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Since the 1970s, we’ve been a leading hub for students passionate about understanding, investigating, and advancing the justice system. Today, we’re proud to serve over 500 students who have chosen to major in criminal justice or forensic science—two thrilling and rapidly evolving fields that offer endless opportunities for discovery and impact.

At Southern Miss, our programs are designed not only to educate but to empower students. Whether your path leads to law school, graduate study, or straight into the field, you’ll find a curriculum that’s current, competitive, and deeply challenging. Our courses blend real-world application with academic rigor, preparing you to thrive in careers across law enforcement, forensic laboratories, juvenile justice, victim services, corrections, probation, and more.

We offer distinctive degree programs tailored to meet the demands of today’s justice system. Undergraduate students in criminal justice can choose from a major and minor in criminal justice, as well as a minor in security studies, to learn about the most pressing issues in investigations, courts, corrections, and national security. Students in forensic science can select a pathway in one of three emphasis areas— biological sciences, chemistry, or crime scene investigation (CSI) — ensuring a highly personalized and focused educational experience. At the graduate level, our MS in criminal justice prepares students for advanced practice, or for entry into doctoral and professional programs. By uniting criminal justice and forensic science under one academic roof, we provide a unique interdisciplinary edge that sets our graduates apart in a competitive job market. 

Beyond the classroom, we encourage every student to make the most of their time at USM. That means engaging in student organizations, volunteering, completing internships, and taking full advantage of campus and community life. These experiences shape not just better students, but better citizens and professionals.

Our faculty are nationally respected scholars and practitioners who bring a wealth of academic expertise and real-world insight into every class. They serve not just as instructors, but as advisors and mentors—committed to helping you grow intellectually and professionally. Our team also includes expert advising and laboratory staff, and experienced adjunct faculty who bring specialized knowledge from the field directly into our classrooms.

We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our programs, faculty, and resources. Better yet, come visit us! Tour our teaching and lab facilities and meet the passionate educators who make this school extraordinary. 

We hope to welcome you to our community soon. 

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The School of Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, and Security 
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