COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Administrative Officers
| Dean, College of Criminal Justice and Director, The Criminal Justice Center | Vincent J. Webb, Ph.D. |
| Associate Dean | W. Wesley Johnson, Ph.D. |
| Associate Dean | Janet L. Mullings, Ph.D. |
Degrees Offered
Majors |
Degrees |
| Criminal Justice | M.S. |
| Criminal Justice and Criminology | M.A. |
| Criminal Justice Leadership and Management | M.S. |
| Forensic Science | M.S. |
| Security Studies | M.S. |
| Criminal Justice* | Ph.D. |
| Victim Services Management | M.S. |
* In a joint program with the University of Houston Law School, students may concurrently seek a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (Ph.D.) and a Doctor of Juris Prudence (J.D.).
Degree Programs
The College of Criminal Justice offers a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Criminal Justice, a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology, a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management, a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice, a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science and a Master of Science in Security Studies. The Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Arts programs are designed primarily to prepare graduate students to conduct research in the various areas of criminological theory, crime control, correctional and police administration, and social rehabilitation. These programs are based on a multidisciplinary study of the behavioral sciences as they apply to these specialized areas.
The Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management is designed to serve the needs of the experienced professional in criminal justice. Course content is aimed at developing and enhancing managerial skills. This program is offered in an intensive semester time frame. To be considered for admission, the applicant to the Master of Science program must be currently employed in a criminal justice occupation in a management position or aspiring to become employed in a management position, with a minimum of two years experience.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice is available to students with or without previous
employment experience in criminal justice. Course content is aimed at providing a
base of knowledge and skills necessary to administer criminal justice-related programs.
Courses are typically offered in residence at The University Center in The Woodlands
and via distance education.
The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Arts program, the Master of Science in Criminal Justice programs, and the Doctor of Philosophy program is February 1 for the fall semester and September 1 for the spring semester. The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management program is May 1 for the fall semester.The Master of Science in Forensic Science is a non-thesis degree program which includes a support sequence in biological sciences, chemistry and criminal justice. Additional coursework in a more specialized area of forensic science is provided as well. The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Science in Forensic Science program is December 31 for the fall semester only. Though applicants are considered after the deadline, priority is given to those applicants who have submitted their applications on time.
The Master of Science in Security Studies is a new degree program offered by only a few universities. Students will be required to complete 36 graduate semester hours that can be finished in approximately two years. Students have the option of completing a thesis or an internship that includes a directed management project on an assigned topic in collaboration with the participating internship agency. The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Science in Security Studies is February 1 for the fall semester and September 1 for the spring semester.
Graduate students in the College of Criminal Justice are expected to maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average. Two grades of “C” are grounds for dismissal from the program. All students, regardless of program degree, must declare a major with the graduate office by completing a declaration of official major form.
The Doctor of Philosophy 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 deep and extensive awareness of the body of knowledge in the field of criminal justice and, (2) the intellectual and methodological skills necessary for the continuing process of discovery and understanding of crime and justice related issues. The graduate should be capable of integrative and analytical thinking, competent at transmitting knowledge, able to engage in various accepted modes of research, and should possess skills in problem-solving.
To accomplish this, the College of Criminal Justice has a faculty of diverse scholars committed to the study 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 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, theory, and administration.
Admission Considerations
- A master’s degree in Criminal Justice or an allied field.
- Test scores from the Graduate Record Examination
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts for all academic work. 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.
- An original essay as described in the doctoral application form.
- Foreign students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) unless they have completed a degree in the United States. A minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required.
- 7. A current resume or vita.
A holistic review of each student’s application file will be completed on a competitive basis.
Requirements for Completing the Ph.D. Program
The following guidelines are offered to demonstrate the nature of the doctoral program and should not be misconstrued as representing the formal requirements for a Ph.D.
- Students should consult with the Graduate Program Advisor to design a course of study beyond the master’s degree that will provide an in-depth knowledge in the areas of research and statistics, criminological theory, criminal justice administration and legal issues in criminal justice.
- Students must register full-time, a minimum of 9 credit hours per semester, on campus for at least two consecutive long semesters. Transfer credit of up to a maximum of nine hours of post-master’s course work may be allowed toward electives, at the discretion of the appropriate Dean.
- Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in all courses
- Students must pass comprehensive examinations.
- Students must 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.
- Students who enter with a master’s degree have six years to complete the doctoral degree from the first semester they register.
The Doctoral Curriculum
Master’s Degree Completed
The Doctoral degree requires 58 hours of 500-, 600-, and 700-level coursework. Students must choose a plan of study from three areas of concentration: Criminological Theory, Law and Judicial Process, or Criminal Justice Administration. Four courses must be completed in the concentration area. Two courses must be completed in each of the optional areas (waiver areas) not attempted to demonstrate competency in these areas. A grade of A or B is required of all concentration area courses. Additionally, a GPA of 3.5 must be maintained in the concentration area.
Total Credits Required:
| Research and Statistics | 10 SCH |
| Concentration | 12 SCH |
| Waiver Areas | 12 SCH |
| Electives (600/700-level) | 12 SCH |
| Dissertation | 12 SCH |
| Total Hours | 58 SCH |
Possible Stem Work Required
Substantive Courses
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration
CJ 532 Perspectives in Criminology
Research Fundamentals
CJ 592 Survey of Research Methods
CJ 685 Statistics for Criminal Justice Research
CJ 615 Criminal Justice Statistics Lab
Research and Statistics Requirements
CJ 742 Advanced Statistics I
CJ 787 Research Design
CJ 793 Computer Based Data Analysis
Criminological Theory
For a waiver, students must complete
CJ 737 Criminological Theory
CJ 760 Advanced Seminar in Criminological Theory
For a concentration area, students must complete:
CJ 737 Criminological Theory
CJ 760 Advanced Seminar in Criminological Theory
And additionally at least two courses selected from:
CJ 563 The Juvenile Offender
CJ 660 Seminar in Deviant Behavior
CJ 661 Social Policy
CJ 672 Seminar in Criminology and Corrections
CJ 739 Distribution and Correlates of Crime
Criminal Justice Administration
For a waiver, students must complete
CJ 730 Seminar in Organizational Theory
And additionally at least one course selected from:
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration
CJ 734 Seminar in American Policing
CJ 736 Seminar in American Corrections
CJ 738 Seminar in American Courts
For a concentration area, students must complete:
CJ 730 Seminar in Organizational Theory
And additionally at least one course selected from:
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration
CJ 734 Seminar in American Policing
CJ 736 Seminar in American Corrections
CJ 738 Seminar in American Courts
And additionally at least two more courses selected from:
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration
CJ 639 Police in Society
CJ 665 Community Relations and the Administration of Justice
CJ 687 The Ethics of Criminal Justice
CJ 734 Seminar in American Policing
CJ 736 Seminar in American Corrections
CJ 738 Seminar in American Courts
Law and Judicial Process
For a waiver, students must complete:
CJ 593 Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
CJ 780 Seminar on the Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
For a concentration area, students must complete:
CJ 593 Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
CJ 780 Seminar on the Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
And additionally at least two courses selected from:
CJ 533 Seminar in Law
CJ 534 Courts as Organizations
CJ 696 Legal Aspects of Criminal Justice Management
CJ 738 Seminar in American Courts
Doctoral Comprehensive Examination
The purpose of the doctoral comprehensive examination is two-fold. The primary purpose is to ensure that each student has gained a satisfactory understanding of the core areas of the curriculum. The secondary purpose is to provide the student and faculty an opportunity to identify areas of deficiency and to establish for the student a program of study to remedy those deficiencies.
Students become eligible to take comprehensive examinations during the long semester following the completion of all “required substantive courses” included in the doctoral curriculum. Formal application to take the exams must be made in writing to the Graduate Standards Committee at least 60 calendar days prior to the scheduled examination. Formal approval will depend upon the completion of all required substantive coursework, the maintenance of at least a 3.0 GPA for all doctoral courses that have been completed, and certification that the student has conferred with his/her faculty mentor regarding preparedness to take the examination.
Admission to Candidacy
Admission to candidacy is granted upon successful completion of all course work and passing of the written comprehensive examinations.
Dissertation
A doctoral dissertation must be the product of original scholarly research and must be of such quality as to represent a meaningful contribution to knowledge in the field of criminal justice. It is expected that much time and effort will be devoted to the dissertation phase of the doctoral program.
Advisement
Academic Advisement
The Graduate Program Advisor and the appropriate Dean conduct academic advisement. At least a month before the end of each semester, graduate students should contact the college’s graduate office for advisement for the next term. All readings courses, special projects, internships, practicums, and workshops for students must be coordinated by the Graduate Program Advisor and appropriate Dean. Students are encouraged to consider the makeup of the comprehensive examinations before they develop a plan of study to ensure they will have a base of knowledge in the primary areas of the curriculum by the time they finish the course work. Doctoral students are authorized to enroll in courses at the 500 through the 800 levels. If it is necessary for a student to do stem work in order to meet the prerequisites for graduate courses, those credit hours will be in addition to the classroom hours required for the doctoral degree. The normal course load during the fall or spring semester is 9 hours. During a summer session, the maximum permissible load is 6 hours.
The Master of Arts Degree Program
Major in Criminal Justice and Criminology
The Master of Arts degree is designed to prepare graduate students to conduct research and actively participate in the development of knowledge in the areas of criminological theory, crime control, and correctional and police administration. The curriculum is broad enough to satisfy these various interests. Students who are planning careers in law enforcement, corrections or rehabilitation, or who wish a deeper understanding of crime and the criminal justice system should confer with the Graduate Program Advisor to develop a combination of elective courses which will support their particular career interests.
Admission Considerations
Admission to the Master of Arts program is based on the Admissions Committee's assessment of the applicant's scores on the Graduate Record Examination, the undergraduate academic record, and letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors. In some instances a personal interview will also be requested. Admission considerations include the following: (1) that the applicant has, or will soon have, an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in an allied field; (2) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken; (3) test scores from the Graduate Record Examination; (4) at least two letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors; (5) an essay, and (6) foreign students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language. A minimum score of 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 79 (internet-based) is required.
A holistic review of each student's application file will be completed on a competitive basis.
The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Arts program is February 1 for the fall semester and September 1 for the spring semester. The Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology is a 37-hour degree which includes a thesis. No minor is required.
Required Substantive Courses: 9 hours
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration
CJ 532 Perspectives in Criminology
CJ 593 Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System
Required Support Sequence: 7 hours
CJ 592 Survey of Research Methods
CJ 685 Statistics for Criminal Justice Research
CJ 615 Criminal Justice Statistics Lab
Electives: Fifteen (15) hours of graduate coursework at the 500-, 600-, or 700-level. Thesis: Six (6) hours (CJ 698, CJ 699)
The
Master of Science Degree Program
Major in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management
Intensive Weekend Program
The Master of Science program with a major in Criminal Justice Leadership is designed for persons in mid-management positions in criminal justice agencies, or for those who have a reasonable expectation of being promoted to such a position. It serves practitioners whose jobs and family commitments prevent them from returning to campus as full-time students. The Master of Science program restructures classroom hours allowing the fully-employed person to earn a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Leadership in two years. On-campus classroom attendance requires about seven weekends each spring and fall semester and during the combined summer sessions. Roughly 36 days are spent in class each year along with extensive home study.
A student in full-time attendance earns six credit hours in each of the fall and spring semesters and combined summer sessions, totaling 18 credit hours per year.
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership students are admitted only in the fall semester. The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Science program is May 1.
Admission Considerations
Admission considerations include the following: (1) an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in an allied field; (2) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken; (3) test scores from the Graduate Record Examination; (4) a reference letter from the applicant’s employer indicating awareness of the time commitment involved over the next two-year period, and willingness to enable the employee to keep his/her weekend commitments; and (5) current employment in a criminal justice occupation with a minimum of two years experience. Foreign students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required.
The competitive admissions process is based on a holistic approach taking all of the required materials into consideration. The desired profile for the class of admitted students consists of an average GRE score of at least 1100 with an average GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with unique qualifications may be accepted into the program on probationary status at the discretion of the admissions committee. The College encourages diversity related to gender and ethnicity.
The Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Leadership is a 36-hour degree. No thesis is required, but the student must complete a capstone course (CJ 688) with a grade of B or better to satisfy the University’s comprehensive examination requirement.
Recommended M.S. Schedule
(Criminal Justice Leadership and Management)
Year One
Fall
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration
Spring
CJ 634 Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis in Criminal Justice
CJ 663 Psychology in Criminal Justice Leadership
Summer
CJ 632 Resource Development in the Organizational Context
CJ 665 Community Theory and the Administration of Justice
Year Two
Fall
CJ 635 Seminar in Leadership and Management
CJ 696 Legal Aspects of Criminal Justice Management
Spring
CJ 636 Computer /Technology Applications for Criminal Justice
CJ 692 Program Evaluation for Criminal Justice
Summer
CJ 694 Special Topics (currently CJ 687-may change as deemed necessary)
CJ 688 Emergent Issues in Criminal Justice Leadership
Other elective special readings courses may be substituted with the approval from the appropriate Dean.
The Master of Science Degree Program
Major in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management
Intensive Distance Education Program
The Master of Science program with a major in Criminal Justice Leadership is designed for persons in mid-management positions in criminal justice agencies, or for those who have a reasonable expectation of being promoted to such a position. It serves practitioners whose jobs and family commitments prevent them from returning to campus as full-time students. The Master of Science program is offered in a comprehensive distance education format. The distance education or on-line form of instruction requires a significant commitment on the part of the student who must be self-motivated, self-directed, and focused on their educational goals. On-campus classroom attendance is generally not required, however, courses are typically identified in the Weekend Intensive offering. A student in full-time attendance can earn up to six credit hours in each of the fall and spring semesters and combined summer sessions, totaling 18 credit hours per year.
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership students are admitted only in the fall semester. The deadline for submitting applications to the Master of Science program is May 1.
Admission Considerations
Admission considerations include the following: (1) an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in an allied field; (2) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken; (3) test scores from the Graduate Record Examination; (4) excellent computer and typing skills and access to computer faculties with high speed connections; (5) foreign students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required.
The competitive admissions process will be based on a holistic approach taking all of the required materials into consideration. The desired profile for the class of admitted students consists of an average GRE score of at least 1100 with an average GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with unique qualifications may be accepted into the program on probationary status at the discretion of the admissions committee. The College encourages diversity related to gender and ethnicity.
The Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Leadership is a 36-hour degree. No thesis is required, but the student must complete a capstone course (CJ 688) with a grade of B or better to satisfy the University’s comprehensive examination requirement.
Recommended course sequencing follows the MS Weekend Intensive—see previous section.
The Master of Science Degree Program
Major in Criminal Justice
The Master of Science program in Criminal Justice is designed primarily for persons who aspire to management positions in the field of criminal justice. It is designed for nontraditional students who have full-time jobs. This degree is typically available at The University Center in The Woodlands. Courses are sequenced so that students can complete the degree in two years. The degree prepares students to work in various areas of criminal justice administration including, but not limited to, organizational management and social policy. The deadline for fall admission is February 1 and the deadline for spring admissions is September 1. Admissions are considered after the deadlines, but priority is given to those applicants who complete the admissions process on time.
Admission Considerations
Admission considerations include: (1) an undergraduate degree from an accredited academic institution in an allied field; (2) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken; (3) a score of 550 in each of the Verbal and Quantitative sections of the Graduate Record Examination; (4) score on GRE writing section; (5) at least two letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors referencing the applicant’s ability to perform graduate work; and (6) an essay. International students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required.
The competitive admissions process will be based on a holistic approach taking all of the required materials into consideration. The desired profile for the class of admitted students consists of an average GRE score of at least 1100 with an average GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with unique qualifications may be accepted into the program on probationary status at the discretion of the admissions committee. The College encourages diversity related to gender and ethnicity.
There is no thesis requirement, but the student must complete a capstone course (CJ 688) with a grade of B or better to satisfy the University’s comprehensive exam requirement. Students should seek advisement from the Graduate Programs office in planning a course of study. The Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice is a 36-hour degree.
Required Substantive Courses: 21 hours
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration
CJ 692 Program Evaluation in Criminal Justice
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration
CJ 634 Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
CJ 636 Computer /Technology Applications for Criminal Justice
CJ 665 Community Theory and the Administration of Justice
CJ 688 Emergent Issues in Criminal Justice Leadership
Electives: 15 hours
Five elective courses will be chosen around a coherent theme based on the student’s area of interest with the guidance of the appropriate Dean. The Graduate Office will provide students with a list of suggested electives for a particular area.
Master of Science in Forensic Science
The Master of Science in Forensic Science program requires the completion of 44 graduate semester hours of core and forensic science coursework that can be completed in two years. The program is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities essential to forensic science. This unique and Interdisciplinary program was the first of its kind in Texas. Graduate level topics include crime scene Investigation, pattern evidence, instrumental analysis, trace evidence and microscopic analysis, forensic biology, forensic toxicology, law/science interface, ethics and quality assurance. These core topics are complemented with advanced coursework and laboratory instruction. The program maintains strong ties with accredited forensic laboratories in both the private and public sectors. Students are required to complete an internship in a forensic laboratory, complete an Independent research project and demonstrate good oral and written skills that will prepare them for future success in both the laboratory and in the courtroom.
Admission Considerations
Admission considerations include: (1) a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in chemistry or biology; or a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a forensic or natural science with the equivalent of a minor in either chemistry or biology; (2) test scores from the Graduate Record Examination (3) three letters of recommendation, at least two from academic sources; and (4) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken. Applicants should have completed instrumental analysis and molecular biology at the undergraduate level. However, exceptional students who have not taken these courses may be allowed to take these stem courses during their first year.
The competitive admissions process will be based on a holistic approach taking all of the required materials into consideration. The desired profile for the class of admitted students consists of an average GRE score of at least 1100 with an average GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants with unique qualifications may be accepted into the program on probationary status at the discretion of the admissions committee. The College encourages diversity related to gender and ethnicity.
The Program of Study
Required courses:
CJ 622 Forensic Science Proseminar
CHM 545 Forensic Instrumental Analysis*
CJ 560 Forensic Analysis of Pattern Evidence
CJ 531 Techniques for Crime Scene Investigation
BIO 540 Forensic Biology*
CHM 546 Forensic Toxicology and Drug Chemistry*
CHM 535 Trace Evidence and Microscopic Analysis*
CJ 671 Internship*
CJ 516 Seminar in Forensic Science
CJ 526 Law and Forensic Science
CJ 524 Quality Assurance and Ethical Conduct in Forensic Science
CJ 685 Statistics for Criminal Justice Research
CJ 614 Forensic Science Capstone Course*
After consultation with appropriate advisors, students typically establish a focus in either forensic biology or chemistry. Completion of additional coursework may include, but is not limited to the following electives:
BIO 530 Forensic Entomology
BIO 534 Electron Microscopy
BIO 564 Cell Structure and Physiology
BIO 591 Advanced Genetics
CHM 568 Analytical Spectroscopy
CHM 572 Advanced Biochemistry I
CHM 585 Advanced Forensic Toxicology
CJ 694 Advanced Forensic DNA
CJ 533 Forensic Anthropology*
CJ 694 Firearms and Tool marks
* Subject to action by the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
NOTE: Curriculum may be adapted to meet the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC) of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
Master of Science in Security Studies
The Master of Science in Security Studies is a unique program that provides a comprehensive security management program to individuals wanting to advance their knowledge, skills and qualifications within the dynamic field of security. This specialized degree program will produce professionals who are best qualified to meet the unique demands of the criminal justice system and homeland security. The broad educational objective of the program is to graduate managers and leaders, individuals who will possess expertise in both theoretical and experiential dimensions of security management.
The Program of Study
Year One
Fall
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration
CJ 532 Perspectives in Criminology
Spring
CJ 536 Legal Aspects of Private Security
CJ 538 Security and Management
Summer
CJ 694 Special Topics in Criminal Justice
CJ 693 Special Readings in Criminal Justice
Year Two
Fall
CJ 687 Ethics of Criminal Justice
CJ 539 Global Terrorism
Spring
CJ 634 Research Methods & Quantitative Analysis
CJ 535 Security and the Future
Summer
CJ 698 Thesis Practicum
CJ 699 Thesis
Or
CJ 670 Internship
CJ 637 Directed Management Project
Admission considerations include: (1) an undergraduate degree from an accredited academic institution in an allied field; (2) official transcripts of all academic work previously undertaken; (3) test scores from the Graduate Record Examination; (4) at least three letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors referencing the applicant's ability to perform graduate work; and (5) an essay. International students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 79 (internet-based) is required.
A holistic review of each student's application file will be completed on a competitive basis.
For application forms or further information, write or call:
Office of Graduate Programs
College of Criminal Justice
Sam Houston State University
P. O. Box 2296
Huntsville, Texas 77341-2296
Phone: (936) 294-1702
FAX: (936) 294-4055
Email inquiries may be made through the College of Criminal Justice's internet address: www.cjcenter.org.
George J. Beto Chair of Criminal Justice
In 1979, Houston Endowment Inc. established a fund for the George J. Beto Chair of Criminal Justice, the first endowed chair in criminal justice in the nation. Houston Endowment Inc. is a philanthropic trust established by the late Jesse H. and Mary Gibbs Jones to benefit educational, cultural and religious organizations. The award provides for the support of an annual lecture series of distinguished professors and professionals. The late Dr. George J. Beto, former Director of the Texas Department of Corrections and an internationally recognized authority on criminology and corrections, was designated by the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System, as a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Criminal Justice at the University. In 1991, the Criminal Justice Center was renamed the George J. Beto Criminal Justice Center by action of the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System.
Criminal Justice Course Descriptions
500-599 — first year graduate courses open to master’s and/or doctoral students
600-699 — second year graduate courses open to master’s and/or doctoral students
700-799 — third year graduate courses open to doctoral students and approved master’s students
800-899 — fourth year graduate courses open to doctoral students only
CJ 516 Seminar in Forensic Science. This is a graduate seminar series consisting of invited experts and guests from a wide range of forensic disciplines. This course also includes student-directed seminars covering research, topics of interest and current issues in forensic science. Credit 1.
CJ 524 Principles of Quality Assurance in Forensic Science. This course will introduce the concepts and procedures associated with quality assurance and ethical conduct in forensic science. Credit 2.
CJ 526 Law and Forensic Sciences. This course will provide an overview of the law-forensic science interface. This includes legal concepts of admissible evidence and proof, Rules of Evidence, structure and hierarchy of criminal courts, and expert testimony. The course also includes direct and cross examination of students in a moot court setting. Credit 2.
CJ 530 Critical Analysis of Justice Administration. An analysis of the criminal justice system in the United States; role of justice agencies as part of societal response to crime; the knowledge base of criminal justice; issues, problems, trends.
CJ 531 Techniques for Crime Scene Investigation. Course provides advanced study in the application of new techniques in crime scene investigation. The concept of physical evidence and quality assurance procedures in forensic analysis will be included.
CJ 532 Perspectives in Criminology. Survey of the field of criminology emphasizing perspectives regarding the making of law, breaking of law and societal reactions to the breaking of law.
CJ 533 Forensic Anthropology. This course equips students with the methodologies and applications of forensic anthropology. The laboratory portion of the course includes extensive hands-on training of the human skeletal system. Students will learn and apply the methods used in building a human biological profile, which includes the determination of sex, age, and race based on skeletal features. Students will briefly be introduced to identification of skeletal pathologies and trauma. Three-hour laboratory. Credit 3
CJ 534 Courts As Organizations. Critical evaluation of the dispensing of justice in America, using the systems theory approach, as well as current court policy.
CJ 535 Security and the Future. Course will focus on meeting the changing demands of security in a global environment. Discussion emphasizing the understanding of how to design, implement, and integrate the security function in an every-changing world and the impact of major economic, demographic, and technological trends on developing strategies for security innovation and growth.
CJ 536 Legal Aspects and Private Security. Focus will be on how the law impacts security in many diverse ways. Discussion will emphasize the concept of criminal intent; early criminal law and the emergence of law enforcement and private security; the legal difference between public policing and private security; and an overview of legal terms and issues with which the security manager must address.
CJ 538 Security and Management. Focus is on managing the security organization and its human resources; discussion and on results-oriented security management, the basic foundations of security, the importance of technology, and specialized security applications will be addressed.
CJ 539 Global Terrorism. Course will focus on philosophies, tactics, and targets of terrorist groups; discussion of emerging terrorism trends and the roles of the private sector and U.S. Government in responding to and preventing terrorism. Students will also gain insight on how terrorism influences U.S. Foreign Policy.
CJ 560 Forensic Analysis of Pattern Evidence. Course will introduce the concepts, theories and principles used in forensic analysis of material and pattern evidence. Recent developments in the techniques applied in forensic or material and pattern evidence will be discussed.
CJ 563 The Juvenile Offender. Theoretical perspectives regarding the creation of childhood as a social construct and the etiology of juvenile offending. Particular attention is paid to the role of family, peers and school.
CJ 572 Community Based Corrections. Techniques and procedures utilized in the supervision of adult and juvenile probationers and parolees, and other residents of community-based corrections facilities. Preparation of social history, pre-hearing, and pre-sentence investigation reports. Emphasis on practical problems confronting the probation and parole and other community-based corrections officer.
CJ 592 Survey of Research Methods. The theory and application of social science research techniques and designs, with a focus on the interpretation and use of research findings. Students who have not completed an introductory course in research methods within the past five years must take CJ 478 as a prerequisite.
CJ 593 Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System. Aspects of law which are relevant to and essential for a better understanding of the criminal justice system and its related processes.
CJ 594 Legal Research. Methods and techniques of research in the legal system. Designed to prepare students to locate, interpret and disseminate relevant statutory and case law as well as scholarly legal works.
CJ 614 Forensic Science Capstone Course. The capstone experience allows students to formally apply their acquired knowledge and skills in forensic science. This course consists of an independent research project which culminates in a formal written report or manuscript. Additionally, students are required to present their findings orally in a public forum. Credit 1.
CJ 615 Criminal Justice Statistics Lab. One hour (one semester credit hour) computer lab which must be taken in conjunction with CJ 685 (Statistics for Criminal Justice Research).
CJ 622 Forensic Science Proseminar. This course will be an introductory course and must be taken by all forensic science majors their first semester. Credit 2.
CJ 632 Resource Development in the Organizational Context. Critical issues and strategic questions regarding managing human resources in criminal justice agencies. Policy areas discussed are: (1) employee influence; (2) human resource flow; (3) reward systems; and (4) work systems. Human resource management as a coherent, proactive management model.
CJ 633 Seminar in Organization and Administration. The study of bureaucracy and complex organizations with strong emphasis on the concepts and practices of the organization and management of public agencies in the United States. Special consideration is given to the various philosophies, typologies, and models of administrative systems in criminal justice.
CJ 634 Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis in Criminal Justice. Methods and techniques of research and research design; conducting and assessing research in the criminal justice agency management environment; translation of research findings to policy; informational resources readily available to the agency manager. Designed to prepare students to gather decision-relevant information.
CJ 635 Seminar in Leadership and Management. Problems and alternative solutions in criminal justice management. The case study method and current readings provide an admixture of practical and educational experiences intended to foster and disseminate new ideas for management strategies, especially as this is impacted by leadership styles, human resources, and the environment.
CJ 636 Computer/Technology Applications for Criminal Justice. Techniques of data processing with emphasis upon utilization and application to criminal justice information management. Prerequisite: CJ 634.
CJ 637 Directed Management and Development Projects. This course is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to demonstrate under faculty supervision the ability to engage in a problem solving management project as a demonstration of skill in administration techniques.
CJ 639 Police in Society. An examination of the evolution of police in modern society with a special emphasis given to the role of the police play in contemporary society. Current research examining the function of the police will be examined.
CJ 660 Seminar in Deviant Behavior. Analysis of behavior which violates expectations that are shared and recognized as legitimate. Special attention is focused on societal reactions to such behavior.
CJ 661 Social Policy. Evaluation of the legal, social, economic, philosophic, and controversial issues of governmental programs, administered by federal, state, local units of government, and the client systems served.
CJ 662 Foundations of Substance Abuse Counseling. An introduction to counseling persons involved in substance abuse; basic concepts in treatment and rehabilitation; professional practices; assessment and treatment planning; treatment modalities; laboratory work and field study. (Course being deleted effective fall 2006)
CJ 663 Leadership Psychology in Criminal Justice Management. This course examines the important psychological processes that are involved in dealing with others. The manner in which an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by others, especially in a criminal justice leadership environment, is the focal point.
CJ 664 Seminar in Substance Abuse Counseling. The focus of this course will be on substantive issues related to substance abuse treatment. Primarily there will be an exploration of individual counseling strategies and techniques. (Course being deleted effective fall 2006)
CJ 665 Community Theory and the Administration of Justice. This course examines the nature of criminal justice organizations as components of the political, social and economic inter-organizational networks that comprise communities. Topics such as the intersection of criminal justice, mental health, juvenile justice and educational systems are examined. The impact of criminal victimization and attributes of communities that foster crime are examined in detail. The processes that motivate and implement change in community based organizations are also addressed.
CJ 668 Seminar on Drugs, Society and Policy Issues. This course will focus on issues and problems surrounding the problem of illicit drugs in society. Particular emphasis will be placed on policy related issues.
CJ 670 Internship in Criminal Justice. A minimum of three months in an approved criminal justice setting. Designed to provide the graduate student with an opportunity to synthesize theory and practice. Prerequisite: consent of the Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs, College of Criminal Justice. Credit to be arranged.
CJ 671 Forensic Science Internship. This is a ten week full-time internship in an approved forensic science laboratory. This opportunity allows graduate students to apply their theoretical knowledge and practical skills and abilities in a forensic science setting. Credit 3.
CJ 672 Seminar in Criminology and Corrections. Theory and problems in Criminology and Corrections. One or more term papers evidencing qualities of scholarship will be required.
CJ 622 Forensic Science Proseminar. This course will be an introductory course and must be taken by all forensic science majors their first semester.
CJ 676 Seminar in Teaching. This class prepares graduate criminal justice students for a career in academia. Course provides preparation in the classroom and participation in their own professional development. Mock student teaching exercises for critique are utilized.
CJ 685 Statistics for Criminal Justice Research. Review of descriptive and graphical techniques; probability and sampling theory; the normal curve and statistical inference; Central Limit Theorem; Chi-square, T and F distributions; analysis of variance and linear regression.
CJ 687 The Ethics of Criminal Justice. Ethics and moral philosophy in criminal justice including the role of natural law, constitutional law, code of ethics and philosophical principles. Strong emphasis will be put on examining the role of justice in a free society and the practical implications of justice to practitioners of police, courts and corrections.
*CJ 688 Emergent Issues in Criminal Justice Leadership. This serves as a capstone course for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership program, providing an opportunity for the integration of information offered in the program and its relationship to emergent issues. Addresses the effect of emergent perspectives in organization theory on public administration in general, and more specifically upon criminal justice management and leadership. Examines the impact of emergent technology upon criminal justice operations. Studies the integration of organization theory, principles of public administration, and community expectations of criminal justice leaders.
CJ 692 Program Evaluation for Criminal Justice Management. Principles and techniques of program evaluation including models and case studies.
CJ 693 Special Readings in Criminal Justice. Designed to give the graduate student academic flexibility. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: consent of the Assistant Dean for Graduate Programs of the College and of the instructor directing the readings.
CJ 694 Special Topics in Criminal Justice. This course is needed to offer master’s level students the option of registering for a multi-topic course. The student can take the course under various special topics being offered.
CJ 696 Legal Aspects of Criminal Justice Management. An overview of the legal issues commonly facing managers in criminal justice agencies. Particular emphasis is placed on public employment law including the hiring, promoting, disciplining and discharging of employees, fair employment practices, and agency and administrator civil liability. Both state and federal statutory and case law are examined.
CJ 698 Thesis Practicum. Overview of research strategies; principles of research writing; and procedures for initiating, executing and completing a Thesis. Preparation and approval of a Prospectus. (Preliminary planning for the Thesis should begin during the first semester of graduate work; the student should enroll in CJ 698 after he/she has completed 12 semester hours of graduate work.)
CJ 699 Thesis. The completion and defense of the Thesis. (The student must be registered in 699 the semester in which he/she receives his/her master’s degree.)
CJ 730 Seminar in Organization Theory. An examination of organizational thought with application to criminal justice. Analysis of the developmental state of organizational theory, including historical derivations and the implications of various theoretical bases for organizational functioning.
CJ 733 Proseminar in Criminal Justice Issues. The course is designed to give doctoral students a current, thorough, and comprehensive review of the criminal justice system — focusing on how the system functions in theory and practice, current future needs and trends. Students are required to submit extensive critiques and to participate in panel discussions.
CJ 734 Seminar in American Policing. The course includes the philosophy and role of American policing, politics of policing, managing police organizations, police community relations, police operational and administrative practices, police research, police executive development, emergent issues and problems in policing.
CJ 736 Seminar in American Corrections. In-depth examination of the various issues and problems in corrections as they relate to administration and management. A variety of problems is explored, including the philosophical justification for prisons, personnel management, sentencing and its implications, community-based corrections, rehabilitation, judicial intervention, and correctional reform.
CJ 737 Criminological Theory. Overview of the major paradigms focusing on the causes of crime and deviant behavior with special attention given to the social, political and intellectual milieu within which each perspective arose. The course will include a discussion of criminological theories from a philosophy of science perspective focusing upon such issues as theory construction, theoretical integration and the formal evaluation of theory.
CJ 738 Seminar in American Courts. Role and structure of prosecution, public defense, and the courts in the United States jurisprudence with emphasis upon criminal law, and problems in the administration of justice.
CJ 739 Distribution and Correlates of Crime. Survey of research on the scope and nature of criminal activity and factors correlated with criminal behavior. Attention specifically on four general categories: race/ethnicity, gender, age and class. Examines the issues of etiology, victimology, differential police enforcement, sentencing and correctional practices.
CJ 742 Advanced Statistics I. Introduction to multivariate statistical techniques including multiple regression, logistic regression, discriminate analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, canonical correlation, factor analysis, cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling. Four (4) credit hours. (Prerequisite: CJ 685 or equivalent in past years).
CJ 760 Advanced Seminar in Criminological Theory. Extensive studies in areas of classical and/or current criminological theory. A basic knowledge of criminology is assumed. Emphasis is on analytical, critical evaluation, and the advancement of theory.
CJ 770 Specialized Readings. Directed readings designed to give the student flexibility in developing an area of specialization. Prerequisites: Enrollment requires prior permission of the appropriate Dean and the supervising faculty which is given only when necessary to meet specific needs of the student and the College. A student can take only two CJ 770 courses.
CJ 771 Special Topics in Criminal Justice. This course is needed to offer doctoral level students the option of registering for a multi-topic course. The student can take the course under various special topics being offered.
CJ 773 Research Practicum. Supervised training including special applications in information acquisition, storage, retrieval, analysis, and display in criminal justice.
CJ 780 Seminar on the Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System. Advanced seminar concerned with aspects of law which are relevant to and essential for a better understanding of the criminal justice system and its related processes.
CJ 787 Research Design. Advanced study of scientific inquiry with an emphasis on the practical aspects of research design and implementation. Topics include the philosophy of science; the relationship of sampling theory to statistical theory; studies in causation; non-experimental research; data systems and modern data processing techniques. Prerequisites: CJ 592 and consent of instructor.
CJ 789 Advanced Statistics II. Survey of reliability analysis, loglinear, and logit loglinear analysis, nonlinear, weighted and two stage least-squares regression, probit analysis, survival analysis and Cox regression. (Prerequisite: CJ 742).
CJ 793 Computer Based Data Analysis. The course is intended to develop proficiency in data analysis using computerized statistical programs such as SPSS. Statistical theory and research design issues are combined with hands-on computer experience. The course emphasizes data management, multivariate statistics and diagnostics.
CJ 794 Focused Topics in Research. Survey methods and techniques for achieving interpretable results in social research. Includes experimental, quasi-experimental and unobtrusive measures. Prerequisite: CJ 488 or equivalent.
* Subject to action by the Board of Regents, the Texas State University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.