BA in Criminal Justice

The curriculum of the Criminal Justice program delves into the workings of the criminal justice system, the evolution of constitutional law, and the intricacies of the American court system. Beyond the foundations, you’ll explore criminology, communication in legal situations, and how crime and criminal justice relate to American society and the American family.

The BA in Criminal Justice program requirements prioritize ethical considerations, offering a historical perspective on our nation’s criminal justice system. Embedded in the 120-credit degree, core humanities education, six hours of foreign language, robust choices of electives, and internship opportunities enhance your readiness to lead the workforce in public service and the court system.

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Courses

Investigate critical aspects of the criminal justice field in courses crafted to prepare you for the complexities and challenges of a career in criminal justice:

• The American Court System
• Constitutional Law I and II
• Criminal Procedure
• Foundations of Criminal Law
• Legal Communication

Criminal Justice Minor

Choosing a Criminal Justice minor enriches any major, boosting your job prospects in legal services, public service, and beyond. It sharpens analytical and communication skills and provides deep insights into American criminal justice, making you versatile and attractive to employers.

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Online BA in Criminal Justice

HCU’s Pampell Online Division offers a fully online bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice program that provides the same education on criminology and the criminal justice system through a fully remote format.

Explore the online BA in Criminal Justice.

Graduating with a BA in Criminal Justice positions you for a spectrum of careers across law enforcement and the legal system. This degree opens doors to traditional law enforcement roles within federal, state, and local governments, where you can serve and protect communities with integrity and dedication. Common pathways also include graduate studies in law, forensic psychology, or public administration, setting the stage for influential roles within the justice system and related fields.

Career and Salary Outcomes

The skills and knowledge you gain as a Criminal Justice major are highly valued in private security, government law enforcement, and the legal arena. You may start as a police officer, ascending through the ranks to become a detective or criminal investigator. Additionally, entry-level positions in court support or legal support are available, with opportunities to advance to leadership roles.

For those inclined toward the corrections facet of criminal justice, opportunities range from entry-level officer positions to roles in upper management, such as warden, and overseeing correctional facilities. You may even use your strengths in legal analysis and criminal psychology to enter careers in intelligence or military service.

With your BA in Criminal Justice, you can pursue careers such as:

• Corrections Officer
• Crime Scene Investigator
• Law Enforcement Officer
• Legal Assistant
• Paralegal
• Private Security Consultant
• Probation Officer

Each role you take on throughout your career leverages the comprehensive understanding of criminal justice principles, ethical considerations, and practical skills you’ve honed, preparing you for meaningful contributions to public safety and justice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average reported annual salary for police workers and detectives was $69,160 in 2022. Further education and specialization can unlock higher-paying careers in criminal justice and law.

Learn more about job outlook and salaries for Criminal Justice majors.

Flexibility to Minor or Double Major

As a Criminal Justice major, you have room in the program to choose a double major or minor to broaden your educational experience, tackle interdisciplinary career paths, or qualify for more specialized roles or salaries. Popular options include combining Criminal Justice and the Psychology program or the Spanish program. Or, add a minor, such as a Sociology minor or Political Science minor.

Explore all majors and minors at HCU.

Engage With Clubs, Organizations, and Career Experiences

Rooted in the Morris Family Center for Law & Liberty’s conviction for forwarding community education, the Criminal Justice program offers a variety of opportunities, like workshops and symposiums, for you to interact with professionals in your desired career field, build your network in the Houston area, and experience collaboration and leadership. You can also participate in student groups like the Pre-Law Society to enhance your skills and knowledge.

Explore student clubs and organizations and dive into our vibrant student life.

Community Rooted in Pillars of Belief

HCU’s Ten Pillars are inspired by the stone columns that guarded the original Galveston County Courthouse, forever linking our history with the calling of justice and truth. The Criminal Justice program aims to educate the next generation of leaders in liberty and constitutionalism and defend the principles that make America an exceptional nation.

An engaged campus spiritual community comes together with our respected Criminal Justice faculty to create an environment of academic excellence that promotes the personal and faith development necessary to produce citizens who do good for our society and country.

Explore HCU’s Ten Pillars mission.