YHC offers Criminal Justice classes
Young Harris, GA (11/21/2025) — YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. - The lifeblood of any college are the courses it offers, the majors, the minors - the education a student can achieve in four years. Constantly evaluating and adapting those offerings is critical to a college's success.
As such, Young Harris College is now offering Criminal Justice courses for students. National studies show Criminal Justice majors are in the top ten of most popular majors in colleges and universities.
"We always want to be conscious of trends and developments in higher education," said Dr. Matt Osborn, Associate Professor of Business - Professional Studies. "As we see opportunities to offer classes or majors that students want, we need to do that."
Stan Crowder, in military law enforcement for 35 years before entering higher education at Kennesaw State, has brought his criminal justice knowledge and experience to Young Harris College. He began teaching a Foundations of Criminal Justice course in the Fall 2025 semester and plans an Investigations course for Spring 2026.
"The intro course is a great one, because we talk about how you squash rumors and misinformation," Crowder said. "It's a great starting point for anyone interested in criminal justice."
As part of his courses, Crowder draws on his experience in the law enforcement field, having served in the Military Police as part of the U.S. Army. He also served seven years as a civilian police officer, including five years with Cobb County and two years in Marietta. He has co-authored three textbooks: Ethical Justice: Applied Issues for Criminal Justice Students and Professionals, Anabolic Steroid Abuse in Public Safety Personnel, and Forensic Investigations: An Introduction published by Elsevier. In 2022, Kendall Hunt published Stan's latest book, Forensic Criminologist Meets Career Criminal: Failure in the American Justice System.
When possible, Crowder also draws on his relationships in the law enforcement community, bringing in guest speakers like Lt. Todd Hinson, with the Georgia State Patrol and Georgia Department of Public Safety. Hinson spoke at a recent class on investigations as well as career paths in law enforcement.
"I have connections with law enforcement throughout the region, so I will try to bring subject matter experts to share their knowledge and experience with students," Crowder said.
Hinson talked with students about investigative techniques and his field experience.
"I serve as an instructor for the State Patrol and Department of Public Safety as well," Hinson said. "I love being able to share my knowledge and experience to help others gain a better understanding of law enforcement."
Crowder will look to build on the Criminal Justice offerings at Young Harris College, eventually hoping to offer a major and minor in the area.
"There is a growing demand for professionals in the Criminal Justice area," he said. "It's an exciting and rewarding field, so I hope to share that with students who are interested in careers in this area."
About Young Harris College
Young Harris College is a private baccalaureate and master's degree-granting institution located in the beautiful mountains of Northeast Georgia. Founded in 1886 and historically affiliated with The United Methodist Church, Young Harris College educates, inspires, and empowers students through an education that purposefully integrates the liberal arts and professional studies. The College offers 34 majors and 23 minors, ranging from biology or outdoor studies to business administration or kinesiology. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled in its residential and Early College programs. The College is an active member of the NCAA Division II and remains a fierce competitor in the Conference Carolinas.
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Lt. Todd Hinson talks with Young Harris College students about opportunities in the criminal justice field.
Lt. Todd Hinson talks with Young Harris College students about opportunities in the criminal justice field.
Young Harris College
Steve Esser, slesser@yhc.edu, (706) 379-5331Share this Story
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