About the Program
An Ethical Way to Combat Crime
The Criminology, Law & Society program at the University of St. Thomas is one of just 5 of its kind in the nation, and the only one in Texas. We focus on the challenges of crime in a free society, giving an ethical insight to change the world. You can choose from one of three pathways: Human Trafficking, Terrorism-Homeland Security and Social Justice. Through the course program at UST, students will become intimately familiar with the University’s charisms of Goodness, Discipline, Knowledge, and Community-empowering them to better aid the marginalized who are victims of crime.
Guide and Serve Others
Real Experience for the Real World
In our program, you will have the opportunity to experience real events and work environments as you seek to gain an understanding of the career you want in the Criminal Justice system. As a part of our courses, you will visit trial at District Courts, walk through the Federal Prison in Beaumont, Texas, and travel to Washington D.C. As you gain real-world experience, you will gain a true understanding of the variety of job opportunities in the Criminal Justice system. Towards the end of your program, you will be paired with an internship – specifically tailored to your interests and at the discretion of the program director.
Undergraduates will graduate with the option to apply to our Masters degree program, enter the work force, or apply to law school. See some of the programs we’ve partnered with before below.
Study how to enforce the law
Criminology, Law & Society Leadership
Dr. Michael Kane
The UST Criminology, Law & Society department operates under the leadership of Dr. Michael Kane. Dedicated to teaching students all the different ways they can serve their community in the Criminal Justice system by helping victims of crime, the Criminology, Law & Society program at UST helps students go on to meaningful careers.
Get Your Degree Faster
Credit By Exam
If you’re already a licensed police officer in Texas with at least 2 years of full-time commissioned experience, you may be eligible to take Criminology subject matter examinations to receive up to 18 credit hours towards a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Law & Society degree.
Combined with 36 hours of credit taken in residence at UST, this unique program offers a faster, more affordable way to get your Criminology degree than the traditional route.
Fees for Credit by Examination courses are $100 per exam.