B.A. in Criminal Justice

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $75

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 71 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 51 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.

Murray State University (MSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students to help them pursue their higher education goals in the United States. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and contributions to the university community. 

International Diversity Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to promote diversity and global perspectives on campus. It is awarded to a limited number of international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and leadership skills. The award amount varies and is renewable.

International Transfer Scholarship: MSU offers scholarships for international transfer students who are transferring from a U.S. community college or another university. These scholarships are based on academic performance and may be renewable.

Global Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is available to new, first-time international undergraduate students with strong academic records. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable for up to four years, provided the student maintains a specified GPA.

International Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic achievements and standardized test scores. The scholarship amounts vary, and they are typically competitive.

Athletic Scholarships: International student-athletes who excel in sports may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they join one of MSU's athletic teams.

Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments and colleges within MSU may offer scholarships specific to their fields of study. These scholarships can vary widely in terms of eligibility criteria and award amounts.

Honors Program Scholarships: High-achieving international students who are admitted to the MSU Honors Program may receive scholarships that support their participation in this academically enriching program.

External Scholarships: MSU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international scholarship programs. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance on external scholarships.

Graduates of the B.A. in Criminal Justice program at Murray State University have a diverse range of career opportunities across various sectors within the criminal justice field. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue numerous roles.

Law Enforcement Officer: Graduates can become police officers, sheriff’s deputies, or state troopers, responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and conducting investigations. This role involves patrolling communities, responding to emergencies, and engaging in criminal investigations.

Corrections Officer: Working in jails, prisons, or detention centers, corrections officers manage the daily operations related to inmate supervision, security, and rehabilitation. They ensure the safety and order within correctional facilities and support the reentry process for inmates.

Criminal Investigator: Also known as detectives, criminal investigators work on solving complex crimes. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze information to build cases and assist in the prosecution of criminals.

Probation Officer: Probation officers supervise individuals who are on probation instead of serving time in prison. They monitor compliance with probation terms, provide support to help offenders reintegrate into society, and prepare reports for the court.

Forensic Specialist: Forensic specialists, including crime scene investigators and forensic analysts, examine physical evidence from crime scenes. They use scientific techniques to analyze evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, and digital data, which supports criminal investigations.

Juvenile Justice Counselor: Juvenile justice counselors work with young offenders to address behavioral issues and prevent recidivism. They provide counseling, support, and intervention services tailored to the needs of youth involved in the criminal justice system.

Crime Analyst: Crime analysts examine data and trends related to criminal activity to help law enforcement agencies develop strategies for crime prevention and resource allocation. They use statistical tools and geographic information systems (GIS) to identify patterns and inform strategic decisions.

Legal Assistant/Paralegal: Legal assistants, or paralegals, support attorneys by conducting legal research, preparing documents, and managing case files. They work in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies, assisting with a range of legal tasks.

Homeland Security Specialist: Specialists in homeland security work to protect the nation from threats such as terrorism and natural disasters. They develop and implement security measures, coordinate with various agencies, and respond to emergencies.

Victim Advocate: Victim advocates provide support to individuals who have been victims of crime. They offer counseling, help victims navigate the criminal justice system, and connect them with resources and services to aid in their recovery.