Department of Government and Criminal Justice

Overview

The Department of Government and Criminal Justice equips you for ethical leadership in the political arena and public service, providing powerful understanding of domestic and international politics along with criminal justice theory and practice.

Our immersive learning opportunities, including study abroad trips in Europe and internships at every level of government, give you valuable firsthand experience and perspective to lead the way as agents of change.

The faculty use their educational background, research, work experience, expertise in the fields of government and criminal justice, trips abroad, and professional ties to give our students the best training and instruction. Our alumni have been accepted into the finest law and graduate schools in America and are accepted into law enforcement academies at a high rate.

Government & Criminal Justice Degree Programs

political science students at ACU in a group discussion

We offer three majors and four minors. Our graduates have been accepted at the finest law schools in America and have gone on to accomplish careers in Congress, as leaders in federal and state agencies, district court judges, city managers, political science professors at major universities, legislative assistants in Congress, partners in major law firms and in elected offices nationwide.

Criminal Justice

We offer either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. As a CJ major, you’ll study ethics and professionalism to prepare for a range of careers in law enforcement, government, and more.

Criminal Justice (BS/BA)

Government

While earning a bachelor’s degree in Government, you’ll gain an understanding of local, state, national and international political ideas and processes. You’ll be prepared for a range of careers in politics, government, public service, and law.

Government (BS)

Student Opportunities

ACU Government and Criminal Justice students engage in a variety of research programs, student organizations, volunteer projects, and internships that build their experience in areas of leadership, governance, and public service. Some of these include the following:

Jack Pope Fellows Program, named for the former Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court, which trains and awards scholarships to outstanding ACU students who intend to pursue careers in public service
Study Abroad programs in Europe
Internships at the local, regional, state, and national level of the government spectrum
Opportunities to become involved in the university through special programs, such as internships with the International Rescue Committee, International Justice Mission small group chapel, internships with the local congressional office, and the ACU chapter of Habitat for Humanity.

Government Compass Roadmap Criminal Justice Compass Roadmap