Abilene Christian University

Programme overview

The Department of Government and Criminal Justice frames this degree to help students understand domestic and international politics alongside law‑enforcement theory and practice. The B.S. in Government provides foundational study for roles in government service, criminal justice, business, journalism and education. The department also identifies three curricular tracks: Government and Economic Development; International Relations and Foreign Service; and Politics and Public Policy.

What you'll study

The programme totals 128 credit hours: 54 university hours, 45 major requirement hours and 29 elective hours. Example courses highlighted by the department include American Political Thought, International Law and Organizations, Peace, Power and Politics, and Public Administration. A complete course listing is available in the university catalog. Minors commonly paired with this major include Legal Studies, Politics and Public Policy, and Public Service.

Entry requirements

The published page does not list specific admission criteria. Prospective students are directed to consult the university catalog and contact the department for application guidance and degree‑planning details.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of roles in public and private sectors. The department cites career outcomes such as policy analyst, mediator, lobbyist, political correspondent, public affairs research analyst, state legislator, urban policy planner, polling analyst, campaign staff, and elected office. Alumni have also held positions in federal and state agencies, the judiciary, city management, academia, legislative assistance, and law firms.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme page encourages contacting the department for support and notes co‑curricular opportunities (internships, fellowships, international missions, student political groups) that can complement a financial‑aid strategy. For specific scholarships, tuition details and funding application steps, students should consult ACU’s financial aid office and the university catalog.