BAAS in Criminal Justice
Ready to Begin?
Apply to Sam Houston State University via Apply Texas and select the BAAS in Criminal Justice program.
Once your application is submitted, our team can begin helping you through the next steps.
Request official transcripts from every college or university you have attended. These help us review prior coursework and determine what may apply toward your degree.
If you’re not sure where to start, we can help.
You may bring more than you think.
Depending on your background, prior learning such as workforce training, military education, certifications, or other eligible professional training courses will be reviewed as part of your pathway toward applied credits.
Contact cjpathways@shsu.edu, and our team can guide you.
After we receive your materials, we’ll help you build your individualized plan.
You’ll learn:
• What credits may apply
• What courses remain
• Whether the competency-based pathway is right for you
• How quickly you may be able to finish
• Your next steps
Once admitted, you’ll register for classes and begin with a clear roadmap and support system.
You won’t be navigating this alone.
Why Students Choose This Program
- Built for working adults
- Fully online pathway available
- Flexible competency-based option
- Prior credit may apply
- Career-focused criminal justice curriculum
- Support from real people
- Affordable competency-based tuition: $178 per credit hour
frequently asked questions
Applying
Absolutely. Many students in this program are returning to finish what they started.
Admission requirements vary based on your academic history and transfer coursework. Our team can help you understand the best path forward based on your background.
That’s common. Simply submit transcripts from each institution you attended so we can complete a full review.
Yes. Many students enter with some college credit but no completed degree. We’ll review what you’ve completed and help map your next steps.
Not even close.
This program was built for adult learners balancing real life, work, and family responsibilities.
Transfer Credits & Prior Learning
After you apply and submit transcripts, we’ll evaluate your coursework and explain what applies toward the degree.
Yes. Send us your Joint Service Transcript (JST) and we’ll review it for applied credits.
Yes. Send us the type of training and documentation of completion and we’ll review it for applied credits.
No. Students bring transferable coursework or prior professional learning as applied credit toward the degree, helping them get closer to graduation.
No. Many students enter with some college credit but no completed degree. We’ll review what you’ve completed and help map your next steps.
Program Format
Yes. Flexible online options are available, including the competency-based pathway.
Competency-based education allows students to progress by demonstrating mastery through applied assessments tied to real-world skills.
It’s a great fit for working professionals and adult learners balancing career, family, and other responsibilities.
No. The program is designed with flexibility in mind.
Yes. This program was built with working adults in mind.
Life happens. Our team can help you understand your options and create a plan that supports your long-term success.
That depends on how many credits you bring and your pace through the program.
Many students are closer than they think.
Cost & Financial Aid
Competency-based coursework is $178 per credit hour. For a full breakdown of tuition and fees, view the details below.
Eligible students may qualify for financial aid. Completing the FAFSA is one of the best first steps.
Payment options may be available through the university. Our team can connect you with the right office for current details.
Student Support
Yes. Students receive support from university professionals who can help with planning, progress, and next steps.
You are not alone. Many students return after years away from college, and we’re here to support that transition.
SHSU offers student support resources designed to help learners succeed academically and personally.
Our team is happy to help you understand your options and next steps.
Reach out any time: cjpathways@shsu.edu
That’s okay. Reaching out for information is a great first step, and our team is happy to help you explore whether this program is the right fit for you.
Reach out any time: cjpathways@shsu.edu
Career Outcomes
With a BAAS in Criminal Justice, graduates may pursue advancement in corrections, law enforcement, security, victim services, nonprofit work, government, and other justice-related fields.
For many students, earning a bachelor’s degree can open doors to promotion, advancement, and new career opportunities.
College of Criminal Justice
Phone
8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.