Certificate in Criminological Theory

Certificate

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Criminological Theory at Fort Hays State University is designed to provide a focused understanding of criminological theories and their application in real-world contexts. This certificate is perfect for those interested in pursuing a master's degree following completion of their undergraduate program. It suits professionals or those considering a career transition into criminal justice.

Courses in this certificate cover various criminological theories, research methods, and their practical applications. Students will engage in upper-division criminal justice electives, providing an in-depth look into contemporary issues in criminology and sociology. The flexibility of online and on-campus options allows you to balance your studies with personal and professional responsibilities.

Why pursue a Certificate in Criminological Theory at Fort Hays State University?

Choosing the Certificate in Criminological Theory at Fort Hays State University means gaining access to a certificate emphasizing theoretical understanding and practical application. This certificate provides a deep dive into criminological theories, equipping students with the knowledge to analyze and address crime at a fundamental level. Our comprehensive approach prepares those who complete the certificate to excel in various criminal justice roles, from policy analysis to law enforcement.

Moreover, the certificate's flexibility allows students to balance their studies with professional or personal commitments. With both online and on-campus options, students can choose the mode of learning that best suits their needs. The faculty at FHSU are experienced professionals and researchers in the field, ensuring that the curriculum is up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices in criminology. This supportive and dynamic learning environment fosters academic and professional growth, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their career in criminal justice.

Who is this program for?

The Certificate in Criminological Theory is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of criminological concepts and enhance their professional credentials in criminal justice. This certificate is particularly beneficial for:

Criminal justice professionals seeking advanced theoretical knowledge
Students planning to pursue advanced studies in criminology
Individuals interested in crime analysis and prevention
Professionals in law enforcement, corrections, and related fields
Those aiming to influence criminal justice policy and practice

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Criminological Theory aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of criminological concepts and the ability to apply this knowledge in various professional contexts. Upon completion, students will be able to:

Comprehensive Understanding of Criminological Theories

Students will understand key criminological theories in-depth, including classical, biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives. This knowledge is crucial for analyzing crime patterns and developing effective crime prevention strategies.

Analytical Skills

Develop the ability to critically analyze crime data and understand the factors influencing criminal behavior. Students will learn to use statistical tools and research methodologies to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions. This skill is essential for roles in crime analysis, policy development, and academic research.

Effective Communication

Learn to communicate complex criminological concepts clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, including law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and the public. This includes writing detailed reports, presenting findings, and advocating for evidence-based policies and practices.

Ethical Considerations

Understand the ethical implications of criminological research and practice, ensuring responsible and ethical behavior in professional settings. Students will explore issues such as confidentiality, informed consent, and the ethical treatment of research subjects, preparing them to navigate ethical dilemmas in their careers.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Criminological Theory is designed to prepare students for real-world applications in criminal justice. Through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical assignments, students learn to apply criminological theories to everyday situations. This includes developing crime prevention strategies, analyzing crime data, and understanding the complexities of criminal behavior. The skills acquired in this certificate are directly applicable to roles in corrections, community organizations, or law enforcement.

Students engage in case studies and real-world scenarios, allowing them to test their knowledge in practical settings. This hands-on approach ensures that students who complete the certificate are well-versed in criminological theories but also capable of implementing these theories to solve real-world challenges. Whether working in policy development, crime analysis, or direct criminal justice roles, students are equipped to make significant contributions to the field.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Criminological Theory ensures that students are well-versed in the latest advancements and trends in criminology. The curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the most recent research and developments in the field. This includes emerging topics such as cybercrime, forensic science advancements, and new crime prevention and intervention methodologies. By staying current with these trends, students are better prepared to address modern challenges in criminal justice.

In addition to staying current with the latest trends, the certificate emphasizes innovative crime analysis and prevention approaches. Students learn to use advanced technologies and analytical tools to evaluate crime patterns and develop effective strategies. This forward-thinking approach ensures that students are knowledgeable about current practices and capable of leading and innovating within their respective fields.

Hands-on Activities

Fort Hays State University prioritizes experiential learning in the Certificate in Criminological Theory. Students can engage in various hands-on activities, including research projects, internships, and fieldwork. These activities provide practical experience and allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Additionally, the certificate includes opportunities for students to attend conferences and workshops related to criminology and criminal justice. These events allow students to network with professionals in the field, stay updated on the latest research, and present their findings. This combination of practical experience and professional development activities ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in criminal justice.

What You’ll Learn:

Core criminological theories
Research methodologies
Practical applications in criminal justice
Critical thinking and analytical skills
Policy analysis and development

How You’ll Learn:

Online and on-campus options
Interactive and engaging course materials
Access to expert faculty and industry professionals
Real-world case studies and applications
Opportunities for research and fieldwork

Courses

The Certificate in Criminological Theory core curriculum includes foundational courses covering essential criminology and criminal justice topics. Fundamental courses include CRJ 200 Criminology, which provides an in-depth study of major theories of crime causation and their application to criminal justice practices. Students will also take advanced topics courses that explore specialized areas such as juvenile delinquency, white-collar crime, and comparative criminology. The comprehensive curriculum ensures students are well-prepared for advanced study or professional roles in criminal justice.

SOC 140: Understanding Sociology: Introductory Sociology

This course provides an understanding of basic concepts and theoretical paradigms, including the study of social processes, institutions, and the individual's relationship to social structures, while recognizing the contributions of major figures in the discipline.

CRJ 377: Crime and Society

This course explores the impact of programs and policies on the U.S. criminal justice system, including their development, assessment, and policy analysis, while analyzing criminological evidence and developing responses to system concerns.

SOC 361: Sociological Theory and Literature

This course provides an overview of major classical and contemporary sociological theories, examines and compares their theoretical dimensions, and applies these theories to contemporary social phenomena.

Discover the full Certificate in Criminological Theory course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Students who complete the Certificate in Criminological Theory from Fort Hays State University as part of their major program can pursue various career paths within the criminal justice field. The certificate's comprehensive theoretical and practical training prepares students for roles that require a deep understanding of criminological concepts and the ability to apply this knowledge effectively.

Correctional Officer

In correctional settings, students who complete the certificate will use their knowledge of criminal behavior to manage and rehabilitate offenders. This includes developing programs that address the psychological and social factors contributing to criminal behavior, reduce recidivism, and promote successful reintegration into society.

Probation Officer

Probation officers work with offenders to prevent recidivism and support their reintegration into the community.

Law Enforcement Officer

Law enforcement officers apply their understanding of criminological theories to improve policing practices and community relations. Law enforcement officers with a background in criminology are better equipped to understand the underlying causes of criminal behavior and to develop proactive strategies for crime prevention and community engagement.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,369.52* (on-campus) or $3,087.96* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Students interested in the Certificate in Criminological Theory may also enjoy exploring related programs that complement their educational and career goals. These programs offer additional opportunities to specialize and expand their knowledge in various aspects of criminal justice and related disciplines. Related programs include:

FAQ

How long does it typically take to complete the Certificate in Criminological Theory?

The certificate can be completed in 1-2 semesters, depending on the course load and student's schedule.

Is the Certificate in Criminological Theory available online?

The certificate offers online and on-campus options to accommodate different learning preferences.

What career opportunities are available with this certificate?

Students who complete the certificate as part of their major program can pursue roles such as correctional officer, probation officer, law enforcement officer, policy analyst, and advocate.

Can the credits earned from this Certificate in Criminological Theory be applied toward a degree program?

Yes, credits earned from this certificate may be transferable to relevant degree programs at Fort Hays State University.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Criminal Justice Club:Open to students pursuing a major, minor, or certificate in Criminal Justice, or majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club engages students in career specific opportunities for service, networking, and social activities. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities varying by semester based on student interest.
Delta Tau Omega: As a member of the Criminal Justice Club, students can join the FHSU Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega, which allows members to participate in regional and national conferences. Attendance at these conferences includes competitions in written testing, mock crime scene, physical agility, scholarly research posters, the national research paper and scholarship competitions, and others. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in criminal justice coursework to be active in this organization.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club encourages research on topics that can improve the community. The club collaborates with the FHSU community and local Hays residents, hosts events for student engagement, and participates in community service projects. The mission is to deepen interest in sociology and its role in understanding society and improving the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Students majoring in sociology may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the sociology honorary society. The society promotes scholarship and fellowship for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Membership requirements include junior standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, with at least 12 hours of sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association exists to allow students to grow their leadership capacity through building relationships, developing skills, and challenging themselves to practice leadership. The association promotes opportunities for students to lead through various events and activities.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 32 to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to significant federal financial support, all trainings can be provided at little to no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely.

The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs.

The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities.

The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

Criminological Theory

Certificate

On-Campus
Online

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