Criminal Justice Program
If you're exploring colleges for criminal justice in Texas, Odessa College offers a comprehensive and flexible program designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in law enforcement, investigations, and public service.
Our Criminal Justice program empowers students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to navigate the complexities of the legal system. Grounded in integrity, ethics, and community engagement, the program prepares graduates to promote justice, uphold accountability, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Through rigorous coursework and experiential learning, students develop the professional competencies needed to succeed in today’s evolving criminal justice landscape.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Criminal Justice is ideal for students seeking career advancement or entry into the field. This fully online program offers flexibility for working professionals, including law enforcement administrators, police chiefs, sheriffs, and officers seeking to expand their expertise.
If you're considering an associate degree in criminology or criminal justice, this 2-year program provides a strong foundation in:
- Criminal law and procedure
- Policing strategies and ethics
- Corrections systems
- Juvenile justice
- Criminal investigation techniques
- Leadership in public safety
What jobs can I get with an associate's in criminal justice?
Graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Police Officer
- Deputy Sheriff
- Correctional Officer
- Probation Officer
- Dispatcher
- Security Manager
- Federal Law Enforcement Support Roles
The degree also serves as a pathway to advanced leadership roles or continued education at the bachelor’s level.
Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) Certificate – Criminalistics
Odessa College also offers a Criminalistics Certification in Crime Scene Investigation for those seeking specialized forensic training.
What do you learn in a crime scene investigation course?
The CSI certificate program focuses on:
- Evidence identification and classification
- Proper evidence collection and preservation techniques
- Crime scene documentation
- Scientific evaluation methods
- Death investigation procedures
- Chain of custody protocols
This program prepares students for roles such as Crime Scene Technician or provides foundational knowledge for further study in forensic science.
AAS in Criminal Justice vs. CSI Certificate — What’s Better?
The answer depends on your career goals:
- AAS in Criminal Justice – Best for broader career opportunities, advancement into leadership roles, and long-term growth within law enforcement or corrections.
- CSI Certificate – Ideal for officers or investigators wanting specialized skills in evidence processing and crime scene work.
Some students choose to complete both to expand their qualifications and career flexibility.
Bachelor’s Degree Advancement
To further support workforce readiness, Odessa College is proposing a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Leadership and Management. This degree will allow graduates from AAS programs — including Criminal Justice — to continue their education.
The Bachelor's will offer concentrations in:
- Entrepreneurship
- Criminal Justice
- Safety Management
- Logistics
This pathway supports the goals of 60x30 Texas and allows students to expand their leadership capabilities while remaining connected to their field of expertise.
Whether you're starting your journey or advancing your career, Odessa College provides accessible, career-focused criminal justice education designed to serve West Texas and beyond.
