Howard Payne University has announced the unveiling of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree program to be offered beginning in October 2016. Coursework, offered completely online, is designed to provide preparation for those who are interested in furthering their career goals in a field of criminal justice.
The degree program’s curriculum is designed to provide an appropriate balance of theory with practical application. Instruction will be centered in a Christian servant-leadership model focusing on the balance of justice and restoration. Two tracks will be offered in which the student will choose either nine hours of law enforcement elective courses or nine hours of corrections elective courses. The 36-credit-hour, non-thesis degree can be earned in six semesters including summer sessions.
“After a successful 12-year history with our undergraduate criminal justice program at Howard Payne University, we are thrilled to be able to offer a Master of Science degree in criminal justice,” said Lynn Humeniuk, director of HPU’s criminal justice program and associate professor of criminal justice and sociology. “Additionally, the online format will help make the program more accessible to those whose work schedules or locations would keep them from attending classes at HPU during regular daytime hours.”HPU recently received word that the program has been added the university’s scope of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, fully authorizing the university to proceed with the enrollment of students and the delivery of the degree. The new degree program was developed with the committed involvement of Dr. Millard Kimery, dean of HPU’s School of Humanities.
“Our faculty and staff have been working hard to create a program that will challenge students, developing in them, within a Christian context, the knowledge and skills they need to be effective practitioners in the field of criminal justice,” said Dr. Kimery. “We are grateful for the opportunity to equip those who serve our communities.”
The new master’s degree is an attractive option for graduates of other colleges and universities but especially for students of HPU’s undergraduate program in criminal justice. Christina Calleros, a 2015 HPU graduate, plans to enroll in the new master’s program and is grateful for her HPU experience during her undergraduate years.
“As a single mother who works full time, I was searching for a program that was accommodating to my needs,” Calleros said. “The faculty members at HPU are friendly and supportive. They always go the extra mile.”
More details about HPU’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice program are available at www.hputx.edu/mscrj. Students interested in pursuing this or any other degree offered at HPU are encouraged to contact the Office of Admission at (325) 649-8020. Information about the university can also be found online at www.hputx.edu.
