About the Program

The mission of the Criminal Justice Program is to provide quality education and professional criminal justice curriculum that delivers knowledge about the operations and processes of the criminal justice components, social awareness necessary for an entry level position, or advancement in a current position in the criminal justice field. Students will gain an understanding of methods and techniques used in the field, think critically about social justice issues that impact societies, and be better prepared for advancement within their chosen professions.

 

Program Goals

Upon completing their general requirements, students at NMSU Grants will be able to:

• Express their knowledge of the core values of the criminal justice field and the professional code of ethics.
• Describe the function of the criminal justice system in society;
• Recognize the political, social and environmental forces that impact the nature, extent, and causation of crime.
• Analyze criminal statutes to determine the statutes' elements, constitutionality and proper application.
• Analyze a criminal case to determine its appropriate processing, given an understanding of the jurisdiction and functions of police, courts and corrections as components of an interdependent criminal justice system.

Benefits of a Criminal Justice Degree

Why Choose Criminal Justice at NMSU Grants?

1. Career Ready Flexibility Our program is designed for the working professional. Complete your Associate of Criminal Justice 100% online, allowing you to maintain your current job or family commitments while you earn your degree.
2. A Seamless Path to Your Bachelor’s Don’t stop at an Associate degree. Our curriculum is specifically designed to matriculate directly into a Bachelor’s degree at NMSU Las Cruces.
3. NMSU Grants offers one of the most affordable tuition rates in the region. Furthermore, we support the whole student from personalized academic advising to wellness resources like the Aggie Cupboard, we are invested in your success from day one.
4. Competitive Earning Potential Investing in your education pays off. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), the median annual wage for protective service occupations is $54,300, significantly higher than the median for all occupations. Specialized roles in the field, such as detectives or federal agents, often see median earnings exceeding $91,000.

 

Career Opportunities

Serve Your Community: A CJ degree is a versatile foundation for careers in:

• Victim Advocacy & Social Services
• Juvenile Justice & Counseling
• Court Administration & Law
• Customs, Border Protection, and Conservation 

Meet the Faculty

Megan Stoneking is a College Associate Professor and the Program Manager for the Criminal Justice and Social Work programs at NMSU Grants. She holds a Master of Criminal Justice from New Mexico State University and is dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in the justice system and public service. Her teaching emphasizes professional ethics, social forces, and the interdisciplinary nature of modern criminal justice. Beyond the classroom, Professor Stoneking is a strong advocate for student success and overall wellness. She actively supports campus resources like the Aggie Cupboard, reflecting her commitment to ensuring that all students have the essential support they need to thrive academically and personally. Through her leadership and community engagement, she strives to foster a supportive environment for the entire NMSU Grants community.