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The Global Insight

What is the difference between criminal justice AAS and AS?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on April 03, 2026

An Associate of Applied Science degree is similar to an Associate of Arts and an Associate of Science degree, but with a key difference. The AAS degree prepares students to enter the workforce right after completion of the program, while AA and AS programs typically prepare students to transfer to a longer program.

What degrees pair with criminal justice?

Some good double majors or minors for those going into criminal justice administration include: Communications. Human Resources. Business and Management….On the other hand, other minors may help those going into forensics, crime prevention, and corrections:

  • Computer science and IT.
  • Psychology.
  • Social Work.

    Is an associates degree in criminal justice worth it?

    Yes, an associates degree in criminal justice is worth it for many professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3% job growth in protective service occupations for the next 10 years, as fast as the average for all occupations.

    What does criminal justice AA mean?

    Associate of Arts
    Are you planning on taking on an associates degree in Criminal Justice? AA stands for Associate of Arts, while AS stands for Associate of Science. Mostly, both the Associate of Arts and the Associate of Science degrees should present you with a strong readiness for criminal justice academia or law enforcement careers.

    What is an AAS degree?

    The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree prepares graduates to enter a career immediately after graduation and have been considered terminal degrees. Most AS degrees are transfer degrees as they provide an academic foundation. The associate degree.

    What does AA stand for in criminal justice?

    Aa or As Criminal Justice Degree “Aa” stands for Associate Of Arts and “As” stands for Associate Of Science. These are general transfer degrees and marks a student as equivalent to first two years of bachelor’s degree. Abbreviation For Associates Degree In Criminal Justice. Abbreviation for Associate Of Arts Degree : AA

    Can you get an associate’s degree in criminal justice?

    Criminal Justice Associate’s Degree. You can begin work on an associate’s degree in criminal justice degree almost any time you like. In the academic world, criminal justice is considered the study of the system we use to detect, arrest, prosecute and punish criminals in society.

    Is it worth it to get a BA in criminal justice?

    With the two-year degree under your belt, you can later opt to finish a BA program if you need that to advance to a new job or post. Your years of experience plus a bachelor’s will be a tremendous asset, and you can bring much experience to your final two years of education.

    What can you do with an AA degree?

    However, an AA degree is in itself is a valuable degree that can help launch your career. When you earn an AA, you can immediately go to work in your field. While your friends in bachelor’s programs are studying away, you will be gaining valuable experience in the field.