This curriculum is designed to prepare a student for academic transfer to a university where requirements for a baccalaureate degree in criminal justice or corrections may be completed. Pathways include a curriculum to induce Criminal Justice and TDCJ personnel to seek an Associate of Arts Degree in which the majority of classes will transfer to a university. Students should consult the criminal justice program advisor in planning a course of study that will transfer to a University that offers criminal justice studies.

Students seeking qualifying hours to take the state licensure examination to become a Texas peace officer for local, county, or state law enforcement agencies should refer to the Law Enforcement Technology or Police Academy curriculum in this catalog. A student interested in preparing for the Texas Department of Public Safety may choose either the Criminal Justice (AA) or Law Enforcement Technology (AAS) degree plan; student should consult with program advisor(s) to determine the best degree plan for the individual’s needs.

    Students are able to achieve an AA degree in Criminal Justice via the Internet.  Students should consult a Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice advisor to assist in that process.

Texas licensed peace officers, correctional officers, and jailers may receive credit for the following courses upon completion of all other degree requirements: CJLE 1172 and CJLE 1211. TDCJ-Institutional Division active duty corrections officers may receive credit for CJCR 1307 (Correctional Systems and Practices), PHED 1107, and PHED 1123 upon completion of all other degree requirements.

Program advisor is Joe Wise, assistant professor of law enforcement technology.