The master of arts program in criminal justice promotes study for those seeking career opportunities or advancement in justice-related fields as well as those seeking preparation for doctoral study. The graduate program builds on the multidisciplinary strength of the faculty. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of crime and the justice system, including contemporary issues affecting it, and the analytic skills required to conduct and to apply research and to assess public policy.

The department also offers a dual M.A./M.P.A. degree with the Department of Public Policy and Administration.

Admission Requirements

  • A transcript showing the completion of a B.A. or B.S. degree
  • Completion of an undergraduate course in statistics and research methods. This requirement can be fulfilled after admission. Prior coursework or experience in criminal justice is also recommended.
  • Three letters of recommendation (academic reference preferred)
  • A statement of purpose
  • A brief resume if one’s work experience is relevant to the application
  • GRE scores (the LSAT or GMAT exams may be substituted in place of the GRE)
  • The GRE requirement is waived for applicants who received their baccalaureate degree 10 or more years prior to application.

Admission Deadlines:
Fall Priority Deadline: March 1st
Spring Priority Deadline: November 1st

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Degree Requirements

30 total credits

  • Criminal justice core courses (nine credits)
  • Criminal justice elective courses (21 credits from approved courses)
  • Comprehensive exams or a thesis

Dual M.A./M.P.A. Degree Requirements

48 total credits

  • Criminal justice core courses (nine credits)
  • Criminal justice elective courses (12 credits from approved courses)
  • Public management core courses (12 credits)
  • Public management electives (15 credits from approved courses)
  • Comprehensive exams in criminal justice or a thesis