Academic Catalog

Criminal Justice, Master of Science

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice provides students with advanced knowledge of crime, the criminal justice system, and related policy proposals to address adverse outcomes and disparities associated with the system. The program offers rigorous training in social science theory and methods and their application in areas such as criminal justice administration, evidence-based policing, public policy reform, and victim advocacy. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to work, or advance their careers in a wide array of criminal justice and social service-related fields, gain employment in organizations that require the application of social sciences methods (e.g., program evaluation, grant writing, etc.), or continue their studies in a Ph.D. program.

Program Objectives

1. Provide students with the skills to apply concepts, theories, and empirical evidence within criminal justice and social service agencies.
2. Prepare graduates to conduct and utilize applied research in criminal justice and social services to meet workforce needs.
3. Provide students with the necessary skills to effectively communicate empirical research finding and theoretical implications.

Student Learning Objectives

1.1 Critically evaluate empirical evidence, especially as it relates to criminal justice and social services.
1.2 Apply abstract concepts and theories to address issues within criminal justice and social services.
2.1 Design and complete an original research project that could inform criminal justice or social service agencies.
2.2 Apply empirical data to address issues in a particular area of criminal justice or social services (e.g., law enforcement, victim advocacy, etc.).
3.1 Effectively communicate original research findings and theoretical implications in written and oral form.

I. Required Courses
CRJU U660Applied Qualitative Methods3
CRJU U665Applied Quantitative Methods3
CRJU U670Advanced Criminological Theory3
CRJU U675Critical Issues in Criminal Justice3
CRJU U690Capstone I3
CRJU U695Capstone II3
II. Electives (12 credits) Select four courses from the following:12
Law Enforcement and Social Control
Special Topics in Criminal Justice
Processing Offenders
Treating Offenders
Public Safety Administration
Place and Crime
Children and Crime
Victim Services
Violent Crime
Internship
Total Hours30