criminal justice
Program

Criminal Justice

When contemplating criminal justice programs, many think only of law enforcement, but the field is much broader than that. It can run the gamut from investigation to crisis intervention, pretrial release and probation, to victim assistance—all with the goal of helping to protect lives, property and to maintain peace in society.
Location(s)
Lakewood Campus
Online
Why choose RRCC?

RRCC is the only two-year Colorado Criminal Justice program to offer an AA in Victim Assistance (which transfers to social work, human services or counseling psychology degrees.)  Unique criminal justice courses such as sex assault, domestic violence, juvenile delinquency, criminal profiling, crime scene investigation, victimology, criminal investigation I, II, & III, crisis intervention, policing systems, violence against children, intro to forensic science, and criminalistics, etc.

Program Overview

The Criminal Justice Program at Red Rocks Community College is designed for students eager to launch a career in a dynamic and multifaceted field.

This two-year Associate of Arts program goes beyond traditional law enforcement training to cover a wide range of topics—including investigations, crisis intervention, victim assistance, probation, parole, and corrections—to prepare graduates for various roles in the criminal justice arena.

Comprehensive Curriculum:
Courses cover the full spectrum of criminal justice, from introductory classes in criminal justice theory and the criminal process to specialized subjects such as crime scene investigation, criminal profiling, victimology, and forensic science.

Career Preparation:
Students develop the practical and analytical skills needed in today’s justice system, emphasizing critical thinking, effective communication, and computer literacy. Graduates are well-prepared to enter diverse careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim support, or further studies in criminology and related fields.

Flexible Learning Options:
This program is at the Lakewood Campus and online, making it accessible to many students. Red Rocks Community College partners with local law enforcement agencies and higher education institutions to ensure graduates meet academic and professional standards.

This overview combines essential information about the program’s curriculum, career pathways, and transfer opportunities, reflecting the unique strengths and opportunities provided by Red Rocks Community College.

Criminal Justice Degree Pathways:

A Criminal Justice degree from Red Rocks Community College offers a broad foundation for various career paths in the criminal justice field. Graduates gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for law enforcement, corrections, forensic investigations, victim assistance, and public safety administration positions.

The program’s comprehensive curriculum—including specialized courses in crime scene investigation, criminal profiling, and victim assistance—prepares students for immediate entry-level roles and advanced study. In addition to technical training, students develop critical decision-making skills and have exposure to ethical processes in criminal justice. The program promotes effective communication, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve and protect their communities.

Degree Options
Title Details
Criminal Justice AA  |  60 Credits
Victim Assistance Area of Study AA  |  60 Credits
Faculty & Staff

Jerry Sanchez, MS

Criminal Justice Department Chair
303-914-6204
students at table
Tuition Savings

Becoming a student at RRCC prepares you for transfer to a four-year university, prepares you for an exciting new career or can enhance your current skills.

four female students
Academic Programs

Red Rocks Community College offers courses in Arvada, Lakewood and online as well as hybrid courses.

high school students
Transfer Options

In collaboration with Colorado 4-year schools, Colorado has developed a statewide guaranteed transfer program to create a seamless transfer.

student
Become a Student

Becoming a student at RRCC prepares you for transfer to a four-year university, prepares you for an exciting new career or can enhance your current skills.