Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Hardin-Simmons University

The field of criminal justice is dynamic and demanding, with an ever-increasing need for advances in the following areas: forensic science, the interconnection between the law and science; behavioral analysis, including an understanding of criminal psychopathology and victimology; administration of rapidly changing criminal justice systems and agencies, with an emphasis upon management and crime policy; and homeland security, including digital security, infrastructure protection, and global perspectives. A Criminal Justice degree from Hardin Simmons University offers students a multidisciplinary, practical, research-based learning opportunity designed to address these critical needs.

BA Core Curriculum

BA Criminal Justice Core Requirements

These courses are required to be fulfilled in the Core Curriculum.

• Topics in Forensic Science
• Forensic Science Lab

Major and Minor Requirements

Major: Criminal Justice

• The Justice System
• Law Enforcement Practices and Procedures
• Courts and the Judicial Process
• Corrective Methods and Outcomes
• Youth Justice
• Bill of Rights
• Report Writing, Research, and Statistics
• Criminal Law
• Service Learning and Field
• Ethics in the Justice System
• Capstone
• CRIJupper-level elective

Internship Opportunity

Each student may complete a 100-hour internship with a criminal justice agency during their senior year. This internship enables the student to obtain supervised field training, practical experience, and to integrate knowledge gained in the classroom. There are multiple internship sites from which to choose and students may obtain experience from more than one internship agency.

Our Vision, Mission, & Objective

Undergraduate and graduate students in HSU’s Criminal Justice Department will be engaged, resourceful, and confident servant leaders. The program will proactively equip students to become servant-minded in their professional leadership capacities, capable of positively and ethically impacting individuals and communities.

Mission and Objective

The study of the justice system in an environment enlightened by faith begins with an understanding of the foundational role practitioners play in facilitating ethical and just responses at all levels. The integrity of the system is heavily reliant upon the character of the individuals serving within it. Equal treatment under the law is a core principle within this framework. Students will be provided opportunities to master leadership, technical, analytic, and practical competencies necessary for service in this dynamic and demanding field. Graduates of the Criminal Justice program are encouraged to face challenges through the lens of acting justly, seeking mercy, and walking humbly.

Outcomes

A career in criminal justice affords men and women many and varied employment opportunities at the local, state, and federal levels. The Criminal Justice program at HSU will prepare students for careers in the criminal justice system.

Careers in the field of criminal justice include:

• Law Enforcement Officer
• District Parole Officer
• Community Supervision Officer
• Forensics Technician
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent
• Juvenile Probation Officer
• Juvenile Program Case Manager
• Prison Warden
• Correctional Officer
• Drug Enforcement Agent
• Victims Assistance Coordinator
• Border Patrol Agent
• Secret Service Agent
• Residential Program Professional
• Private Security
• Investigations
• Case Management for Specialized Caseloads