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Help Keep Your Community Safe with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from NECC

Students in the Criminal Justice program at our NECC Campus

Why Pursue a Criminal Justice Associate Degree?

Are you interested in a career serving the public in the criminal justice system? Would you like to maximize your education spend while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or a related field? If so, NECC’s Criminal Justice Associate Degree program is tailor-made for you.

Make a Difference, Protect Our Society

Available through various learning formats, NECC’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice program provides a solid foundation in criminology, law enforcement, and the justice system. Students also learn about the social issues shaping criminal justice as they prepare for an exciting career in law enforcement, security, or a related field.

Criminal Justice Associate Degree Program at NECC

View video on the NECC YouTube Channel.

What You’ll Get from Our Criminal Justice Program

Explore Many Paths to Career Success

At NECC, our intensive Criminal Justice program offers a broad academic orientation, exposing you to the U.S. court and corrections systems, law enforcement and security, and counter-terrorism—a rapidly-growing career area. Our program will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of entry-level private and government security positions.

Once completed, students can also apply credits earned towards a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or a related field at a four-year college or university, saving thousands of dollars off their education!

Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework

Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with your community.

You might choose a career in community policing. The NECC Police Academy is authorized by Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC).

Gear Up for a Great Career in the Criminal Justice Field

NECC Knight emoji wearing a police cap
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in high demand. Whether you see yourself as a municipal police officer, a private detective, an insurance investigator, or anything in-between, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:

  • Gain a solid understanding of the various aspects of the Criminal Justice system
  • Benefit from instruction in psychology, sociology, and criminology
  • Gain real-world experience through internships
  • Enjoy access to clubs and organizations for NECC students
  • Take advantage of MassTransfer and other transfer pathways, saving thousands of dollars on your bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or a related field

Your Schedule, Your Rules

Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around.


Quote:

An internship in the Lawrence Probation Department confirmed that she had made the right career choice—“I loved it.”

Josiery Santos, Criminal Justice


Where This Journey Can Take You

An illustration of support for every student - students climbing a bar graphAn associate degree in criminal justice offers much potential for growth. In some ways, starting out with an associate degree is an advantage – you can begin working in the field and before investing additional time and money obtaining a bachelor’s degree.

Imagine yourself serving in one of these roles:

  • Municipal Police Officer
  • State Trooper
  • Correctional Officer
  • Federal Agent
  • Insurance Investigator
  • Public or Private Detective
  • Forensic Science Technician
  • Probation Officer or Correctional Treatment Specialist
  • Court System Employee
  • Many more!

Why Choose NECC for Your Criminal Justice Degree?

We Get It

At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our Criminal Justice courses are designed with you in mind.

NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.

With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.

Learn from the Pros

Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals and LEOs who live and breathe Criminal Justice.

Experience Beyond the Classroom

At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.

Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.

We Got Your Back

From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.

Career Services

Career Services

Career Services is here to assist you at every stage in your career development.
NECC Connect

NECC Connect

Networking and mentoring opportunities for NECC students and alumni.
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What Can I Do With This Major?

Map your NECC major to hundreds of career paths and opportunities.

Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?

With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.

Support for Every Student

NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.

Accommodations at NECC

As an ADA-compliant institution, NECC is committed to serving the needs of students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities, including those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. We partner with multiple entities are dedicated to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the NECC community.

Do you have a documented disability? Are you Deaf or Hard of Hearing? If so, the Center for Accessibility Resources & Services (CARS) can connect you to the services you need to thrive at NECC.

Career Outlook for Criminal Justice Professionals In Massachusetts

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for Criminal Justice professionals are expected to increase over the next eight years. For example, BLS projects a 3% increase in jobs for police officers and detectives nationally due to growing demand. At NECC, our Criminal Justice program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in various settings, including those in the public, private, and government sectors.

How Much Can I Expect to Make While Working in the Criminal Justice Field?

The earning potential for those employed in Criminal Justice occupations varies based on several factors, including education, location, experience, role, and setting. For example, according to Salary.com, the median annual wage for a municipal police officer in Boston, MA, was $72,400 as of July, 2024.

With a Criminal Justice Associate’s Degree from NECC, you’ll be qualified to pursue or advance your career in these roles:

Municipal Police Officer

Responsible for upholding the laws of their jurisdiction and serving and protecting the citizens of their city. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $72,400 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $67,600 and $78,800.¹

State Trooper

Responsibilities include enforcing traffic and criminal laws on state-regulated highways, responding to emergencies involving motorists, and assisting with detours and evacuations. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $69,174 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $64,227 and $74,767.¹

Correctional Officer

Work in jails, prisons, and other facilities to maintain order and security, and to ensure the safety of people in custody. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $55,026 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $48,997 and $61,066.¹

Federal Agent (FBI)

Enforce Federal laws, investigate crimes, collect and preserve evidence, write reports for government prosecutors, apprehend criminals, and testify in court. The median annual wage in the United States for this role was $56,306 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $40,997 and $76,623.¹

Insurance Investigator

Examine insurance claims to ensure they are valid and not fraudulent. They may also investigate to establish the circumstances of a claim. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $64,904 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $58,606 and $73,021.¹

Private Detective

Gather, analyze, and report information for clients on a variety of personal, financial, and legal matters. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $56,001 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $45,301 and $67,701.¹

Forensic Science Technician

Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. May be asked to testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $70,727 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $63,298 and $83,120.¹

Probation Officer

Assess the needs and risks of probationers and develop personalized supervision plans. Regular monitoring, often involving drug testing and home visits, ensures compliance with probation terms. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $70,496 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $62,802 and $78,428.¹

Court System Employee (Clerk)

Support judges by helping to resolve disputes or cases. Responsibilities may include calling the calendar, preparing written correspondence, maintaining custody of physical evidence, and preparing and examining court documents. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $47,083 as of July, 2024. The wage range typically falls between $42,331 and $55,170.¹

How to Get Started in the Criminal Justice Field North of Boston

Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the Criminal Justice Associate Degree program. 

Program Costs

For the 2024-2025 academic year, non-health for-credit courses have a cost of $263/credit for in-state students.

Program Info

A program pathway is the most efficient semester-to-semester sequence of courses recommended for students to complete their degree.

Transfer For A Bachelor's Degree
Faculty

Program Coordinator

Scott Joubert

Email: sjoubert@necc.mass.edu
Phone: 978-738-7464

Faculty Contact Information

Paul Cavan

Email: pcavan@necc.mass.edu

Adjunct Faculty Contact Information

Kevin Donovan

Email: kdonovan@necc.mass.edu

Ken Leone

Email: kleone@necc.mass.edu

Derek Licata

Email: dlicata@necc.mass.edu

Paul Zipper

Email: pzipper@necc.mass.edu

Info Sessions & Tours

Come to an upcoming information session on either the Lawrence or the Haverhill campus and get all of your questions answered.

Stop by one of our Lawrence or Haverhill campus Career Planning and Advising Centers and meet with an enrollment counselor.

FAQs

How much does an associate degree cost?

Community college is now free for eligible Massachusetts residents!

For learners living in other New England states, we offer a reduced out-of-state rate. All others, including international students, pay the full out-of-state rate, before any financial aid awards are made. 

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

What types of financial aid are available?

There are three basic types of financial aid you can receive while attending NECC: grants and scholarships, loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships are a gift and carry no work or repayment requirements. Loans, regardless of the lending source, are funds that must be repaid. Loan repayment terms vary, while the actual loan gives you an opportunity to borrow against future earnings.

Available in on-campus and off-campus formats, all work-study jobs are part-time and filled on an as-needed basis.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I apply for financial aid?

At NECC, we understand that financial aid can make earning your college degree a reality. Many types of aid are available; funds that can be used to help pay for tuition and fees, books, and other personal costs. To qualify, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete the application process.

While you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at any time after October 1 to receive funds for the following academic year, we recommend you apply as early as possible since some grant funds are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The priority deadline for the state of Massachusetts is May 1. Although applications are accepted throughout the year, some state funds are awarded only to those who meet this deadline.

Please note: You must complete a FAFSA each academic year to be eligible for financial aid.

Tuition and Financial Aid at NECC

How do I transfer credits to NECC from another school?

Tried another college but had trouble making it work? At NECC, we make it easy for students to transfer from another school to ours. Roughly one-third of all NECC students have previously been enrolled at other colleges and then found success here. We welcome you to join them so you can get your education back on track!

Transfer to NECC

How do I transfer my NECC credits to a four-year school?

At NECC, our transfer agreements help ensure you are taking the right courses and electives so you can seamlessly transfer to the four-year college or university of your choice. We offer over 100 transfer agreements with public and private institutions.

Contact the Transfer and Advising Center to learn more.

Does the school assist with job placement?

At NECC, we want you to get a career you love. Our Career Services department is here to assist you at every stage in your career development. From career exploration and internships to landing that first job or navigating career changes, we can help you get on the right path to a career you will love! Whether you are a currently enrolled student or a recent grad, contact us and we can help you.

Our job placement specialists are here to learn about your academic interests and discuss related careers. NECC welcomes you to participate in our various career events and workshops and use our free resources to help you identify the right career for you.

How does NECC support diversity and inclusion?

NECC offers a positive and supportive learning environment of cultural inclusion; one which challenges prejudice, celebrates differences, embraces all identities, and inspires all students, staff, and faculty to succeed. As a Hispanic Serving Institution, we are passionate about closing racial equity gaps and ensuring the success of Hispanic members of our college and community.

What learning options are available if I work full-time?

At NECC, our staff and faculty understand that many of our students work or have other responsibilities outside the classroom. That’s why we offer flexible traditional and nontraditional learning options, including on-campus, online, and hybrid programs. Our online programs offer the same high-quality education and support as our on-campus programs, ensuring all students have an equal opportunity to thrive academically.

Online: Whether you want to complete one online class or your entire degree or certificate online, NECC’s online associate degree and certificate programs make it easy for you to enhance your knowledge and achieve your goals. On-campus: Northern Essex Community College is easily accessible from throughout the Merrimack Valley region to either of our campus locations in Haverhill and Lawrence, MA.

What is the average class size?

At NECC, inspiring our students and graduates to succeed is our top priority. That said, we understand that smaller class sizes help ensure that each student receives the personalized attention they deserve. Presently, our average class size is 16.3 students.

Does NECC have a study abroad program?

Are you interested in other cultures? Would you like to earn a degree while studying abroad? NECC understands that increasing your global awareness can help you gain an edge in the job market when you graduate. For students interested in other cultures or who want to travel and see new places, we offer an International Studies program.

Once accepted into the program, you can take advantage of short course opportunities to visit another country, study abroad for a semester, or increase your global awareness right here on campus by participating in One Geographic Region events or becoming a Global Scholar.

International Studies at NECC

Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.

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