criminal justice phd programs texas

• Skip to Content
• Catalog Home
• Institution Home
• Pay Tuition
• Online Toolkit
• Shuttle Tracker
• Undergraduate Degree Programs
• Graduate Degree Programs
• Undergraduate

Print Options

• College of Applied Arts
• School of Criminal Justice and Criminology
• Ph.D. Major in Criminal Justice
• General Information
• Admission Information
• Admission Documents
• Registration and Course Credit
• Academic and Grading Policies
• Degree Information
• Graduate Degrees
• Graduate Majors
• Graduate Minors
• Graduate Certificates
• Tuition and Fees
• Additional Fees and Expenses
• Refund of Fees
• Department of Agricultural Sciences
• M.S.C.J. Major in Criminal Justice
• M.S.C.J. Major in Criminal Justice (Executive Concentration)
• M.S.C.J. Major in Criminal Justice (Thesis Option)
• Minor in Criminal Justice
• School of Family and Consumer Sciences
• Department of Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies
• School of Social Work
• Emmett and Miriam McCoy College of Business
• College of Education
• College of Fine Arts and Communication
• College of Health Professions
• College of Liberal Arts
• College of Science and Engineering
• Graduate Faculty

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Major in Criminal Justice

Program overview.

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Texas State offers a doctoral program for:

• criminal justice professionals who seek advanced education and
• students who will pursue academic appointments at colleges and universities in Texas and around the nation.

Texas State is located in the heart of the central Texas corridor, near 16 state criminal justice offices and 13 Texas counties, including Travis (Austin) and Bexar (San Antonio). The university's geographic proximity to state criminal justice agency headquarters for law enforcement, criminal courts, and corrections, and to managers and executives in these agencies, makes it an ideal location for offering a doctoral-degree program.

The doctoral program is part of a vibrant school, with approximately 1000 bachelor's students and 30 master's students. Twenty-three full-time faculty members are involved in a wide range of research. A list of faculty and their research interests is available at http://www.cj.txstate.edu/people/faculty . The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology also administers a number of institutes and centers, including the Center for Geospatial Intelligence and Investigation and the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center (ALERRT).

Courses are offered in the evenings for the convenience of working professionals. Students are classified as either full-time (nine hours per term) or part-time. All students will be given the opportunity to initiate, complete, present, and publish original research. Each student develops an appropriate degree plan to meet their career and academic goals. The degree plan will include a mix of theoretical, analytical, and elective courses that will prepare students to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.

It is expected that students will pursue their courses and research activities in an efficient and timely manner. If it is determined that a student is not making adequate progress toward completion of the doctoral degree requirements, consultations will be undertaken between the student, the student's dissertation chair (when applicable), the program director, and the School's doctoral executive council to develop a remediation plan, which may include revising a student's program of study or research. Failure to successfully remedy documented deviancies will result in termination of the student's enrollment in the doctoral program at the discretion of the doctoral executive council. Students removed from the doctoral program in this manner may appeal to the dean of The Graduate College for reinstatement in the program.

Educational Goal

The central educational goal of the Ph.D. program in criminal justice at Texas State is to prepare doctoral students to assume leadership roles in academic, public policy, and administrative positions within a rapidly changing criminal justice system. The Ph.D. program produces outstanding researchers who are qualified for academic positions and prepares practitioners to conduct research in criminal justice agencies. The school has developed a programmatic perspective that is sensitive to the importance of research skills, balanced with theoretically informed policy analysis, so that students can more effectively address the challenges in criminal justice in Texas and across the nation. Students gain expertise to apply statistically advanced research methodologies to conduct empirical studies in crime, law, public policy, and administration of the criminal justice system.

Other educational goals and objectives are to:

• Identify the theoretical perspectives and foundations of current research in the study of crime, law, and public policy decision-making undertaken by criminal justice agencies to assist law enforcement, court personnel, and corrections staff to plan, develop, and implement timely, efficient, and sound responses to crime.
• Apply precise, empirically validated, and tested research methods to investigate, analyze, and improve theory and policy to provide policy makers with the most current research and applicable technology to address emergent public safety growth areas.
• Communicate effectively to educate and inform professional managers and administrators of criminal justice agencies, their service personnel (e.g., police) and the community at-large about the ‘best practices’ for addressing the control of crime at the neighborhood, community, state, and national levels.
• Recognize ethical dilemmas and make ethically sound decisions to ensure that recommended criminal justice policy becomes a useful guide, if not benchmark procedure, for executives and heads of criminal justice agencies as they develop their strategic plans to address crime and public safety at the local, state, and national levels.

Apply a broad understanding of the legal and empirical elements of criminal justice administration in leadership positions to encourage current and future working professionals and executives in criminal justice agencies to incorporate more comprehensive training using the ‘best practices’ in leadership and management theory when developing, planning, and implementing policies that effect their own agencies and the surrounding communities they serve.

Financial Assistance

Assistantships and scholarships are available to qualified applicants. The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology offers doctoral instructional assistantships and teaching assistantships on a competitive basis to full-time students enrolled in the criminal justice Ph.D. program. An offer of financial support will normally be made at the time that a student is accepted into the program. The Graduate College can provide further information regarding scholarships.

Application Requirements

The items listed below are required for admission consideration for applicable semesters of entry during the current academic year. Submission instructions, additional details, and changes to admission requirements for semesters other than the current academic year can be found on The Graduate College's website . International students should review the International Admission Documents page for additional requirements.

• completed online application
• $55 nonrefundable application fee

          or

• $90 nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials
• baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university (Non-U.S. degrees must be equivalent to a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree. In most cases, three-year degrees are not considered. Visit our  International FAQs  for more information.)
• master's degree in criminal justice or a related field from a regionally accredited university
• official transcripts from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• minimum 3.5 GPA in all completed graduate course work
• official GRE (general test only) with competitive scores in the verbal reasoning and quantitative reasoning sections
• statement of purpose describing the student’s personal history and life goals that are relevant to obtaining a doctoral degree
• three letters of recommendation indicating the student’s skills and capacity to be successful in the Ph.D. program

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52
• official IELTS (academic) scores required with a 6.5 overall and minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

This program does  not  offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Degree Requirements

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree with a major in Criminal Justice requires 51 semester credit hours. No grade earned below “B” on any course work may apply toward a Ph.D. degree in criminal justice at Texas State.

All doctoral students are required to enroll in  CJ 7309  Proseminar during their second or third year to learn about the criminal justice discipline, teaching, publishing, grants and fellowships, writing dissertations, and post-doctoral employment. Doctoral students selected for teaching assistantships will be required to enroll in  CJ 7301  Instructional Assistant Supervision during the first semester they teach.  

Course Requirements

Qualifying Examination 

All students take a qualifying examination one to two weeks after completion of their first year in the program. The qualifying examination integrates criminological theory, quantitative methods, and regression. The examination is graded by those professors who taught the first-year required courses or those in a pool who have previously taught the courses. One re-examination is offered at midsummer for those who fail. Students who fail the re-examination will be dismissed from the program.

Comprehensive Examination Requirements

All candidates for graduate degrees must pass one or more comprehensive examinations.

Advancement to Candidacy

Application for advancement to candidacy.

Students can download the “Application for Advancement to Candidacy form” from The Graduate College website. The student should complete and sign the upper portion of the form and return it to the program director. When all requirements for admission to candidacy have been met (completion of course-work, a passing grade on the comprehensive examination, approval of dissertation chair and committee, and submission of an approved dissertation proposal), the program director will forward the Application for Advancement to Candidacy form to the dean of The Graduate College for review and approval.

The dean of The Graduate College approves advancement to candidacy once all requirements are met and at the recommendation of the program director.

In addition, before advancement to candidacy, students are required to complete the following:

• Completion of all courses toward the doctoral degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Passing grade on the comprehensive examination. "Pass" is the only satisfactory grade.

The student must select a dissertation chair, and that chair must be approved by the doctoral executive council. The student also must select a dissertation committee comprised of three additional members of the doctoral faculty, one of whom must be an external member from outside the School of Criminal Justice of Texas State University.

• The student must choose a topic with the approval of the student’s dissertation advisor and committee.
• The student will submit a title and a written proposal for the dissertation to the student’s dissertation committee and successfully defend the proposal in an oral presentation with the dissertation committee. The proposal will include a statement of the problem to be studied, a discussion of the relevant literature, and the research method of the proposed dissertation topic.
• The program director will make a recommendation to the graduate dean who makes the final decision on the student’s advancement to candidacy. The Graduate College will notify the student once the decision has been made.

Advancement to Candidacy Time Limit

Full-time, traditional students should be advanced to candidacy within five years of initiating Ph.D. course-work applied toward the degree. Non-traditional, part-time students may request extensions from the Doctoral Executive Council as long as they maintain a GPA of 3.0 and are making consistent progress toward fulfilling their degree requirements. The Doctoral Executive Council will review part-time students’ requests for extensions on an individual, case-by-case basis.

No credit will be applied toward a student’s doctoral degree for course-work completed more than five years before the date on which the student is admitted to candidacy. This time limit applies to course credit earned at Texas State, as well as course credit transferred to Texas State from other accredited institutions.

Grade-Point Requirements for Advancement to Candidacy

A minimum GPA of 3.0 on all course work undertaken as a doctoral student in the criminal justice program is required for admission to candidacy. No grade earned below “B” on any course work may apply toward a Ph.D. degree in criminal justice at Texas State.

Incomplete grades must be cleared through The Graduate College at least ten days before approval for advancement to candidacy will be granted.

Dissertation Proposal

A dissertation proposal prepared by the student and approved by the student’s dissertation chair and a majority of the other members of the dissertation committee is a requirement for Advancement to Candidacy status. The proposal must outline the substance and scope of the dissertation research, present the methodology to be used, and survey the relevant literature. The student’s dissertation chair and other dissertation committee members must indicate approval of the dissertation proposal on the “Dissertation Proposal and Proposal Defense” form. This form can be downloaded from The Graduate College website. A final copy of the dissertation proposal, accompanied by the signed approval form, must be turned in to the program director, who will forward it to the dean of The Graduate College for review and final approval.

Advancement to Candidacy Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive exam involves completion of an empirical research project (with data analysis) and a single-authored article about it (not to exceed 6,000 words, excluding references) that, in the examination committee's view, is suitable for publication in a refereed journal. The purpose of the comprehensive exam is to assess a student's ability to critically assess previous research on a topic, develop a research question on it, and complete independent research to address the question. Students need to disclose to the examining committee if the article originated in a class or if there are other potential conflicts with it.

The examining committee is comprised of a chair and two other members. All must be members of the doctoral faculty, and the chair must be a member of the Core Doctoral Faculty. The chair is chosen by the student, and the other two committee members are chosen at random by the Doctoral Program Director from a list of doctoral faculty members. A form with the committee's composition must be filed with Doctoral Program Director when the committee is constituted. The committee must be constituted no later than when a student has completed 27 hours of doctoral coursework. The committee must approve the topic for a student's article, and a written description of the topic will be distributed to all members of the doctoral faculty. The examining committee's assessment of the student's article will be based on: (1) the quality of the research question, (2) the appropriateness of the methods and data analysis, (3) the adequacy of the articles connection to previous research, (4) the appropriateness of the interpretations of the data analysis, and (5) the quality of writing. A simple majority vote (2 of 3) is sufficient for deciding a grade. After completing 27 hours of coursework, a student can submit an article to their committee for grading. A student has until the semester after, they have completed 39 hours of doctoral coursework to receive a passing grade on an article. If a passing grade is not achieved by this point, the student will be dismissed from the program. Articles can be submitted for grading to the examining committees during the first three weeks of the fall semester or the first three weeks of spring semester.

The examining committee will have graded a submitted article within three weeks of receiving it. The grade options are "pass", "fail", and "revise and resubmit." If a student's article is assigned a "revise and resubmit," the student will have one semester to submit a revised version in order to receive a passing grade. The chair of the student's committee will summarize in writing what changes need to be considered in the revision for a "pass." If a student's article is assigned a "fail," the student will have one semester to submit an article on a new topic and receive a passing grade for it. The chair of the student's committee will explain in writing reasons for the failure. The same three graders will be used for an article that is assigned a "revise and resubmit." A student can select a new committee chair for a "failed" article, and two new committee members will be assigned by the Doctoral Program Director. In the event that a student's second resubmission of an article is assigned a "fail," the student will be dismissed from the program.

Full-time, traditional students are expected to pass their comprehensive examination by the end of their third year. For non-traditional, part-time students, the three years can be extended on an individual, case-by-case basis. However, extensions will require the approval of the doctoral council.

Recommendation for Advancement to Candidacy

The program director recommends the applicant for Advancement to Candidacy. Students must submit an official "Application for Advancement to Candidacy" form when all requirements are met (completion of coursework, a passing grade on the comprehensive examination, approval of dissertation chair/committee, and submission of an approved dissertation proposal). This form can be downloaded from the Graduate College website. The results of the comprehensive examination and the completed Application for Advancement to Candidacy form must be filed in the Graduate College before the dean of The Graduate College gives final approval to candidacy. The Program director is responsible for submitting these forms to The Graduate College.

Dissertation Research and Writing

All doctoral students are required to complete a dissertation. The dissertation must present a systematic inquiry into a relevant research question, be informed by prior research, and add to the body of knowledge in the field. In most cases, the research will be quantitative in nature, although qualitative or legal research may be utilized in some cases. It is expected that the dissertation will provide the content for one or more publishable articles in academic journals.

Students are required to complete the following dissertation requirements:

• The student will complete the dissertation, which must be an original contribution to scholarship and the result of independent research in a significant area of criminal justice. The student is expected to write the dissertation and orally defend it in an announced public presentation within three years of the official date of being advanced to candidacy. Questions posed to the student are initially limited to the dissertation committee membership. However, at the discretion of the presiding chair and when time permits, questions will also be solicited from the attending public audience. The approval of the dissertation requires the approval of the dissertation chair and the approval of a majority of the other members of the committee. A written notice of the dissertation committee’s approval will be forwarded to the program director and then to the graduate dean.
• If the dissertation committee decides not to approve the candidate’s dissertation, the dissertation chair will prepare a written response to the doctoral executive council, accounting for the decision and outlining the steps required for approval. These steps will also be communicated to the candidate.
• The student will submit the final, approved dissertation to The Graduate College in the prescribed format.
• The program director will conduct a final review of the coursework and recommendation from the student’s dissertation committee before making a recommendation to the graduate dean that the student be awarded the Ph.D. degree with a major in criminal justice. The graduate dean will certify that the student has met all of the requirements and can be awarded the degree.

Dissertation Enrollment Requirements

After being admitted to candidacy, students must be continuously enrolled for dissertation hours each term until the defense of their dissertation. If a student is receiving supervision on the dissertation during the summer or the student is graduating during the summer, the student must be enrolled in dissertation hours for the summer. All candidates for graduation must be enrolled in dissertation hours during the semester in which the degree is to be conferred. Students must complete a minimum of 12 semester hours of dissertation credit.

Dissertation Time Limit

It is expected that the dissertation will, in most cases, be completed in two terms of concentrated effort and in no more than six terms. Students must appeal to the doctoral executive council for an extension beyond six terms. The student must pass an oral defense of their dissertation before final completion of the doctoral program.

Dissertation Committee

The dissertation committee will oversee the research progress of a doctoral student and the writing of the student's dissertation. The committee will consist of at least four members, including the student's dissertation chair and three additional members of the doctoral faculty, one of whom must be an external member from outside the School of Criminal Justice of Texas State University. The student's dissertation chair will be a member of the core doctoral faculty in the School of Criminal Justice. The student, program director, school director, and the dean of The Graduate College will approve the composition of dissertation committee. The student is responsible for obtaining committee members' signatures on the "Dissertation/Research Advisor Assignment form: and the "Dissertation Committee Request form" which can be downloaded from the Graduate College website.

Dissertation Defense

The dissertation defense may not be scheduled until all other academic and program requirements have been fulfilled. A complete draft of the dissertation must be given to the members of the dissertation committee at least 65 days before the date of commencement during the term in which the student intends to graduate. After committee members have reviewed the draft with the student and provided comments, the student, in consultation with the dissertation chair, will incorporate the recommended changes into a second draft of the dissertation. When each committee member is satisfied that the draft dissertation is defendable, the dissertation defense may be scheduled.

The student is expected to orally defend the dissertation in an announced public presentation within three years of the official date of being advanced to candidacy. Questions posed to the student are initially limited to the dissertation committee. However, at the discretion of the dissertation chair and when time permits, questions will also be solicited from the attending public audience. The approval of the dissertation requires the approval of the dissertation chair and the approval of a majority of the other members of the committee. A written notice of the dissertation committee’s approval will be forwarded to the program director, and then to the dean of The Graduate College. Specific information on the examination procedure can be found in the School of Criminal Justice Ph.D. Handbook or obtained from the doctoral director.

Approval and Submission of the Dissertation

Following approval of the dissertation by the members of the dissertation committee, the student must submit one copy of the dissertation and a signed "Thesis/Dissertation Committee Approval form" to the office of The Graduate College for final approval. Specific guidelines for approval and submission of the dissertation can be obtained from The Graduate College. 

Doctoral level courses in Criminal Justice: CJ

Courses Offered

Criminal justice (cj).

CJ 7199. Dissertation.

Original research and writing in criminal justice to be accomplished under direct supervision of the dissertation advisor. While conducting dissertation research and writing, students must be continuously enrolled each long semester for at least three dissertation hours.

CJ 7299. Dissertation.

CJ 7301. Instructional Assistant Supervision.

This course prepares doctoral students employed as research or teaching assistants to perform effectively in diverse instructional settings. The course provides for regular and planned opportunities for continuing evaluation of students. This course does not earn graduate degree credit.

CJ 7309. Proseminar.

This course introduces students to information that is useful to their success as Ph.D. students and after graduation. Topics include the criminal justice discipline, teaching, publishing, grants and fellowships, writing dissertations, and post-doctoral employment. Emphasis is placed on identifying and coordinating opportunities for research and scholarship among faculty and students. Must have completed 12 hours of doctoral credit in Criminal Justice to enroll in this course.

CJ 7310. Philosophy of Law, Justice, and Social Control.

A current, thorough, and comprehensive review of the criminal justice system focused on how the system functions, and its current needs and future trends. Students submit extensive critiques and participate in panel discussions.

CJ 7311. Advanced Criminological Theory.

An overview of the major criminological paradigms is presented focusing on the causes of crime and deviant behavior. The course includes a discussion of criminological theories from a philosophy of science perspective focusing on such issues as theory construction, theoretical integration, and the formal evaluation of theory and policy.

CJ 7313. Race and Ethnicity in Crime and Criminal Justice.

An exploration of how issues related to racial and ethnic minorities and criminal behaviors impact criminal justice reactions. Topics include racial disparities related to law enforcement and sentencing, and policy implications related to policing, probation, pre-sentencing and post-release issues. (MULT).

CJ 7314. Policing.

This course examines current problems in American policing and the role of research in their examination and solution. Official crime and victimization statistics and measure of police performance are explained, with a focus on their collection, development, limitations, and utility. Methods and issues in policing research are explored.

CJ 7315. Corrections.

This course examines the history, forms, and functions of correctional institutions, their programs and policies, as well as theories of punishment. Topics include the structure and functions of prisons and jails, community corrections, intermediate sanctions, reentry, supermax prisons, and the death penalty.

CJ 7320. Quantitative Research Methods.

A course that demonstrates the practical aspects of conducting criminal justice research that uses quantitative methodologies and design. Topics include the philosophy of science; research ethics; methodological designs in establishing causation; nonexperimental/descriptive research; sampling techniques; secondary data sources and data gathering techniques.

CJ 7321. Linear Regression for Criminal Justice Research.

Instruction on the use of advanced linear modeling techniques in criminal justice research is addressed. After completing this course, students should be able to evaluate quantitative research articles in the major criminal justice journals and be prepared to complete a major quantitative research project of their own.

CJ 7322. Advanced Research for Planning and Evaluation.

An introduction to evaluation and research design methodologies, assessment techniques including modeling and case studies, agency management issues, and on-going policy implications. Course gives students an understanding of the principles and techniques commonly used to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of criminal justice interventions.

CJ 7323. Applied Statistics and Quantitative Data Analysis.

This is a course in statistics and data analysis for the purposes of original quantitative research. Topics include descriptive statistics, statistical inference for single and multivariable analysis, and principles underlying the techniques. This course makes extensive use of statistics software and data preparation techniques.

CJ 7330. Qualitative Research Methods.

A discussion of the methods and techniques used for achieving interpretable qualitative results in social research. Topics covered include ethnography, focus groups, in-depth interviewing and case studies. Students will be trained in inductive reasoning and coordinating qualitative with quantitative methods.

CJ 7331. Law and Behavioral Science.

A review of the issues addressed in the application of the behavioral sciences to the criminal law system. Topics include criminal sanctions and diminished responsibility, civil commitment, victimology, psychology in the courtroom, the role of media, drugs, and alcohol to violence, and how the justice system reacts to violent offenders.

CJ 7336. Survey Research Methods for Criminal Justice.

This course addresses the procedures and techniques used to create social surveys including question formulation, metrics, and question scaling. Students learn how to prepare face-to-face, telephone, and mail surveys, and are trained in sampling procedures related to survey administration.

CJ 7350A. Forecasting, Trend Analysis, and Data Interpretation.

A review of quantitative approaches to public policy analysis, the diverse conceptions of the goals and objectives that should be served by policy, and the appropriate role of the policy analyst. Policy consequences are traced to indirect and subtle incentives and disincentives.

CJ 7350B. Academic Scholarship and Communication.

A course on conducting academic research, interpreting results and how to prepare manuscripts for publication in refereed journals. Included is a survey of the audiences, topical focus, and submission requirements of the major criminal justice, criminology, and law publications, along with specialized knowledge on achieving success in the scholarship environment.

CJ 7350C. Qualitative Data Collection, Coding and Analysis.

This course takes a structured approach to understanding and implementing the various information collection methods used in qualitative research, including formatting the information for coding, coding schemes, and information interpretation.

CJ 7350E. Discrete Multivariate Models.

This course focuses on regression models for discrete outcome variables, sometimes called limited or categorical dependent variables. Topics include maximum likelihood estimation, binary and multinomial logistic models and negative binomial models. Prerequisite: CJ 7321 with a grade of "B" or better or instructor approval.

CJ 7350F. Environmental Criminology.

Crime distributes unevenly in space/time. As such, the course examines such questions as (1) What places are dangerous? (2) Why do we study specific crime types? (3) Where do crime types concentrate? (4) Where do offenders go in their normal activities? (5) What are the temporal patterns for crime? Prerequisite: CJ 7311 with a grade of "B" or better or instructor approval.

CJ 7350G. Seminar in Macro Criminology.

This course has a macro focus, examining criminological theory and research that takes cities, geographical regions, states, and nations as the units of comparison. The importance and relevance of macro criminology for understanding the causes of crime and key criminal justice issues, such as police resources, are explored in depth. Prerequisite: CJ 7311 with a grade of "B" or better or instructor approval.

CJ 7350I. Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling.

The course provides an introduction to structural equation modeling, which is sometimes called mean and covariance structure analysis or latent variable analysis. Topics include recursive and non-recursive models, path analysis, measurement models, and factor analysis. Prerequisite: CJ 7321 with a grade of "B" or better or instructor approval.

CJ 7350K. Criminal Justice Forecasting and Policy Analysis.

This course examines the inputs and outputs of criminal justice programs. It covers forecasting methods using statistical bootstrapping techniques including line fitting methods, moving averages, cohort propagation matrixes, and systems simulations.

CJ 7350L. Sex Offenders: Theory, Research & Policy.

This course will focus on application of theory to explain sexual offenses, research design issues related to researching this salient population of offenders (e.g., ethical issues, gaining IRB approval, research design limitations, social desirability problems in self-report data, and examining available data sources), and examining policy related issues.

CJ 7360. Independent Study.

Students will work closely with a particular doctoral faculty member and develop in-depth knowledge in a specific topic area of criminal justice. Topics vary according to a student's program needs. Repeatable once for credit with different emphasis. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

CJ 7399. Dissertation.

CJ 7599. Dissertation.

CJ 7699. Dissertation.

CJ 7999. Dissertation.

2024-2025 Catalogs

• About Texas State
• About This Site
• Emergency Info
• Job Opportunities
• Search Texas State

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

A PDF of the entire 2022-2023 catalog.

• SHSU Online

Print Options

• Undergraduate
• Programs A-Z
• Courses A-Z
• Colleges and Departments

Catalog Menu

• Academic Policies &​ Procedures
• Financial Information
• Support Services
• College of Arts and Media
• College of Business Administration
• Criminal Justice, PhD
• Criminal Justice and Criminology, MA
• Criminal Justice, MS
• Criminal Justice Leadership and Management, MS
• Criminal Justice Leadership and Management, Graduate Certificate
• Department of Forensic Science
• Department of Security Studies
• Department of Victim Studies
• Victim Services Management, MS
• College of Education
• College of Health Sciences
• College of Humanities and Social Sciences
• College of Osteopathic Medicine
• College of Science and Engineering Technology
• Dual Degree Programs
• Course Descriptions
• Accreditations
• Administrative Officers
• Institutional Mission Statement
• President's Welcome
• La Bienvenida de la Presidenta
• Degrees Offered
• Undergraduate Catalog
• Skip to Content
• Catalog Home
• Institution Home
• Request Info
• Give to SHSU

• Graduate and Professional
• Graduate And Professional |
• Colleges & Departments |
• College of Criminal Justice |
• Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology |

Ph.D. in Criminal Justice

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice is designed to produce students of crime and justice who possess: (1) a thorough understanding of criminal justice and criminological issues, (2) the intellectual and methodological skills necessary for the continuing process of discovery and understanding of crime- and justice-related issues, (3) the capacity for integrative and analytical thinking, (4) competency at transmitting knowledge, (5) problem-solving skills, and (6) the ability to disseminate research findings through published scholarship.

The Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology has a faculty of diverse scholars committed to the study of a broad-range of crime and justice issues. The curriculum includes courses that provide theoretical and applied knowledge of the phenomena of crime and criminal justice. In addition to the demonstration of excellence in the classroom, students are expected to engage in research in accordance with personal specialized interests beyond specified courses.

Through the combined efforts of faculty and students, the Doctor of Philosophy program in Criminal Justice produces students capable of making contributions to criminal justice and criminology through the academic and applied components of the discipline. The curriculum is designed to ensure that graduates are well equipped to participate in criminological positions emphasizing research and statistics, theory, and administration.

Additional information : Reference the Program Landing Page for additional information, such as cost, delivery format, contact information, or to schedule a visit.

Applicants seeking admission to the doctoral program in criminal justice must submit the following directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions :

• Graduate application
• Application fee
• A master’s degree in Criminal Justice or an allied field.
• Official test scores from the Graduate Record Examination.
• Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts for all academic work (Note: Grades must show evidence of the ability to do doctoral level work).
• Three letters of recommendation, preferably from faculty who are sufficiently acquainted with the student to comment on potential for success in the doctoral program.
• Doctoral follow-up application
• A personal essay as described in the doctoral follow-up application.
• A current resume or vita.

International students ONLY : Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) unless they have completed a degree in the United States Note: A minimum score of 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), 79 (internet-based) is required.

A review of each student’s application will be completed on a competitive basis.  The deadline for submitting applications to the Doctor of Philosophy program in Criminal Justice is January 15 for the fall semester.

Students should consult with the criminal justice Graduate Program Director to design a course of study that will provide in-depth knowledge in the areas of research and statistics, criminological theory, and criminal justice administration.

Students must follow the doctoral program student schedule and maintain a 3.0 grade point average in all courses.

Students must pass the doctoral qualifying examination in the form of a Research Assessment Portfolio. Students must also complete and defend a doctoral dissertation, which is the product of original scholarly research and is of such quality as to represent a meaningful contribution to knowledge in the field of criminal justice/criminology.

The Doctoral degree requires 58 hours of 7000-level coursework.

Total degree program semester credit hour decrease, pending review/approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. 

Once enrolled in  CRIJ 8099 , students must enroll in this course in every semester until graduation. (See note below).  

Note:  Effective Summer 2012, graduate students will take dissertation classes for three credit hours until they have completed the degree requirements (12 hours total). Students may then sign up for one credit hour for continuous enrollment. Students do not have to sign up for dissertation classes during the summer if they are not working on their dissertation or if they are not graduating or working on their portfolio. If students do not stay continuously enrolled, they will be retroactively enrolled in one semester hour and will be charged for the course.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

• Advanced oral and written communication skills.
• Advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills.
• Advanced statistical skills with the ability to supply and interpret results.
• Comprehensive knowledge of current criminal justice issues.
• Conduct original empirical research and present findings via publications, reports, and/or presentations.
• Prepare and/or deliver undergraduate and graduate courses for independent instruction (on-line and/or in-residence).
• Academic Calendar
• Academic Policies & Procedures
• The Woodlands Center

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas 77341 (936) 294-1111 | (866) BEARKAT

© Copyright Sam Houston State University. All rights reserved.

Maps & Contacts

• University Contacts
• Personnel & Department Search
• Contact the Web Editor
• Office of the President
• Administration
• Faculty & Staff
• State of Texas
• Open Records
• Emergency Policies & Procedures
• Texas Homeland Security
• Texas Veterans Portal
• Report Fraud and Abuse
• The Texas State Auditor's Office Hotline
• Online Institutional Resumes
• Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities
• Where the Money Goes
• Compact with Texans
• College Portrait
• HB 2504 Compliance
• Web Site Accessibility

Print this page.

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

A PDF of the 2023-2024 catalog.

• Costs, Scholarships & Aid
• Campus Life
• Faculty & Staff
• Family & Visitors
• DFW Community
• Galaxy Login
• Academic Calendar
• Human Resources
• Accessibility

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

Program description.

The PhD in Criminology degree program is an interdisciplinary, research-oriented degree offered in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences at UT Dallas. The objective of the PhD program is to provide students a coherent, yet intellectually challenging degree that adequately prepares them to conduct research among the many aspects of criminology and criminal justice, varying with individual interests and areas of specialty. Graduates of the PhD program will be qualified to teach at the university level as professors. Graduates will also be competent to enter into analytic and administrative posts within the vast array of research and policy institutions, criminal justice organizations, and in the private sector.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program seek positions such as: academics and teaching; criminologist, policy advisor or research officer in state and federal justice agencies; analytical and administrative positions in international and domestic research and policy institutions; and positions in legal and corrections systems and non-profits and private consulting.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Degree requirements: The PhD in Criminology seeks applicants from a baccalaureate in criminology, sociology or a relevant discipline.

GPA: A score of 3.5 is preferred.

Test score required: Yes

A combined verbal and quantitative score of 300 on the GRE is preferred.

Letters of recommendation: 3

Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who can judge the candidate’s probability of success in graduate school. Use the electronic request form in the graduate application to submit the letters. Contact the graduate academic program department if you have any questions.

Admissions essay required: Yes

A one-page essay outlining personal background, education, and professional objectives.

Deadlines: To be considered for funding opportunities, applications must be submitted in full by January 15. Students can apply as late as May 1, per University policy, but they will likely not be considered for funding opportunities. Students should note their desire to be considered for graduate funding in their letter of intent at the time of application.

About the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences

Every new generation inherits a world more complex than that of its predecessors, which prompts a need for new thinking about public policies that impact people’s daily lives. In the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (EPPS), we examine the implications of innovation and change for individuals and communities. The social sciences are where the world turns to for answers to the important issues of today and the future such as education and health policy, financial crises, globalization, policing, political polarization, public management, terrorism, and the application of geographical information sciences to study social, economic and environmental issues.

As an undergraduate in EPPS, you will have the opportunity to work with professors who are probing issues that will affect your future. You will develop the vital skills you need to thrive in a rapidly evolving, highly competitive job market. EPPS will prepare you for careers in government, non-profits and the private sector that enable you to make a real difference in the world of today and tomorrow. EPPS is at the forefront of leadership, ethics and innovation in the public and nonprofit sectors. Our students and faculty look forward to new opportunities to study and address the complex and evolving issues of the future. Research informs much of the instruction. The school has four centers of excellence:

• Center for Global Collective Action
• Texas Schools Project
• Institute for Urban Policy Research
• The Negotiations Center

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts : Criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , international political economy , political science , public affairs , public health , public policy , sociology

Master of Science : Applied sociology , criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , international political economy , social data analytics and research

Master of Arts : Political science

Master of Public Affairs : Public affairs

Master of Public Policy : Public policy

Doctor of Philosophy : Criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , political science , public affairs , public policy and political economy

Certificates

EPPS offers the following 15-hour graduate certificates, which generally can be completed in one year of part-time evening classes:

• Economic and Demographic Data Analysis : focusing on the understanding and application of quantitative analysis of demographic and economic data.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) : focusing on the application of GIS in government, private sector and scientific areas.
• Geospatial Intelligence : focusing on the application of geospatial ideas and techniques to national security and other intelligence activity.
• Local Government Management : designed to broaden knowledge of important issues and approaches employed by professional local public administrators.
• Nonprofit Management : designed to provide an overview of the nature and context of nonprofit organizations and develop competencies needed by nonprofit managers.
• Program Evaluation : designed to provide students the opportunity to gain competencies in the design and implementation of program evaluations in fields such as education, health care, human services, criminal justice and economic development.
• Remote Sensing : focusing on remote sensing and digital image processing.

Contact Information

Patricia Pacheco Graduate Program Administrator Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-3548 Office: GR 2.402C

Degree Information Dr. John Worrall PhD Advisor Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-6901 Office: GR 2.126

EPPS Advising The University of Texas at Dallas 800 W. Campbell Road, GR 31 Richardson, TX 75080-3021 [email protected]

epps.utdallas.edu/

Request More Information

Contact Email

We have received your request for more information, and thank you for your interest! We are excited to get to know you and for you to explore UT Dallas. You’ll begin receiving emails and information about our beautiful campus, excellent academic programs and admission processes. If you have any questions, email  [email protected].

The University of Texas at Dallas respects your right to privacy . By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails and calls from a representative of the University.

* Required Field

PhD in Criminal Justice Programs in Texas

The field of criminal justice is one of the cornerstones of society. In large states like Texas, it’s especially important—protecting residents and preventing crime strengthens the state as a whole. A PhD in criminal justice is a valuable investment, particularly if you want to work in research, administration, or legislation.

With a bachelor’s degree, pursuing a PhD is a viable option. Contact criminal justice schools Texas to explore programs near you.

What Can I Do With My PhD in Criminal Justice in Texas?

Texas has successfully navigated many areas of criminal justice reform. In fact, it was one of the first states to lead reform efforts. Legislation focused on reducing the sizable prison population of Texas and creating diversion programs for low-level drug offenders ( Eurasia Review , 2016).

Within Texas, counties and cities are spearheading more targeted reform plans. Harris County recently received a $2 million grant from MacArthur Foundation to address overcrowded jails and racial disparities in criminal justice ( Houston Chronicle , 2016).

Taking your education to the PhD criminal justice level can benefit your long-term career options. You may consider becoming a judicial law clerk, a field in which people earn an average salary of $ 46,720 per year in Texas ( Bureau of Labor Statistics , 2016 ). Job openings may increase 16% through 2022 in Texas ( O*Net , 2016).

You may also go into academia as a criminal justice professor. The average annual salary for a criminal justice professor is $ 59,200 per year ( BLS , 2016 ). Between 2012 and 2022, job openings may jump 20% ( O*Net , 2016).

What Will It Take to Earn My Criminal Justice Graduate Degree in Texas?

As the highest level of education in this field, a PhD is a major commitment. To complete this degree, you’ll need to earn close to 80 credits beyond your bachelor’s degree. If you’ve earned a graduate degree in a field similar to criminal justice, you may need between 40 and 50 credits to finish out a doctoral program.

Most of your degree may entail conventional classroom work that tackles theory and research. Some of the courses you may take include:

• Philosophy of Law, Justice, and Social Control: Review of the criminal justice system, including how the system functions, what state needs it meets, and how it may change in the future
• Advanced Criminological Theory: Causes of crime and deviant behavior; an analysis of criminology using scientific perspectives
• Criminal Justice Ethics, Administration, and Public Policy: The role of ethics in criminal justice agencies, ethical review systems, codes of ethics, and ethical decision making for criminal justice professionals
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: Practical aspects of conducting criminal justice research
• Advanced Research for Planning and Evaluation: Using research for the critique and planning of criminal justice systems
• Criminal Justice Leadership and Management: Identifying problems and creating solutions in criminal justice management; leadership styles and organizational environments

Practical experience may be required in your program. It’s likely that you’ll need to complete an internship if you have little or no experience in the criminal justice industry. One requirement that is common across criminal justice doctorate programs is the dissertation. The work you do for your dissertation makes up 12 to 18 credits at most institutions. In terms of time, you may spend between one and two years writing and editing your dissertation.

Through the course of your dissertation, you work with an advisor. At most institutions, advisors solely work with students whose research interests are close to their own. Look into potential advisor options as you compare criminal justice degrees Texas.

The benefits of earning a PhD extend into many career paths and specialties. Take the next step in your education now and contact criminal justice PhD programs.

• {{ program.Name }}

Degree Programs

• Centers & Labs

School of Criminal Justice and Criminology

Our School is a vibrant community, with approximately 1,300 baccalaureate students, 40 master's students, and 40 doctoral students. Twenty-five full-time faculty educate our students and engage in a wide range of research endeavors.

Location IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL TEXAS

• Faculty & Staff

RESEARCH FACULTY ARE INVOLVED IN A WIDE RANGE OF RESEARCH

• Our Research
• Undergraduate Degree Program
• Master's Degree Programs
• Doctoral Degree Program

Current Students

• Research Experience
• Internships
• Student Organizations

Upcoming Events

Crisis negotiation competition & seminar.

January 2025

Stay tuned for more information!

Learn About Last Year's Event »

Latest News

BSCJ now fully available on Round Rock Campus

Effective Fall 2024, students can complete their entire Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) on the TXST Round Rock campus via traditional in-person day classes. 

Four New Faculty to Join the School in Fall 2024

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology is proud to welcome four new faculty members for the 2024–25 academic year. Learn more about each of our new faculty here. 

• College of Liberal Arts
• Criminal Justice & Security Studies
• Academic Programs
• Graduate Programs

Message from the CCJ Graduate Director

Welcome to the master’s program in Criminal Justice from the Department of Criminal Justice at The University of Texas at El Paso. As graduate director, it is my responsibility to oversee your progress as you complete the degree requirements and to help you navigate the rules and regulations to successfully completing the program. If you have questions about the graduate program, I am the person to consult. I am also happy to advise you should you have problems that affect your progress in the program.

The Department of Criminal Justice and the Graduate School websites include many links to useful resources for graduate students. Most important among these is the graduate handbook, which details the requirements and regulations that govern our graduate program. If you are a prospective student, this handbook will give you a sense of how our graduate program operates. If you are a new student, you should download the handbook and read through it to familiarize yourself with its contents. If you are an advanced student, the handbook can help you deal with forming a thesis committee and completing the necessary paperwork.

Should you have any questions, please feel free to email me.

Dr. Theodore R. Curry Associate Professor  E: [email protected]

Program Overview

Admissions requirements - including how to apply, professional track, thesis track, graduate faculty, contact graduate director.

How to Register/Add/Drop Classes in Goldmine

• Working part-time in the Dept of CJ as a Teaching or Research Assistant
• Conference travel possibilities for students presenting a paper
• Guidelines for writing the thesis, and MORE!.  

Connect With Us

The University of Texas at El Paso Department of Criminal Justice Education Building (EDU), Suite 111 2300 Randolph Drive El Paso, Texas 79968

E: [email protected] P: (915) 747-7943 F: (915) 747-5751

Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice

• Faculty & Staff Directory
• Undergraduate
• Student Resources

As of Fall 2024, the GRE will no longer be required for admissions into our graduate programs.

Fall applications accepted until August 16

Spring applications accepted until January 8

On-Campus Program (Arlington)

The CRCJ on-campus graduate program, offered exclusively at UT Arlington, is a comprehensive examination of the criminal justice system with a foundation in research and statistics. The program is designed for pre-professional students, criminal justice professionals, and students who wish to pursue further relevant post-graduate studies. The 36-hour program offers both thesis and non-thesis options. With the approval of the Graduate Programs Director Advisor, students may use their elective hours to concentrate on a particular field of study.

Cohort Masters Program (Online)

The CRCJ Cohort Masters Program offers professionals who are already working in the field of criminal justice the potential to further their careers with an advanced degree. The program is a 36 hour, non-thesis degree plan offered in an accelerated format exclusively online. The cohort design provides students with the opportunity to exchange ideas and network with fellow professionals in the industry.

Related Links

Welcome from the director.

Greetings! Welcome to the next level of your education! Speaking for faculty and staff, we are excited to have you as part of the UTA CRCJ graduate community. We look forward to assisting and supporting you as you continue to achieve your educational and professional goals and to strengthen your leadership skills.  Your graduate faculty have expertise in a broad range of criminal justice areas. As educational and professional mentors, we are ready and able to guide your critical assessment of current issues in criminology and criminal justice with a wealth of academic and practical experience.  You have chosen a path not often traveled. There are no promises that this will be easy. You will be challenged. If you embrace the challenge, you will be rewarded, not only with a Master of Arts degree, but with a network – faculty, staff, fellow students, alums, and those that come after you – that will support you throughout your professional career. Make the most of this opportunity.  Sincerely,

Sarah El Sayed, Ph.D. Traditional MA Director

Jaya Davis, Ph.D. Professor and Department Chair Interim Cohort Director

Dr. Sarah El Sayed

Associate Professor and Traditional MA Director

Associate Department Chair

Email: [email protected]

Research Areas: Developmental and Life-course Criminology, Gendered pathways to crime, Quantitative research methods

• UTA Faculty Profile
• Google Scholar Profile

Dr. Jaya Davis

Department Chair and Professor

Email: [email protected]

Research Areas: Juvenile Justice, Corrections, Reentry, Women and crime

• Master of Arts Degree
• Cohort Master of Arts Degree
• Scholarships

Box 19595 | 362 University Hall 601 S. Nedderman Drive Arlington, TX 76019

Phone: 817.272.0318

• International
• Request Info

Criminal Justice (M.S.C.J.)

M.s.c.j. criminal justice (master's).

• Apply Today
• Review Admission Requirements

Program Overview

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology is a vibrant community, with approximately 1,300 baccalaureate students, and dozens of master's students and doctoral students. The School offers funding opportunities through scholarships and graduate assistantships. Graduate assistants aid our faculty in classroom instruction and research throughout the academic year.

Course Work

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology offers a Master of Science in Criminal Justice (M.S.C.J.) degree, with the choice of a Thesis Option (30 credit hours) and a Non-thesis Option (36 credit hours). The non-thesis option is a versatile program for those seeking to further their knowledge and skills in criminal justice. The thesis option is a rigorous program for those seeking research analyst positions or considering doctoral-level study.

All candidates on the Thesis track complete an oral defense of their thesis prior to graduation. Candidates on the Non-thesis track complete a comprehensive exam prior to graduation. Specific course and admission requirements vary by program. 

What Our Alumni Say

“I received the best education in criminal justice and criminology in Texas. The faculty are friendly and committed to expert research.ˮ

— Nicole Kinbarovsky, M.S.C.J. ’20

Program Details

Alumni are employed in various state and federal criminal justice agencies nationally and internationally. They currently serve in high-level positions such as chief officers, agents, faculty, trainers and directors.

Program Mission

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology produces and disseminates knowledge through high-quality teaching, research, and service with a focus on empowering students and professionals to improve the criminal justice system. 

The School offers courses in areas of study, such as policing, criminal justice policy, management principles, and criminological theory. The School also offers a variety of specialized courses on topics such as crime analysis and quantitative data analysis, and is associated with several centers, such as the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center and the Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC).

Career Options

The M.S.C.J. will help to advance leadership roles and research and evaluation in a range of career opportunities:

• State and federal corrections
• Local, state, and federal police agencies
• Victim advocacy agencies
• Homeland security
• Asset protection
• Intelligence and crime analysis
• Research, planning, and evaluation
• Doctoral study

Program Faculty

The faculty in criminal justice are recognized nationally and internationally for their commitment to outstanding teaching, cutting-edge research, and unparalleled service to the field.

Their broad practical experiences and diverse academic backgrounds contribute to a curriculum that provides students the skills needed for criminal justice program planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Contact  The Graduate College  for general questions about getting started with your application, funding your degree, and more. If you have program-specific questions after reviewing the program details, we encourage you to contact the following individuals.

Graduate Advisor Dr. Sean Roche [email protected] 512.245.2174 Hill House (HILL) , Room 110

Apply Now Already know that Texas State is right for you?

• Start Your Application

Application Process

Review requirements, submit application, upload documents, check status, application deadlines, executive concentration*.

*The Executive Concentration is not accepting applications for the fall 2023 and fall 2024 semesters.

Non-concentration

*This program's deadline is flexible for those not requiring an F/J visa. Flexible means applications received after the posted deadline may be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, with no guarantees for admission consideration.

Admission Requirements

The items required for admission consideration are listed below.  Additional information for applicants with international credentials can be found on our  international web pages .

Application

• Completed  online application

Review  important information  about the online application.

Application Fee

• $55 Nonrefundable application fee, OR
• $90 Nonrefundable application fee for applications with international credentials

Review  important information  about application fees.

Transcripts & GPA

• baccalaureate degree in criminal justice or related field from a regionally accredited university
• a copy of an official transcript from  each institution  where course credit was granted
• minimum 3.0 GPA in your  last 60 hours  of undergraduate course work (plus any completed graduate courses) ( Effective Fall 2024: a 3.0 overall GPA or a 3.0 GPA in your  last 60 hours  of undergraduate course work, plus any completed graduate courses)

Review important information about transcripts. Official transcripts, sent directly from your institution, will be required if admission is granted.

Test Scores

All applicants:

• GRE not required

Approved English Proficiency Exam Scores

Applicants are required to submit an approved English proficiency exam score that meets the minimum program requirements below unless they have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a country on our  exempt countries list .

• official TOEFL iBT scores required with a 78 overall
• official PTE scores required with a 52 overall
• minimum individual module scores of 6.0
• official Duolingo scores required with a 110 overall
• official TOEFL Essentials scores required with an 8.5 overall

This program does not offer admission if the scores above are not met.

Review important information about official test scores.

Non-concentration applicants:

• statement of purpose indicating career aspirations and reasons for pursuing the M.S.C.J. program
• two letters of recommendation from persons best able to assess your ability to succeed in graduate school

 Executive concentration applicants:

Review important information about documents.

Additional Information

• Application Decisions
• International Applicants
• Reapplication Process

Ready to Apply?

Need more info.

• Request Program Information

• Degree Programs
• Centers & Labs

Master’s Degree Programs

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology offers a Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree, with the choice of a Research Concentration (30 credit hours, Thesis Option only) or the original MSCJ program (36 hours, Non-Thesis Option only).

Program Overview

All candidates in the Research Concentration complete an oral comprehensive exam and an oral defense of the thesis or professional paper prior to graduation. Candidates in the MSCJ Non-Thesis Option program complete a comprehensive exam including both written and oral components prior to graduation. Specific course and admissions requirements vary by program.

MSCJ Non-Thesis Option

• Generalist degree option for those seeking to further their knowledge and skills in CJ
• Minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE not required
• 36 credit hours
• 5 core courses and 7 electives
• No thesis or professional paper
• Written and oral comprehensive exam
• 16-week courses in Fall / Spring, 10-week courses in Summer

MSCJ Thesis Option

• Competitive degree option for those seeking research analyst jobs or to pursue a PhD
• Minimum GPA of 3.25, GRE not required
• 30 credit hours
• 5 core courses and 3 electives
• Thesis (6 credit hours)
• Oral comprehensive exam

Course Work

• Graduate Catalog

Visit Campus

Have Questions? Contact Us!

MSCJ Program Coordinator Sean Patrick Roche, Ph.D. [email protected]

MSCJ Program Administrative Assistant Michael Soderstrom [email protected]

MSCJ Program Mailbox [email protected]

Want Even More Info?

• TXST Graduate College RMI Form

• Faculty/Staff

Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Administration of justice, doctor of philosophy, program description.

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy in Administration of Justice (PhD AJ) is to prepare individuals for:

• leadership and managerial positions in justice agencies;
• faculty positions in higher education that require advanced knowledge of theory, administration, research, and data analysis; and
• research positions in private and public research institutions specializing in the administration of justice issues, policy, and data analysis.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Administration of Justice will educate future leaders needed to assume administrative and policy positions at all levels of government and in the private sector in the State of Texas, nationally and globally.

The educational objectives of the program are:

• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the body of knowledge in administration of justice, criminal justice and criminology.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundation of administration of justice, criminal justice and criminology.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of research and data analysis and their specific application to administration of justice.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of race, class, and gender in the administration of justice.
• To prepare students to assume teaching positions at the university level.
• To prepare students to assume research positions at the university level.
• To prepare students for research positions in government and in the private sector.

Admission Criteria

Students desiring to pursue a doctoral degree in the administration of justice should be capable of advanced academic work in theory, research and data analysis. Students applying for admission to the doctoral program must meet the admission standards of the TSU Graduate School. Applicants must hold the bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field, have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.75 overall and 3.0 in the last sixty hours of undergraduate studies.

Applicants should have a master’s degree or its equivalent in a degree program from an accredited institution of higher education with a grade point average of at least 3.2 in previous graduate work. Each graduate student who is admitted must present Graduate Record Examination (GRE) verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing section scores. The analytical writing score must be 3.5 or above. If the student is accepted and does not meet the minimum requirement, he or she must enroll in English 501. International applicants whose first language is not English and who have not completed a degree in the United States are required to take and pass the TOEFL with an internet based score of 74, a computer-based score of 213, or paper- based score of 550.

An application for admission to the doctoral program is submitted at Apply Yourself Online and is processed through the TSU Graduate School. Completed applications are referred to the School of Public Affairs for an acceptance decision by the Graduate Admissions Committee in the PhD AJ program. Decisions of the Graduate Admissions Committee are referred to the Dean of the Graduate School and entered into the Apply Yourself system.

Students must also submit the following to the Graduate School:

• A complete application form and a non-refundable application fee of $50 for citizens and permanent residents of the U.S. and $75 for international applicants.
• A typed 400-500 word statement of academic and professional goals. 
• Example of academic writing
• A current vitae.
• At least three letters of recommendation from persons qualified to give an evaluation of the applicant’s past scholastic performance, research, ability for advanced work in administration of justice, and personal motivation.
• Two official transcripts of credits earned at each college and/or university attended by the applicant.
• Scores from the Graduate Record Examination.
• Evidence of proficiency in the use of the English language.

The Graduate Admissions Committee (GAC) comprised of graduate faculty will make decisions on admission. During the admission process the GAC will evaluate graduate transcripts of applicants with master’s degrees to determine whether or not additional courses are needed at the master’s degree level. No more than twelve (12) credits from previous doctoral work will be applied towards the Ph.D. program. Completion of the doctoral degree is guided by the academic policies, procedures, and requirements of the Texas Southern University (TSU) Graduate School. The current TSU Graduate Student Catalog/Bulletin is available online via the University website.

Requirements include completion of a total of fifty-four (54) credit hours, passing comprehensive examinations, admission to doctoral candidacy, completion of a residency requirement, preparation and acceptance of a dissertation proposal, completion of the dissertation and an oral defense. These requirements are described below.

The doctoral degree will require the completion of 54 semester hours (See Curriculum Summary below). All students will complete six (6) required core courses and eight (8) elective courses. Students have the option of completing four (4) elective courses in a specific area of administration of justice. Students may also select electives from approved courses offered at the doctoral level by other departments. The elective courses will be selected based upon student interests in consultation with their advisor. Twelve (12) dissertation credits are required. Students may also select a cognate area of specialization outside of the program with permission of their advisor and the GPD. Students are required to complete all courses with at least a grade of “B.” A grade of “B-“ or lower is defined as deficient and must be remediated by repeating the course no more than one time to attain the required level of co mpetency. A student who earns more than two deficient grades will be dismissed from the program. This doctoral requirement of “B” or better course grades supersedes the Graduate School standard that may accept lower grades under certain circumstances. Any student w ho earns a grade of D or F will also be automatically dismissed from the program.

Upon completion of all required course work except AJ 987 Research Colloquium and dissertation hours, students must sit and p ass the doctoral comprehensive examination. Students must successfully pass the comprehensive examination before they are admitted to candidacy and allowed to begin work on the dissertation.

Comprehensive Examinations

Doctoral students must successfully complete comprehensive examinations in three areas:

• Theory and Race, Class, Gender, Crime and the Administration of Justice;
• Research and Quantitative Methods; and
• Special Topics.

Students who fail to pass a comprehensive examination or section thereof may retake it only once. Failure to pass two comprehensive examinations will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Admission to Candidacy

Students must satisfy all of the requirements listed below in order to be admitted to doctoral candidacy:

• Unconditional admittance to the Doctor of Philosophy in Administration of Justice program.
• Satisfactory completion of 42 semester hours of doctoral level course work.
• Successful completion of the doctoral comprehensive examinations.
• Satisfactory completion of the residency requirement.

Dissertation

After admission to candidacy the doctoral student will consult with his or her academic advisor to select a dissertation committee. Dissertation committees should consist of a chairperson and three graduate faculty members. The dissertation committee must be approved by the Graduate School. The Graduate School dean will then appoint a graduate school representative to the dissertation committee. Once approval is granted, the student can prepare the dissertation proposal.

The dissertation proposal must be a written document, presented orally, and approved by the dissertation committee. The dissertation must contribute to the administration of justice body of knowledge and be successfully defended orally.

Core Curriculum

Prerequisites/Leveling Courses twelve (12)

If needed, leveling courses may include the completion of up to 12 hours in master's level courses with a grade of "B" or better. Each leveling course only can be taken once.

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

The National Weather Service has issued an alert. Visit the KatSafe site for details.

COVID-19 Community Level: Low

• SHSU Online
• Academic Affairs
• Academic Calendar
• Academic Community Engagement (ACE)
• Academic Planning and Program Development
• Academic Success Center
• Accepted Students and Bearkat Orientation
• Admissions (Undergraduate)
• Admissions (Graduate)
• Admission Requirements
• Advising (SAM Center)
• Agricultural Sciences
• Alumni Association
• American Association of University Professors
• Analytical Laboratory
• Application for Admission
• Army ROTC - Military Science
• Arts & Media
• Auxiliary Services
• Bearkat Bundle
• Bearkat Camp
• Bearkat EduNav (BEN)
• Bearkat Express Payment
• Bearkat Kickoff
• Bearkat Marching Band
• Bearkat OneCard
• Bearkat Transfer Scholarship
• Blinn College Transfers
• Budget Office
• Business Administration
• Campus Activities & Traditions
• Campus Recreation
• Career Success Center
• Cashier's Office
• Charter School
• Class Schedule
• Computer Account Creation
• Computer Labs
• Continuing Education
• Controller's Office
• Counseling Center
• Criminal Justice
• Current Students
• Data Analytics and Decision Support
• Dean of Students' Office
• Departments
• Department of Dance
• Dining Services
• Disbursements Services
• Educator Preparation Services
• Emergency Management
• Employee Services Center
• Employment Opportunities
• Engineering Technology
• Enrollment Success
• Enrollment Marketing and Communication
• Enrollment Services - TWC
• Exchange Mail
• Facilities Management
• Faculty Senate
• Faculty/Staff Directory
• Final Exam Schedule
• Finance and Operations
• Financial Aid
• Food & Housing Access Network
• First-Generation Center
• First-Year Experience
• Free Speech & Expressive Activity
• General Information
• Garrett Center
• Global Engagement
• Golf Course
• Graduate Admissions
• The Graduate School
• Great Names
• Health Sciences
• Honors College
• Human Resources
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• IT@Sam Service Desk
• Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC)
• Internal Grant Program
• Institutional Review Board (IRB)
• Integrated Marketing & Communications
• Internal Audit
• Joint Admission Students
• Jr. Bearkats
• Leadership Academy
• Leadership Initiatives
• LEAP Center
• Library (NGL)
• Lone Star College Transfers
• Lowman Student Center
• Mail Services
• Map - Campus
• Marketing & Communications
• McNair Program
• Military Science
• Music Choir
• MyGartner Portal
• National Student Exchange
• Office of the President
• Ombuds Office
• Online Information Request
• Organization Chart
• Orientation - New Student
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Parent & Family Relations
• Payroll Office
• PGA Golf Management
• Pre-Health Professional Student Services
• Procurement and Business Services
• Procurement Opportunities
• Program Analytics
• Prospective Students
• Quality Enhancement Plan
• Reading Center
• Registration
• Registrar's Office
• Research Administration (Post-Award)
• Research and Sponsored Programs
• Residence Life
• SACSCOC Reaffirmation
• Sam Houston Memorial Museum
• Services for Students with Disabilities
• Schedule of Classes
• Scholarships
• SHSU MarketPlace
• Spirit Programs
• Smith-Hutson Endowed Chair of Banking
• Smith-Hutson Scholarship Program
• Staff Senate
• Student Affairs
• Student Government Association
• Student Health Center
• Student Legal Services
• Student Money Management Center
• Student Success Technologies
• Study Abroad
• Summer Camps
• Supplemental Instruction
• Technology Tutorials
• Testing Center
• Theatre and Musical Theatre
• Title IX (Sexual Misconduct)
• Tour the University
• Transcripts
• Transfer Equivalency Guide
• Transfer Students (Articulation)
• Travel Services
• Undergraduate Research Symposium
• University Advancement
• University Hotel
• University Police Department
• Visitor Services
• The Woodlands Center

College of Criminal Justice

A message from dean lyons on the current social climate and future of cj.

• PDF Version
• HTML Version

This is just the beginning, we want to be better, do better, and we want to hear your voice! For feedback and ideas please reach out to us at this address: [email protected] .

View CJ Summer Camp Info

Welcome to the College of Criminal Justice

Join one of the largest and most prestigious criminal justice programs in the country.

The College of Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State University is one of the top programs in the country for the study of criminal justice and criminology, forensic science, and security studies and continues to set the national standard for these disciplines in higher education. Since 1963, the college has been at the forefront of academic research and professional leadership development.

Learn from our faculty, a worldwide collection of the most respected criminal justice experts in the study of criminal justice, who bring modern technological methods and advanced applications into the classroom.

• Choose from a large criminal justice course selection, including online courses
• Study at research Institutes in Law Enforcement, Corrections, Victims, and Legal Studies
• Join active Honor societies and Student Associations
• Access to world renowned law enforcement and correctional training institutes
• Apply for several criminal justice scholarships and graduate student assistantships

Grow personally and professionally by pursuing an exciting career with a criminal justice, forensic science, or homeland security studies degree. Embrace all of the resources the College of Criminal Justice has to offer through our undergraduate degrees, masters degrees, and Ph.D. programs. Apply today and choose one of our degree programs that open a world of opportunity.

SHSU College of Criminal Justice Announces New Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology Chair

Doctoral students earn awards and grants for prestigious summit, commencement spotlight: kristina block.

FIRSTSENTENCE

Graduate Students Honor Victims Through Texas Prison Museum Exhibit

Visitors to the Texas Prison Museum this month have an opportunity to experience a limited-time exhibit created by Sam Houston State University’s College of Criminal Justice (SHSU CJ) graduate students.

SHSU College of Criminal Justice Professor Named Outstanding Mentor By National Organization

Stuti Kokkalera has been recognized for her work with students by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS).

CMIT Executive Director Awarded Highest Honor In Corrections Field

Doug Dretke, executive director of Sam Houston State University’s Correctional Management Institute of Texas (CMIT), has been named a recipient of the 2024 E. R. Cass Correctional Achievement Award by the American Correctional Association.

SHSU Participating in National Forensic Science Research Collaboration

Sam Houston State University is partnering with Florida International University (FIU) and Texas A&M University (TAMU) in Phase II of the nation’s only forensic science Industry-University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC).

Victim Studies Class Creates Exhibit For Houston Toy Museum

What began as an assignment for Shelly Clevenger’s seminar in victimology course transformed into an exhibit in the Houston Toy Museum.

View Awards Info

• Faculty/Staff

Administration of Justice

• Barbara Jordan - Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs
• Departments

Program Overview

The mission of the Department of Administration of Justice undergraduate program is to educate students for careers and community service within a diverse urban environment through the development of specialized knowledge and skills needed for effective public service. The Administration of Justice department prepares its students for careers within diverse urban environments by providing relevant training in the area of administration of justice.The Department strives to prepare students not only with facts and concepts, but also, more importantly, to think critically and ethically in applying knowledge to related problems and challenging situations.

• Prepare professionals and change agents to serve as future leaders at the local, state and national level as well as globally.
• To provide students with an understanding of justice agencies in the United States.
• To prepare students to apply their knowledge of justice theories, research methods, and statistics to the administration and management of justice agencies.

The Department of Administration of Justice has a distinguished faculty with varying research interests including comparative justice studies, domestic violence, policing, prisoner re-entry, race and crime, terrorism and theory. Faculty research provides students with an opportunity to examine recent developments on these and other contemporary justice issues and challenges both in the classroom and the community.

Administration of Justice (B.S.)

The Department of Administration of Justice offers courses in Administration of Justice (AJ) and Military Science (MSCI) and an undergraduate degree, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Administration of Justice. A minor in Administration of Justice is offered for students pursuing undergraduate degrees or majors in other departments where they are required to declare a minor….

Administration of Justice (Ph.D.)

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy of Administration of Justice (PhD AJ) is to prepare individuals for (1) leadership and managerial positions in justice agencies; (2) faculty positions in higher education that require advanced knowledge of theory, administration, research, and data analysis; and (3) research positions in private and public research institutions specializing….

Forensic Science Learning Lab

The mission of the Forensic Science Learning Lab (FSLL) is to provide specialized forensic science education and training for any Texas Southern University student interested in pursuing careers in the field of forensic science. The FSLL also provides training opportunities for current practitioners in the field aspiring to expand and update their knowledge and skills….

Administration of Justice (M.S.)

The graduate program is designed to advance students’ understanding of justice in the contemporary era, and prepares them for challenges in law enforcement, corrections, and judicial administration. The program will prepare academicians, policy makers, top administrators and researchers by advancing their knowledge of theory, research and data analysis. In addition….

Executive Master of Admin. of Justice

The online Executive Master of Administration of Justice program (eMAJ) is uniquely designed to meet the growing demand for mid-career professionals working in the area of law enforcement, courts, corrections, or social services. The program is delivered 100% online and is administered through the Blackboard Academic Suites. These platforms include live chats, online lectures….

• Current Students
• Faculty + Staff
• Alumni + Friends
• Parents + Family
• Community + Visitors
• Bachelor's Degrees
• Master's Degrees
• Doctorate Degrees
• Certificates
• Arts & Design
• Business & Industry
• Communications & Media
• Data Analytics & Information
• Health & Wellness
• Humanities & Social Sciences
• Music & Performing Arts
• Public Service
• Multidisciplinary
• Still Exploring & Undetermined
• International
• Bienvenidos
• Featured Videos
• College Tour
• Tuition & Aid
• Student Life
• Search Type Search Search
• Quicklinks:
• STUDENT EMAIL
• UNT DIRECTORY
• INFO FOR CURRENT STUDENTS
• INFO FOR FACULTY + STAFF
• INFO FOR ALUMNI + FRIENDS
• INFO FOR PARENTS + FAMILY
• INFO FOR COMMUNITY + VISITORS
• UNT LIBRARIES
• UNT CALENDAR
• JOBS AT UNT

Criminal Justice Policy and Administration Master's

Want more info.

We're so glad you're interested in UNT! Let us know if you'd like more information and we'll get you everything you need.

Why Earn a Master's in Criminal Justice Policy and Administration?

You can pursue your degree 100% online, allowing you to better balance your work, personal and academic obligations. Our program also offers:

• Opportunities to participate in research under a faculty member's direction
• Prospects for earning academic credit through an internship
• Specialized electives so you can tailor your degree to your professional and personal goals
• Study abroad opportunities

Faculty members have a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. In addition to teaching courses, they assist the Department of Criminal Justice in applied research projects, program evaluation studies and scholarly research. Some of their current research focuses on:

• Capital punishment
• Cybercrime and cyber security
• Juvenile delinquency
• Police operations and tactics
• Prison violence
• Victimization
• Technical and academic writing
• Abstract problem solving
• Knowledge of government operations
• Research interpretation/implementation
• Information verification

Criminal Justice Policy and Administration Master's Highlights

Career outlook.

This degree equips students with an exceptional understanding of the nature and scope of problems posed by crime as well as the administration of the criminal justice system.

Many MSCJ alumni are serving in various careers such as:

• Criminal lawyer
• Administrator
• Police officer, probation officer or caseworker

Criminal Justice Policy and Administration Master's Courses You Could Take

Learn More About UNT

Explore more options.

It’s easy to apply online. Join us and discover why we’re the choice of nearly 47,000 students.

Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Online at UCF

Fill out the form below and we’ll email you more information about UCF’s online Criminal Justice programs.

• Name * First Last
• Degree * Corrections Leadership Crime Analysis Criminal Justice, BA/BS Criminal Justice, MS Digital Forensics, MS Juvenile Justice Leadership Legal Studies, BA/BS Police Leadership Political Science, BA
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Privacy Notice

Search for a Degree

Popular online criminal justice programs.

UCF Online Criminal Justice Degrees

Online criminal justice programs.

Online Criminal Justice Leadership Programs

Online Forensics and Crime Analysis Programs

Criminal Justice Education at UCF Online

Our online criminal justice degree programs are designed with flexibility and excellence in mind. Delivering the same high-quality instruction students receive on campus, our virtual degree programs follow rigorous standards and feature high-caliber curricula taught by an award-winning faculty. Students apply their skills to real-world challenges across a wide range of specific careers in the criminal justice field, from forensic analysis to communication and conflict. Our online format allows busy students to pursue certificate, undergraduate and graduate programs in a way that fits their lives and equips them to step forward as leaders in their field.

UCF Online is a great way for students to complete their degree while working in their field. Students don’t have to worry about missing out! The flexible hours allow me to connect with each of them at the time that works best for them.” WILLIAM MORETO, PhD – Criminal Justice Assistant Professor

Studying Law and Criminal Justice with UCF Online

No matter if you are just starting your career or are searching for a new way to leave an impact on your community, UCF Online has a law or criminal justice program for you. With online classes taught by the same dedicated faculty who teach in face-to-face classrooms, UCF Online gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want without compromising on quality education. If you are early in your educational research journey and unsure what the next steps are, just reach out to one of our dedicated UCF Online coaches who can advise on degree-choice options, admission details, the application process and options available for financing your degree. They can also provide assistance with understanding online pre-law degree options, the best majors for law school, and insight on what it’s like to study law online.

Criminal Justice Faculty

Latest Criminal Justice News

Legal & Criminal Justice Career Options

UCF Online gives students a choice of options to help them on their path to a fulfilling legal or criminal justice career. If you’re considering a career as a legal assistant, paralegal or attorney, our online Legal Studies, BA/BS provides the foundation for understanding the history, processes and procedures of the legal system. For those advancing their career within the forensics field, UCF Online provides graduate-level programs including a Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Forensic Science , as well as a graduate certificate in Crime Analysis . Explore all of the options available for you to advance your law or criminal justice career with UCF Online.

Time is valuable for all of us, and at UCF Online we believe you shouldn’t have to alter your life in order to advance your legal career through higher education. Whether you work full time, travel often, are a parent, or don’t live close to campus, through UCF Online we bring the ability to study your law or criminal justice degree direct to you.

The best investment you can make is in your future. The impact that you will make with your online legal and criminal justice degree shouldn’t come at a great cost to you. That’s why UCF Online offers an affordable alternative to earning a high-quality university degree. Florida residents seeking an online graduate degree can save $42.33 per credit hour. Visit the tuition, fees and scholarships pages for more information.

Get Started

Advance your law or criminal justice career today with one of our highly ranked, flexible program options available at UCF Online.

Get Connected.

Contact the UCF Online Connect Center to learn more about the available online programs or for help finding an online degree that works for you.

Hours of Operation: Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. (ET) Sat: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (ET) Closed Sundays & Holidays

Why earn a degree from UCF Online?

Access. innovation. impact..

UCF Online is a community of thinkers, helpers and makers who use bold ideas to challenge the ordinary and devise solutions to solve the world’s most pressing problems. A great university can unleash the potential to change the world. Listed as one of the most innovative universities in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report ’s Best Colleges 2024 Guide, UCF specializes in providing high-quality online degree programs for those talented students and working professionals who are unable to physically attend our Orlando main campus or one of our 14 Central Florida locations .