MS Criminal Justice Theory and Research

Our Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Theory and Research empowers current and future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to create just and safe communities. This is accomplished through an exceptional curriculum that provides you with an understanding of the nature and scope of problems posed by crime and the operation and administration of the criminal justice system. You'll examine these areas from theoretical, practical and empirical perspectives.

You can pursue your degree as part of a campus-based program or entirely online, allowing you to take advantage of your learning style and balance your work, personal and academic obligations. The campus-based program features thesis and non-thesis options. Our programs also offer:

• Opportunities to participate in research under a faculty member's direction
• Prospects for earning academic credit through an internship
• Specialized electives so you can tailor your degree to your professional and personal goals
• Study abroad opportunities

Faculty members have a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. In addition to teaching courses, they assist the Department of Criminal Justice in applied research projects, program evaluation studies and scholarly research. Some of their current research focuses on:

• Capital punishment
• Cybercrime and cyber security
• Juvenile delinquency
• Police operations and tactics
• Prison violence
• Victimization

Thesis option

• 15 credit hours of required core courses
• 15 credit hours of electives
• 6 credit hours of thesis

Non-thesis option

• 15 credit hours of required core courses
• 21 credit hours of electives
• Completion of comprehensive exams