If you’re looking to launch a new career in law enforcement or corrections, or seeking more responsibilities and better pay in your current job, Texas criminal justice schools offer programs that provide policy knowledge and social science skills needed to achieve your goals. This guide explores the criminal justice degree options available in Texas, highlights some of this year’s top-ranked schools, and examines convenient online criminal justice degree programs in the state. Additionally, it examines job outlook and earnings trends for criminal justice graduates and lists key student resources. Read on to discover the best Texas criminal justice schools that meet your needs.
Best Criminal Justice Schools in Texas for 2023
Researching potential degree programs can be overwhelming, so we have compiled a list of some of the best criminal justice schools in Texas to help you get started. These schools offer quality, accredited programming with multiple pathways to completion, setting themselves apart from others. They provide the curriculum, flexibility, and student support necessary to jumpstart a career as a court official, law enforcement officer, or security specialist. Check out our ranking below to find out who stands out in 2023.
1
Texas Christian University
Based in Fort Worth, Texas Christian University (TCU) confers graduate and undergraduate degrees in the arts and sciences. Its Department of Criminal Justice and AddRan College of Liberal Arts extend several degree options for students interested in careers in corrections, law enforcement, and social science. Its campus-based undergraduate program requires 124 credits and includes core instruction in criminal justice along with electives in social work, sustainability, victimology, and cyberspace policing. All students complete an applied internship before graduation and many study abroad in London, Scandinavia, and Japan.
TCU delivers its master’s program in criminal justice entirely online except for one two-day orientation session. Most students complete the program in just two years, progressing through study using a cohort model. Full-time faculty and experienced professionals facilitate all learning experiences. TCU also extends scholarship opportunities and career resources to its students, making it one of the best criminal justice schools in Texas.
Delivery:
- Online
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
- Minor in Criminal Justice
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science
Specialization Options:
- General Criminal Justice
- Leadership, Executive and Administrative Development
2
Texas State University
A public research institution established in 1899, Texas State University administers criminal justice programming at every degree level from its main campus in San Marcos. These comprehensive, campus-based offerings develop hard skills in social science research methods, criminal court procedures, and corrections. Housed within Texas State’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, each course of study qualifies students for work in asset protection, policing, research, rehabilitation counseling, and other fields.
The school’s undergraduate program uses a traditional 4-year timeline and covers topics like juvenile justice, crime theory, and contemporary issues in law enforcement. Students can also complete optional internship experiences depending on their professional interests. At the graduate level, Texas State offers both a master’s degree and a doctorate. Learners in the master’s program complete 30-36 credits and choose from thesis or non-thesis tracks in research and executive administration. The doctoral program requires 51 credits and concludes with an original dissertation project that students defend before a faculty panel.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science
- Doctor of Philosophy
Specialization Options:
- Research Concentration
- Executive Concentration
- Generalist Concentration
3
Texas Woman’s University
Texas Woman’s University (TWU) has advanced knowledge and learning in the liberal arts for over a century. Initially a state-supported women’s college, TWU now operates a co-educational campus in Denton and offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The 120-credit program uses an interdisciplinary approach to develop knowledge in modern legal systems, social science research, and practices in corrections and law enforcement. The curriculum includes core courses in sociology and constitutional law and electives in comparative justice, crime investigation, and cultural anthropology.
TWU boasts flexibility in delivery, giving students the option to choose hybrid, in-person, or online learning formats. Online courses use intuitive and interactive tools for an enhanced overall experience. The school welcomes new and transfer applicants and administers a plan of study that moves from general education requirements through core major instruction and culminates in capstone components. In most cases, this means internship placements at regional law offices, government agencies, and law enforcement departments. Graduates of TWU’s program often find work as court clerks, investigators, and arbitrators.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Hybrid
- Online
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
Specialization Options:
- Generalist Track
Top Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in Texas
Unlike many other disciplines, you can earn an online criminal justice degree in Texas without ever traveling to campus. Online criminal justice degree programs typically deliver course content using synchronous tools on a regular, structured schedule or through asynchronous platforms that make material available at students’ convenience.
If you’re unsure you want to completely forgo face-to-face contact, schools like Sam Houston State University (SHSU) offer hybrid options that combine online coursework with in-person learning. Learn more about SHSU and other schools with these options below and be sure to check out our guide to online criminal justice degrees` for more information.
1
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University’s College of Criminal Justice offers a range of online programs designed for busy students and working professionals. Undergraduate study results in either a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA), depending on interest and professional aim. Both programs require 120 credits that most students easily complete in four years or less. Popular courses include victimology and forensic science, white-collar crime, terrorism, and cybercrime.
SHSU also administers an online certificate and an online Master of Science in Criminal Justice. Students can follow a more generalist track, or they can focus study on leadership and management. Unlike the undergraduate programs, SHSU’s master’s degree entails applied instruction in program evaluation and advanced work in social science research methods.
All programs come in online or hybrid formats regardless of degree level. SHSU does not distinguish between online or in-person degrees and uses the same faculty lineup for both modalities.
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science
Program Delivery:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
- Hybrid
Specializations/Concentrations Offered:
- General Criminal Justice
- Criminal Justice Leadership and Management
2
University of North Texas
A public research institution, the University of North Texas (UNT) manages 14 different schools and departments, including a College of Health and Public Service responsible for criminal justice programming. Those programs include graduate and undergraduate degrees, each of which is available entirely online for increased flexibility and convenience. Undergraduate students typically finish within 8 semesters, receiving quality instruction in criminal law, policing systems, psychology, and U.S governance. The master’s degree includes specializations in criminology and policy and concludes with a comprehensive exam assessing gained skills and knowledge.
UNT uses a combination of synchronous and asynchronous tools to deliver criminal justice course content. Students enjoy a blend between self-paced study accessible anytime, anywhere and structured, collaborative experiences designed to solve real-world problems in criminology. Other courses include probation and parole, criminal justice ethics, and American governance. UNT stands out among other Texas criminal justice schools by extending field-specific scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
Delivery:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Fully Online
- On-Campus
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science
Specialization Options:
- General Criminal Justice
- Justice Policy and Administration
3
Lamar University
An affiliate within the Texas State University System, Lamar University offers two online degrees in criminal justice. The Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science programs at Lamar adopt a generalist approach to the discipline, and the school also extends a fully accredited MBA in criminal justice for students interested in careers where business and management intersect with security and corrections. The curriculum for each program focuses on professional preparation for roles in law enforcement and public policy. Students take courses in criminal behavior, forensic science, and program evaluation among other subjects. The graduate program concludes with a capstone requirement designed to integrate technical knowledge in the social sciences with practical skills.
Lamar uses asynchronous tools to deliver all course content, so students can access material and complete assignments on their own schedules. Courses come in convenient 8-week sessions to facilitate more accelerated and intensive learning. Most master’s students complete their degrees in just 18 months. The school also boasts affordable tuition rates payable on a course-by-course basis.
Delivery:
- Part-Time
- Full-Time
- Online
- On-Campus
Undergraduate Programs:
- Bachelor of Science
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Science
- Master of Business Administration in Criminal Justice
Specialization Options:
- General Criminal Justice
Types of Criminal Justice Degrees in Texas You Can Earn
The best criminal justice schools in Texas offer options that cater to individuals who are familiar with the field as well as those who are just starting out. These options use a variety of starting points designed to achieve different outcomes, building upon previous experience. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or pursue a new one, there is a pathway for you. Discover more about these options and find out which one meets your needs below.
Undergraduate Criminal Justice Degrees in Texas
Associate Degrees in Criminal Justice
Associate degrees in criminal justice are typically offered by community or junior colleges and take around 2 years to complete. These programs offer basic training in criminal justice and prepare students for entry-level positions in corrections and law enforcement. If you’re interested in advancing your career but not ready to make a 4-year commitment, an associate degree is an excellent option. It provides a solid social science foundation to build upon and makes it easy to transfer to a bachelor’s program.
Examples of Accredited Texas Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
Midland College: Associate of Science – Criminal Justice
- City: Midland
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Southwest Texas Junior College: Criminal Justice A.A.S.
- City: Uvalde
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Western Texas College: Criminal Justice Associate of Applied Science
- City: Snyder
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Central Texas College: Criminal Justice (AAS)
- City: Killeen
- Delivery: Online and On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Temple College: Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
- City: Temple; Hutto; Taylor
- Delivery: Online and On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
A Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is one of the most prominent pathways and provides comprehensive training in the discipline. Most Texas criminal justice schools offer this degree, either as a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science, to prepare students for work in a range of contexts. These programs build upon previous work, in some cases, and develop new competencies in criminal justice research, court procedures, and forensics.
Examples of Accredited Texas Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
Texas Wesleyan University: Criminal Justice, B.S.
- City: Fort Worth
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Texas A&M University, San Antonio: Criminology and Criminal Justice Program
- City: San Antonio
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Texas College: Criminal Justice Degree
- City: Tyler
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
The University of Texas, Permian Basin: BS in Criminal Justice
- City: Odessa
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
East Texas Baptist University: Criminal Justice (B.A.S.)
- City: Marshall
- Delivery: Online and On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Graduate Criminal Justice Degrees in Texas
Master’s Degrees in Criminal Justice
A graduate degree in criminal justice prepares individuals for higher-paying and more responsible roles in the field. These programs advance knowledge gained at the undergraduate level and deepen skills in criminology and social science. The best criminal justice schools in Texas also provide opportunities to specialize in areas such as criminal justice administration, public policy, or leadership and management. Graduate programs typically conclude in 2-3 years with a capstone component, usually a thesis, internship, or fieldwork experience.
Examples of Accredited Texas Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
The University of Texas at Tyler: Criminal Justice MS Degree – Online
- City: Tyler
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Texas A&M International University: Master of Science in Criminal Justice Online
- City: Laredo
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Midwestern State University: Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
- City: Wichita Falls; Flower Mound
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
The University of Houston Downtown: Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- City: Houston
- Delivery: Online and On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
University of North Texas at Dallas: MS in Criminal Justice
- City: Dallas
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Criminal Justice PhD Programs
For professionals interested in working at the highest levels of practice, a doctorate in criminal justice is an option. Degree-holders typically work in academic or research-oriented roles in areas such as forensic investigation, policy administration, and postsecondary education. Candidates usually graduate within 5 years, but timelines can vary widely since students must complete and defend original dissertation projects in addition to core coursework in topics such as victimology and crime mapping.
Examples of Accredited Texas Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
Texas State University: Doctoral Program in Criminal Justice
- City: San Marcos
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
The University of Texas at Dallas: Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology
- City: Dallas
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Sam Houston State University: Criminal Justice Doctorate of Philosophy
- City: Huntsville
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Tarleton State University: Ph.D. in Criminal Justice
- City: Stephenville
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Texas Southern University: Administration of Justice (Ph.D.)
- City: Houston
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Criminal Justice Graduate Certificates
Graduate certificates in criminal justice give working professionals with some academic experience the chance to gain new skills without committing to an entire degree program. This means you can maintain your current professional position and advance your career at the same time. Many certificate programs only take a year to complete and most focus on a single skill or topics like correctional practice, leadership and management, or criminal investigation.
Examples of Accredited Texas Colleges with this Criminal Justice Degree
Blinn College District: Correction Certificate
- City: Brenham
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Western Texas College: Criminal Justice Certificate
- City: Snyder
- Delivery: On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
University of Houston-Downtown: Applied Correctional Practice Graduate Certificate
- City: Houston
- Delivery: Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Sam Houston State University: Criminal Justice Leadership and Management Certificate
- City: Huntsville
- Delivery: Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Central Texas College: Criminal Justice Studies Certificate
- City: Killeen
- Delivery: Online and On-Campus
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Financial Aid Opportunities for Criminal Justice Students in Texas
Although the best criminal justice schools in Texas offer affordable tuition rates, costs for any degree program can still be significant. Financial aid can help alleviate some of the financial burden. Grants and scholarship awards are excellent ways to finance your education because they do not need to be repaid and are sometimes renewable.
Many Texas criminal justice schoolsextend financial aid opportunities to new and returning students, especially at the graduate level. Such awards are typically need- or merit-based and often limited to enrolled students, unlike nationwide opportunities. Organizations like the Texas Jail Association and the Texas Corrections Association also extend scholarships to criminal justice students. For more information on financial aid opportunities, see our scholarship listing and our main financial aid guide.
Employment and Earnings Outlook for Criminal Justice Grads in Texas
The job market for graduates of Texas criminal justice schoolsis encouraging. The nationwide growth rate for all jobs is currently 4%, which means graduates going into policing, education, and criminal investigation see more opportunity – more than double in some cases – than professionals in other sectors.
Those same occupations also benefit from higher overall salary prospects. The annual mean wage throughout Texas is currently $52,400, so detectives, postsecondary teachers, and police officers can potentially earn more than other professions through at least 2028.
The data below details the conditions for key roles in corrections, law enforcement, and education, including earning potential and growth rates based on the latest projections. In each case, jobs remain in demand, especially when compared to other industries.
| Job Growth (2018-2028) | Avg. Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2020) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officers | 9% | 5,040 | $65,540 |
| Probation Officers | 2.4% | 510 | $48,350 |
| Detectives and Criminal Investigators | 7.4% | 1,300 | $81,920 |
| Criminal Justice Teachers, Postsecondary | 16.2% | 120 | $55,770 |
| Correctional Officers | 2.6% | 3,960 | $44,230 |
Sources: Projections Central; Bureau of Labor Statistics
Resources for Criminal Justice Professionals and Students in Texas
Correctional Management Institute of Texas
This Huntsville-based institute is affiliated with Sam Houston State University and works to enhance corrections by conducting field research. It also sponsors training and continuing education opportunities in criminal justice and law enforcement.
This association supports local criminal justice and corrections professionals through professional development opportunities and mentorship. It offers scholarships to qualified criminal justice students, recognizes outstanding work in the field, and updates its members with new job ads.
Texas Criminal Justice Coalition
This organization partners with local sponsors and criminal justice professionals to build safer communities and reform correctional practices. It maintains an extensive resource center, composes white papers, and hosts regional events.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
This state agency oversees criminal justice efforts throughout Texas and manages several correctional facilities. It keeps an active job board for new openings, publicizes relevant news, and generates an active directory of facilities and initiatives.
Established in 1986, the Texas Jail Association represents correction officers employed in local jails across the Lone Star State. It hosts industry conferences, extends scholarships and awards, and develops policy positions on key issues.