Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Criminal Justice
Ready to Begin?
Apply to Sam Houston State University via Apply Texas or Common App and select the BAAS in Criminal Justice program.
Once your application is submitted, our team can begin helping you through the next steps.
If you took classes at another university or college, you must submit your transcripts from the institution after completing your ApplyTexas application. They can be submitted electronically (003606) or mailed to:
Tell us about your educational and training background.
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 will learn:
• Which credits may apply
• Which courses remain to complete your degree
• Whether competency-based courses are a good fit for you
• An estimated timeline for completion
• Your next steps
Once admitted, you’ll register for classes and begin with a clear roadmap and support system.
We’ll work with you from start to finish.
Why Students Choose This Program
Whether you’re working full time, transferring credits, or transitioning from military service, this program is built to meet you where you are. Flexible scheduling, online classes, and supportive pathways make degree completion more achievable.
Complete coursework on your schedule during days, nights, or weekends. There are no set login times, so your education fits your life, not the other way around.
Unlike a traditional semester-based program where everyone moves at the same speed regardless of what they already know, our competency-based courses let you move through material at your own pace. If you demonstrate mastery quickly, you can progress sooner and keep moving toward your degree.
Your previous learning and training may help you move closer to degree completion. College coursework, military training, professional certifications, and prior learning assessments may all count toward your degree, helping you build on what you’ve already achieved.
At $178 per credit hour for competency-based courses, this program offers an affordable path to earning your degree. If eligible prior credits apply, you may need fewer hours to graduate - helping you save both time and money.
frequently asked questions
Applying
The BAAS in Criminal Justice program reviews applications on a rolling basis throughout the year, with multiple start opportunities available throughout the year. We encourage you to apply when you’re ready. Once your application is received, our team will guide you through next steps and help you identify the best start date for your first course.
Absolutely. Many students in this program are returning after time away to finish what they started. We’ll work with you to build a plan based on your background.
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 you 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 will evaluate your coursework, show you what applies toward the degree, and outline what remains so you have a clear path to completion.
Yes. Send your Joint Service Transcript (JST) to cjpathways@shsu.edu, and we will evaluate your military training for applicable credit and show you how it may fit into your degree plan.
Yes. Send us documentation of training and education completed through your employment, such as certificates, transcripts, or records of completion to cjpathways@shsu.edu. We will review it to determine what may apply toward your degree.
Many students start with some college credit but no completed degree. We’ll review what you’ve completed and map your next steps.
Program Format
Yes. Flexible online options are available, including the competency-based pathway.
No. The program is designed with flexibility in mind. You can log in and complete your work on your own schedule.
Yes. This program was built with working adults in mind. Many students successfully balance full-time work while making steady progress toward their degree.
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 how quickly you move through the program. After we review your coursework, training, certifications, and/or military education, you’ll have a clear understanding of what remains and how close you are to finishing. Many students are closer than they think.
Competency-based education (CBE) allows you to progress by demonstrating mastery of clearly defined skills through real-world, applied work. Instead of following a traditional course structure, you move forward at your own pace. Designed for working professionals, military-affiliated students, transfer learners, and others seeking a flexible path to completion, it is fully online, flexible, and affordable. It’s a strong fit for students balancing career, family, and other responsibilities.
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.
Student Support
Have questions? Our team can help you understand your options and what to do next at any stage.
Reach out anytime: cjpathways@shsu.edu
Yes. You will have access to university support services, along with a dedicated advisor within the College of Criminal Justice who will help you plan, track your progress, and navigate next steps. Want to learn more? Contact us at cjpathways@shsu.edu.
SHSU offers student support resources designed to help learners succeed academically and personally.
You are not alone. Many students return after years away from college, and we’re here to support that transition.
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.