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Criminal Justice

About the Criminal Justice Department

Do you have a strong sense of justice and a passion for helping others? The Criminal Justice Department at Missouri Southern State University offers flexible programs on campus, online, and hybrid to help you turn that passion into a career.

Whether you have a busy schedule or are a working professional, our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and Associate of Science in Law Enforcement degrees can be completed fully online for accessibility. Experienced criminal justice professionals may also earn college credit for prior work experience through a portfolio assessment.

With small class sizes, you’ll receive individual academic attention from our diversely experienced faculty. Learn firsthand from law enforcement officers, juvenile officers, assistant prosecutors, legal advisers, criminal investigators, and child abuse investigators and gain the knowledge and skills needed for a rewarding career in the criminal justice field.

Your Future Career

After earning your Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration at MSSU, you’ll be prepared for a rewarding career in the criminal justice field. Graduates work in a variety of areas, including:

  • Law Enforcement – policing, investigations, and public safety roles
  • Juvenile Justice – supporting and rehabilitating youth in the justice system
  • Corrections – managing and supervising correctional facilities and programs
  • Probation and Parole – monitoring and supporting individuals in community supervision
  • Private or Industrial Security – protecting organizations, assets, and personnel
Criminal Justice

Degree Options

Explore our criminal justice programs, including majors and minors designed to prepare you for careers in law enforcement, the legal system, and rehabilitation.

Degree Options

mssu criminal justice students

Going Beyond the Textbooks

Our Criminal Justice program offers immersive, hands-on opportunities that put your knowledge into action — from simulations to field experience.

Watch the video to see our students in action as they learn blood spatter analysis — a key investigative technique used in real-world crime scenes.


Criminal Justice

Programs & Facilities

The Criminal Justice Department at Missouri Southern State University offers degrees in Criminal Justice Administration, Juvenile Justice, and Law Enforcement, plus training and continuing education for professionals across Missouri and the Four State area.

The Law Enforcement Academy provides 600 hours of certified training to prepare students for Missouri peace officer licensure, while continuing education helps officers meet Missouri P.O.S.T. requirements.

Our facilities include firearms ranges, simulation systems, patrol cars, a driving simulator, a mobile crime scene vehicle, and a simulated apartment for hands-on law enforcement and crime scene training.

Hear From Our Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact the Department

Dr. Timothy Wilson

Chair, Department of Justice Studies 
Phone: 417-625-9302
Email: justicestudiesdepartment@mssu.edu