Academic Programs
The College of Criminal Justice offers a wide selection of degree programs in the criminal justice field to fit your unique needs and interests. Choose from face-to-face classes, online options, or weekend studies to fit your needs. Online course options include 5-week Premium Distance Learning Courses.
Criminal Justice and Criminology
The Criminal Justice and Criminology Department is one of the most prestigious and well known criminal justice colleges in the nation. We offer a wide range of degrees and certificates with a rigorous graduate program that features masters and Ph.D. opportunities. See the many different paths to a SHSU CJ degree below:
- Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
- Minor in Crime Analysis and Mapping
- Minor in Criminal Justice
- Undergraduate Certificate in Crime Analysis and Mapping (as of Spring 2024)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Undergraduate Certificate in Management and Leadership in Criminal Justice
- Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management (Online Only)
- Master of Arts in Criminal Justice and Criminology (On Campus Only)
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice (Online Only)
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management (Intensive Weekend)
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management (Online)
- Ph.D. in Criminal Justice (On Campus Only)
Forensic Science
The Department of Forensic Science is filled with distinguished faculty members who are experts in the field. Our Master’s and Ph.D. programs are very hands-on and laboratory intensive, providing students with the opportunity to work with cutting edge technology alongside lead researchers. See the many different opportunities that the first forensic science doctoral Ph.D. program in the nation can offer you!
- Minor in Forensic Science
- Undergraduate Certificate in Investigative Forensic Science
- Master of Science in Forensic Science (On Campus Only)
- Ph.D. in Forensic Science (On Campus Only)
*In order to be eligible for our graduate programs in forensic science, a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in chemistry, biology, forensic or natural science is required.
**Completion of the minor in forensic science will not qualify you for a graduate degree in Forensic Science or position in an accredited laboratory.
Security Studies
The Department of Security Studies is a newer discipline that began after the 9/11 attacks in 2001. We are dedicated to preparing students for natural and man made crises. We offer several degree options with online flexibility and a masters program. Learn how to be prepared for all situations with a degree in Security Studies today!
- Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security Studies (Online Only)
- Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security Studies (Online Only)
- Minor in Homeland Security Studies
- Undergraduate Certificate in Biosecurity and Pandemics
- Undergraduate Certificate in Security and Resilience in the Chemical and Energy Sectors (Starting Fall 2022)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Security and Resilience in the Healthcare Sector (Starting Fall 2022)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Security and Resilience in the Transportation Sector (Starting Fall 2022)
- Graduate Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Protection (Online Only)
- Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management
- Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies
Victim Studies
Our newest discipline, which has the only bachelor's degree of its kind, The Department of Victim Studies, helps develop future victim service professionals. With the College of Criminal Justice developing the first course in victimology back in 2003, the rise of professionals in victim services has grown tremendously. We offer an undergraduate and graduate degree plan, each built to equip students with the necessary tools to be successful after graduation! Our Master of Science in Victim Services Management is offered online to fit the busy schedules of working professionals and can now be completed within 1 year. Take a look at each of our degree plans below: