New Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice (617)

Good evening everyone,

I'm reaching out to counseling chairs to provide information about the new Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice. The program code is 617, and it was just approved by MHEC in January. Students have reported to CJ program advisors that some counselors and records staff aren't aware of the degree, which is understandable given how new it is. Now that criminal justice has two degree programs--and because we were funneling transfer students into General Studies for so long--confusion is inevitable.

The AA in criminal justice is designed for ease of transfer to UMD. It contains all of the requirements in our current articulation agreement with USG with the addition of CCJS 222, which is a course that transfers as a direct equivalent. We've been in touch with our counterparts at the USG campus, and we're working on developing a new articulation agreement with them. They seem very excited about this new degree option for MC students. Additionally, we're working on other articulation agreements using the new AA, and it should satisfy transfer requirements for Towson, UBalt, and other local schools. 

The AAS in criminal justice (314) remains a great option for students who intend to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation from MC, particularly if their career goals involve local law enforcement.

Although General Studies - SSAH may still be the best option for students in unique circumstances, the AA in CJ is now the preferred option for students who want to transfer and receive their BAs. If there is a way to spread the word to counseling faculty, we'd be grateful if you could do so. I'd also be happy to give a brief overview at one of your department meetings if that would be helpful.

Ginger R. Robinson, JD
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice