Criminal Justice

Answer the call to public service with Criminal Justice at COCC, choosing from career-aligned degrees in Law Enforcement, Legal Studies, and Corrections. Content is diverse and detailed, covering subjects in emergency management, crime scene investigations, court system fundamentals, correctional processes, ethical decision-making, and mental health for first responders, among others. With an emphasis on applied learning and internships, the degrees are community-connected and draw on the expertise of many criminal justice professionals. 

"I have always been impressed by the level of education, vocational support, and partnership COCC has provided. I have hired and worked alongside police officers who graduated from COCC’s Criminal Justice program."

Specialty training resources: a 911-dispatch simulation center; a Police Academy that trains civic volunteers; a student Criminal Justice Club; a fitness training area for the Oregon Police Physical Abilities Test; plus, practical learning partnerships with local agencies, community events, and the College’s own Campus Safety department.

Program-Specific Information

Criminal Justice involves the study of crime from a systems perspective. Topics include law and due process, investigation, evidence, corrections, ethics, and crime in society. COCC offers courses and programs to serve students who are preparing to transfer for a bachelor’s degree and students seeking immediate employment. Careers include law enforcement officers, corrections officers, security officers, lab workers, paralegals, private investigators, and social workers. 

Unique Features

• A Focus on Well-being
• Learning in the Field

CAREER INFORMATION

Explore a career in Criminal Justice.

Career Paths in Criminal Justice

STUDENT STORIES

Hear from Criminal Justice students and graduates.

Student and Alumni Stories

MEET OUR FACULTY

Learn about faculty backgrounds and expertise.

Faculty Profiles