Ualesi Mua Earns Criminal Justice Degree from SUU While Serving as Special Agent
Published: March 05, 2025 | Author: Clare-Estelle Perkins | Read Time: 3 minutes
Department of Homeland Security American Samoa (DHS) Special Agent Ualesi Mua has successfully completed his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, through Southern Utah University’s online program. Mua graduated in the fall of 2024, and showed immense dedication by continuing his work in law enforcement while simultaneously pursuing his degree.
Mua’s journey toward higher education was inspired by his passion for criminal justice and a desire to help his community. Currently stationed in American Samoa, Mua collaborates with local police and federal agencies to combat illicit drug trafficking.
“The criminal justice system has always interested me, and I wanted to invest my time in making a difference,” said Mua. “SUU helped me dive deeper into investigations and legal knowledge, and it’s given me the tools to continue serving with confidence.”
The challenges of balancing a full-time job with online coursework were significant, but Mua faced them head-on with dedication.
"Working night shifts while attending classes during the day for two years taught me the importance of perseverance and passion for what I was learning," he said.
Mua’s story is particularly inspiring as he is the first in his family to attend a U.S. university, marking a significant achievement in his personal and academic journey. He credits much of his success to the support of his family and mentors. His journey also highlights the importance of SUU’s commitment to supporting online students.
“The instructors, advisors, and staff were always ready to guide me through any challenges,” said Mua.
The Criminal Justice program provides students with a comprehensive practical and professional knowledge of the Criminal Justice System, consisting of law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students will develop a knowledge of the application of the law, social sciences, and natural sciences to the problems of crime and delinquency.
“SUU’s criminal justice courses equipped me with essential techniques, and I was fortunate enough to learn from professors who have law enforcement experience themselves,” Mua said.
As Mua looks to the future, he is focused on continuing his work in law enforcement and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Administration at SUU.
"I hope to inspire others and continue to make a positive impact in my community," Mua said. “I’ll keep serving my people in American Samoa and working toward positive change."
SUU is committed to supporting non-traditional students like Mua, providing accessible resources and mentorship necessary for success.
“Working professionals seeking online programs through Southern Utah University gain the flexibility to advance their careers while balancing personal commitments,” said Tevita Sekeni, Director of Pacific Region Operations at SUU International Affairs. “With high-quality education customized for real-world success, SUU empowers individuals to grow both professionally and personally, all while fitting learning into their busy lives."
The mission of the SUU Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice is to encourage a lifelong passion for learning and a quest for knowledge by providing an environment that fosters academic excellence and unfettered inquiry. We also encourage the development of ethics and values that recognize knowledge in all its diverse and creative forms. The primary goal of our department is to offer excellence in instruction while meeting the academic needs of students.Tags: Criminal Justice College of Humanities and Social Sciences Alumni International Affairs SUU Online Non-Traditional Student Services
Contact Information:
Nikki Koontz
435-586-5400
nikkikoontz@suu.edu