The number of careers in the field of Criminal Justice continues to expand. Including careers in both the public and private sectors. Careers include Law Enforcement, Adult Corrections, Juvenile Correction, Adult and Juvenile Probation and Parole, Private Investigations, and Security. Security careers include private and personal security, commercial security, industrial security, public security, retail, information and Homeland Security. The U.S. Department of Labor projects continued job growth in all of these fields. The Associate of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice provides the education needed for entry level employment in the career field. It may also help the student achieve promotion after gaining employment.
The program offers a varied schedule of courses to meet the students’ needs, including traditional classes at varied times at the different campuses, on-line courses, an investigations lab, a computer lab with interactive learning programs, and intern programs with local agencies. This program may begin with dual enrollment for high school students via the Pathways programs. Students are instructed by faculty who have vast experience in all aspects of criminal justice and are readily available to help students. Students may tailor their studies to concentrate in the area of their interest. The program also prepares the students in critical thinking and work-place skills employers demand. The program will also provide students with a sense of professionalism and community service necessary for a career in Criminal Justice.
Special Requirements
Physical Requirements: Students must be in good physical and psychological health. Students may be asked to provide documentation of a recent physical examination. Many health programs require the student to be able to safely lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are made for students with disabilities. However, some disabilities may prohibit students from completing program specific competencies or gaining employment. Students with disabilities that may interfere with completing program competencies are advised to contact the School of Health, Wellness & Public Safety (HWPS) Office for more information.
Transportation: Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus training sites. (Clinical courses at hospitals, internships, etc.)
Many careers at the state and Federal level require a minimum of a 4 year bachelor’s degree. The Criminal Justice courses from CNM are transferable to the 4 year colleges and universities in New Mexico which have a CJ degree. A copy of the transfer matrix is located on the New Mexico Department of Higher Education home page. The CNM Criminal Justice program also has several articulation agreements with state colleges and universities where our graduates may transfer the degree over as the first two years of study for a 4 year degree. Students who graduate from an accredited state law enforcement or corrections academy may receive up to 22 hours of course credit in the core curriculum.
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