College of Arts and Sciences
Criminal Justice
College of Arts and Sciences
Criminal Justice
Launch Your Career in Criminal Justice at NMSU
Ready to make a difference in your community and beyond? The Bachelor of Criminal Justice program at New Mexico State University blends theory with hands-on learning to prepare you for impactful careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, forensics, and more. Recognized as one of the nation’s top and longest-standing programs, NMSU’s Department of Criminal Justice offers experiential learning opportunities and an interdisciplinary curriculum that prepares students with career-ready skills to lead in a variety of fields.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total classes: 40
- Total credit hours: 120
- Cost per credit hour: $233.58**
Delivery Format
In person and 100% online with optional synchronous sessions available
Career Pathways
New Mexico State University’s Bachelor of Criminal Justice opens pathways for a variety of careers. Discover the potential to shape a safer, more just world.
- Corrections Worker and Advisor
- Immigration and Borderlands Expert
- Law and Advocacy
- Law Enforcement Forensic Specialist
- Loss Prevention Manager
- Paralegal and Legal Assistant
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Bachelor of Criminal Justice? Fill out our inquiry form.
Understand the System. Influence the Change.
This program is suited for those who are passionate about justice, public safety, and making a positive impact. A degree in criminal justice gives you the knowledge and skills to understand the legal system, protect communities, and pursue meaningful careers in law enforcement, advocacy, and beyond.
What you’ll experience as a criminal justice major:
Dynamic Coursework: Explore topics like criminology, criminal law, policing, corrections, and forensic science. Learn how justice is administered and how policies shape society.
Real-world Learning: Participate in simulations, case studies, and field experiences that bring classroom concepts to life.
Expert Faculty and Mentorship: Learn from experienced professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom. You’ll be supported by mentors who are committed to your success.
Career-focused Skills: Develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication skills that prepare you for careers in law enforcement, legal services, homeland security, and more.
Pathways to Graduate Study: Whether you're aiming for law school or advanced studies in public administration or criminology, this degree lays a strong foundation.
Scholarships Available
Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**
NMSU’s Bachelor of Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary degree that balances foundational coursework in criminal law, criminological theory, ethics, and research methods with flexible electives and university-wide general education requirements. The department offers experiential learning, faculty-led research, and partnerships with agencies such as the New Mexico State Police, allowing students to complete degree credits through academy training and practical exposure to law enforcement careers.
The Bachelor of Criminal Justice program consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all university degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. There is a second language requirement for this program.
Take courses like:
- CJUS 1110G - Introduction to Criminal Justice
- POLS 300 – Political Research Skills
- CJUS 302 – Crime, Justice and Society
- CJUS 1120 - Criminal Law
- PHIL 1145G - Philosophy, Law, and Ethics
- SOCI 3150 - Social Research: Methods
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.