- Type
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Campus, Online
- School
- Michael Sattler School of Public Service
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Truett McConnell University equips you with a broad understanding of human behavior within criminal, restorative, and transformative justice systems—all from a Christian worldview. Throughout your studies, you’ll think holistically about the criminal justice system as you work toward building safer communities for all. You’ll also hone leadership and managerial skills through on-field training with public safety branches.
Why Study Criminal Justice at TMU?
Blend your faith with your desire to make our world a better place. With TMU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, you’ll gain the tools and techniques to succeed in the field.
Here are a few reasons to consider studying criminal justice at TMU:
- You’ll have the option to take on-campus or online courses in criminal justice if you’re pursuing our concentrations in General/Independent, Law Enforcement, or Leadership and Executive Management. Our Forensic Science and Pre-Law concentrations are only available on campus.
- We have a Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council-approved full service police academy, allowing us to offer training for those called to enter the field of law enforcement and those already working in the field. You will receive guidance and instruction from individuals with advanced academic degrees, specialized training, extensive experience, and passion for sharing the Gospel and discipling other believers.
- As part of our criminal justice degree requirements, you’ll take an internship that aligns with your career goals. Throughout your studies, you’ll also gain hands-on expertise in defensive tactics, firearms training, and more.
- With more than 500 years of combined experience in public safety, our faculty members are experts in their fields. They’ve all held top leadership positions with various agencies in Georgia and beyond and are adept researchers in topics such as the impact of physical training on mental health and the influence of faith and ethics in law enforcement.
- Study in a program that is accessible and affordable. All incoming students receive financial aid, and each year, we provide more than $12 million in scholarships and grants to our students.

Career Outcomes
- Fish and game wardens
- Forensic science technicians
- Fraud investigators
- Immigration and customs enforcement agents
- Police officers
- Probation officers
- Secret Service agents
- State troopers
- Crime Scene Investigators
Concentrations
Our on-campus and online classes for criminal justice degree students cover broad-based topics such as corrections, law, and policing. You can also align your studies with your specific interests and career goals with specialized training in one of five concentrations.
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Our General/Independent concentration allows you to take on-campus or online courses in criminal justice and build a program that suits your specific needs. You’ll also take three upper-level electives, allowing you to tailor your coursework to your interests.
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The concentration in Law Enforcement provides you with the knowledge and experience to enter the law enforcement field at the local, state, or federal level. Thanks to having a Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council-approved full-service police academy, on-campus students can obtain their Basic Law Enforcement Mandate Certification (awarded by GA POST) while also earning their Bachelor’s degree. Through on-campus and online classes for criminal justice degree students, you’ll gain an in-depth look into conducting investigations, collecting evidence, court proceedings, and writing reports.
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The concentration in Pre-Law prepares you for law school and introduces you to topics such as business law, civil rights and civil liberties, family law, international criminal law and human rights, and juvenile justice. Our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice will provide you with the knowledge and know-how to set you up for success.
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Students can obtain a masters in Public Administration, Accountancy, or Business Administration.
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The Criminal Justice minor introduces you to key concepts in law enforcement, leadership and christianity in Criminal Justice. It is ideal for students in any major who want to develop an understanding of Criminal Justice and strengthen their ability to apply it in their chosen career.
Minor in Criminal Justice Checklist
*Students cannot minor in a program they are majoring in.
Program Faculty
TMU's School of Public Service is filled with many talented, passionate, and excellent professors who are passionate about their students and helping them fulfill their calling.

Dr. J. Marie Griffin-Taylor, MPA/PH.D., CJ/ Chief of Police (RET.)
Chair, School of Public Service;Associate Professor, Criminal Justice

Jeff Branyon
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice; Director of POST Academy

Robert Ingram
Lecturer, Criminal Justice

Fred Stephens
Visiting Professor, Criminal Justice

