Program Overview
The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice at Texas State University equips students with advanced research skills in criminology. The program emphasizes theoretical expertise and methodological rigor, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and other professional settings requiring advanced research abilities. Students benefit from a renowned faculty with expertise in various areas of criminal justice and criminology. Graduates have pursued successful careers in academia, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Criminal Justice program at Texas State University is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct high-quality scholarly research in their chosen area of study. The program emphasizes theoretical expertise and methodological rigor, enabling students to explore critical social problems related to crime and criminal justice.
Objectives:
- Develop the ability to independently consume and produce empirical research on crime and criminal justice.
- Gain a deep understanding of criminological theory and research methods.
- Acquire the skills to design, conduct, analyze, and interpret research studies.
- Prepare for careers in academia, research, or other professional settings that require advanced research skills.
Program Description:
The program coursework is tailored to each student's individual career and academic goals, with a mix of substantive and methodological courses. Required courses include:
- Advanced Criminological Theory
- Applied Statistics & Quantitative Data Analysis
- Linear Regression for Criminal Justice Research
- Quantitative Research Methods Students complete a minimum of 39 hours of coursework and 12 hours of dissertation research.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program faculty and staff provide guidance and support to students in developing their degree plans. Faculty members are actively involved in research and bring their expertise into the classroom.
Faculty:
The program boasts a large and internationally-known faculty with expertise in various areas of criminal justice and criminology, including:
- Communities and crime
- Corrections and military veterans
- Criminal and juvenile courts
- Criminological theory
- Gangs
- Geospatial data analysis
- Immigration
- Offender decision-making
- Police-community relations
- Quantitative research methods
- Race, ethnicity, and social class
- School-to-prison pipeline
- Sex crimes
- Wrongful convictions
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the Ph.D. in Criminal Justice program pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Assistant professor
- Criminal justice consultant
- Director of research
- Postdoctoral research associate
- Research analyst
Career Outcomes:
Since 2009, more than 40 students have received their doctorates through the School of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Many graduates have become leaders in criminal justice and criminology research, holding positions in academia, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
