Criminal Justice

A designated Professional Peace Officer Education Program by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training, this degree program will prepare you for successful completion of all the educational and practical requirements necessary to apply for peace officer licensing, so you can go on to enjoy a rewarding career in the high-demand field of law enforcement. Career opportunities can be found with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Corrections, Department of Homeland Security, private security agencies and local corrections agencies and departments.

Classroom coursework for the program combines with hands-on practice to provide comprehensive training in the critical thinking, communication and practical skills you need to be prepared for the challenges and joys of a career in law enforcement. You’ll benefit from instructors’ extensive academic and practical experience within the field. 

The program covers:

• Basic knowledge and career skills, and values and attitudes consistent with professional employment opportunities in the criminal justice system
• Learning experiences to prepare you for the challenges of law enforcement careers
• Knowledge, skills and values for a smooth transition to an advanced degree program in criminal justice
• Academic requirements for peace officer licensing established 
• The necessity of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities
• Code of behavior consistent with the professional and ethical standards of police officers and criminal justice professionals
• Community involvement and service

The Correctional Officer certificate program provides pre-employment preparation or, for working correctional officers, continuing education credits. Students who complete the certificate can transfer into the Criminal Justice degree program for peace officer licensing.

Accreditation

See program accreditation details at Accreditation.

Our Associate of Applied Science degree programs make it possible for you to seamlessly transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue an advanced degree. There are many advantages of beginning your postsecondary studies at M State, including cost savings due to our low tuition rate and smaller class sizes with personalized instruction. Learn more about your transfer options at Transfer Programs and Pathways.