Master of Science in Criminal Justice (Philadelphia)
West Chester University’s Criminal Justice Department is now offering our Master of Science degree program at our convenient center Philadelphia location. Designed specifically for working professionals, this Master’s Degree program provides a great opportunity to achieve an advanced degree at the most affordable price in the region. Courses are taught by highly respected and seasoned professionals in the field. You will be learning from the very best.
The new West Chester University Philadelphia site is located at 701 Market Street (the Mellon Independence Center). It doesn’t get more convenient than that. The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) has developed the site as the Philadelphia Multi-University Center. West Chester University is the cornerstone institution at that location.
West Chester University in Philadelphia
Benefits of the M.S. in Criminal Justice
The Bachelor of Science 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 and stay contemporary. 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 Highlights
Quality
The Department of Criminal Justice of West Chester University is one of the oldest and most respected in the region. As other institutions compromise quality for quantity, we have steadfastly adhered to providing the highest quality education possible. Successful students possess academic credentials that are highly respected by professional criminal justice agencies. Students gain a wealth of information, and are energized by our classes. Our courses are taught by individuals who have significant experience in the subject matter. Quite simply, our students learn from the best.
Courses
The Master’s Degree program is a 30-credit program. Students take ten 3-credit courses (five required courses and five electives). We offer a variety of courses that are generally tailored to the interests and needs of working professionals who are seeking skills that are directly applicable to their careers.
Convenience
Students may attend courses at our Philadelphia location. It is conveniently located at 701 Market Street, within walking distance of many center city criminal justice agencies. Our classes are offered in the evening to accommodate working professionals. There’s even a food court so you can grab dinner before class. Students may also attend classes at our West Chester campus.
Flexibility
If you’re not quite sure you’re ready to commit to the program, students may enroll in one or two courses as a non-degree student. The non-degree application is a simple online endeavor. Most students are “hooked” and then decide to apply for full admission to the University.
Affordability
As a state-supported institution of higher education, West Chester University offers courses at the lowest cost in the region. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance rated West Chester University as one of the top 100 Best Buys in Public Colleges. Students who enroll in courses at our Philadelphia location will receive a 10% tuition discount (through 2014). The cost of a three-credit course (tuition and fees) is $1602.15. By comparison, St. Joseph’s University’s cost for a three-credit course is $2,256 ($1692 with the Philadelphia law enforcement discount).
Students who will be utilizing financial aid can review their Cost of Attendance in order to review both billable and non-billable expenses.Admission Requirements and Application Process
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Master’s Degree program requires successful completion of an undergraduate degree with a minimum grade point average of 3.0. Provisional admission requires a minimum grade point average of 2.8.
Application Process
The online application process is easy and convenient. Visit www.wcupa.edu/graduate and click on “Apply Now”. There is a $50 application fee.
The application requires the submission of official undergraduate transcripts, and the names and email addresses of two individuals who will recommend you for the program. College Net sends a simple electronic form to your references (no lengthy letters required). We generally waive the MAT for our applicants. After submitting your online application,
contact Dr. Mary Brewster by emailor (610) 436-2630 for the waiver.
If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Contact Dr. Mary Brewster by emailor (610) 436-2630 for prompt and individualized assistance. We welcome you to our program!