Texas State University, San Marcos, offers a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and requires applicants to have a master's degree and strong scores on the Graduate Record Exam. The program is 53 credits and required courses include philosophy of law, criminological theory, criminal justice ethics, and race and ethnicity. Elective opportunities are available in law and public policy, law and behavioral science, organizational theory and criminal justice systems. Students also must complete a dissertation in order to graduate.
Students enrolled at Prairie View A&M University have an opportunity to pursue a doctorate in juvenile justice. Students in the program focus on topics involving the prevention of juvenile crime and improvement within the juvenile justice system. Graduates in the program have a strong overall understanding of the criminal justice system and are considered experts within the juvenile justice system. Research opportunities are also available within the program.
Sam Houston State University offers a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice with a variety of opportunities for students to prepare for careers in the field. Students can participate in research, teaching fellowships and study abroad programs. Research on campus takes place at the Correctional Management Institute of Texas, Texas Regional Center for Policing Innovation, Institute for Legal Studies, Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, Crime Victims Institute and Police Research Center.
The Department of Administration of Justice at Texas Southern University offers a Ph.D. program in administrative justice that requires students to complete 54 credits. In addition to academic courses, students are required to complete seminars, comprehensive examinations and a dissertation. The courses focus on topics involving criminological theory, terrorism, homeland security and management, private security, justice policy, and law and administration in justice. Students also must complete and defend a dissertation in front of faculty members.