Carter Hay

Carter Hay is a Professor and Director of the Graduate Program at the College of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Florida State University. His research focuses on crime causation, self-control theory, delinquency prevention, and offender re-entry. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Texas at Austin (1999), an M.A. (1995), and a B.A. in Economics from Southwestern University (1993).

• Education:
  • Ph.D. 1999, The University of Texas at Austin; Sociology
  • M.A. 1995, The University of Texas at Austin; Sociology
  • B.A. 1993, Southwestern University; Economics

Hay’s research interests include empirical testing of criminological theories, the role of low self-control in criminal behavior, life course perspectives, and policy evaluation. His recent work examines the mediation of sleep duration on substance use and the impact of adverse childhood experiences on delinquency. He has authored/co-authored influential studies on self-control stability, juvenile justice interventions, and reoffending prediction.

His academic contributions include a key textbook Self-Control and Crime over the Life Course (2016) and a landmark article on self-control and opportunity theory (2008). His work has been recognized with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences' Top Honors award for his book on crime causation. Hay leads the Graduate Program, emphasizing evidence-based research and policy application.

• Grants & Funding:
  • Residential Positive Achievement Change Tool (R-PACT) Validation (2012, $82,659)
  • Scholarships for Service for FSU M.S. Computer Criminology Students (2013–2017, $1.4M)
  • Predicting Reoffending in Florida Juvenile Justice (2017–2018, $207,817)

Hay’s research bridges theory and practice, with a focus on reducing juvenile crime through policy and program evaluation. His lab collaborates with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and other agencies to translate academic findings into actionable strategies.