University of Texas

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core criminal justice theory with applied coursework in corrections and offender rehabilitation. Early modules typically cover introductions to criminology, the structure of the criminal justice system, criminal law and ethics. Core subjects focus on corrections policy and practice, including custodial management, community corrections, probation and parole, offender assessment, and restorative justice approaches.

• Foundations of Criminology – theories of crime, offender typologies and social causes of criminal behaviour.
• Criminal Law and Procedure – basic elements of criminal responsibility, evidence, and court processes.
• Corrections and Penology – history and purpose of punishment, prison administration, and alternatives to incarceration.
• Community Corrections – probation, parole, re-entry services and supervision strategies.
• Assessment and Intervention – risk/needs assessment tools, case management and rehabilitative programming.
• Research Methods and Statistics – empirical research design, data analysis and evaluation methods used in criminal justice settings.
• Ethics, Policy and Law – professional ethics, civil rights considerations and policy analysis.
• Practicum / Internship – supervised placement in prisons, probation services, courts or community agencies to gain workplace experience.
• Capstone Project – a research or applied project that integrates academic learning with practical problems in corrections.

Entry requirements

Typical entry expects a completed secondary education or equivalent. Applicants are assessed on academic performance, personal statement and any relevant experience. Where standardised tests are used by the campus, scores may form part of the application; many campuses also accept applicants without test scores or consider them optional.

Suggested preparation includes strong English-language skills, and coursework in social studies, psychology or sociology. Mature and transfer applicants are considered on the basis of prior college credits or relevant professional experience. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency in line with the university's requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in the criminal justice and public service sectors. Common entry-level jobs include corrections officer, probation or parole officer, case manager, youth justice worker and community supervision roles. The degree also opens pathways into policing, victim advocacy, court administration, policy analysis, and roles in non-profit organisations focusing on rehabilitation and re-entry.

Many students progress to specialist roles through further training or postgraduate study in criminology, social work, public administration or law. The programme’s practicum and internship components support employability by providing direct experience and professional contacts within local and state agencies.

Why study at University of Texas

The University of Texas offers access to instructors with applied experience in criminal justice and active research into corrections, rehabilitation and justice policy. Students benefit from partnerships with state and local justice agencies that support internships, practicum placements and collaborative research projects.

Facilities and support services include career guidance, placement assistance, and opportunities to engage with community initiatives and volunteer programmes focused on re-entry and victim support. The university’s large alumni network and location within a major state system provide pathways to professional networks across public safety, policy and social services.