BAAS in Criminal Justice Administration

Police officer smiling while seated in a patrol vehicle, wearing sunglasses and uniform with a visible shoulder patch.

Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) in Criminal Justice Administration prepares students for leadership and management roles across the justice system. The program is uniquely designed for individuals who have completed professional training in law enforcement, CJ related workforce credits, corrections, the military, or court services, allowing that documented experience to count toward academic credit.

Students gain a broad and practical understanding of criminal justice administration, policy development, and organizational leadership. Coursework emphasizes decision-making, ethical practice, personnel management, and the effective allocation of public resources. Through applied projects and case studies, students learn how theory connects to real-world challenges in policing, corrections, and the courts. Graduates are well prepared for advancement within their current agencies or for pursuing new career opportunities across local, state, and federal criminal justice organizations.

Program Benefits

  • Earn Credit for Experience: Receive up to 33 semester credit hours for documented professional training through TCOLE, corrections, or criminal justice related military service.
  • 100% Online and Flexible: Designed for working professionals balancing career, family, and education.
  • Faculty with Real-World Expertise: Learn from seasoned criminal justice leaders, including current and former law enforcement professionals, court officials, and policy experts.
  • Career Advancement Focus: Strengthen your skills in leadership, supervision, policy development, and evidence-based decision-making to move up within your agency.
  • Personalized Support: Benefit from small classes, dedicated advising, and faculty mentorship.
  • Tuition Assistance Options: Qualify for the Texas Peace Officer Exemption and other cost-saving opportunities for public safety professionals.

Courses

Visit the University Catalog

More About the Program

The BAAS in Criminal Justice Administration is specifically structured for working professionals who have completed substantial law enforcement, corrections, criminal justice related military training, community college transfer students with workforce credits, or other documented training closely relating to criminal justice. Students can receive up to 33 semester credit hours for documented professional training, allowing you to shorten your path to degree completion. Courses are taught by experienced faculty with professional and academic backgrounds as judges, law enforcement executives, corrections administrators, and public policy specialists. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application through case studies, policy analysis, and leadership development. The program can be completed fully online, providing flexibility for working adults. Students often balance their coursework with full-time employment, and advising support is tailored to the needs of adult learners. Tarleton’s Criminal Justice team also assists students in navigating the Texas Peace Officer Exemption for full-time law enforcement professionals.

Offered Concentrations

Learning Outcomes

1. Analyze criminal justice policy, practice, and procedure using empirical research and data. 2. Demonstrate knowledge of constitutional and criminal law, ethics, and procedural safeguards. 3. Manage and supervise criminal justice operations, personnel, and resources effectively. 4. Use quantitative and qualitative methods to evaluate program performance and outcomes. 5. Communicate professionally and persuasively to varied stakeholders (public, agencies, courts, communities). 6. Exhibit leadership, critical thinking, and adaptive problem-solving in justice settings.

Career Outcomes

• Police Sergeant, Lieutenant, or Captain — supervisory and administrative roles in local law enforcement. • Correctional Administrator — managing facilities, staff, and rehabilitation programs. • Probation or Parole Supervisor — oversight of community supervision operations. • Court or Judicial Administrator — managing budgets, case flow, and personnel. • Emergency Management Coordinator — developing response strategies for public safety. • Criminal Justice Policy Analyst — evaluating justice programs and reform efforts. • Federal Agency Roles — positions with DHS, DEA, FBI, U.S. Marshals, or similar agencies. • Training & Development Coordinator — developing and implementing officer training programs.

Admissions Requirements

  1. Review the program requirements and confirm your eligibility (prior training, transfer hours, etc.).
  2. Visit the Tarleton undergraduate admissions website and begin the application process.
  3. Submit official transcripts from all colleges attended and any professional/military training documentation for credit review.
  4. Meet with an academic advisor in the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice & Public Administration to plan your remaining coursework and schedule.
  5. Once admitted, register for your first term and begin working toward your degree!

Credit for Prior Learning

  • CJLE, CJSA, or CRIJ. Credits for LGLA may be accepted, too
  • Scholarships: Discover our Career Enrichment Scholarship for a steady, affordable education. The Fixed-Price Degree Scholarship keeps costs constant, covering the difference to ensure your cost will be, at most, $200 per credit hour for five years after you start your degree. Secure your education with confidence.
Learn about Credit for Prior Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

Advising Guide

Criminal Justice Administration
View the Advising Guide (PDF)
Masters of Criminal Justice