Criminal Justice/Homeland Security

WMCC is preparing students for exciting career opportunities in law enforcement, forensics, corrections, probation/ parole, and many other important roles in the criminal justice system.  The professional expertise of our faculty provides a valuable mix of academic and practical experience that enrich all student learning outcomes, and thoroughly prepare students for successful career opportunities. 

The Associate in Science Degree in Criminal Justice/Homeland Security deals with the causes of crime and its control through the various components of the criminal justice system.  The program is broadly based and includes courses, which cover law enforcement against foreign and domestic criminal elements, the court system and the correctional environment.  These courses, coupled with our general education requirements, provide our graduates with the background necessary for success in the Criminal Justice field.  The program is designed to allow both pre- and in-service students to complete the degree on either a full or part-time basis in preparation for professional careers, and to continue their studies, if desired, through subsequent matriculation at a four-year college.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be qualified for law enforcement positions for various local, state and federal career paths.

Agreements with 4-Year Schools

Articulation agreements are in place with Plymouth State University in the Criminal Justice Program, at Granite State College in Criminal Justice Administration and at the University of New Hampshire – Manchester in the Homeland Security Program.

Health Considerations

Applicants should be aware of the basic health and fitness requirements for many careers in the criminal justice field. Prospective students with special needs or limitations that may affect their internship placement or potential employability or both are encouraged to discuss their career goals with the program coordinator prior to admission.

Students participating in internship and field experiences must demonstrate the emotional stability required to exercise sound judgment, accept direction and guidance from a supervisor or faculty member, and establish rapport and maintain sensitive interpersonal relationships with employees of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, community groups, and the general public.

Character Expectations

Applicants should be aware that background checks are completed by potential employers prior to an applicant obtaining any position with arrest or detention powers, and the background check may even be conducted before an applicant is accepted for an internship. Applicants who have been in difficulty with the law may not be employable or even eligible for an internship. Because future goals may be compromised, applicants are advised to discuss any concerns with the program coordinator.

Program is a hybrid program, meeting every other week in Berlin.