Criminal Justice-Studies

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
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Why choose Criminal Justice-Studies?

  • Gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to be effective in criminal justice and meet the challenges of our changing society.
  • Apply your skills and knowledge to maintain peace, protect property, and be ready at a moment’s notice to restore order.
  • Looking for a career with variety? On any given day, a police officer may be called upon to respond to a crime in progress, help a person in crisis, assist in a medical emergency, handle a traffic crash, or enforce traffic laws. Law enforcement officers also interview suspects and witnesses, provide referral services, and work with community members.
  • Interested in earning a bachelor’s degree? For transfer opportunities, visit mstc.edu/transfer.
We are able to move freely through society—and enjoy some expectation of safety—thanks to the law enforcement officers in our midst. Police officers strive to maintain peace in our homes, parks, streets, businesses, and schools. They are ready at a moment’s notice to restore order and protect life and property. Adequate preparation is important for success in this career.

Program Locations

Wisconsin Rapids Campus
500 32nd Street North
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

What You'll Learn

The Criminal Justice-Studies program prepares students to meet the challenges that come with a variety of positions in the criminal justice field. Graduates interested in pursuing a career as a law enforcement officer are prepared for entry into the 720-hour certification training required for law enforcement certifiable status by the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Graduates who do not seek sworn law enforcement positions may use their skills in civilian law enforcement positions, such as record and documentation maintenance, dispatch or communications center operations, or secure correctional facility operations.

This program is designed to help secure employment, keep students abreast of rapidly changing advancements, and encourage further education. Experienced instructors emphasize professionalism, integrity, and quality work performance, with a significant focus on high ethical and moral standards.

Estimated Entire Program Cost

Cost based on the 2023/24 academic year.

  • Tuition & Fees: $9,502.50
  • Books: $1,062.08
  • Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $594.52
  • Total Estimated Cost: $11,159.10

Financial Aid Eligibility

This program is eligible for full Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Learn more about Cost of Attendance, an estimated budget that includes categories of expenses a student can expect to incur while attending. 

This course has options available to receive credit for prior learning (CPL) or work experience.

Term: 1
  Catalog# Title Credits
  10504114 Introduction to Law Enforcement  3
  10801136 English Composition 1  3
  10504164 Criminal Law for LE 3
  10809198 Introduction to Psychology  3
-or- 10809188 Developmental Psychology  3
  10504143 Criminology 3
  Term Total   15 Credits
       
Term: 2
  Catalog# Title Credits
  10504129 Community Policing 3
  10504163 Constitutional Law for LE 3
  10801198 Speech  3
-or- 10801196 Oral/Interpersonal Communication  3
  10504140 Report Writing for Protective Services  3
  10504166 Criminal Justice Ethics 3
  Term Total   15 Credits
       
Term: 3
  Catalog# Title Credits
  10504112 Court Procedures 3
  10504125 Patrol Procedures 3
  10804107 College Mathematics  3
-or- 10804189 Introductory Statistics  3
  10504115 Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement 3
  10504195 Criminal Justice Internship 2
-or- 10504196 Criminal Justice Applications  2
  10504103 Fitness for Law Enforcement  1
  Term Total   15 Credits
       
Term: 4
  Catalog# Title Credits
  10809122 Introduction to American Government  3
-or- 10809196 Introduction to Sociology  3
  10504144 Wellness in Protective Services 3
  10504123 Criminal Investigation 3
  10809172 Introduction to Diversity Studies  3
  10504134 Intro to LE Organizations and Leadership 3
  Term Total   15 Credits
       
  Program Total   60 Credits

Instructors

PAUL BUSHMAKER, BS

Paul earned his bachelor of science degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. He is a graduate of Command College #3 in conjunction with UW–Madison and is a Certified Public Manager. He has over 23 years of law enforcement experience, with 16 years as a patrol sergeant. He holds a number of specialty certifications, is a DOJ-certified instructor, and has been training and teaching law enforcement officers for over 18 years.

“I am honored to be a part of the Mid-State criminal justice studies team. The chance to help educate, mentor, and train the future law enforcement officers of this state is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”


MICHAEL TOPNESS, BAS

Mike earned his bachelor of applied science in leadership and organizational studies from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and his associate degree in criminal justice from Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wisconsin. His background includes over 13 years of work as a patrol officer in central Wisconsin. He’s also had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles including field training officer, assistant entry team leader on an area special response team, and shift lead officer. Mike holds numerous specialty certifications with an emphasis on controlled substance enforcement and law enforcement tactics as well as being a certified firearms and tactical response instructor.

“I am eager for the opportunity to mentor the future of law enforcement and help continue the excellence in policing that central Wisconsin has grown accustomed to.”

Careers

  • Police Officer
  • State Trooper
  • Deputy Sheriff
  • Civilian Law Enforcement Employee
  • Law Enforcement Officer
  • Park Ranger
  • Private Security

Fast-Track

High school students are eligible to enroll in this program and all courses required. Learn more about Mid-State Fast-Track.

"The combination of classroom teaching by field-experienced instructors and hands-on applications provided a well-rounded learning environment. I was prepared to do the job right out of the program.”

SHERIFF SAM WOLLIN
ADAMS COUNTY, WI
GRADUATE

 

Choose Your Path

Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree.

TransferDual CreditCredit for Prior Learning

Criminal Justice Studies Pathway Graphic