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Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Criminal Justice: Cybercrime

Majors Overview December 14, 2013

An Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree in cybercrime will examine topics in crimes committed by using technology or digital information theft. Students will identify security breaches, analyze crime scenes, examine computer networks, and document evidence. These programs can normally be finished in two years and will prepare graduates for entry-level work with local law enforcement agencies.

A.A. Programs in Criminal Justice: Cybercrime

Students enrolled in an associate degree program in criminal justice with a focus in cybercrime are prepared to seek entry-level positions in the law enforcement field dealing with technology-based crimes, such as computer hacking or identity theft. Within these programs, students can expect to become adept at locating criminal activity, obtaining evidence of cybercrimes and using such evidence to convict cyber criminals. While coursework often trains individuals in the use of computers and other technologies, technology skills and basic computer literacy are necessary to ensure success within these programs. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.

Coursework

Students enrolled in criminal justice associate degree programs are involved in the examination of police procedures and legal ethics; they also learn about the internal workings of the justice system. Coursework focused on cybercrimes includes computer security, operating systems, criminal evidence and computer literacy. Other coursework related to cybercrime programs may include subject areas such as:

•Computer forensics
•Investigations procedures
•Evidence gathering
•Cyber law
•Criminal law

Career Choices

With cybercrimes conducted on global and local scales, almost all branches of law enforcement are equipped with a department devised to focus on these kinds of cases. Associate degree holders can seek entry-level jobs in various areas including:

•Cybercrime prevention
•Criminal investigations
•Computer forensics

Continuing Education Choices

Those who wish to get into entry-level law enforcement positions at the state or local levels may have to undergo police academy training. Bachelor’s degrees in their fields of specialty are required to be held by those seeking federal law enforcement positions (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)).

Given the constantly changing nature of technology, continued education will need to be taken frequently by law enforcement professionals in order to stay abreast of technological advancements in the field. They can hope to get adequate training by completing certificate programs or individual courses related to computer forensics. Those seeking continued education in the field may enroll in a bachelor’s degree program in cyber security or criminal justice.

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