Be ready. SMC students earn an associate degree when they successfully complete the halfway point of a bachelor’s degree. Two degrees in four years means you’ll get a valuable degree for the first two years of college – something many other colleges don’t offer. A two-year degree can help you earn better pay while you’re finishing up your bachelor’s degree. It can also be a safety net in case you have to pause your college studies for financial, family, or other reasons.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that people with an associate degree earn approximately $8,000 more per year than workers with just a high school education. An associate degree provides you with the first leg up in your career, whether you choose to pursue a four-year degree right away or wait.

Click below for a degree plan and check out the classes you’ll take.

SMC’s customizable bachelor’s degree lets you specialize in criminal justice. During your first two years, you’ll take introductory criminal justice courses and general college courses that will let you decide if it’s the right career pathway for you. You’ll earn the Associate in Criminal Justice Degree for your hard work, then complete your bachelor’s degree.

If you’re a student who needs to take a break from college due to financial, family, or other life circumstances, getting an Associate Degree halfway to your bachelor’s degree means you won’t stop out of college without a credential and the increased earning power that comes with it.

Your introductory criminal justice courses are taught by professors who have real-world experience in policing, law and courts. You’ll earn an Associate Degree and get a solid foundation in criminology, evidence, corrections, community policing, forensics, and more. You’ll be well prepared to complete your bachelor’s degree.

Those who choose to continue their education will be well prepared for the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program. Others will be able to move directly into the workforce in jobs such as: 

• Corrections officer 
• Forensic technician 
• Juvenile counselor 
• Probation officer 
• Law enforcement officer 

Thanks to our generous scholarship and financial aid opportunities, it’s likely you’ll pay way less than you think for an SMC education. You may even be able to attend tuition-free! Check it out for yourself!