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Criminal Justice-Justice Affairs**

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INACTIVE PROGRAM
Academic Programs

Criminal Justice-Justice Affairs** - Associate in Applied Science (082)

**This degree is not currently offered

Associate in Applied Science (082)

This program prepares students for careers in criminal justice that are outside of law enforcement, such as corrections, court services, dispatching, court advocacy, security loss prevention, and private investigations.

Work and Employment

This applied science program is designed to prepare students to work in correctional institutions, judicial centers, security facilities, and locations where the criminal justice system is utilized.  Younger students who wish to rise in the ranks are advised to follow a transfer program and earn a bachelor's degree because higher education has become increasingly important. Click here for further career information: https://www.svcc.edu/academics/programs/individual/082.html

Special Considerations

Justice Affairs students should cultivate their communication skills.  Effective work in the justice system is based heavily on the ability to communicate well in the field.  Students should also be aware of the strength and physical agility requirements required of applicants by criminal justice agencies in Illinois.  The college offers a wide range of physical education courses and a super circuit fitness center.  Previous criminal record and felony convictions can negatively impact the opportunity to gain employment in the field.

Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College
Academic Advising, 815/835-6354
Daniel McCollum, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, 815/835-6256

Follow this link for career information.


Total Hours Required - 64 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 30 Hours

  • CJS ELECTIVE-CJS 250 RECOMMENDED-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. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • CJS214 - Correctional Counsel & Treat ( 3 Semester Hours)

    The course is an introduction to selected treatment techniques currently being used in American corrections. This course provides an understanding of the work of correctional treatment agents, their goals and profession, as well as an examination of the environments in which they work. Prerequisites: CJS 101, CJS 105 and CJS 120 recommended. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • CJS227 - Probation and Parole ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Early development, types of service, administrative organizations, investigation and supervisory aspects of probation and parole within the community and the legal structure of society. Prerequisite: None. CJS 120 is recommended. 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 OAS 103-Keyboarding. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/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

  • 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 Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • PSY200 - Human Growth & Development ( 3 Semester Hours)

    A study of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development of the human across the lifespan. Normative and non-normative patterns of development will be examined. Several major theories of human development will be be explored. Practical application of research findings will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PSY 103 or equivalent. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • PSY217 - Abnormal Psychology ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Abnormal psychology seeks to describe abnormal behavior from a number of contemporary theoretical and therapeutic viewpoints. Major diagnostic categories are explored. The diagnosis of disorders, their symptoms, etiologies, courses, treatment, and outcomes are core to the course. Applications to daily life, allied health, criminal justice, human development, and various other clinical settings will be common. Prerequisite: PSY 103 or consent of instructor. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): PSY 905 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • PSY270 - Substance Abuse ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to improve knowledge about substance abuse. It will help the student understand the general phenomena of substance abuse, etiology, psychological and biological effects, impact on individual functioning, legal, social, and treatment issues. Students will acquire a broad overview of the field. PSY 103 or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 901 Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 911 Semester hour(s): 3 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. Semester hour(s): 3 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. CJS 101 is recommended. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 914 Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 912 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

General Education Requirements - 18 Hours

  • Communications (ENG 101, 111 or 103 required) 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)

Electives (see your major field advisor): 3 semester hours

SVCC Requirement - 1 Hours

  • FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 901 Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 911 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

    A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 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 Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

  • 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. Semester hour(s): 3 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. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • 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. Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 901R Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

       
    • PSY200 - Human Growth & Development ( 3 Semester Hours)

      A study of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development of the human across the lifespan. Normative and non-normative patterns of development will be examined. Several major theories of human development will be be explored. Practical application of research findings will be emphasized. Prerequisite: PSY 103 or equivalent. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    Third Semester - 15 Hours

    • Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s)
    • 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. CJS 101 is recommended. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 914 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    • CJS227 - Probation and Parole ( 3 Semester Hours)

      Early development, types of service, administrative organizations, investigation and supervisory aspects of probation and parole within the community and the legal structure of society. Prerequisite: None. CJS 120 is recommended. Semester hour(s): 3 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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S7 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    Fourth Semester - 18 Hours

    • Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)
    • CJS Elective-CJS 250 Recommended 3 Semester hour(s)
    • 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 OAS 103-Keyboarding. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/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. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): CRJ 912 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    • CJS214 - Correctional Counsel & Treat ( 3 Semester Hours)

      The course is an introduction to selected treatment techniques currently being used in American corrections. This course provides an understanding of the work of correctional treatment agents, their goals and profession, as well as an examination of the environments in which they work. Prerequisites: CJS 101, CJS 105 and CJS 120 recommended. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    • PSY217 - Abnormal Psychology ( 3 Semester Hours)

      Abnormal psychology seeks to describe abnormal behavior from a number of contemporary theoretical and therapeutic viewpoints. Major diagnostic categories are explored. The diagnosis of disorders, their symptoms, etiologies, courses, treatment, and outcomes are core to the course. Applications to daily life, allied health, criminal justice, human development, and various other clinical settings will be common. Prerequisite: PSY 103 or consent of instructor. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): PSY 905 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week