Criminal Justice — Law Enforcement
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Downtown Milwaukee, Mequon and Oak Creek Campuses

Program code: 10-504-1

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

This page was last updated July 2007.

Overview — Criminal Justice — Law Enforcement is an associate degree program designed to prepare you for employment in law enforcement at the state, local, and federal levels, as well as in the field of private security. The program includes an opportunity for participation in an optional pair of courses as internships within law enforcement agencies. A certificate is available within the program with courses that meet state of Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board objectives.

Career Outlook — Police officers and private security personnel are needed to maintain public order and safety for all of the people in our nation. Currently the need for security and order has increased, and trained professionals are in demand. Typical positions available to program graduates include police officer, deputy sheriff, loss prevention/private security agents, police communications and record maintenance specialists, investigator and telecommunicator.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Upon completion of the program, employers will expect you to be able to:

• Determine the nature of a problem and decide on a legal and logical course of action
• Recall details on specific people or incidents and properly document the details for future use in civil or criminal proceedings
• Deal with persons of all cultures on a professional basis
• Exhibit emotional stability and react calmly in emergency situations
• Develop skills for the efficient and safe use of equipment, firearms and vehicles
• Possess a broad understanding of government, the criminal justice process, and supporting agencies

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment

Your employment prospects will be enhanced if you are in sound mental and physical condition, and able to pass a rigid physical examination. Desirable physical attributes include average vision, normal hearing and good depth perception. It is important also to be a U.S. citizen, have a valid driver’s license, and have no police record.

Future Opportunities — Successful completion of this program qualifies you to enroll in basic recruit training leading to certification as a law enforcement officer. Some law enforcement agencies list an associate degree as a preemployment requirement. You may also acquire knowledge that may be acceptable in lieu of other agency requirements. If you are interested in a baccalaureate degree upon completion of the program, check with a program counselor or advisor, and the institution you plan to attend regarding the transfer of MATC credits.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Deputy Sheriff
Investigator
Police Officer
Private Security Professional

Related Programs:

Emergency Medical Services
Fire Protection Technician

For more information, call:

Downtown Milwaukee Campus — 414-297-MATC
Mequon Campus — 262-238-2300
Oak Creek Campus — 414-571-4500

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.

This program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

‡ Prerequisite Required.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, class times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.