Online Master of Arts in Criminal Justice

The online master’s degree in criminal justice prepares you for a senior leadership role in both the public and private sectors of the criminal justice industry. You’ll study the larger context of crime, why it exists and its impact on society, as well as gain a detailed understanding of the concept of justice and how it’s applied.

You’ll also learn the facets of the justice system including criminology, policing, corrections and the courts. You’ll gain in-demand skills such as risk assessment and management, financial analysis and report preparation. Students can also select from a range of electives that include advanced training in program planning and management, policy analysis and program evaluation. This master's degree program will prepare you to:

• Analyze societal and economic factors that contribute to crime.
• Demonstrate proficiency in program evaluation, statistical analysis and academic research and writing.
• Learn best practices and appreciate where change in the justice system is needed.
• Synthesize research findings that address critical questions in the field of criminal justice.

The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions also provides certificates which criminal justice master’s students may take concurrently to specialize in the following areas:

• Corrections management.
• Law enforcement administration.
• Homeland security.

Do you need a master’s in criminal justice?

Various criminal justice careers, such as inspector, sergeant and profiler, require different educational backgrounds. A master's in criminal justice can prepare you to compete for these types of roles. Degree requirements vary depending on the agency, job position and even location where you’re seeking employment. As a student in the master’s in criminal justice online, you'll study causes of crime, societal impacts of crime and criminal justice management concepts, all of which can make you more competitive for advanced roles in the field.