested in a criminal justice certificate. Learn more about that below.  

Where Will an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Take You?

With an associate degree in criminal justice from Normandale, you’ll be transfer-ready to one of five Minnesota State universities where you can pursue your bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. 

From there, your career path could go in many different directions. Graduates can choose to become police officers, probation officers, social workers, correctional officers, court clerks and more.* This will also help in careers in Federal Agencies including but not limited to the FBI, DEA, BCA, the State Department, CIA and careers in Forensics and Crime Scene Investigation.

You’ll gain valuable skills in written and interpersonal communication, critical-thinking and problem-solving. Most importantly, you’ll have the skills you need to make a positive change in society.   

*Some of these careers will require additional coursework and licensure.

What Classes Will I Take for this Criminal Justice Degree Program?

These criminal justice classes will ensure you have the skills you need to make a positive change in society. The courses you’ll take include: 

  • Interpersonal communication
  • College writing
  • Constitutional law
  • Criminology
  • Introduction to criminal justice
  • Juvenile justice
  • Community policing

What is the Criminal Justice Certificate?

The Criminal Justice Certificate is designed for students who want to prepare for police work - and who have earned an associate degree in criminal justice or bachelor’s degree in law enforcement at an accredited college or university. Coursework in practical skills is offered at the Law Enforcement Education Center in Brooklyn Park.

Learn More

Criminal Justice Program Basics

Sociology Faculty

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