The College of Criminal Justice
Top 10%
Best Colleges for the Money
#1
Best Criminal Justice Schools in Texas College Factual 2023
#1
Best Criminal Justice Studies College for Veterans in the Southwest Region College Factual 2023
24:1
Student to Faculty Ratio
250+
Student Organizations
“THE MEASURE OF A LIFE IS ITS SERVICE” Criminal Justice & Criminology shsu.edu/cjcrim
Forensic Science forensics.shsu.edu
Security Studies
90+
shsu.edu/securitystudies
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shsu.edu/victims
Undergraduate Degrees Offered
Victim Studies
College of Criminal Justice Since opening its doors in 1965, the College of Criminal Justice continues to fulfill its mission as a center for lifelong learning for students and practitioners in the fields of law enforcement, corrections, victim services, forensic science, and homeland security. Its extensive alumni network stretches across the world in criminal justice positions that impact the citizens they serve. Students in the College of Criminal Justice learn from world-renown faculty who are recognized as specialists in many aspects of the field, earning awards for their contributions and service. Faculty members bring a wealth of experience to the college, as prominent researchers in their disciplines. The College of Criminal Justice enjoys an outstanding reputation in the field, regularly placed among the top programs by U.S. News & World Report and other private organizations ranking undergraduate and graduate programs. Several times in the past 10 years, the college ranked 1st in the country for its online graduate criminal justice programs and continues to earn high marks for research and scholarly work.
Campus Tours
shsu.edu/visit | seesam@shsu.edu | 936.294.1844 You can visit campus in-person or virtually. SHSU has specialty Spanish and Transfer tours available. Schedule your tour online today!
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Apply
shsu.edu/admissions
Complete the Online Application at shsu.edu/apply Pay the $50 non-refundable application fee. Apply as a freshman if you are in your final year of high school.
Submit Your Transcript Ask your high school to send an official high school transcript with GPA, date of (expected) graduation and graduation plan to Sam Houston State University. (Code: 003606)
Optional Submit Your Test Scores If you choose to send your test scores, contact the appropriate testing agency to request submission to SHSU. (SAT school code 6643; ACT school code 4162)
Course Delivery Options Internships The College of Criminal Justice encourages senior internships as valuable work experience, on the-job-training, and as an opportunity to develop a professional networking base for the future. This is an unparalleled opportunity to earn academic credit while interning with such organizations as INTERPOL, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service, or the Department of Homeland Security, as well as local probation and parole agencies, police and sheriffs’ departments, child protective services, and prosecutor’s offices. One-third of internships directly lead to jobs in the assigned agencies, while others provide contacts to help students start careers in their chosen fields. You can earn up to nine credits toward your degree while sharpening communication skills through on-the-job training.
Face-to-Face Online Options In today’s market, 65% of jobs require a higher level of education. That’s why we’ve created a way to offer online education everywhere, for everyone, so you can get ahead in life without sacrificing flexibility or quality. CJ 5 Week Parts of Term Key Points • 5-week online course format • No textbooks, courses use open educational resources • Complete certificates at your own pace* *For security studies undergraduate certificates only.
Student Organizations
Study Abroad | Study Away Immerse yourself in the history and current operations of the criminal justice system in countries such as England, China, Italy, Germany, Poland, and other top tourist destinations during our study abroad program. You can earn credit towards your degree in this exciting program, which provides first-hand experience in law enforcement, corrections, courts, and human rights in the various systems across countries. Sam Houston State University is a proud member of the National Student Exchange, a consortium of over 170 colleges and universities in the United States, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as Canada. Through this academic program, SHSU students can spend a semester or full year studying away at another member campus and continue to make progress toward their SHSU degree.
We are positioned to help you make all the right connections in the form of networking with criminal justice alumni, practitioners, and your peers through membership in various criminal justice related student organizations. Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society Crime Victim Services Alliance Criminal Justice Student Organization Kats for CASA Lambda Alpha Epsilon Criminal Justice Fraternity National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice National Organization of Hispanics in Criminal Justice Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Society Society of Forensic Science
Marketable Skills Critical Thinking Written & Oral Communication Analytical Research Proactive & Action Oriented
#3
Online Criminal Justice Graduate Programs U.S. News and World Report
Careers Police Agencies (Federal, State, County, Municipal)
Criminal Justice & Criminology The Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology is a national leader in criminal justice and criminology research and education. The department offers several undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Each one helps prepare students for the jobs they will begin or continue after graduation and for long-term success. Students gain valuable experiences outside of the classroom through our many student organizations, our exceptional internship opportunities, and opportunities to collaborate with faculty. Our faculty have teaching and research expertise in fields including criminology, policing, corrections, and social issues.
Correctional Agencies (Jails, Prisons) Drug Enforcement Probation/Parole
#2
Best Online Master’s in CJ Programs for Veterans U.S. News and World Report
Game Warden Military Police and Intelligence Higher Education (Professor)
Over 35
Nationally Recognized Faculty
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Criminal Justice, BA/BS With either of these degrees you have the foundation and the credentials necessary to succeed in your chosen criminal justice profession. We encourage you to pursue a broad liberal arts education combined with just the right criminal justice courses. Our graduates have succeeded in public service careers with the FBI, DEA, Border Patrol, U.S. Marshals, as well as state and local corrections, probation and parole agencies, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices, and the private sector.
Graduate Programs Criminal Justice, MS*
Criminal Justice & Criminology, MA**
Criminal Justice Leadership & Management, MS Criminal Justice, PhD**
* Both degrees are available face-to-face and online.
Minors & Certificates Required Courses CRIJ 2361 CRIJ 2362 CRIJ 2364 CRIJ 2365 CRIJ 2367 CRIJ 3378 CRIJ 4385 VCST 3350
Introduction to the Criminal Justice System Criminology Fundamentals of Criminal Law Correctional Systems and Practices Police Systems and Practices Introduction to Methods of Research Crime, Justice, and Social Diversity Victimology
Minor in Criminal Justice Equity & Inclusion The undergraduate minor in criminal justice equity and inclusion is a program developed for students seeking benefit from further development and professionalism in this area. Certificate in Criminal Justice Equity & Inclusion The undergraduate certificate in criminal justice equity and inclusion is a program developed for criminal justice working professionals as well as current students who plan to work in the field. *Degrees are available online only. **Degrees are available on campus only.
Suggested Majors for Minor Chemistry Forensic Chemistry Biology Criminal Justice Nursing Computer Science Psychology
Related Disciplines Forensic Chemistry Course List
Organic Chemistry Quantitative Analysis Statistics Instrumental Analysis Analytical Chemistry Biochemistry
Forensic Biology FEPAC Accredited Graduate Program
Molecular Biology Genetics Statistics
Forensic Science As a recognized leader in forensic science education, the Department of Forensic Science at Sam Houston State University is prepared to help you reach your career goals. As one of the first FEPAC-accredited graduate program in the United States and the first of its kind in Texas, you will see why so many of our graduates go on to pursue successful careers in their chosen forensic discipline. The department also developed the first interdisciplinary PhD in forensic science in the United States.
Course List
Biochemistry First of Its Kind Program
Popular Genetics
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Minor in Forensic Science The undergraduate minor in forensic science is tailored towards science majors who may have an interest in traditional (laboratory based) careers in forensic science, and non-science majors (e.g., criminal justice) interested in pursuing investigative or non-laboratory-based careers (e.g., crime scene investigation). The structure of the minor is sufficiently flexible to meet the diverse needs of both criminal justice and science majors.
Select Six of These Possible Courses CRIJ 2368 CRIJ 2394 FORS 3366 FORS 3380 FORS 4310 FORS 4317 FORS 4320 FORS 4330 FORS 4364 FORS 4380
Criminal Investigation Courts and Criminal Procedure Forensic Science Intro to Forensic Chemistry Physical Evidence Techniques Applied Statistics for Forensic Science Fundamentals of Forensic Bio Fingerprint Examination Crime Scene Investigation Techniques Ethics and Professional Practice
Graduate Programs Forensic Science, MS* Accredited by FEPAC
Forensic Science, PhD*
Career in Forensic Science A strong scientific background is necessary in order to pursue a traditional career in forensic science. Most laboratory based forensic scientists begin with a bachelor’s degree in a natural science. The most common undergraduate majors are chemistry and biology, since these provide a strong foundation for so many of the forensic science disciplines including DNA, controlled substances, toxicology, trace evidence and more. Candidates with a graduate degree in forensic science, following a baccalaureate degree in the natural sciences are highly sought after. * Both degrees are available on campus only.
Highly Qualified Faculty
Best Homeland Security, Law Enforcement & Firefighting Colleges for Veterans in Texas
Careers Law Enforcement Emergency Services
Security Studies The Department of Security Studies was launched to educate professionals to be better policymakers and strategists in developing solutions to more effectively cope with threats and hazards facing the country. The Homeland Security Enterprise includes issues such as: natural disasters, cybersecurity, terrorism, critical infrastructure protection, pandemics, security of transportation, aviation, ports and borders emergency management. Based on an all-hazards approach, the program provides the conceptual framework and practical analytical skills to combat current or future threats.
Emergency Management Intelligence Border Security Aviation Security Maritime Security Critical Infrastructure Protection
Marketable Skills Critical Thinking Evidence Based Conclusions Effective Communication Strategic Policymaking Adapt to Evolving Hazards Interagency Skills
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Homeland Security Studies, BA/BS With either of these degrees the broad educational objective is to develop thinkers, analysts, managers, and leaders who possess expertise in both theoretical and experiential dimensions of homeland security. For greater convenience and ease of access, the program is offered online.
Graduate Programs | Certificates Homeland Security Studies, MS*
Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Protection* Certificate in Emergency Management*
Required Courses SCST 2363 SCST 2364 SCST 2365 SCST 3380 SCST 3393 SCST 3394 SCST 4363 SCST 4365 SCST 4367 SCST 4379
Intro to Homeland Security Homeland Security Research Methods Intro to Emergency Management Law and Ethics in Homeland Security Public Health in Homeland Security Global Terrorism and Homeland Security Homeland Security Intelligence Border Security Critical Infrastructure Security Comparative Homeland Security
Undergraduate Certificates Security & Resilience in the Chemical & Energy Sector Security & Resilience in the Healthcare Sector Security & Resilience in the Transportation Sector The undergraduate certificates in security and resilience in the different sectors are designed to educate students working in, or seeking careers in, areas relating to security and resilience of infrastructures in the different sectors. The certificates cover all aspects of the homeland security cycle—from protection, prevention, and mitigation to response and recovery—as they relate to the different sectors. *Degree and Certificates are available mainly online with some face-to-face course options.
2019
First of Its Kind Program
Department Created
Careers Victim Service Agency Police Department Correctional Facility Adult/Child Protection Services At-Risk Programs
Victim Studies The Department of Victim Studies is the very first in the nation and enables current and future victim service professionals the tools needed to restore survivors’ feelings of safety, choice, and control. The College of Criminal Justice established the nation’s first course in victimology in the 1980’s and the first undergraduate degree in victim studies in 2003.
Legal Advocacy
Marketable Skills Critical Thinking Oral & Written Communication Analytical Research Proactive & Action Oriented
Victim Advocacy
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Victim Studies, BA/BS Victim service is expanding in law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices, state-level crime victim offices, child protection agencies, domestic violence shelters, and through other non-governmental organizations. Victim studies students can choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in victim studies. The Bachelor of Science degree has some flexibility in the curriculum allowing for degree-specific electives in the social sciences, while the Bachelor of Arts requires additional hours of a foreign language.
Graduate Programs Victim Services Management, MS
Minor & Certificates Required Courses CRIJ 3340 CRIJ 2361 CRIJ 2362 CRIJ 2364 CRIJ 2365 CRIJ 2367 CRIJ 3378 CRIJ 4385 VCST 3350
Gender and Crime Intro to the Criminal Justice System Criminology Fundamentals of Criminal Law Correctional Systems and Practices Police Systems and Practices Introduction to Methods of Research Crime, Justice, and Social Diversity Victimology
Minor in Victim Studies A minor in victim studies will prepare students for careers that work closely with victims, but also those who are outside of direct victim services. In addition to the direct victim service careers, a minor in victim studies will develop skills for careers like social work, counseling and psychology, nursing and medicine, teaching and education, policing, corrections, and law. Certificate in Victim Studies The undergraduate certificate in victim studies is a 15-credithour program which provides students and professionals with an overview of victimology and victim services. Individuals can use their certificates to enhance their current careers or assist in future endeavors to work with victims.
Professional and Research Institutes Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT) www.lemitonline.org
George J. Beto Criminal Justice Center The George J. Beto Criminal Justice Center is home to several prestigious training and research institutes dedicated to advancing the criminal justice field through professional development and investigation of key issues. These institutes partner with individuals and agencies across the state to help bring research into practice in various disciplines. The Texas Legislature selected Sam Houston State University to host four institutes to provide training to top leaders in law enforcement, corrections, and nonprofit organizations in the state. Other institutes are the result of long-standing partnerships with agencies to promote evidence-based practices in the field.
Created by the Texas Legislature in 1989, LEMIT is one of the largest and most sophisticated statewide preparation programs for police management in the United States and is nationally recognized for its initiatives to develop the administrative, analytical, and executive skills of current and future law enforcement officials. Correctional Management Institute of Texas (CMIT) www.cmitonline.org Correctional Management Institute of Texas, created in 1994, is enhancing corrections in adult and juvenile community and institutional corrections agencies by providing training variety, value, quality and relevance, assistance to the field, and field research.
Crime Victims’ Institute (CVI) www.crimevictimsinstitute.org
Institute for Legal Studies in Criminal Justice (ILSCJ) www.shsu.edu/ilscj
The Crime Victims’ Institute at Sam Houston State University is committed to advancing research on victimization issues in Texas. Visiting our website will provide access to CVI’s research, as well as information and resources from victim service agencies.
The Institute for Legal Studies in Criminal Justice increases faculty mentorship on legal research and publication on issues related to law.
Institute for Forensic Research, Training, and Innovation (IFRTI) www.ifrti.org The Institute for Forensic Research, Training, and Innovation advances the practice for forensic science through strategic academic-industrial partnerships, industrially relevant research, and delivers highly specialized training to forensic practitioners and stakeholders. Institute for Homeland Security (IHS) www.ihsonline.org The Institute for Homeland Security is a center for strategic thought with the goal of contributing to the security, resilience, and business continuity of the critical infrastructure sectors of Transportation, Energy, Chemical, and Healthcare from a homeland security perspective.
Police Research Center (PRC) www.cjcenter.org/prc The Police Research Center operates the Criminal Research, Information Management, and Evaluation System (CRIMES), a state-of-the-art police information management system, and coordinates with major city police departments to identify and address common issues. South Texas Applied Forensic Science Facility (STAFS) www.cjcenter.org/stafs The STAFS Facility is a willed-body donor and state-ofthe-art research and training facility, recognized by the Anatomical Board of Texas, designed to advance academic and technical knowledge in the application of forensic science disciplines to criminal investigations. In collaboration with law enforcement and forensic practitioners, STAFS simulates forensically relevant scenarios that may be encountered in real-world investigations.
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Texas State University System Board of Regents Duke Austin Chairman, Houston | Alan L. Tinsley Vice Chairman, Madisonville | Charlie Amato Regent, San Antonio Sheila Faske Regent, Rose City | Dionicio (Don) Flores Regent, El Paso | Russell Gordy Regent, Houston Stephen Lee Regent, Beaumont | Tom Long Regent, Frisco | William F. Scott Regent, Nederland | Kelvin Elgar Student Regent, Beaumont Sam Houston State University | College of Criminal Justice | Fall 2023