The Criminal Justice (PASSHE): Transfer Associate degree program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in criminology, law enforcement, the justice system, and related fields. This program aims to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) or other universities to pursue a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, criminology, law enforcement, or related disciplines. The curriculum covers core areas such as criminal law, juvenile justice, ethics in criminal justice, policing, corrections, and forensic science, offering students a well-rounded understanding of the criminal justice system both from theoretical and practical perspectives.
Students will engage in coursework that emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and effective communication skills essential for careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, or criminal justice administration. The program also includes opportunities for practical learning through laboratories, simulations, and internships, which help students develop real-world skills and professional familiarity with criminal justice operations. Harrisburg Area Community College provides dedicated academic advising and support services to ensure students successfully meet transfer requirements and are well-prepared for continued education at a four-year institution.
The transfer associate degree typically takes about two years to complete and is structured to align with the general education and core requirements of bachelor's programs, ensuring a smooth transition for students seeking to expand their education and career opportunities. Graduates of the program may pursue careers in various sectors, including local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, probation and parole services, or continue their education to attain higher degrees in criminal justice or allied fields. The program emphasizes a commitment to justice, public safety, and community engagement, encouraging students to develop a lifelong dedication to ethical practices and service. Harrisburg Area Community College’s Criminal Justice transfer program offers students an excellent foundation for advanced studies and professional endeavors in the criminal justice field.
General Education
ENGL 101 English Composition I 3
ENGL 102 English Composition II (or) 3
ENGL 104 Technical Writing (or) (3)
ENGL 106 Business Writing (3)
COMM 101 Effective Speaking 3
*Core A Elective 3
**Core B Elective 6
***Core C Elective (Math) 6
****Core C Elective Science 6
Core C Elective 3
General Education Transfer Elective* 3
Physical Education & Wellness 1
Major Requirements
CJ 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice 3
CJ 104 Police Operations 3
CJ 106 Introduction to Corrections 3
CJ 108 Criminology 3
CJ 211 Juvenile Justice 3
CJ 212 Criminal Law and Procedure 3
CJ 240 Ethics and Diverse Cultures (D) 3
*****Transfer Electives 4-6
This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:
Demonstrate an awareness of professional ethics including ethical and legal entrance requirements to the criminal justice
Translate observations into writing
Use technology as a form, or method, to conduct research
Describe components of the criminal justice system including corrections, courts, law enforcement, and the private sector
Describe the major theoretical explanations of crime and delinquency
Examine diversity issues as they impact criminal justice
Demonstrate an awareness of the dynamics of organizational behavior
Manage and build teams
Analyze problems and develop solutions
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship
Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC?
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.
Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program.
Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.
What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?
The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year.
The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.
Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.
Are you eligible?
To be eligible, you must:
Apply to HACC
Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)
Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county
Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0
Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test
Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC
Participate in at least two HACC student organizations
The Criminal Justice (PASSHE): Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to serve as a foundational pathway for students interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, corrections, or related fields. This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and correctional institutions. Students enrolled in this transfer associate degree will study topics such as criminal law, criminal procedures, juvenile justice, ethics in criminal justice, and criminal investigation techniques. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for either entry-level positions in criminal justice agencies or further academic pursuits at four-year institutions.
Harrisburg Area Community College collaborates with State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) universities to facilitate a smooth transfer process. Students who complete this associate degree are often eligible to transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or related programs at institutions within the PASSHE system or other partner universities. The curriculum is designed to meet transfer articulation agreements, ensuring that coursework aligns with senior-level requirements, thus saving time and resources when students continue their education.
In addition to coursework, students in the program may have access to internships and cooperative education opportunities that provide field experience and networking opportunities within local law enforcement agencies, courts, or detention facilities. These experiential components are crucial for developing practical skills and gaining insight into the criminal justice environment.
The program also emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and communication skills, which are essential for success in the criminal justice field. Students receive instruction from faculty with real-world law enforcement and justice system experience, enriching the academic learning with practical insights. The program's flexible structure, including evening and online course options, supports students who may be balancing work or other commitments.
Graduates of this transfer associate program are equipped with a strong academic foundation and practical competencies, making them competitive for employment or further education opportunities in criminal justice-related professions. The program's goal is to foster responsible, ethical, and knowledgeable professionals committed to public safety and justice.
Overall, the Criminal Justice (PASSHE): Transfer Associate at Harrisburg Area Community College provides a rigorous, comprehensive, and flexible pathway for students to pursue careers or advanced education in the criminal justice field, supporting the broader mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce development.
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