15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

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Staff Writers Contributing Writer
Updated March 14, 2024

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Criminal justice master's programs offer advanced degree paths to prepare students for their careers. Graduate schools configure these degrees in several ways. Some feature traditional credentials, like the master of arts (MA) or master of science (MS), while others have adopted the newer master's in criminal justice (MCJ) designation.

In any case, a graduate degree in criminal justice opens doors to rewarding career opportunities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average job growth rates in several criminal justice fields from 2019-2029. For example, the BLS  forecasts a 5% growth for police and detectives and a 17% growth for social service case managers.

This guide explains what students can expect from criminal justice master's programs. We cover critical details about admission requirements, curricula and specialization options, and learning formats. This resource also includes current rankings of the nation's top criminal justice master's degrees.

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Explore program formats, transfer requirements, financial aid packages, and more by contacting the schools below.

Why Get a Criminal Justice Master's?

Most experts consider criminal justice an offshoot of criminology, which examines crime and criminality through a sociological lens. Criminology is rooted in academic theory and research, while criminal justice focuses specifically on frontline interactions with those directly affected by crime and criminal activity.

The dynamic field of criminal justice encompasses many different positions within law enforcement, court, and correctional systems. Well-known examples include police, corrections, and probation officers; victims' advocates; protective service workers; and caseworkers. Professionals can also combine criminal justice schooling with additional training to prepare for roles as forensic technicians, evidence technicians, homeland security officers, and many other specialized professions.

Criminal justice professionals usually work for public-sector agencies. They may perform their job duties in office, institutional, or field settings. Some positions require visits to crime scenes during active investigations.

The field tends to attract individuals deeply invested in their communities. Criminal justice work has a direct and immediate social impact, making this field a good match for those with high levels of integrity, empathy, and desire to protect the vulnerable and enact positive change. 

Employers increasingly prefer candidates with higher levels of education, which speaks to the value of a master's degree in criminal justice. Additional benefits of an advanced criminal justice degree include:

Greater Career Flexibility
A master's in criminal justice qualifies candidates for more roles, enhancing their career options and delivering greater flexibility.
Specialization Opportunities
Most criminal justice master's programs allow enrollees to pursue concentrations. Students can tailor their education to match their personal preferences and career objectives.
Higher Earning Potential
BLS data indicates that a master's degree delivers an outstanding return on investment over a professional's career.

Top Master's in Criminal Justice Schools

Our Ranking Methodology

#1 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

Florida State University

  • Tallahassee, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MA, MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $444 (online), $479 (on campus)
Out-of-State | $1,076 (online), $1,111 (on campus)

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

Florida State University features a master's degree in criminology and criminal justice, along with a master's in criminal justice studies, to explore criminal behavior and the policies that address it. Courses may include theory in criminology and criminal justice, applied statistics in criminology, and computer applications in criminal justice. 

Each applicant to the online program in criminal justice studies should submit proof of a bachelor's degree and a statement describing their reasons for pursuing the degree. While prospective students need to demonstrate academic achievement, the university has waived the GRE for this program. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,640
Out-of-state
$19,084
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,684
Out-of-state
$24,116
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
45,130
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

University of South Florida

  • Tampa, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MA
Delivery Format: Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $348
Out-of-State | $430

Credits to Graduate: 33

University of South Florida's MA in criminal justice is a fully online program for working professionals and people pursuing criminal justice careers. Master's-level coursework may include minorities and crime, current issues in corrections, and quantitative analysis in criminology. The university also offers an MA in criminal justice administration for current practitioners seeking advancement into leadership positions.

Each candidate should hold a bachelor's degree with a "B" average or better. The university enrolls new students in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
49,708
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
66% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

California State University, Long Beach

  • Long Beach, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $368
Out-of-State | $788

Credits to Graduate: 36

California State University, Long Beach's MS in criminology and criminal justice can prepare graduates for law degrees, research jobs, or administrative positions in criminal justice agencies. The curriculum consists of six core courses and six electives. 

Courses include justice policy, criminological theory, and law and social control. The program concludes with a capstone thesis, comprehensive exam, or analytical project. Students can concentrate in crime and intelligence analysis. Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree and a qualifying GPA for admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
87%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
40,190
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#4 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

University of Southern California

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,244
Out-of-State | $2,244

Credits to Graduate: 24

University of Southern California's MS in criminal justice can prepare influential leaders for multi-faceted opportunities in the criminal legal system. This program, available in one-year and two-year pathways, requires courses in criminology, ethical decision-making in criminal justice, and applied statistics and data analysis in criminal justice.

Each candidate must submit proof of a bachelor's degree and a $90 application fee. No GRE score is required. The program accepts new students in the fall, spring, and summer. Graduates join the university's 475,000-strong alumni network.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$60,446
Out-of-state
$60,446
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
49,318
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

Texas A & M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MBA, MS
Delivery Format: Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $367
Out-of-State | $1,030

Credits to Graduate: 30-36

Texas A&M International University's MS or MBA in criminal justice can equip aspiring cybersecurity, criminal investigation, or law enforcement administration leaders with career-ready skills. The MS focuses on criminal justice policy and practice, while the MBA public and private sector criminal justice leadership. 

Students can complete the 36-credit MS or the 30-credit MBA in 21 months. Courses may include cybercrime, legal issues, and a capstone project in criminal justice. Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,610
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,694
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,455
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

Boston University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $753
Out-of-State | $753

Credits to Graduate: 32

Boston University's MS in criminal justice offers concentrations in crime analysis, cybercrime investigation and cybersecurity, and strategic management. Students can learn to analyze criminal behavior and apply theories of social control in corrections, law enforcement, and judicial settings. Courses include criminology and crime policy, applied analytical methods, and criminal justice administration and ethics. 

Students take 2-4 courses per semester, and the degree requires 8-16 months. Graduates may pursue organizational leadership roles, teaching positions, law school admissions, and doctoral programs. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$58,560
Out-of-state
$58,560
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
36,104
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

University of Central Florida

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: Hybrid, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $370
Out-of-State | $1,194

Credits to Graduate: 36

University of Central Florida's MS in criminal justice equips students with the theoretical knowledge and innovative skills law enforcement leaders need in today's complex world. The program requires 21 core credits and 15 elective credits. 

Courses include the nature of crime, criminal justice organization, and policy analysis in criminal justice. Students can choose thesis or non-thesis pathways. The university also offers a joint MS in criminal justice and master of public administration for 51 credits.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,478
Out-of-state
$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,916
Out-of-state
$25,759
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
70,310
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

Northeastern University

  • Boston, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: Hybrid, On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,011
Out-of-State | $1,011

Credits to Graduate: 32

Northeastern University's MS in criminology and criminal justice offers a multi-disciplinary degree in which students explore topics such as internet fraud, racial profiling, opioid abuse, and human trafficking. 

This one-year program requires courses like criminology, the criminal justice process, and research methods in the social sciences. Students can complete a 12-credit cybersecurity concentration as part of the degree. Each candidate submits an application, transcripts, a writing sample, and a $100 fee. New students can start in the fall, spring, or summer.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,500
Out-of-state
$56,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$25,801
Out-of-state
$25,801
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
18%
Students Enrolled
28,167
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#9 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $385
Out-of-State | $479 (online), $1,044 (on campus)

Credits to Graduate: 33

University of West Florida's MS in criminal justice emphasizes theory, research, and data analysis to prepare students for education, leadership, or research roles. Courses include criminal justice theory, criminological theory, and policing and society. Students can choose to complete internships or electives. 

The program concludes with a thesis or research paper. Each applicant should hold a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better and submit GRE, MAT, or GMAT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
13,288
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $486 (online), $456 (on campus)
Out-of-State | $1,032 (online), $1,002 (on campus)

Credits to Graduate: 36

Florida International University's MS in criminal justice can prepare graduates for careers in academia, analysis, or applied research. 

The program requires six core courses and six electives. Core courses include criminological theory, geospatial analysis in criminal justice, data analysis in criminal justice, and an optional internship. Students can use electives to prepare for professional teaching roles or doctoral study. 

Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.2 or higher in their upper-division coursework. They also must possess a minimum of a "B" in an undergraduate research methods course.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,721
Out-of-state
$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,912
Out-of-state
$21,393
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
56,664
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

University of Illinois Chicago

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MA
Delivery Format: On Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $530
Out-of-State | $1,105

Credits to Graduate: 40

The University of Illinois Chicago's MA in criminology, law, and justice offers interdepartmental coursework and concentrations in Black studies, gender and women's studies, Latin American and Latino studies, survey research methodology, and violence studies. The degree's required courses include law and society, criminological theory, and criminal justice: process and institutions.

An applicant must hold a bachelor's degree in criminology, law, justice, or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the final 60 credits for admission. The university does not require GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,253
Out-of-state
$27,020
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,927
Out-of-state
$25,118
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
34,199
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $741
Out-of-State | $1,161

Credits to Graduate: 30

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley's MS in criminal justice can prepare graduates for doctoral work and administrative positions in analysis, evaluation, and program management. This degree requires 18 credits of core courses, along with either 18 elective credits or 12 elective credits accompanied by a thesis. 

Courses include victimology, policing in a democracy, and advanced restorative and community justice. For admission, each applicant needs a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or better in the last 60 credits or qualifying GRE scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,857
Out-of-state
$17,649
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,002
Out-of-state
$14,346
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
31,940
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
78% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#13 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

California State University, San Bernardino

  • San Bernardino, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MA
Delivery Format: Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $347
Out-of-State | $743

Credits to Graduate: 34

California State University, San Bernardino's MA in criminal justice offers thesis and non-thesis tracks. Students who plan to pursue additional degrees or conduct research can pursue the thesis option, while those with management or administration goals can take a comprehensive exam.

Courses in the program include statistical analysis in criminal justice, applying criminological theory to criminal justice, and transnational organized crime. An applicant must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a major or background in criminal justice or a related field to qualify. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
19,514
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#14 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

San Jose State University

  • San Jose, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MS
Delivery Format: On Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,048
Out-of-State | $1,444

Credits to Graduate: 30-33

San Jose State University's MS in justice studies offers an interdisciplinary curriculum to prepare enrollees for careers in public agencies, nonprofit institutions, and grassroots community organizations. Graduates may also pursue doctoral studies or research. Courses include justice and social theory, survey of research methods, and historical issues in justice studies. 

Each student can choose to write a thesis or complete a final project. Program prerequisites include a bachelor's degree and advanced writing skills, along with completion of statistics and research methods courses. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
37,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#15 15 Best Criminal Justice Master’s Degrees

University of Colorado Denver

  • Denver, CO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Degree Offered: MCJ
Delivery Format: Hybrid, On Campus, Online

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $595
Out-of-State | $714

Credits to Graduate: 36

University of Colorado Denver's master's in criminal justice combines theory, research, praxis, and policy into an interdisciplinary curriculum that can prepare graduates for leadership careers or doctoral study. This degree requires 15 credits of core courses plus electives, an internship, and a capstone or thesis. 

Students can pursue four optional concentrations: crime analysis; gender-based violence; emergency management and homeland security; and disasters, hazards, and emergency management. Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,160
Out-of-state
$25,152
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,984
Out-of-state
$23,274
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
24,267
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

What the Best Criminal Justice Master's Programs Have in Common

While every prospective student prioritizes different factors in their search for a master's in criminal justice, highly ranked schools tend to share some common qualities.

  • They are accredited. Accreditation sets standards to ensure that a school meets certain prescribed guidelines. National and regional accreditation assess institutions. Employers and other colleges tend to regard regional accreditation, granted by organizations like the Higher Learning Commission, as a more rigorous standard.

    Graduates with master's degrees in criminal justice can pursue doctoral-level studies and may struggle to gain admission without a regionally accredited master's degree. As such, this list includes only accredited schools.

  • They offer strong academic programs. Prospective students can gauge a program's academic strength by assessing criteria like student-to-faculty ratio, number of full-time faculty members, graduation rates, and the percentage of students who continue from one semester to the next. Many schools advertise these points of pride, though degree-seekers should also feel free to ask admissions departments.

    Schools that enroll a high number of students against a low number of faculty may offer less personalized attention. Similarly, degree-seekers benefit when a program features highly engaged full-time faculty members, like American University's 26 full-time justice, law, and criminology professors.

  • They are reputable. An institution should display a discernment in their admissions process, admitting only students who meet specific qualifications. Schools that admit all applicants may prioritize profit over student success.

    When learners are ill-prepared for a degree path, they may encounter difficulties in the job market. Strong alumni earnings can indicate a favorable reputation for the school among employers and sound preparation for the field.

  • They are affordable. Our rankings compile data regarding each school's average price, their financial aid packages, and the median student debt six years after graduation. Students often value programs that offer the best chance of a good return on their investment. At Michigan State, for example, more than a dozen scholarship funds offer assistance to enrollees who apply for aid.

What To Expect From Master's in Criminal Justice Programs

Criminal justice master's programs embrace core philosophies that prepare students to serve as agents in one of society's most essential institutions. They commonly explore the real-world applications of theoretical models of crime and rehabilitation. Other programs maintain a stronger focus on advocacy, preparing students to improve the lives of those negatively affected by crime.

Credit structures vary among schools, but most programs require learners to complete 16-20 courses. Full-time students take 4-5 courses per semester, leading to a master's in criminal justice in two academic years. More compact programs may include only 10-12 courses, allowing enrollees to complete their degrees in just one year.

Schools also cater to the needs of working professionals and nontraditional learners balancing their studies with external commitments. Many programs offer part-time study options, which lengthen the expected graduation timeline but allow learners to integrate graduate school into their busy lives.

Admission Requirements

Admission standards vary between schools, but most share some common elements. Applicants with no academic background in criminal justice may need to complete foundational courses. These classes usually cover essential content normally encountered at the undergraduate level. In addition to prerequisite courses, schools typically require standardized test results, like GRE scores.

GPA cutoffs typically start around 2.5 on the 4.0 scale. More competitive schools prefer applicants with undergraduate GPAs of at least 3.0. Even in these cases, some institutions consider candidates with lower GPAs if they bridge academic deficiencies with extensive, field-specific professional experience, high test scores, or compelling details from their personal backgrounds.

This resource features additional information about admission standards and program structures.

Degree and Specialization Options

Criminal justice students at the master's level may encounter MA, MS, and MCJ degrees. MA programs typically examine the applications of social sciences like psychology, sociology, and criminology in criminal justice institutions and field settings. Meanwhile, MS programs typically maintain a stronger focus on the technical, scientific, quantitative, and research-oriented aspects of crime and rehabilitation.

The MCJ offers a different path, functioning as a terminal degree for criminal justice professionals. MCJ programs typically combine the respective social science and technical focuses of MA and MS degrees.

Criminal justice overlaps with the study and practice of law. Advanced law degrees like the master of laws (LLM) or juris doctor (JD) also apply. Those who hold LLM or JD degrees meet the academic requirements for earning a license to practice criminal law, either as prosecutors or defense attorneys.

Many schools also offer concentration and specialization options at the graduate level. Potential specializations include policing and law enforcement, criminal corrections, criminology, case management, homeland security, and crisis management. Some programs also offer forensic science specializations, but these are usually only available to students with extensive technical and scientific backgrounds.

Popular Criminal Justice Courses

Specific coursework varies between criminal justice master's programs, including required, elective, and capstone courses. Their contents depend on the degree's focus and underlying core philosophy and the student's area of concentration or specialization, among other factors.

The following list offers an overview of the types of courses you may encounter in a general MA or MS criminal justice program:

Theories of Crime and Criminology

Master's in criminal justice programs include a broad, theory-based survey course in the first semester. In this class, students engage with the prevalent theories of crime, criminal behavior, and rehabilitation that inform their future coursework.

Research Methods in Criminal Justice

This required course usually appears in MS and MCJ programs, though many MA programs also feature similar classes. Students explore the research methods professionals and academics use to build hypotheses and create theoretical models informed by trends, statistics, and data.

Seminar in Juvenile Justice

Typically featured in concentrated programs focused on youth and juveniles, this seminar examines the socioeconomic factors that drive youth crime rates. Enrollees consider juvenile crime prevention methods and the rehabilitative needs of young offenders.

Applied Crime Prevention

This specialized course usually appears as an elective in law enforcement-oriented programs. Coursework explores advanced crime prevention methods like predictive policing, problem-oriented policing, theories of routine activity, and the situational prevention of crime. Course content also considers how law enforcers respond when criminals adapt to these techniques.

Applied Criminal Justice Theory

This intensive seminar is a culminating experience, similar to a capstone or thesis. The course comprises a major research project carried out under the instruction and supervision of a dedicated faculty advisor, typically covering the equivalent of 1-2 courses in the program's final semesters.

How Much Will a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Cost?

Tuition fees vary according to factors such as the school's status as a public or private institution and the program's delivery format. Public colleges often charge different rates depending on residency. In-state residents and those who qualify for in-state status through reciprocity agreements usually enjoy reduced rates, while out-of-state learners pay higher rates.

Conversely, most private institutions charge the same tuition rates for all learners, regardless of their residency status. Their tuition fees are also usually higher, reflecting their prestige.

In some cases, public and private institutions offer discounted tuition for online enrollees. For example, public colleges may charge in-state rates to all online students regardless of where they live. Private colleges sometimes create separate fee schedules for distance learners, granting them reduced rates that acknowledge their reduced use of physical resources.

Applicants in need of financial help can apply for merit-based forms of assistance, such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Public and private loans offer another solution, but you should only consider these once you have exhausted your other options.

Jobs for Master's in Criminal Justice Graduates

Those wondering what to do with a criminal justice degree should research their career options before applying. Your intended career path should inform your choice of schools, particularly for learners interested in concentrated or specialized degrees.

The following list includes popular career paths and areas of professional practice expected to see strong levels of growth. It prioritizes job titles and positions that require or prefer a master's in criminal justice.

Criminologist

These specialized sociologists primarily find employment in scholastic institutions. They conduct research into historical and current patterns and trends in crime and criminality. Many criminologists also teach postsecondary courses.
  • Required Education: MCJ or doctorate in criminology or criminal justice; some employers may consider candidates with MA or MS degrees plus extensive practical experience
  • Job Outlook (2019-29): +4%
  • Median Annual Salary: $83,420

Social Service Case Manager

Social service workers focus on the needs of community members affected by crime. They advocate for crime victims by building resource networks and guiding individuals and families to assistive services.
  • Required Education: Bachelor's or master's degree
  • Job Outlook (2019-29): +17%
  • Median Annual Salary: $67,150

Emergency Management Director

These professionals usually work for government agencies, along with some nonprofit and private-sector organizations. Emergency management directors create and ensure best practices for emergency and disaster response protocols.
  • Required Education: Bachelor's or master's degree
  • Job Outlook (2019-29): +4%
  • Median Annual Salary: $74,590

FBI Agent

FBI agents work in law enforcement, investigating federal crimes by responding to calls for assistance, conducting interviews and crime scene analysis, and identifying and apprehending perpetrators.
  • Required Education: A bachelor's degree, but most agencies prefer candidates with master's degrees
  • Average Salary: $66,040

Law Enforcement Supervisor

Law enforcement supervisors manage police units by defining their priorities, assigning resources to specific objectives, and coordinating investigation activities.
  • Required Education: A bachelor's degree, but most agencies prefer candidates with master's degrees
  • Job Outlook (2019-29): +5%
  • Median Annual Salary: $94,950

Choosing the Right Criminal Justice Graduate Program

Rankings offer a great starting place for researching programs, but prospective students can still perform their own research. For example, learners should only search for schools with valid and current regional or national accreditation standing. The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences is an important specialized accreditor, and programs bearing its endorsement meet particularly high standards.

Other factors that may affect your school decision include:

Staff Credentials and Diversity
Crime affects people of all ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Understanding its impacts on members of specific communities requires engagement with diverse perspectives.
Program Culture
A program's underlying philosophy shapes its students' professional perspective. For instance, some programs emphasize rehabilitative programs over more punitive practices.
Concentrations and Specializations
Learners with specific career goals may find their best program matches outside of rankings lists. For some, a program's close alignment with personal beliefs and professional goals is more important than its performance in competitive rankings.

Depending on your personal situation and preferences, you may also consider location, program length, program delivery formats, typical class sizes, and the quality of career resources.

Should Get Your Degree Online?

Many criminal justice master's programs include practical learning opportunities, such as work-study positions and field placements. However, some schools allow students to complete core academic requirements entirely online. Thus, you should also consider the advantages and potential drawbacks of enrolling in a fully online or hybrid program.

Online education has made great strides in recent years, with schools responding to increased demand for distance learning in innovative ways. However, not every student is an ideal candidate for an online criminal justice degree. Independent learners with high levels of self-motivation tend to find the most success.

Distance learning also offers cost benefits, since learners do not need to physically travel to and from campus. Still, degree-seekers should not pursue these advantages to the detriment of their educational experience. Some learners are at their best when they can directly interact with peers and faculty members, making traditional delivery formats a better option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a criminal justice master's program?

Every school maintains distinct admission procedures, but most institutions require a complete institutional application with copies of your academic transcripts. Schools may also request GRE scores or other test results, along with letters of recommendation or personal statements, among other materials.

How long does it take to get a master's degree in criminal justice?

While some programs lead to graduation in as little as one academic year, most master's degrees in criminal justice require two years or four semesters of full-time study. Part-time learners may take 3-5 years.

What can I do with a criminal justice degree?

A criminal justice degree qualifies you for many entry-level positions in the field. Options include career paths in law enforcement, corrections, parole and probation, social services and victim advocacy, and the court system.

Is a master's in criminal justice worth it?

A master's in criminal justice delivers greater career flexibility, as those who hold them qualify for more professional roles, such as supervisory or management-level positions.

What are the highest-paying jobs in criminal justice?

Lawyers earn some of the highest earnings in the field, but those without law degrees can still find lucrative work in policing and forensics. Entrepreneurial types can also launch private investigation businesses and consultancies that offer unlimited earning potential.

Recommended Reading

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