Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice
With a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice or a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Fort Hays State University – offered on-campus and online – you'll not only learn theory about the nature of crime and the agencies and processes that work against it, but you'll also practice that theory through real-world, hands-on learning.
Graduates from our program stand out in the fields of criminal justice research, law enforcement, courts, corrections, and private enterprise. We have programs for every level of interest and experience, from new college students to mid-career professionals looking to advance their career.
Many recent graduates work for federal agencies, while others have joined police departments, correctional agencies, non-profit agencies, and other career fields across Kansas and throughout the country. These careers include, but are not limited to:
- research analysts
- law enforcement officers
- sheriffs
- detectives
- probation officers
- court administrators
- corrections officers
- juvenile case workers
- private security
| Course No. | Course Name | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Requirements - 24 credit hours | ||
| CRJ 100 | Workshop in Criminal Justice: Careers in Criminal Justice | 1 |
| CRJ 101 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRJ 200 | Criminology | 3 |
| CRJ 215 | Technical & Report Writing in Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRJ 245 | Ethics in Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRJ 307 | Administration of Justice Systems | 3 |
| CRJ 310 | Comparative Justice Systems | 3 |
| CRJ 399 | Criminal Justice Research | 3 |
| CRJ 499 | Capstone Seminar: Critical Issues in Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Major Electives – 21 credit hours (must have at least one course from each subcategory) | ||
| Policing | ||
| CRJ 302 | Digital and Cybercrime | 3 |
| CRJ 315 | Security Administration | 3 |
| CRJ 320 | Introduction to Law Enforcement | 3 |
| CRJ 325 | Law Enforcement in the Community | 3 |
| CRJ 355 | Criminal Investigations | 3 |
| CRJ 370 | Terrorism | 3 |
| CRJ 395 | Crime Analysis | 3 |
| Offenders & Victims | ||
| CRJ 305 | Corporate Crime and Deviance | 3 |
| CRJ 327 | Juvenile Justice Systems | 3 |
| CRJ 331 | Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 |
| CRJ 335 | Civil Liability | 3 |
| CRJ 341 | Introduction to Corrections | 3 |
| CRJ 345 | Communication Corrections | 3 |
| CRJ 365 | Woman and Crime | 3 |
| CRJ 367 | Victim Advocacy | 3 |
| CRJ 374 | Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System | 3 |
| CRJ 385 | Victimology | 3 |
| Criminology | ||
| CRJ 330 | Culture and Crime | 3 |
| CRJ 340 | Gender, Race & Inequality in Criminal Justice | 5 |
| CRJ 350 | Drugs and Society | 3 |
| CRJ 375 | Serial Predators | 3 |
| CRJ 390 | Sex Crimes | 3 |
| Other Electives | ||
| CRJ 100 | Workshop in Criminal Justice | 1-3 |
| CRJ 380 | Topics in Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRJ 600 | Internship | 3 |
| CRJ 670 | Internship | 3 |
| CRJ 675 | Seminar in Criminal Justice: Variable Topics | 3 |
FHSU offers many related programs to a B.S. in Criminal Justice or B.A. in Criminal Justice, such as:
- Minor in Criminal Justice
- Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Marketing
- Master of Professional Studies (MPS) in Criminal Justice
Tuition: 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 $2,817.00* (on-campus) or $3,641.40* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($187.80/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($242.76/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change with annual approval by the Kansas Board of Regents.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our Criminal Justice programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Information about the Department 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.
- Cert
- Minor
- Bachelors
- Masters
- On-Campus
- Online
