Overview

The Victim Studies programme at Sam Houston State University provides a multidisciplinary foundation for students dedicated to supporting individuals affected by crime. This pioneering degree integrates criminal justice, psychology, and social science to deliver a robust education in trauma-informed care and victim advocacy.

Students can tailor their educational journey by choosing between two distinct degree paths based on their career goals. The Bachelor of Arts track incorporates a foreign language requirement, such as Spanish or American Sign Language, to enhance communication in diverse communities. Alternatively, the Bachelor of Science track focuses on additional social science coursework to deepen analytical skills.

Both pathways emphasise the development of practical skills in crisis intervention and policy analysis.

Why Victim Studies at Sam Houston State University?

This programme stands out as the first of its kind in the United States, offering a unique academic environment for aspiring advocates. Students benefit from a curriculum that blends liberal arts with specialised criminal justice training, providing a well-rounded perspective on the impact of crime on society.

The faculty at the university consists of internationally recognised scholars and experienced practitioners. These experts bring real-world insights into the classroom, bridging the gap between academic theory and frontline advocacy. Their guidance helps students understand the nuances of victimology and the delivery of essential services.

With flexible study options, including fully online delivery or face-to-face instruction in Huntsville, the programme accommodates diverse learning needs. The College of Criminal Justice provides a supportive environment where students can engage with cutting-edge research and develop the expertise required to lead in service to others.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 23520 per year
National fee: USD 23520 per year
Local fee: USD 11370 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Victimology
Crisis Intervention
Trauma Response
Victim Advocacy
Victim Service Delivery
Problem Analysis
Criminal Justice
Social Science
Psychology
Sociology

Careers with Victim Studies

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional roles within the public and private sectors. Many find rewarding careers in victim advocacy, providing direct support to individuals navigating the aftermath of criminal incidents. Others pursue roles in adult or child protective services, ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations.

The degree also opens doors to positions in non-profit organisations, government agencies, and law enforcement. Graduates may work in public policy and outreach, helping to shape the future of victim services and justice systems. The skills gained in trauma response and intervention are highly valued in community outreach and social service settings.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Crim Justice Sys

Criminology
Fundamentals Of Criminal Law
Correctional Sys & Practice
Police Systems & Practices
Criminal Investigation
Courts And Criminal Procedure

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-27 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-05-29 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-28 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-05-15 00:00:00 , National

More details

SHSU strongly encourages international students outside the U.S. to apply at least 90 days before the beginning of the semester for which they are applying.

Language

English

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105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

Huntsville, United States

Disciplines

International Law Criminal Law Public Law View 127 other Bachelors in Criminal Law in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Submit the ApplyTexas.org Application (International) and pay the nonrefundable application fee of $75 in U.S. currency via MasterCard, American Express, VISA, Discover Card, money order or check drawn on a U.S. bank.

Send official high school transcripts or college/university transcripts if applicable.

If transcripts are from a school outside of the U.S. the document must be translated and evaluated by a NACES accredited service or SDR Educational Consultants

International college transcript evaluations must include a course by course evaluation from an accredited evaluation company

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23520 USD / year

≈ 23520 USD / year
Out-of-State

23520 USD / year

≈ 23520 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11370 USD / year

≈ 11370 USD / year

Living costs

Huntsville

United States

964 - 1786 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Victim Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Huntsville

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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