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The American system of criminal justice is composed of three major components: Law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. It remains a rapidly growing professional and academic field. The Criminal Justice degree program at SUNY Niagara utilizes a strong behavioral science and general education foundation. It’s this combination of knowledge and interdisciplinary insight that provides the student of criminal justice with insight and understanding into the complex societal problem of crime and the administrations of justice.
The student that graduates from the Criminal Justice program should be able to use the knowledge and skills he/she has acquired in a variety of career opportunities. Graduates have obtained professional careers in the criminal justice system at the local, state, and federal levels. Although some graduates begin their career immediately after obtaining their Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, most graduates continue their academic studies at four-year institutions and embark on their careers after completing their Bachelor’s Degree requirements.
Career information and opportunities
Criminal Justice, A.S.
SUNY Niagara’s Criminal Justice A.S. covers policing, the courts and corrections. You can start a criminal justice career right away or transfer to finish a bachelor’s degree.
Last updated: Oct. 22, 2026
What careers does a Criminal Justice A.S. lead to?
Some graduates start working right after their A.S. Most go on to a four-year school, since many federal and investigative jobs need a bachelor’s degree.
Which agencies hire criminal justice graduates?
Graduates work at the local, state and federal levels.
How much can I earn?
Median means half of workers earn more and half earn less. Police and corrections jobs also require academy training.
Pay depends on the job, your experience, your education and the employer.
What is the job outlook?
The average for all jobs is 3%. Most openings come from officers retiring or changing careers, so agencies keep hiring.
Where do criminal justice professionals work?
Policing and corrections often include night, weekend and holiday shifts.
Will I get real-world experience?
Yes. In your final semester, Field Studies in Criminal Justice gives you hands-on experience in the field. The program also supports people already working in criminal justice who want to advance.
How do I get there?
Police officers must also complete a training academy after they are hired. The FBI and some other federal agencies require a bachelor’s degree.
Can I transfer to a four-year school?
Yes. The program is designed for transfer into criminal justice and related bachelor’s programs. It also meets at least seven of SUNY’s ten general education requirements, which helps your credits transfer.
Which courses prepare me?
Behavioral science courses help you understand why crime happens and how the justice system responds.