Criminal Justice Department
Questions? Contact Us.
Dr. Steve Wilson- Department Head / Associate Professor
- Steve.WilsonFREEuafs
- 479-788-7568
- Vines 226
Welcome to Criminal Justice at UAFS!
The Department of Criminal Justice at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offers a Bachelor of Science and a minor in criminal justice designed to prepare you for real-world careers in a fast-changing criminal justice system. Developed in collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies, our programs combine theory, hands-on knowledge, communication skills, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and problem-solving skills. You won’t just learn how the system works— you’ll learn how to analyze challenges, think strategically, and make a difference from day one. We also make it easy to move forward. Whether you’re transferring credits, bringing prior professional experience, or balancing school with work and family, our flexible pathways help you stay on track and reach your goals faster.
B.S. in Criminal Justice
The Bachelor of Science in criminal justice is a flexible 120-credit-hour program built for today’s students.
In addition to the 35-credit-hour general education requirement, you’ll complete 27 credit hours of criminal justice core courses that provide a strong foundation in the field, including criminology, criminal law and procedure, law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, ethics, research methods, and a capstone experience. You’ll also choose 27 credit hours of criminal justice electives, allowing you to focus on the areas that match your career goals. An additional 30 unrestricted credit hours give you the freedom to pursue minors, certificates, or coursework in other disciplines, helping you customize your degree. To fit your schedule, the program is offered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to learn anytime, anywhere.
Criminal Justice Minor
The criminal justice minor is an 18-credit-hour program that pairs well with many majors. It enhances your academic experience, strengthens your résumé, and expands your understanding of the criminal justice system, valuable skills for careers in law, public service, education, and more.
Click here to view the degree plan
The Department of Criminal Justice works closely with community colleges across Arkansas and neighboring Oklahoma institutions to maintain strong 2+2 transfer agreements. These partnerships allow students to transfer up to 60 credit hours directly toward the Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing lost time. We also recognize that academic paths can change. Students may transfer up to 30 credit hours earned in other UAFS programs toward the degree, making it easy to switch majors without losing significant progress. Our goal is straightforward: maximize the credits you’ve already earned so you can graduate sooner and move forward with confidence.
At UAFS your experience matters. Through our Credit for Prior Learning program, you may earn college credit for prior training, military service, or professional experience—saving time and money on your degree. For example, graduates of the Fort Smith Police Department Basic Training Program may earn up to 15 credit hours toward the Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, with an additional three (3) credit hours awarded after completing Field Training Officer (FTO) training. Credit may also be awarded for relevant military training and other professional experience, pending review and approval. Students may apply up to 30 credit hours directly toward their degree, helping you graduate sooner while recognizing the value of your real-world experience.
In addition to applying to various law schools in the region, students interested in pursuing a law degree may take advantage of UAFS’s 4+3 Pathway to Law School in partnership with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law. This accelerated pathway allows qualified students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a juris doctor in seven years. Students who earn a 154 or higher on the LSAT, maintain a 3.40 or higher GPA, and have no character and fitness issues are guaranteed admission to the Bowen School of Law.
A degree in criminal justice from UAFS opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in law, public service, and beyond. Graduates pursue careers such as:
- Prosecutor or Defense Attorney
- Civil Litigation Attorney
- U.S. Marshal
- U.S. Border Patrol Agent
- FBI or Secret Service Agent
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Agent
- State Trooper or Highway Patrol Officer
- Fish and Game Warden
- Child Protective Investigator
- Police Officer or Sheriff’s Deputy
- Crime Scene Investigator
- Intelligence Officer
- Bailiff
- Correctional Officer
- Probation or Parole Officer