Versatile Degrees in the Criminal Justice System

Choosing a degree in criminal justice or paralegal studies prepares students for well-paid careers that are in high demand.  As a criminal justice major, you will earn a degree that will provide you with the qualifications to work in law enforcement and corrections at local and state levels of government.  In addition, you will also be qualified to work in other areas of the criminal justice system such as juvenile justice, and rehabilitation services.

Upon completion of a paralegal studies degree, you will be qualified to work closely with stakeholders in the judicial body of the government such as prosecutors, public defenders, judges, and private attorneys.    If you are interested in helping people and ensuring fairness and equity throughout the criminal justice system, these are the majors for you!

Why Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies at RVCC?

Both criminal justice and paralegal studies programs are taught by faculty with real world experience.  This allows you to learn the most up-to-date information and best practices in their discipline, as well as have access to rich experiential learning opportunities through internships and other experiences outside of the classroom.

Train for impactful roles in

today’s legal system.

Prepare for meaningful roles where fairness, advocacy, and service intersect.

AS Degree

Criminal Justice, Associate of Science

Other Career Oriented Programs

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AAS Degree

Paralegal Studies, Associate of Applied Science Degree

Business

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Certificate

Paralegal Studies, Certificate

Business

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Reach out today to discover answers.

RVCC has advisors who can help you on your path to success.

  • Map your path to your interests.
  • Get help with registration.
  • Set the right schedule for you.
  • Learn about financial aid.
  • See what success looks like
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Guided by experts turning experience into insight.

Our instructors are seasoned professionals who bring real experience, genuine passion, and a commitment to your success. They translate years of frontline knowledge into practical guidance, offering insights, mentorship, and support that help you grow with confidence and step into your future prepared.

Develop practical abilities that matter.

Students develop practical, transferable abilities:

  • legal research
  • case analysis
  • problem‑solving
  • ethical decision‑making
  • effective communication.

You will leave prepared to interpret information, use professional tools, support legal processes, and contribute confidently in real‑world justice settings.

Balance life and learning without compromise.

You will benefit from flexibility that fits diverse schedules, including online and hybrid courses, part‑time pathways, and evening classes. Whether balancing work, caregiving, or returning to education, our programs provide adaptable structures that help every learner progress confidently toward their goals.

Career paths that turn passion into purpose.

Step into careers that make a real impact—graduates thrive in:

  • law enforcement
  • corrections
  • government agencies(courts &legal services)
  • nonprofit advocacy
  • private law firms.

Our graduates also continue their education at four‑year institutions, expanding their skills and opening doors to advanced roles.

Paralegal studies and criminal justice graduate students have gone on to continue their education to earn four-year degrees from Rutgers, Montclair State University, William Paterson University, and Cornell University.  Students have also transitioned to Seton Hall University Law School and Rutgers Law School.