The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Public Safety program includes the necessary general education and specialized law enforcement, fire science and emergency medical technology coursework to prepare students for a career in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical care, or security services.  Students will learn fundamental skills in all areas of public safety.  In the law enforcement area students will develop an understanding of Constitutional law, Oregon state laws and the basics of policing.  The student will learn basic emergency medical skills necessary to provide emergency medical aid to those sick or injured.  In the fire science area, students will study topics such as fire service culture, professional standards, tools and equipment, fire apparatus, and fire prevention. Using specific electives, students can choose to focus their studies in one particular area, or study a variety of topics in criminal justice, emergency medical services, and fire science.

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 90 credit hours with a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. All courses must be completed with a grade of 'C' or better. Twenty-four (24) credits must be completed at Southwestern before the degree is awarded.

Courses that are developmental in nature, (designed to prepare students for college transfer courses), are not applicable to this degree.

Complete the graduation application process one term prior to the term of completion (e.g., spring term graduates must apply during winter term).

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, the student will be able to:

• Identify the characteristics of professional integrity and ethical standards for Oregon Criminal Justice, Emergency Medical, and Fire Science professionals.
• Describe and relate the Constitutional rights and responsibilities of citizens, offenders, and victims as they apply to state, federal, and procedural laws.
• Demonstrate personal behaviors and technical proficiency in all of the skills necessary to fulfill the role of an entry level emergency medical first responder.
• Apply critical-thinking and decision-making skills relevant to public safety scenarios.

Pre-Program Courses

Students are required to take the following courses prior to the program courses, depending on students' college placement information. See advisor for details:

Program Guide