Understanding what makes up our diverse communities and acquiring the skills needed to address mental health awareness and well-being comprises these various programs. Learn the psychology of understanding human behavior, the sociology of our human society and how criminal justice can keep our communities safe and secure.
If you’re fascinated by why people act the way they do, how communities function, and how we can make the world a better place, this pathway can help you develop the critical thinking and empathy needed to understand and support others.
This pathway prepares you for a variety of careers focused on helping others, from counseling and social work to law enforcement and criminal justice. Whether you want to work in human services, psychology or criminal justice, you’ll gain the tools to advocate for change and create safer, healthier communities.
With a degree from Atlantic Cape, you can start working in fields like counseling, rehabilitation or criminal justice, or continue your education for advanced roles in psychology, social work or law. This pathway gives you the flexibility to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a four-year institution for further study.
Our region boasts a wide variety of career opportunities with competitive salaries in the Social/Behavioral Sciences & Public Service Industry. The labor market, employer information and salary data are based on estimates within the Greater Philadelphia Region.
Salary information presented are estimates and can be different for each individual based on education, experience and the specific employer. Labor market data is based on 2024 estimates from Lightcast.
Whether your goal is to pursue a career following graduation or to earn a bachelor's degree at a four-year college or university, Atlantic Cape offers numerous degree programs that will help you achieve your dreams. Explore your options below.
The degree programs below are designed to transfer to four-year colleges or universities.
This 3+1 program requires completion of an associate degree in a chosen discipline at Atlantic Cape. Students need to complete this 30-credit program to be eligible to transfer all 90 credits towards a bachelor’s degree.
Learn MoreGain the knowledge required to succeed in law enforcement, courts, corrections and security. Prepare for a workforce job or continued studies at a 4-year college/university. May qualify for prior learning credit.
Learn MoreLearn foundational skills needed for a career in social services from family services, aging, and health and mental health to addiction, disabilities and more. This degree can lead to baccalaureate and graduate programs in Social Work.
Learn MoreUnderstand the dynamics of the inner workings of the human psyche as study the thinking, actions and motives of the self. This program is part of Atlantic Cape’s transfer agreement with Rutgers University-Camden’s Mays Landing campus.
Learn MoreLend a helping hand to the recovery of individuals with psychosocial disabilities and addictive disorders. With the knowledge gained from this program you can enter a rewarding career field. This degree may be earned part-time.
Learn MoreGain a broad swath of knowledge in the fields of Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, Anthropology, Economics and Criminal Justice with this program option. Numerous Social Science careers are available in these fields.
Learn MoreEarn credits toward your degree with a certificate program or take a professional series to learn entry-level job skills.
This certificate covers the basics of the U.S. criminal justice system and can be taken alone or with an associate degree. It enhances employment opportunities, is available at all campuses and may be completed fully online.
This certificate is designed for DHS and DCF clerical staff who want to earn a college certificate or degree in human services. It includes 18 credit hours plus 12 credit hours from prior Career Ladders certifications.
The Addiction Counseling Specialist series prepares students for substance abuse counseling and CADC certification with six courses aligned to New Jersey standards.
Our apprenticeship-ready programs teach you the skills you need to jump right into the workforce in only a couple short months.
“Atlantic Cape helped me through a difficult time in my life when I was really unsure about what to do with my future. I knew the College would keep my mind busy and give me a better future. They helped me with my internship at the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office and taking the next step in my journey towards becoming a detective.”
Many of our graduates move on to transfer to four-year colleges and universities to successfully earn a bachelor’s degree and beyond.
Atlantic Cape has partnered with more than 25 universities to provide a seamless transfer experience including 3+1 agreements with select institutions. You can even earn your degree right on our Mays Landing campus with our Rutgers at Atlantic Cape Premier Partnership.
Transfer Information & Partnerships