Criminal Justice

Public Safety, Justice, Community

A degree in criminal justice opens the door to a wide range of meaningful careers that contribute directly to the well-being and safety of society.

Careers in the criminal justice field include law enforcement, juvenile diversion, victim advocate, corrections officer, court clerks, evidence technician, forensic scientist and probation officer. Criminal justice professionals make a tangible difference in people’s lives. If you want to help others, build safer communities, and ensure justice for all this career might be for you.

The criminal justice program at Highline teaches both the skills and knowledge to help students excel in the career of their choice. Our program focuses on critical thinking, communication and problem solving as well as understanding how the legal system works and how different institutions uphold laws, protect rights, and promote fairness.

student swearing in to mock trial

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Earn Your Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

Learn the practical knowledge about how the Criminal Justice system works and the necessary skills, including critical thinking and communication, to work effectively in the public safety sector.

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Associate in Applied Science in Criminal Justice

The CJ program at the College became a great opportunity and option for a career path. In the beginning it was just as an elective, but with great professors and further investment into the program, it became my degree option. Being a parent and also doing a lot of community work, It took me longer than planned, but the staff has always been patient, understanding and motivating with me to get it done.

Ron H.

Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

I learned theories on why people commit crimes, society's reaction to laws being broken, and why crimes take place in the first place. I was even lucky enough to be connected to an internship at Kent Probation, which led to a fantastic and fulfilling job. This is a program that truly opens doors to rewarding opportunities and careers!

Dalysia W