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Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement - Associate in Applied Science (081)

This program prepares students for careers in law enforcement agencies such as municipal police departments, county sheriffs' departments, state police and private security concerns. The program includes general education courses and provides an emphasis on criminal justice courses and supportive social science courses.

Nature of Work and Employment

Law enforcement majors pursue careers as municipal police officers, sheriffs' deputies, state troopers and private security guards. The job market in law enforcement is closely tied to legislation to fund it. If funding of tax supported law enforcement does not meet society's demand for law enforcement, growth will occur in the market for trained personnel in private security. 

Special Considerations

Law enforcement students should cultivate their communications skills. Much of effective law enforcement is based on the communication skills of arresting officers. Students should also be aware of the strength and agility standards required of applicants by law enforcement agencies in Illinois. The College offers a wide range of physical education courses and a super circuit fitness center for those who are concerned about meeting these requirements. Younger students should seriously consider studying for a bachelor's degree as the job market for law enforcement majors is competitive. Previous criminal record and felony convictions can negatively impact the opportunity to gain employment in the field.

Follow this link for career information.

Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College

• Academic Advising, 815-835-6354
• Stephen F. Miko, Associate Professor, Criminal Justice, 815-835-6256

Total Hours Required - 61 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 27 Hours

• CJS ELECTIVE-CJS 250 RECOMMENDED 3 SEMESTER HOUR(S)

• CJS130 - Criminal Investigation ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The guidelines and requisites for criminal investigators are defined and developed through a general orientation examining both preliminary and supplementary criminal investigations. Specific types of crime are examined in terms of statutory elements, modus operandi , evidence development and collection, sources of information, interview and interrogation, suspect identification, reporting and courtroom presentation and procedure. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS200 - Ethics in Criminal Justice ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Ethics is the study of right and wrong, good and evil. It involves all aspects of who we are-our minds, hearts, relationships with each other, and the intentions and motives for our actions. During this course students will become more aware and open to moral and ethical issues in criminal justice and students learn to develop critical thinking and analytical skills causing them to be more personally responsible. The educational process of ethics is recognizing how criminal justice is engaged in a process of authority, coercive power and selective discretionary authority. This course will develop whole sight in creation of a vision of ethical and moral standards within the criminal justice environment. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS231 - Criminal Evidence & Procedure ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Criminal evidence for police, types of evidence, criminal procedures in various courts, arrest, search and seizure, collection of evidence, discretion and related topics. Prerequisite: None. CJS 135 is recommended. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS232 - Police and Patrol Operations ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is a study of the responsibility, techniques and methods of police patrol. This includes the areas of patrol distribution, selective enforcement, pull-over and approach methods, emergency pursuit driving, search of suspects and buildings, field interrogations, and procedures in handling police-called-for services. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS233 - Community Policing ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course examines proactive community-oriented policing and problem solving (COPPS) in the context of changes in law enforcement agencies and communities. Students will be provided with relevant information to understand the COPPS philosophy and its applications for law enforcement and society. Also, students will gain experience in understanding policy and program development from beginning to end and the process of analyzing problems and setting goals and objectives as well as how to design programs and policies and conduct action planning; and experience the process of implementing, monitoring, and evaluating outcomes through reassessing/reviewing. Pre-requisite: CJS 101 or permission of instructor Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite:None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take CIS 100-Keyboarding 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• PSC163 - Am Government & Politics ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Students will examine American constitutional foundations and democratic values, explore the role of public opinion and the character of the political process, and understand the role of the media and interest groups in policy-making. Students will gain an understanding of how the major branches of the federal government work, and improve skills in evaluating and analyzing current public policy issues. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S5 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• PSY103 - Introduction to Psychology ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to introduce the student to major concepts, theories, principles, and research in the field of psychology. This course will survey the scientific study of human and animal characteristics and behavior. Major topics from biological, behavioral, cognitive, personality, developmental, abnormal, and social psychology theory and research will be emphasized. Universal characteristics and individual differences will be explored 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Criminal Justice Core Courses - 15 Hours

• CJS101 - Intro to Criminal Justice ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course examines the history, development and philosophy of the American criminal justice system. It includes discussions of the types of agencies involved in the administration of criminal justice and policies and procedures followed by those agencies, using a general career-oriented approach. Specific lectures include those topics such as criminal law, criminal offenses and offenders, and agencies responsible for the prevention and control of crime. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 901 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS120 - Introduction to Corrections ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an introduction and analysis of punishment, custody and rehabilitation as administered by law enforcement, courts and corrections. Emphasis is placed on sociological study of the rehabilitation process. Includes visitations by practitioners and clients, as well as field trips to various types of institutions. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 911 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS135 - Criminal Law ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The factors relevant to resolution and decision in the bringing forth of criminal charges are developed within the adversary system. The basic principles of criminal liability are reviewed, laying the foundation for considering specific offenses against property, habitation and persons. Special consideration is given to the criminal law within Illinois. CJS 101 is recommended. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS208 - Juvenile Delinquency ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an analysis of the social and psychological factors of delinquent behavior. The practical application of theories of causation, prevention and rehabilitation is considered with regard to programs. The role of the juvenile police, corrections and probation officers is considered, as well as a look at the Illinois Juvenile Court Act. Prerequisite: None (CJS 101 is recommended.) 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 914 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS238 - Criminology ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an analysis of theories of criminology. Crime in relation to physical and psychological factors, to cultural areas, to the family and to other social institutions will be examined. Consideration is given to professional crime and white collar crime. Prerequisites: SOC 111 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 912 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

General Education Requirements - 18 Hours

• Communications ENG 101 (required and one of the following: COM 131, ENG 103 or 111 6 Semester hour(s)
• Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s)
• Social/Behavioral Science (SOC 111 required) 3 Semester hour(s)
• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)
• Mathematics (MAT 106 or higher required) 3 Semester hour(s)

SVCC Requirement - 1 Hours

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Suggested Program

First Semester - 16 Hours

• Mathematics (MAT 106 or higher) 3 Semester hour(s)

• CJS101 - Intro to Criminal Justice ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course examines the history, development and philosophy of the American criminal justice system. It includes discussions of the types of agencies involved in the administration of criminal justice and policies and procedures followed by those agencies, using a general career-oriented approach. Specific lectures include those topics such as criminal law, criminal offenses and offenders, and agencies responsible for the prevention and control of crime. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 901 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS120 - Introduction to Corrections ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an introduction and analysis of punishment, custody and rehabilitation as administered by law enforcement, courts and corrections. Emphasis is placed on sociological study of the rehabilitation process. Includes visitations by practitioners and clients, as well as field trips to various types of institutions. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 911 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS130 - Criminal Investigation ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The guidelines and requisites for criminal investigators are defined and developed through a general orientation examining both preliminary and supplementary criminal investigations. Specific types of crime are examined in terms of statutory elements, modus operandi , evidence development and collection, sources of information, interview and interrogation, suspect identification, reporting and courtroom presentation and procedure. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course (1) develops awareness of the writing process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and editorial strategies; (3) stresses the variety of uses for writing; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in reading, thinking, and writing. Prerequisite: Required placement score on approved English placement test, high school unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a grade of C or higher in ELA 099. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

• CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems and communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite:None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take CIS 100-Keyboarding 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CJS232 - Police and Patrol Operations ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is a study of the responsibility, techniques and methods of police patrol. This includes the areas of patrol distribution, selective enforcement, pull-over and approach methods, emergency pursuit driving, search of suspects and buildings, field interrogations, and procedures in handling police-called-for services. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• COM131 - Intro to Oral Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. This course: (1) develops awareness of the communication process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and expressive strategies; (3) promotes understanding of and adaptation to a variety of communication contexts; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in listening, reading, thinking, and speaking. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  OR

  ENG111 - Bus/Technical Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Provides information on principles of written and oral communication specifically applied to business and technical fields. Assignments are designed to develop skill and practice in the use of these principles and include the writing of memoranda, business letters, instructions, informal reports and formal reports. Students are encouraged to tailor assignments to the specific careers they are pursuing. (Not applicable for humanities requirement.) Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or higher. Because of emphasis on graphics and computer formatting, students are advised to complete CIS 109 or IND 105 or to have equivalent word processing skills. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  OR

  ENG103 - Composition II ( 3 Semester Hours)

  An advanced course in essay writing with emphasis on formal research, ENG 103 serves to develop a proficiency in the collection and selection of data as applied to the completion of a formal research paper. In addition, students receive instruction in logic and reasoning, including the fundamentals of argumentative and persuasive writing. Prerequisite: A grade of C or higher in ENG 101 or its equivalent or consent of instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 901R Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week
   

• PSC163 - Am Government & Politics ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Students will examine American constitutional foundations and democratic values, explore the role of public opinion and the character of the political process, and understand the role of the media and interest groups in policy-making. Students will gain an understanding of how the major branches of the federal government work, and improve skills in evaluating and analyzing current public policy issues. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S5 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• SOC111 - Introduction to Sociology ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Students will be introduced to the perspective, concepts, and methods of sociology. Emphasis will be given to how the groups that make up our society function. The forces that hold groups together or cause them to change will be explored while the students examine how they learn to play roles within the family, school, religion, peer groups, and in other social settings. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S7 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Third Semester - 15 Hours

• Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s)

• CJS200 - Ethics in Criminal Justice ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Ethics is the study of right and wrong, good and evil. It involves all aspects of who we are-our minds, hearts, relationships with each other, and the intentions and motives for our actions. During this course students will become more aware and open to moral and ethical issues in criminal justice and students learn to develop critical thinking and analytical skills causing them to be more personally responsible. The educational process of ethics is recognizing how criminal justice is engaged in a process of authority, coercive power and selective discretionary authority. This course will develop whole sight in creation of a vision of ethical and moral standards within the criminal justice environment. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS208 - Juvenile Delinquency ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an analysis of the social and psychological factors of delinquent behavior. The practical application of theories of causation, prevention and rehabilitation is considered with regard to programs. The role of the juvenile police, corrections and probation officers is considered, as well as a look at the Illinois Juvenile Court Act. Prerequisite: None (CJS 101 is recommended.) 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 914 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS233 - Community Policing ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course examines proactive community-oriented policing and problem solving (COPPS) in the context of changes in law enforcement agencies and communities. Students will be provided with relevant information to understand the COPPS philosophy and its applications for law enforcement and society. Also, students will gain experience in understanding policy and program development from beginning to end and the process of analyzing problems and setting goals and objectives as well as how to design programs and policies and conduct action planning; and experience the process of implementing, monitoring, and evaluating outcomes through reassessing/reviewing. Pre-requisite: CJS 101 or permission of instructor Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• PSY103 - Introduction to Psychology ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to introduce the student to major concepts, theories, principles, and research in the field of psychology. This course will survey the scientific study of human and animal characteristics and behavior. Major topics from biological, behavioral, cognitive, personality, developmental, abnormal, and social psychology theory and research will be emphasized. Universal characteristics and individual differences will be explored 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Fourth Semester - 15 Hours

• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)

• CJS135 - Criminal Law ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The factors relevant to resolution and decision in the bringing forth of criminal charges are developed within the adversary system. The basic principles of criminal liability are reviewed, laying the foundation for considering specific offenses against property, habitation and persons. Special consideration is given to the criminal law within Illinois. CJS 101 is recommended. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS231 - Criminal Evidence & Procedure ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Criminal evidence for police, types of evidence, criminal procedures in various courts, arrest, search and seizure, collection of evidence, discretion and related topics. Prerequisite: None. CJS 135 is recommended. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS238 - Criminology ( 3 Semester Hours)

  The course is an analysis of theories of criminology. Crime in relation to physical and psychological factors, to cultural areas, to the family and to other social institutions will be examined. Consideration is given to professional crime and white collar crime. Prerequisites: SOC 111 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 912 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CJS Elective - CJS 250 Criminal Justice Practicum recommended- 3 Semester Hour(s)