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Program Overview
Prepare for a career in law enforcement, probation and parole, corrections, warden and juvenile justice-related careers.
The Criminal Justice associate degree program includes courses that:
- Explore current topics like human trafficking, mass, spree and serial killers, and contemporary controversies around the administration of the death penalty.
- Examine the evolution of forensic science and community policing
- Study juvenile delinquency and juvenile justice.
- Explain the legal foundation of interviewing and interrogation.
Positions in the Criminal Justice fields often require a background investigation, psychological testing and drug testing. An applicant for employment as a law enforcement officer or to enter the Law Enforcement Academy must possess either a two-year associate degree from a Wisconsin technical college or its accredited equivalent from another state or a minimum of 60 fully accredited college-level credits.
Program Details
Students in the Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement Program can attend full- or part-time.
Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus, Protective Services Building.
Careers in Criminal Justice
Associate degree graduates are ready for a range of professional positions in the field of law enforcement including:
- Law Enforcement Officers in city, county, state and federal law enforcement departments
- Private Security Officers
- Investigators
- Correctional Officers
- Juvenile Detention Workers
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Detectives
- Sergeants
- Lieutenants
- Captains
- Chiefs
- Probation and Parole Officers
Criminal Justice Job Openings
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-504-170Introduction to Corrections - Criminal Justice
Examines the concept of punishment and its form, functions, and enforcement throughout history, with an emphasis on the operation, structure, clientele, and issues confronting the institutions, agencies, and programs encompassing the corrections system including jails, prisons, and probation and parole.3 credits10-504-900Introduction to Criminal Justice
This course explores the Criminal Justice system while focusing specifically on the three primary components of that system: Law Enforcement, the Criminal Court system and the Corrections System. In the Law Enforcement Unit, students will study the police and their role within the system and society-at-large while focusing between the roles and functions of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Learners will explore contemporary issues, police procedures, and ethical dilemmas to acquire critical insight. In the Court System Unit, learners will distinguish between the roles and functions of court personnel and various courts with jurisdiction in Wisconsin and federal courts with jurisdiction throughout the United States. In the Corrections Unit, students will examine the various ways that punishment and rehabilitation are practiced within the corrections system. Learners will study and discuss the five primary goals of sentencing and evaluate their application and success.3 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 credits10-804-134Mathematical Reasoning
Making decisions about fiscal, environmental, and health issues requires using mathematical reasoning to solve complex problems. This course explores numerical and algebraic relationships, graphical data displays, statistical measures, proportional and algebraic reasoning, translating contexts to mathematical models, and solving using linear, exponential and other mathematic models. This course may be used as the first of a two-part sequence that ends with Quantitative Reasoning as the capstone general education math requirement.3 credits10-809-199Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 creditsSecond Semester10-504-913Restorative Justice and Victimology in Criminal Justice
This course focuses on the perspectives of restorative justice and the study of crime victims to include the nature, extent, and causes of crime and the implementation of restorative principles and practices. Emphasis will be placed on the underpinnings of victimology (to include patterns and trends), theoretical contributions, and the relationship among victimology and restorative justice in the criminal justice system. Philosophies and principles of restorative justice will include an analysis of those involved in restorative initiatives. Several restorative justice initiatives will be analyzed, practiced, and facilitated with a criminal justice organization.3 credits10-504-902Criminal Law
This course covers the evolution of substantive and procedural criminal law and its impact on society. Students will analyze the basic elements of criminal offenses and the fundamental concepts of due process and fairness underlying American criminal procedure both before and after arrest.3 credits10-504-914Juvenile Justice
Students in the course will examine the history of the juvenile justice system and the nature and extent of juvenile delinquency in the U.S. Students will also compare biological, psychological and sociological theories and analyze the impact of social issues related to delinquency. In addition to outlining case law regarding the legal rights of juveniles, students will distinguish between the roles of the Police, Juvenile Courts, and Juvenile Aftercare within the juvenile justice system and how they interact with and influence each other.3 credits10-801-196Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.3 credits10-809-197Contemporary American Society
This is an interdisciplinary course covering issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions (such as family, education, media, the workplace, the economy and government) are being changed by global political, demographic, multicultural and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, students expand their use of critical-thinking skills.3 creditsThird Semester10-504-105Professional Development for Criminal Justice
This course is designed for second year criminal justice students who are preparing to enter into the job search process. Prepares the student for the hiring process for a Criminal Justice career including applications, resumes, interviews, and hiring process standards. This course is also based on the Office of Community Oriented Policing, "Innovations in Police Recruitment and Hiring" manual?3 credits10-504-906Criminal Investigation Theory
In this course, the learner will describe the role evidence plays in criminal investigations and prosecutions; apply the steps for processing crime scenes; apply appropriate strategies to locate, handle, and package evidentiary items; document the crime scene; recognize the unique investigative issues for crimes against life; apply appropriate strategies to secure the scene, collect and preserve evidence, and investigate a death; recognize the dynamics of victimization; apply knowledge of the definitions and responsibilities for law enforcement; apply appropriate interview techniques with adult or child victims; analyze the role of law enforcement in responding to domestic abuse; intervene and apply appropriate investigative strategies; respond to an officer-involved domestic violence incident; analyze the role of law enforcement in responding to sexual abuse; demonstrate investigative techniques in a simulated sexual assault case; and identify other resources that can assist in sexual assault cases. This is part of the criminal justice courses. Prerequisites: 10-504-902.3 credits10-504-909Foundations of Policing
Examines the roles and functions of police; includes police history and organization, challenges and expectations within the field; addresses police operations and critical issues such as technology, drug investigations and homeland security.3 credits10-504-911Interviewing
Examines the principles of effective interviewing as applied to investigative reporting, research, persuasion, counseling, employment, and the investigation of crime. Addresses the theory and practice of interviewing and interrogation as applied to gaining information from complainants, witnesses, victims, informants, and suspects.3 creditsElective3 creditsFourth Semester10-504-912Ethics in Criminal Justice
Ethical issues relevant to law enforcement, the courts, and corrections are examined.The basis for ethical dilemmas and decision making at all stages of the criminal justice system are presented. Actual ethical dilemmas are presented and analyzed for hands-on discussion and resolution. Topics include developing moral and ethical behavior, analyzing policy and management issues, professionalism, and ethics for practitioners in criminal justice.3 credits10-504-143Criminology for Law Enforcement
Exposes criminal justice students to these questions: what is crime and why is it a problem? Focusing on those questions, the course will look at what is known about crime and how it is known. Also touches on crimes, criminals and theories, while focusing on the police in the criminal justice system. Prerequisite: completion of first-year courses3 credits10-504-910Diversity and Criminal Justice
An examination of race in the context of the criminal justice system. Emphasis on the treatment of racial minorities as victims and offenders by law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The main purpose of this course is to assist students build their analytic and critical skills necessary to gain deeper, understanding of the important issues of race and the criminal justice system.3 credits10-504-917Police Community Relations
This course examines the history of community policing, problem-oriented policing, community responsibilities, media relations, and evolving strategies. Students analyze criminal justice organizations including human resources management, research studies, environmental factors, centralized authority, and other issues.?3 credits10-504-905Report Writing
In this course, the learner will explain the context of report writing, take effective field notes, organize information in reports, write narratives, describe what information should be included in certain types of reports, prepare for court, describe how to be an effective witness, and testify as a witness in court. This is part of the criminal justice courses.3 creditsRecommended ElectivesElectives must be 10- or 20- level courses. It is recommended to complete this in third semester.10-504-180Internship
Integrates learned classroom theory and skills with real-life experience under the direct supervision of practitioners. Students are placed within an agency to interact, observe and participate to a limited degree with practitioners during the performance of their regular duties. Students receive intense one-on-one instruction in developing useful skills based on field experience. Prerequisites: Instructor approval, completion of two semesters (30 credits and all 1st year core program courses) in the Criminal Justice Program and a 2.5 GPA. Travel to internship site is the responsibility of the student. Students may need to pass a criminal background examination by the supervising agency.3 credits10-504-182Disturbance Resolution Theory
Explores disturbance resolution (also commonly known as use of force) theories in the US Criminal Justice System to include Wisconsin use of force legislation, policies, procedures, and de-escalation concepts and practices. Course also includes public perception and ethical considerations. Corresponding disturbance resolution case law will be explored. Disturbance resolution best practices will be analyzed across the criminal justice system to include corrections, the courts, and policing.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Secure Your Spot!
This program has a limited number of seats available. We encourage early applications to secure your spot, but the program has not historically reached full capacity.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Criminal Justice Studies career.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
Students who complete the A.A.S. degree are guaranteed admission to UW-Platteville to the B.A. or B.S. in Criminal Justice major given that all admission requirements are met (minimum 2.0 transfer GPA, in good standing at previous institution)This program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Stout and Madison College allows the opportunity for Madison College students who have earned the Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Studies, to receive guaranteed admission awarded 60 credits upon entry to University of Wisconsin-Stout and the Criminal Justice and Rehabilitation program at a junior level standing. Some special considerations include: • Students must complete the entire sending program and meet the receiving institution’s admission requirements for the agreement to apply. • The receiving institution will apply 60 of the 60 credits from the sending program. A total of 60 credits remain to complete the receiving program.Wisconsin Private Schools
Students who receive an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Studies from Madison College will be guaranteed admission to Edgewood University within 5 years of completing the AAS Degree. Students will major in Criminal Justice.Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
After completing the Criminal Justice - Law Enforcement program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to demonstrate:
Communication Skills
Communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and through written documentation with clients, coworkers, other agencies and supervisors, by demonstrating listening skills, effective report writing, appropriate interview techniques, testifying in court and displaying sensitivity to diverse cultures and individuals.Community Skills
Demonstrate community resource skills including, but not limited to, conflict resolution, media relations, media communications, safety instruction; and referrals to, assistance and/or collaboration with other public agencies.Interpersonal Skills
Demonstrate desirable professional abilities including self-motivation, self-awareness, cooperative work and group facilitation skills.Analytical Skills
Apply critical thinking skills for appropriate law enforcement decision-making.Legal Studies and Skills
Use legal knowledge to enforce, interpret, and apply laws.Technical Skills
Demonstrate appropriate technical skills in communication, observation, investigation, evaluation, and basic safety assistance in law enforcement situations.Tactical Skills
Aware of appropriate procedures for crisis management and dispute resolution.Professional Standards
Exhibit appropriate professional standards through the demonstration of personal ethics, leadership, stress management, professional growth through continuing education, and adherence to "chain of command."-
Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 28 31 32 Number of Surveys Sent 28 31 32 Number of Surveys Returned 21 16 24 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 17 12 20 Percent Available for Employment 81.0% 75.0% 83.3% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 19.0% 25.0% 16.7% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 17 12 16 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 100.0% 80.0% Employed in Related Occupation 9 6 8 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 52.9% 50.0% 50.0% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 8 6 8 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 47.1% 50.0% 50.0% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 0 4 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 0.0% 20.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.7 3.4 3.4 Number of Satisfaction Responses 20 16 24 Very Satisfied (4) 14 6 10 Percent Very Satisfied 70.0% 37.5% 41.7% Satisfied (3) 5 10 14 Percent Satisfied 25.0% 62.5% 58.3% Unsatisfied (2) 1 0 0 Percent Unsatisfied 5.0% 0.0% 0.0% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 21 16 24 Preparation for Getting a Job 6 10 13 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 28.6% 62.5% 54.2% Career Change 5 1 3 Percent Career Change 23.8% 6.3% 12.5% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 1 0 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% 6.3% 0.0% Preparation for Further Education 7 3 7 Percent Preparation for Further Education 33.3% 18.8% 29.2% Personal Interest 3 1 1 Percent Personal Interest 14.3% 6.3% 4.2% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 17 12 16 Before Enrollment 6 4 4 Percent Before Enrollment 35.3% 33.3% 25.0% While Attending the College 2 2 4 Percent While Attending the College 11.8% 16.7% 25.0% After Training at the College 9 6 8 Percent After Training at the College 52.9% 50.0% 50.0% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 17 12 16 In College District 12 8 13 Percent In College District 70.6% 66.7% 81.3% In Wisconsin, Not in District 2 0 1 Percent of In Wisconsin 11.8% 0.0% 6.3% Outside of Wisconsin 1 4 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 5.9% 33.3% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 2 0 2 Percent Location Unknown 11.8% 0.0% 12.5% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 8 6 6 Average Monthly Wage $4,188 $4,610 $4,797 Average Hourly Wage $24.35 $26.80 $27.89 Average Work Hours per Week 50.2 41.2 48.8 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count Average Hourly Wage Average Work Hours per Week -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Dane County Sheriff's Office Deputy Sheriff Dodge County Detention Jail Correctional Officer Juneau Fort Atkinson Police Dept 911 Dispatcher Fort Atkinson Midwest Patrol & Investigative LLC Private Security Officer Unspecified Police Officer UW Health Security Officer * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu
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