Master of Arts

M.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Engaging students in scientific inquiry on cutting edge criminology and criminal justice issues.

  • The Master of Arts degree provides students with an opportunity to develop the necessary skills to engage in original scientific research to further scientific knowledge on criminology and criminal justice issues.
  • The degree requires students to complete 8 graduate level courses (24 hours) and a thesis (6 hours).

  • The completed thesis is the final degree requirement for the Master of Arts. This is an original research project that makes a contribution to the scientific literature within criminology and criminal justice. Students will make a public oral defense of their Thesis to share their important findings.

  • Successful graduates often go on to pursue a Ph.D. or work within criminal justice agencies or organizations as a researcher or analyst.

student working at a cubicle

Pursuing a Master of Arts degree is an excellent way to gain exposure to the criminological research process.

Funding Opportunities

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice provides a limited number of graduate assistantships for Master of Arts students that provide an opportunity to support nationally acclaimed research faculty members.

To be eligible for a graduate assistantship, a graduate student must be enrolled for at least 9 graduate credit hours per semester, maintain a 3.0 or better GPA, and demonstrate progress in the program. Applicants must indicate in their personal statement their desire to be considered for an assistantship, outline research related experience and skills they already possess, and how their interests align with current research active faculty members. Students should be aware that these assistantships are highly competitive.

Professor and student meeting.

Students often work collaboratively with faculty on research projects.

How to Apply

The application process is described online at the Office of Graduate Studies. All required materials (GRE scores, transcripts, personal statement, and recommendation letters) should be sent to the Office of Graduate Studies.

For More Information

To review course offerings, click here. Additional questions regarding the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice’s Master of Arts degree can be directed to Mindy Peck, Graduate Program Support Staff or Dr. Gaylene Armstrong, Director of the SCCJ.