Criminal Justice & Criminology Pathway

The Criminal Justice and Criminology pathway prepares students to explore the laws, systems, and professions dedicated to protecting communities and promoting justice. Students learn about law enforcement, the court system, corrections, forensic science, criminal investigations, cybersecurity, emergency management, and the causes and prevention of crime. Through hands-on activities, case studies, and real-world problem-solving, students develop critical thinking, communication, leadership, ethical decision-making, and teamwork skills. This pathway can lead to careers such as police officer, detective, forensic scientist, criminologist, attorney, probation or parole officer, emergency management specialist, crime scene investigator, and other public safety professionals. Students build a strong foundation for college, career training, industry certifications, and careers in criminal justice, public safety, and related fields.

Knowledge and Skills (ODE aligned)

• Understanding of criminal justice systems structure

• Analysis of criminal behavior and societal impacts

• Application of investigative and forensic concepts

• Evaluation of legal processes and constitutional rights

• Use of critical thinking in case analysis

Examples of possible careers that ASCEND graduates can pursue

• Loss Prevention Specialist

• Police Officer

• Detective

• Juvenile Justice Counselor

Industry certifications (optional)

• FEMA ICS-100 (free)

• FEMA IS-700 (free)

• EMR certification

Future opportunities

This pathway helps students develop leadership, responsibility, and critical thinking skills needed for careers in law enforcement, public safety, and legal services after high school. Students can explore careers such as police officer, firefighter, corrections officer, lawyer, or forensic investigator. They can prepare for college, military service, or advanced training programs, and may have the opportunity to earn dual credit in select courses. These experiences help students build the knowledge and discipline needed for careers that serve and protect their communities.

Your Criminal Justice and Criminology Teacher

MR. DAN WEST

Mr. West is a first generation Oregonian. He has lived in the Willamette Valley his entire life. He developed a love for history in his early years through learning the life stories of several historical figures. Additionally, he learned a lot as a child about the Criminal Justice field from his father, who served as a sheriff’s deputy here in Oregon. After attending an asynchronous high school himself, he then went on to get a Bachelors in History and a Masters in Education, both from the University of Oregon. A couple years later, Mr. West began teaching with ORCA. He has been a part of the social studies department for two decades. He still has a great love for both history and the criminal justice field and is excited each year to work with students who are also passionate about those subjects.

ASCEND PATHWAYS

Business + Management  |  Computer Science  |  Hospitality & Tourism Management  |  Medical Science  |  Ag/Veterinary Science | Data Science/Engineering | Criminal Justice & Criminology | Digital Arts, Media, and Graphic Design | Education/Teaching & Training | Environmental and Natural Resources | ASCEND Team

Return to ASCEND home