Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
UHD offers two undergraduate degree options for students planning to enter the criminal justice field and other areas of public service! The objective of both degrees is to prepare you for professional and managerial careers as well as research positions and graduate study.
- Option 1: BSCJ: This degree is designed for students just beginning their university studies and those who transfer academic course credit from other 4-year universities or community colleges.
- Option 2: BAAS-CJ” The BAAS-CJ offers a seamless transfer from community college for A.A.S. graduates. In addition, students who haven’t completed an A.A.S. degree but have completed the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Basic Peace Officer Certificate are also eligible to enter the B.A.A.S. program and receive up to 36 hours of workforce credit toward the degree.
- The definition and measurement of crime
- Society’s efforts to prevent and control crime
- The behavior of the criminal justice system and its components
- The causes of crime
About the Program
Course work leading to a UHD College of Public Service Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ) degree equips students with a foundation in criminological theories and criminal justice processes, including communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. The Criminal Justice faculty strive to prepare students to be effective leaders in criminal justice and related fields, as well as research and advanced studies.
Graduates who earn a BSCJ will be able to:
- Critically analyze crime and justice issues.
- Apply criminological and justice system theories to the study of crime and justice.
- Communicate effectively about criminal justice topics.
- Analyze criminal justice ethical dilemmas and develop sound courses of action.
- Apply research methods and statistical analyses to criminal justice problems.
This degree program prepares students for a career in criminal justice and public service, and prepares students to pursue the study of law and other related graduate programs.
Affiliated Student Organizations
The Professional Society of Criminal Justice Students
promotes the academic, professional, and social success of its members. It provides career resources and creates a strong support system for students and provides opportunities for community service.
Alpha Phi Sigma
is a national criminal justice honor society that recognizes academic excellence of both undergraduate and graduate students of criminal justice. Alpha Phi Sigma students are involved in community service and sponsor on and off campus events related to criminal justice.
Career In Criminal Justice
A Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts prepares graduates for a variety of careers:
- Police Officer or Crime Scene Investigator
- Corporate Security
- Jail or Prison Administration
- Children's Protective Service or Other Social Services
- Court or Victim Services Administrator