Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Program Description
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice offers a multidisciplinary curriculum to give students the sophisticated working knowledge of the major systems within the field. Students will take challenging and rigorous courses rooted in history, law, philosophy, research, psychology, management, and political science that involve critical analysis of complex issues.
Faculty provide a quality education to students who have demonstrated competence and commitment to learning and growth, who desire to make a meaningful contribution to the field of criminal justice and who share the values of idealism, honesty, integrity, justice, and fairness.
Full- or part-time graduate study is possible at WCU. The program is well-suited for those currently working or seeking to work in law enforcement, corrections, the courts, and other areas of the criminal justice system, as well as those who have plans for law schools, doctoral studies or other graduate work.
If you are interested in pursuing your M.S. in Criminal Justice and would like additional information, contact Dr. Chris Przemieniecki, Graduate Coordinator, or Lillian Miller, Associate Director for Graduate Enrollment.
Benefits of the M.S. in Criminal Justice
The bachelor’s degree may get you in the door, but you’ll need more to advance in
the field. Most criminal justice agencies encourage and reward post-graduate degrees
through promotion to higher ranks and with increased salaries. Some agencies provide educational incentives and tuition reimbursement. The best
agencies recognize that this is a fast-changing discipline, and keeping abreast of
the latest developments can be a challenge. Earning a master’s degree is a great way
to keep up, stay contemporary, and gain a competitive edge. Some applicants may also be considering a teaching career with public or private
universities, technical institutions, community colleges and police academies. A master’s
degree will qualify professionals to work in adjunct teaching positions or in full-time
positions after retirement.
Program
Snapshot
- 30 credits (10 courses)
- 5 Required Courses (CRJ 505, 507, 508, 509, and 600)
- 4 or 5 Elective Courses (chosen from among the following: CRJ 500, 503, 504, 506, 522, 524, 525, 526, 528, 530, 545, 546, 555, 560, 565, 566, 570, 575, 580, 582, 599, *610 with departmental approval, and 999)
- Optional Thesis* (3 credits)
- Evening and Online Courses Options
Application Requirements
- Completed Graduate Application with personal goal statement
- Two academic/professional recommendations
- Official undergraduate academic transcripts (min. GPA 3.0)
- Applicants with GPAs of 2.8-2.9 may be considered for provisional admission
Career Pathways and Opportunities
There are career options and opportunities for advancement within existing careers open to students who complete the degree. Many of our graduate have found success in their professional roles and various agencies including:
- All levels of government law enforcement agencies (federal, state, and municipal)
- Coroner's Office
- Court System
- Department of Justice
- District Attorney's Office
- Domestic Violence Advocate
- Law School
- Probation and Parole Officers
- And more…
Degree Requirements
Prior to receiving the Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice, all candidates must:
- Apply for Degree Candidacy after completion of 12-15 graduate credits,
- Complete required core classes with grades of B or better,
- Complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate course work with a cumulative average of 3.0 or better (based on a 4.0 system),
- Fulfill all financial obligations to the University, including payment of the commencement fee, and
- Comply with all academic requests from the Dean of The Graduate School, including applying for graduation in order to participate in commencement or have a degree conferred by the specific due date. Students apply through myWCU.