Protect and Serve with a Criminal Justice Degree
Earn a criminal justice degree and prepare for real-world roles in law enforcement, corrections and related fields. STLCC’s associate in applied science (AAS) program focuses on how the legal system operates, from policing and courts to corrections and community safety.
This program prepares you for entry-level roles in criminal justice fields and helps you build a strong foundation for career growth and public service.
What is Criminal Justice at St. Louis Community College?
STLCC’s criminal justice AAS prepares you to begin a career in law enforcement, corrections, courts and related justice fields. The program introduces you to the major parts of the U.S. criminal justice system—how they work, how they connect and how they affect communities. You’ll also explore the impact of social and legal issues on public safety.
You’ll study key areas such as:
- How law enforcement, courts and corrections operate.
- Constitutional rights and legal procedures.
- The nature of crime, criminal behavior and public safety responses.
- Effective interviewing and written documentation skills.
- The influence of historical and contemporary social contexts on justice work.
What Can You Do with a Criminal Justice Associate Degree?
A criminal justice associate degree from STLCC can prepare you for entry-level roles across the justice system. These jobs often involve public safety, investigation, case coordination or court support, depending on the setting.
Graduates often begin working in areas such as:
- Law enforcement, including patrol or community policing
- Security and investigative services
- Case management or emergency dispatch
- Correctional facilities
- Court and legal administration
This degree also gives you flexibility. You can enter the workforce after graduation or continue your education toward a bachelor’s degree to pursue more advanced roles in criminal justice and public service.
AAS in Criminal Justice
- Degree offered: Associate in applied science
Certificate of Proficiency (CP) also available - Locations: Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec, Online
- AAS Hours to complete: 60
- CP Hours to complete: 30
- Program contact name: Jennifer Lorentz
- Program contact email: jmoldthan@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $122 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Criminal Justice Program
Graduate With Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save more than $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third less than other local institutions. Plus, we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers: day and evening, in-person, live virtual lecture, online and hybrid.
Expert Faculty
STLCC draws its faculty members from professional ranks, including judges, lawyers, police officers, detectives and federal agents. Students will learn from working professionals who take them far beyond the textbook and share insight into real cases.
Hands-on Learning
STLCC covers hands-on job skills that others don’t teach. Students will gain a working knowledge of criminal law and procedures, constitutional law and rules of evidence and criminal investigations.
STLCC. What's your reason?