The Social Science Department offers degree and/or certificate programs in the following majors (click on each major for complete program descriptions):

A.A.S. Digital Forensics

Many legal investigations rely on individuals with technical knowledge to find evidence. The Digital Forensics program prepares you for a career in an evolving field that combines technology skills, research savvy and the law.

A.A.S. Fire Science

Start a career in the fire service or a related field, or advance in your current position. The Fire Science program at Community College of Philadelphia is designed specifically for people interested in a leadership position in the fire service or in a related field.

A.A.S. Criminal Justice

Analyzing evidence, investigating crimes, working with at-risk youth and working with criminal offenders are some of the duties of individuals employed in the criminal justice field. The Justice program provides you with the knowledge and skills used to protect the public, and work within the court and corrections systems. Taught by experienced faculty, your courses will focus on the needs, operations and administration of the criminal justice system.

A.A.S. Paralegal Studies (Approved by the American Bar Association)

The Paralegal Studies curriculum leads to either the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree or the Paralegal Studies certificate. Both the degree and the certificate programs are approved by the American Bar Association. The certificate is available for those students who have earned an A.A., A.S. or bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by a regional member of the Commission of Higher Education.

Our curriculum provides students with a varied and general foundation in the practical skills necessary to be a paralegal. The degree program is suitable for students seeking either to transfer to a four-year institution in a law-related program or to enter the work force as a paralegal in a law firm, business, government, and public and private agency. Community College of Philadelphia trains paralegals that must operate under the supervision of a licensed attorney and are prohibited from practicing law.

Paralegal Studies Proficiency Certificate (Approved by the American Bar Association)

The Paralegal Studies program, which is approved by the American Bar Association, will teach you how to navigate the field of law from the ground up. You will learn how to conduct legal research and writing, draft legal documents, analyze legal problems and develop effective client relationships. During your first course in Paralegal Studies, a professional within the local legal community will mentor you on the realities of a career in law. Our program also offers a range of optional activities, such as internships, service learning, guest lectures and field trips, guidance in developing job interview skills, and résumés and job placement assistance. The certificate is available for those students who have earned an A.A., A.A.S. or bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by a regional member of the Commission of Higher Education. Community College of Philadelphia trains paralegals who must operate under the supervision of a licensed attorney and are prohibited from practicing law.