Sam Houston State University

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Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0, though related work experience in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields is advantageous. GRE scores are typically required or recommended depending on program specifics.

About This Program

Leadership-focused graduate degree preparing professionals for advancement in justice agencies.

Career Outcomes

36 credit hours (non-thesis option); Criminal Justice Leadership and Management focus; Core courses: Critical Analysis of Justice Administration, Seminar in Organization and Administration, Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis, Computer/Technology Applications, Ethics of Criminal Justice, Community Theory and Administration of Justice, Prescribed electives in police, corrections, criminology, specialized topics

• 1. Criminal Justice Administrator
• 2. Law Enforcement Commander or Supervisor
• 3. Criminal Justice Policy Analyst
• 4. Academic Researcher or University Faculty

What You'll Learn

• Analyze criminological theories and apply research methodologies to criminal justice problems
• Develop and evaluate criminal justice policies and administrative practices
• Assess policing, correctional, and judicial system structures and effectiveness
• Conduct empirical research and communicate findings to professional audiences

Curriculum Highlights

Corrections systems, homeland security, juvenile justice, leadership and management, criminal justice policy, law enforcement management, evidence-based practices, supervisory skills, resource management, policy implementation, institutional administration, organizational theory, research methods, quantitative analysis, ethics

Top Employers

Common employers include federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, correctional departments, courts and judiciary systems, research institutes, and criminal justice consulting firms.

Admissions

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0, though related work experience in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields is advantageous. GRE scores are typically required or recommended depending on program specifics.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Letters of Recommendation: 2–3
• Resume: Required
• Official Transcripts: Required

Academic Requirements

• Degree Required: Master of Science (MS)
• GRE/GMAT: Required or Recommended
• TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)