Master's Curriculum in Criminology
Master of Arts in Criminology & Master of Science in Criminology
Both programs require 36 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 12 months. Classes are taught in the evening, one night per week, in an 8-week accelerated format either on campus or by distance education (depending on your location). Students are typically enrolled in two classes during each 8-week session, which allows you to finish your degree in as little as 12 months.
Which program is right for you?
Master of Arts (Non-Thesis) in Criminology
The M.A. program prepares students to pursue or further their careers in law enforcement with a strong theoretical background and practical skills to be leaders and agents of positive change.
Master of Science (Thesis) in Criminology
The M.S. program prepares students interested in conducting research, pursuing a Ph.D. or teaching.
Master of Arts in Criminology
- Criminology Core Courses (24 credit hours)
- Criminology Electives (9 credit hours)
- Leadership in Criminology (3 credit hours)
Fall I
MSC5103 Crime Victims
MSC6103 Critical Issues in Justice
Fall II
MSC5603 Advanced Research Methods
MSC Core Elective
Spring I
MSC5863 Advanced Studies in Criminological Theory
MSC5823 Diversity and Crime
Spring II
MSC5363 Theories of Justice
MSC Core Elective
Summer I
MSC5713 Resocialization of Law Violators
MSC6873 Practicum or Field Study
Summer II
MSC6363 Leadership in Criminal Justice
MSC Core Elective
Master of Science in Criminology
- Criminology Core Courses (24 credit hours)
- Criminology Electives (6 credit hours)
- Master’s Thesis (6 credit hours)
Fall I
MSC5103 Crime Victims
MSC6103 Critical Issues in Justice
Fall II
MSC5603 Advanced Research Methods
MSC Core Elective
Spring I
MSC5863 Advanced Studies in Criminological Theory
MSC5823 Diversity and Crime
Spring II
MSC5363 Theories of Justice
MSC Core Elective
Summer I
MSC5713 Resocialization of Law Violators
MSC6873 Practicum or Field Study
Summer II
MSC6886 Master’s Thesis Hours (6)
Course descriptions
5103 Crime Victims
Analysis of the victimology model. Emphasis is on the victim, the academic institutional perspective, the criminal justice perspective and the statistical approach.
5603 Advanced Research Methods
In this course students create, synthesize and defend one of four types of a mixed method research design, students are expected to have had a basic research course, which included qualitative and quantitative data methods.
6103 Critical Issues in Justice
This course analyzes contemporary issues confronting the criminal justice system. The topics change over-time, reflecting current issues facing the system, e.g., the death penalty, restorative justice or ethics.
5863 Criminological Theory
This course is an advanced theory course on criminological theory. Students complete an in-depth analysis of contemporary theories.
5823 Diversity and Crime
This course critically examines major theories, research findings, policies and controversies concerning race/ethnicity, gender, class, sexuality and crime.
5363 Theories of Justice 3
This course explores one of the most prominent theoretical constructions of justice compared to other concepts of justice: John Rawl’s Theory of Justice.
5713 Resocialization of Law Violators
A major objective of correctional agencies has been to change persons convicted of crime so that they are reformed, resocialized, treated or modified. This course deals with the issue of such changes and examines techniques of producing changes.
6873 Practicum or Field Study
Students sign a contract and are placed with criminal justice agencies for a minimum of 40 hours per credit hour. Students will keep field notes, be evaluated at the practicum site and write a paper directly related to the practicum assignment.
6886 Master’s Thesis Hours
Crafting and editing the master’s thesis consisting of original research in the field of criminology and approval of the student’s thesis committee. Final course prior to graduation from the program. Course may be repeated until master thesis is completed and defended according to departmental standards.
6563 Leadership in Criminal Justice
Focuses on leadership and administration of criminal justice institutions. Topics include ethics, organizational change, power and influence, conflict and communication.