Associate of Applied Science in Criminology and Justice Studies - Peace Officers Training Academy

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Criminology and Justice Studies prepares graduates for para-professional positions in the field of criminal justice studies. The program can serve as a foundation for advanced study in several areas, including retail security, industrial security, forensics, law and corrections. Graduates typically seek employment in probation offices, social service agencies, courts, local law enforcement offices and crime labs. The Criminology and Justice Studies major includes the following optional concentration: The Peace Officers Training Academy concentration is open only to students admitted to the Kent State Basic Police Academy. The coursework covers the basics of defensive tactics, firearms, driving, traffic, patrol, civil disorders and first aid. In addition, students learn investigative methods and the fundamentals of policing, the criminal justice system, constitutional law and homeland security.