Criminal Justice, PhD
The UCF doctoral program in criminal justice is composed of a substantive core focused on criminal justice theory and institutions; a research methods core that prepares social scientists in the scientific method and social science statistics; and a selection of substantive criminal justice specializations, including policing, corrections and juvenile justice.
- 57 credit-hours
- Three areas of concentration
- The criminal justice doctoral program prepares students to examine criminal justice issues at multiple angles and levels.
- Students are prepared to pursue academic positions in universities, research positions in criminal justice agencies, and consultancies in program evaluation and needs assessment.
- Students are prepared to advance scholarship in criminal justice.
- Students become competent analysts to staff state and local criminal justice agencies.
- Students in this program are encouraged to improve safety and justice in communities through research and partnerships with neighborhood, city, county and state agencies and associations.
The criminal justice doctoral program puts substantive emphasis on core coursework in criminal justice theory and institutions as well as on in-depth concentrations in policing, corrections or juvenile justice. Students in the program complete 57 credit hours. The credit hour breakdown is as follows:
- 15 credit hours of substantive core
- 12 credit hours of methodological core
- Policing Theory and Research
- Correctional Theory and Research
- Juvenile Justice Theory and Research
- Six credit hours of elective courses
- 15 credit hours of dissertation
For additional information, including details about admission, visit the UCF Graduate Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Official transcripts from each higher education institution attended.
- A master’s degree in criminal justice or related discipline from an accredited institution with at least a 3.5 GPA.
- Official, competitive GRE score taken within the last five years.
- Three letters of recommendation, with at least two being from faculty members who can assess the student’s ability to succeed in a doctoral program.
- A personal narrative of 500 to 1,000 words describing research interests, program expectations and career aspirations.
- An academic writing sample of at least 2,000 words (e.g., paper written for a master’s degree course) that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to complete graduate-level composition. This should not be published work, and the applicant must be the sole author.
Applicants may be requested to participate in a virtual interview with the department’s doctoral program committee. Students will simultaneously be considered for admission and funding. The doctoral program is a full-time, on-campus program.
Application Deadline:
| Fall | |
| Domestic Applicants | Feb 1 |
| International Applicants | Dec 1 |
Graduate Assistantships
The department offers several graduate assistantship opportunities for students to engage in teaching or research during their graduate studies. Assistantships include a tuition waiver, stipend, work experience, health insurance, and qualifies the student for in-state residency. For more information, contact us .
Student Association
The Criminal Justice Graduate Student Association (CJGSA) is a student-led organization committed to the professional development of UCF criminal justice graduate students. The association hosts workshops to help students develop in the areas of scholarship, teaching, research and service. We also facilitate communication between students, faculty, college and university partners to maintain a network of colleagues in the field. Members of the organization develop relationships with our community through volunteering and outreach opportunities.
For more information, please send us an email or visit us on Twitter.
Students and Alumni
Doctoral students.
Caitlin Brady ’20 PhD Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology Georgia Southern University
Sara Bryson ’20 PhD Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice East Carolina University
Lucas Alward ’22 PhD Assistant Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice Boise State University
Melanie Soderstrom ’22 PhD Assistant Professor in the School of Criminal Justice and Criminology Texas State University
Justin Smith ’22 PhD Research Scientist Loss Prevention Research Council
Nicholas Paul ’22 PhD Lecturer in the Department of Criminal Justice University of Central Florida
Devin Cowan ’23 PhD Data Analytics Specialist Charlotte-Meckenburg Police Department
Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs
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Ph.d. students.
| Priscilla is a Ph.D. student and Graduate Research Assistant in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. She holds a BA in International Criminal Justice with a double minor in Political Science & Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Strategic Communication from Seton Hall University. Her research interests include Cyber Organized Crime and National Security. Email: | |
Charlie Berichi is a Ph.D. Candidate in the International Crime and Justice Program and serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at Florida International University. He holds a BA in Criminal Justice and an MPA from Florida Atlantic University. His research focuses on aviation security, anti-terrorism, and policing. Email: | |
| Emilie is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU and also an Interdisciplinary Writing Teaching Assistant. She earned her M.S. in Criminal Justice and B.S. in Criminal Justice from Florida International University, as well as her Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Southern Denmark. Her current research interests include transnational crime, environmental crime, crime mapping, and situational crime prevention. Email: | |
| Kevin is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program. He holds a B.S. in Criminal Justice, a M.S. in Criminal Justice, and a Master's in Public Administration. His current research interests involve national security, including transnational crime and terrorism, as well the impact participation in sports has on delinquency. Email: | |
Mary is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program. She earned a B.A. in Sociology and Criminology from Albright College and an M.S. in Criminal Justice from Buffalo State College. Her research interests include innovative policing methods, intimate partner violence, and prostitution. Email:
| |
| Amir is a Ph.D. student and Teaching Assistant here at FIU. He earned his M.A. in Human Rights and Multi-Level Governance from the University of Padua, an LL.M. in Criminal Law and Criminology from the Islamic Azad University Science & Research Branch, and an LL.B. degree from Payame Noor University. Amir's research interests include terrorism, radicalization, environmental criminology, transnational crimes, as well as policies related to human rights and the death penalty. Email: | |
| Giselle is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program at Florida International University. She holds an A.A. in a Criminal Justice Pathway from MDC and a B.A. in Psychology with Minors in Forensic Studies and Honors from Nova Southeastern University. She worked as a Crime Scene Technician for approximately two years at the Hialeah Police Department. Her current research interests include murder-suicides, intimate partner violence, homicides, and racial profiling. Email: | |
| Chelsea is currently a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Florida International University, a M.S. in Forensic Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and a Graduate Certificate in Crime Analysis from the University of Central Florida. Her research interests include sentencing, jury selection, restorative justice, cybercrime, and crime and the media. Email: | |
| Dylan is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. He holds a B.A. in Psychology, a B.S. in Criminal Justice, a M.S. in Criminal Justice, and a Master in Public Administration. He previously worked as a graduate research assistant on the Data-Informed Prosecution Project and served as an inaugural UGS Writing Fellow. His research interests include drug-related crimes and prevention, prosecution, and law enforcement applications of geographic information systems. Email: | |
| Patrick is a Ph.D. student at FIU and is currently serving as a Teaching Assistant. He has a B.S. degree in Criminal Justice and a M.S. degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Florida Atlantic University (FAU). His areas of interest include corrections, human trafficking, the effects of traditional bullying and cyberbullying on Haitian immigrants, and the effects of predatory/forced marriage on undocumented Haitians. Email: | |
| Rashid is a Ph.D. student and Teaching Assistant here at FIU. He comes to FIU with over 15 years of civil and criminal courtroom experience within the Judiciary of Bangladesh. He holds his LL.M. in Dispute Resolution from the University of Missouri School of Law, as well as a Master of Governance Studies, LL.M., and LL.B. degrees from the University of Dhaka. Rashid's research interests include access to justice, transnational crime, and forensic evidence. Email: | |
| Jessica is a Ph.D. student here at FIU. She earned her B.A. in Psychology at Florida Gulf Coast University and her M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Florida State University. Her areas of interest include corrections, programming and rehabilitation, and community reentry. Her current research focuses on the role of prison visitation for older individuals who are incarcerated. Email: | |
| Rafael is a Ph.D. student and also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer with us at FIU. He holds a M.S. in Criminal Justice and a M.S. in Public Administration degree, both from FIU, as well as a B.S. in Organizational Leadership from St. Thomas University. Rafael is a Police Lieutenant, managing the Robbery Bureau's Special Investigations Section within Miami-Dade Police Department, where he's served for over 27 years. His research interests include the impact of community-oriented policing programs, transnational crime, and innovative policing policies. Email: | |
| Rachel is a Ph.D. student in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Eastern Washington University, where she was a McNair Scholar. Her research interests include judicial proceedings and treatment of defendants and offenders within the criminal justice system. Rachel currently works as a graduate research assistant in the Center for the Administration of Justice. Email: | |
| Troy is currently a Ph.D. student and Teaching Assistant in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. He holds an M.S. in Applied Intelligence from Mercyhurst University and a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Lock Haven University. His current research interests include juvenile delinquency, victimology, gender inequalities, crime prevention, and racial biases. Email: | |
| Gaby is a Ph.D. student and Teaching Assistant in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. She holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Trinity International University, as well as a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Florida International University. Gaby's research interests include addressing mental health concerns within criminal justice systems, the role of mental disorders on criminal behaviors, and domestic violence within immigrant communities. Email: |
University of South Florida
Department of Criminology
College of Behavioral and Community Sciences
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Ma in criminal justice, is the online master’s in criminal justice program offered from the sarasota-manatee campus right for you.
The Master’s in Criminal Justice (MACJ) program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in a criminal justice field or already working in a criminal justice or related agency. Students in the MACJ program are motivated to make a difference in the field and become leaders in their chosen profession. The program provides an opportunity for students to explore and gain a deeper understanding of current issues facing the criminal justice system and the impact they have on the larger society. In addition, students gain critical thinking and decision-making skills that enable them to make significant contributions to solving vital social problems.
The MACJ program offered from the Sarasota-Manatee campus focuses on contemporary issues in criminal justice management and the current challenges facing the field. As a graduate degree, it allows students to apply principles, theories and research in the field of criminal justice to “real world” issues affecting the criminal justice system. Students also have opportunities to work with faculty members on research projects and other professional activities that assist with networking and building career-related connections. The MACJ degree is offered entirely online to afford convenience and flexibility, which is a good option for working adults.
Criminology is a fascinating field leading to a variety of career paths, and the MACJ degree enables students to explore the reality behind media headlines and develop work-related skills that offer more opportunities for advancement in their respective careers.
Criminal Justice Administration Concentration
This concentration is tailored to empower professionals with advanced knowledge and expertise in managing and leading within the criminal justice system. In the realm of criminal justice administration, effective leadership, strategic decision-making, and adept management are paramount for ensuring the efficient and ethical operation of agencies and organizations. Our comprehensive curriculum is meticulously designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by criminal justice administrators and to equip them with the skills necessary to navigate complex organizational dynamics and drive positive change.
Please refer to the catalog for admissions requirements and specific program information.
Jessica Grosholz, Ph.D. MACJ Program Director University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Department of Criminology, C250 8350 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243 Send Email
Criminal Justice (MS)
Program at a glance.
- In State Tuition
- Out of State Tuition
Learn more about the cost to attend UCF.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice is designed to meet the needs of students preparing for careers in the field of criminal justice. The curriculum focuses on the traditional issues such as management, administrative and criminal justice theory, as well as basic research methods and descriptive statistics.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice core and elective courses focus on the complex and changing world in which criminal justice systems operate in this country and abroad. This plan of study is designed to equip future criminal justice leaders to be critical consumers of criminal justice research.
The benefits of an advanced graduate degree in criminal justice are self-evident and are being increasingly recognized by employers in central Florida and throughout the United States. Federal, state, and local criminal justice agencies benefit from an informed and innovative workforce that is aware of the complex issues and problems faced by the system regardless of geographic locale. Furthermore, graduates of the program are grounded in the latest theories and learn how these theories affect each individual or organization within the system.
International applicants should be aware the program may not offer sufficient on-campus courses for F or J visa holders. Please contact the program for more information before applying.
The Criminal Justice MS program currently offers limited face-to-face courses. The program is offered primarily online. Contact the program for additional information.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice requires 36 credit hours, including 21 credit hours of core courses, 6 credit hours of restricted electives, and 9 credit hours of general electives. For students electing to complete a thesis, 6 credit hours of the general elective requirements will be thesis hours.
Total Credit Hours Required: 36 Credit Hours Minimum beyond the Bachelor's Degree
Please note: Criminal Justice (MS) may be completed fully online , although not all elective options may be offered online. Newly admitted students choosing to complete this program exclusively via UCF online classes may enroll with a reduction in campus-based fees.
International students (F or J visa) are required to enroll in a full-time course load of 9 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters. Only 3 of the 9 credit hours may be taken in a completely online format. International applicants should be aware the program may not offer sufficient on-campus courses for F or J visa holders. Please contact the program for more information before applying. For a detailed listing of enrollment requirements for international students, please visit UCF Global . If you have questions, please consult UCF Global at (407) 823-2337.
UCF is not authorized to provide online courses or instruction to students in some states. Refer to State Restrictions for current information.
Program Tracks/Options
- Public Administration Dual Degree
Application Deadlines
- International
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Degree Requirements
- CCJ5015 - The Nature of Crime (3)
- CCJ5456 - The Administration of Justice (3)
- CCJ6704 - Research Methods in Criminal Justice (3)
- CCJ6706 - Data Analysis in Criminal Justice I (3)
- CCJ6106 - Policy Analysis in Criminal Justice (3)
- CCJ6118 - Criminal Justice Organizations (3)
- CJE6718 - Proseminar in Criminal Justice (3)
- The combined total of Restricted and Unrestricted 5000 level electives may not exceed 12 credit hours.
- CJC5020 - Foundations of Corrections (3)
- CJE5021 - Foundations of Law Enforcement (3)
- CJJ6020 - The Juvenile Justice System (3)
- CJL6568 - Law and Social Control (3)
- CJL6520 - American Criminal Courts (3)
Unrestricted
- Earn at least 9 credits from the following types of courses: Additional Elective Coursework Students should consult with the Criminal Justice adviser for approval of general electives outside of the Criminal Justice program prior to enrolling. Criminal Justice courses at the 5000 or 6000 level, not used toward core or restricted electives, are pre-approved general electives.
Grand Total Credits: 36
Application requirements, financial information.
Graduate students may receive financial assistance through fellowships, assistantships, tuition support, or loans. For more information, see the College of Graduate Studies Funding website, which describes the types of financial assistance available at UCF and provides general guidance in planning your graduate finances. The Financial Information section of the Graduate Catalog is another key resource.
Fellowship Information
Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit to highly qualified students. They are paid to students through the Office of Student Financial Assistance, based on instructions provided by the College of Graduate Studies. Fellowships are given to support a student's graduate study and do not have a work obligation. For more information, see UCF Graduate Fellowships, which includes descriptions of university fellowships and what you should do to be considered for a fellowship.
Students must achieve a grade of a solid "B" (3.0) or higher in every course listed under core requirements and in the capstone course CJE 6718.
Thesis Option: 6 Credit Hours of the general elective requirements may be thesis hours
All MSCJ students are automatically placed into the nonthesis option. Students electing to complete a thesis should consult the program adviser. The thesis option will consist of 6 hours of thesis credit and a successful defense of the research. Students should select a faculty adviser, form a thesis committee, and complete core/restricted elective requirements before enrolling in thesis hours. A thesis proposal must also be submitted to an approved committee before enrolling thesis hours. Students who elect to write a thesis should become familiar with the university's requirements and deadlines for organizing and submitting the thesis.
Independent Learning
Independent learning is demonstrated throughout the curriculum through the process of inquiry and dialogue. Tangible projects such as advanced research projects, scholarly papers, internships, practicum, and presentations at professional conferences also contribute to the self-development of our students. The culminating experience for students is completion of the CJE 6718 - Proseminar in Criminal Justice, which serves as the capstone for the program.
University of Florida
Criminology
CCJ 5934 Contemporary Issues in Criminology and Law 3 Credits, Max 12 Credits
Grading Scheme: Letter Grade
Policy, theory, and research issues in crime, criminal justice, and law.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 5934
CCJ 6285 Criminal Justice Process 3 Credits
Police, courts, and the correction system.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6285
CCJ 6619 Crime and the Life Course 3 Credits
Intensive examination of crime and the life course. How criminal activity is patterned over time.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6619
CCJ 6705 Research Methods in Crime, Law, and Justice 3 Credits
Research issues (qualitative, quantitative, and historical) associated with crime, law, and justice, including skills to become consumers and producers of research.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6705
CCJ 6712 Study Design and Evaluation Research 3 Credits
Provides skills for evaluating criminology and criminal justice programs.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6712
CCJ 6905 Independent Study 1-3 Credits, Max 6 Credits
Reading or research areas in criminology, law, and society. Topics not available in current courses.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6905
CCJ 6910 Supervised Research 1-3 Credits, Max 3 Credits
Grading Scheme: S/U
Supervised Research
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6910
CCJ 6916 Applied CJ Research Project 1-12 Credits, Max 15 Credits
Supervised individual or team applied research project.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6916
CCJ 6920 Seminar in Criminological Theory 3 Credits
Classic and contemporary explanations of criminal activity.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6920
CCJ 6936 Proseminar in Crime, Law, and Justice 3 Credits
Interdisciplinary examination of the relationship between legal and social orders. Focuses on various functions of law, different forms of legal thought, development of law, and the impact of law/sanctions on society.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6936
CCJ 6971 Research for Master's Thesis 1-9 Credits
Research for Master's Thesis
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 6971
CCJ 7742 Research Methods in Crime, Law, and Justice II 3 Credits
Quantitative and qualitative methods.
Prerequisite: CCJ 6705 .
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 7742
CCJ 7921 Professional Development in Criminology, Law, and Society 3 Credits
Professional aspects of research, teaching, and service activities in the areas of crime, justice, law, and society.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 7921
CCJ 7979 Advanced Research 1-12 Credits
Research for doctoral students before admission to candidacy. Designed for students with a master's degree in the field of study or for students who have been accepted for a doctoral program. Not appropriate for students who have been admitted to candidacy.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 7979
CCJ 7980 Research for Doctoral Dissertation 1-15 Credits
Research for Doctoral Dissertation
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CCJ 7980
CJJ 6020 Juvenile Justice 3 Credits
Introduces students to important topics related to the juvenile crime and juvenile justice. Discusses factors related to juvenile crime and societal responses to them. Discusses both classical and current research as well as policy and practice.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CJJ 6020
CJL 6039 Law and Society 3 Credits
Interdisciplinary examination of relationship between legal and social orders. Focuses on various functions of law, different forms of legal thought, development of law, and the impact of law/sanctions on society.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CJL 6039
CJL 6090 Law and Social Science 3 Credits
The interface between law and knowledge from various social scientific disciplines, including psychology, sociology, history, and anthropology.
Catalog Program Pages Referencing CJL 6090
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Criminal Justice
When you major in criminal justice at Iowa State University, some of the nation’s leading scholars in the field will provide you with the foundation to positively impact the criminal justice system. You will study the issues affecting the juvenile and criminal justice systems, and you will learn how to apply theories about crime, victimization, and criminal justice to real-world scenarios.
Degrees Offered:
Learning Goals
Students in the criminal justice program will learn about the components of the juvenile and criminal justice systems, become acquainted with the issues affecting these systems, apply theoretical concepts to real-world phenomena, interface with criminal justice and social service providers, and plan an academic and/or applied career in criminal justice.
Admission Requirements
Graduate College Requirements:
- 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Academic Records/Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
- Proof of English Proficiency.
GRADUATE MINORS
Minors are available in many disciplinary and interdepartmental graduate programs. Some programs offer only a minor. In other programs, students may declare either a major or a minor. Programs offering a major are not required to offer a minor. A student may not major and minor in the same discipline for a single degree or across multiple degrees. To illustrate, a student earning a Ph.D. in computer science may not minor in statistics for their Ph.D. program if they are also pursuing an MS in statistics.
Application Requirements
Application Deadlines:
Application Details:
This program is open to domestic and international students.
Application Instructions
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15 Careers with a Master’s in Criminal Justice to Consider
July 10th, 2024 by JWU
Solving crimes and prosecuting criminals can seem like an exciting career path, but there is much more to the criminal justice system than these roles alone. Many professionals work in leadership, in the courts, and in the community to help keep people safe. For some, training beyond a bachelor’s degree is helpful to launching their careers.
A master’s degree in criminal justice and relevant career experience can be the keys to several exciting career paths. From working as a supervisor in a jail to teaching within the criminal justice realm, earning your advanced degree can give you an advantage and a career advancement opportunity. If you have a passion for criminology but a degree in something else, a master’s degree program may give you the chance to add criminal justice training to your resume, although keep in mind that for many of these roles experience is a must. Here is a closer look at some of the career paths that are open to you when you have a criminal justice master’s degree.
IS A CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE WORTH IT?
The decision to pursue a criminal justice degree is significant, and its worth depends on your goals and interests. A degree in criminal justice can open doors to various career paths within law enforcement, corrections, legal fields, and more. It equips you with valuable insights into the criminal justice system and societal dynamics. However, weighing factors such as job availability, salary potential, and personal passion for the field is essential. With the correct alignment of aspirations and opportunities, a criminal justice degree can certainly be worth the investment, offering a chance to contribute to justice and public safety while building a fulfilling career.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MASTER’S IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE?
Earning a master’s in criminal justice opens the door to a wide array of rewarding opportunities within the criminal justice career landscape. This advanced degree equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in leadership roles and criminal justice specialties. From law enforcement and corrections to legal advocacy and policy analysis, even the FBI, the possibilities are diverse. You can pursue roles as a criminal investigator, intelligence analyst, probation/parole/corrections officer, or even move into academia or research. With a master’s in criminal justice, you gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of the justice system, enabling you to make meaningful contributions to the field and advance into influential leadership positions. Here is a closer look at eight specific careers that an advanced criminal justice degree can make possible.
1. Director of Court Services
The director of court services plans and implements court programs and services in a county. This person must possess a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system, be able to manage records and keep cases flowing, and offer help with public relations. It is a job that requires good organizational skills and the ability to work with people in the daily court routine. However, this professional does not work directly with criminals or in the jail or police precinct, but rather supervises the actions within the court system.
The Director of Court Services typically works for the county court system, but the federal government also employs these professionals. The salary range for a Director Of Court Services is usually between $62,512 and $133,041 per year, with the average at $113,693. This is a high-paying field, and every court system in the country needs to have one of these professionals.
2. Postsecondary Teacher
If you are passionate about criminal justice and want to pass along that passion to the next generation, then working as a postsecondary teacher could help you do just that. Most colleges and universities require their professors to have a master’s degree and some experience in their career field before they can teach, and thus a criminal justice master’s degree opens that door. With the right graduate degree, you can take a role in training the next generation of police officers and detectives, so they can start their own careers in criminal justice.
In this role, you will teach students about the criminal justice system and how an understanding of criminal behavior helps them solve crimes. The BLS estimates the median annual salary for a post-secondary teacher to be $ 84,380 a year . This varies tremendously from one school to the next, and teachers with more seniority, industry experience, and secondary education earn more.
3. Fraud Investigators
Fraud investigators are a specialized type of detective who digs into cases of fraud. These detectives work with criminal justice departments to determine whether an organization or an individual is guilty of fraud. Fraud is defined as deception with the goal of realizing a financial benefit. On-the-job training and a master’s degree could give a student the right foundation to do this type of in-depth research, analyzing and researching records to find cases of fraud.
According to PayScale.com, the average salary for a fraud investigator is $68,319 a year . Experienced investigators can earn over $76,000.
4. Security Management
Security managers oversee a team of security guards within a facility. This is a more hands-on career rather than an administrative one so experience is key, but it is still a position of leadership. The security manager will be the person who connects the security professionals to the other departments within the business or organization to ensure that all people and assets are properly protected. These professionals must understand law enforcement and security matters to head their teams effectively.
According to data from Salary.com, this is a high-paying position. The median salary for security managers is $109,915 .
5. Forensic Examiner
Forensic examiners are detectives who work with criminal justice professionals to seize evidence and analyze it to help solve crimes. They may work in crime scenes to collect evidence, or they may work in a lab analyzing the evidence. These professionals need good analytical skills and an understanding of science to excel in their work. An undergraduate degree in science and a master’s degree in criminal justice paired with career experience set a good foundation for this career field.
Forensic examiners are in high demand. The BLS estimates a 13% job growth in this field from 2022 to 2032. The average salary in 2023 was $64,940.
6. Criminologist
Sociologists are experts in human behavior. They understand psychology and relationships and use that understanding to analyze the actions and reactions of people. A criminologist is a type of sociologist who specifically studies the behavior of criminals. These professionals have a thorough understanding of human psychology, as well as the criminal justice world. They will spend time interviewing suspects and witnesses, taking surveys, and analyzing the data they collect to draw conclusions about crimes and the motivations behind them.
The BLS does not list salary ranges for criminologists, but sociologists have a median annual pay of $101,770 . This field is expected to grow at an average rate of 5% between 2022 and 2032.
7. Police and Detective Supervisor
Police and detectives are leaders in the community, but within the precinct, those law enforcement professionals need supervision as well. As a police and detective supervisor manages the team within a law enforcement office, they perform both administrative and leadership roles. They may work with court personnel and lawyers when a criminal is taken to court. These professionals may be called the police chief, lieutenant, sergeant, or captain, depending on where they work.
The BLS estimates the median annual wage for police and detective supervisors to be $101,750 . The pay ranges significantly from just over $60,000 to over $160,710, depending on location and years of experience.
8. Correctional Officer Supervisor
Keeping a jail running smoothly requires organization and leadership. A correctional officer supervisor works with correctional officers and jailers in a leadership capacity. These professionals directly supervise the actions of those in charge of prisons and jails. They work to keep the facility in order and encourage proper discipline for inmates and staff alike. These professionals are often the first to respond to emergencies within the jail, such as escape attempts, and are also the ones in charge of directing the work of other correctional officers. When inmates have problems, the correctional officer is the one who will work to resolve those problems.
According to the BLS , the median annual pay for first-line supervisors of correctional officers is $70,530. The majority of these professionals work for the state government.
9. Law Enforcement Officer
A Law Enforcement Officer, commonly known as a police officer, plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety and enforcing laws. They patrol assigned areas, respond to emergencies, and investigate crimes. The average salary for a law enforcement officer in the United States is approximately $51,743 per year . Officers often work in shifts covering all hours, and their duties can be physically and emotionally demanding.
10. Victim Advocate
Victim Advocates provide essential support to victims of crime. They offer guidance through the legal process, emotional support, and help in securing resources. The median annual salary for a victim advocate is around $70,593 . Advocates work closely with law enforcement and legal teams to ensure victims’ rights are upheld.
11. Probation Officer
Probation Officers supervise individuals who have been placed on probation, ensuring they adhere to the terms set by the court. They play a key role in the rehabilitation process by developing treatment plans and connecting probationers with community services. The median salary for a probation officer is $61,800 annually , with job responsibilities including regular check-ins and documentation of progress.
12. Private Detectives and Investigators
Private Detectives and Investigators are the sleuths of the criminal justice world. They conduct thorough investigations into a wide range of issues, including financial, legal, and personal matters. Their work often involves surveillance, interviewing witnesses, and sifting through records to uncover the truth. These professionals are adept at piecing together information from various sources to solve puzzles and provide clients with the answers they need. The BLS reports the median pay for private detectives and investigators as $49,540 per year .
13. Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze policies to evaluate their effectiveness. They play a significant role in shaping policies that impact the criminal justice system. The median total salary for a policy analyst is $102,000 per year , with responsibilities including consulting stakeholders and proposing policy improvements.
14. Cybercrime Investigator
Cybercrime Investigators tackle crimes in the digital realm, such as hacking, identity theft, and online fraud. They use their technical expertise to gather evidence and assist in prosecuting cybercriminals. The average salary for a cybercrime investigator can vary widely based on experience and location, but it is a rapidly growing field due to the increase in cyber threats. The average salary is $50,259 per year .
15. Customs Officer
Customs Officers enforce regulations related to the import and export of goods, ensuring compliance with national laws. They inspect cargo, collect duties, and prevent smuggling. The average annual salary for a customs officer is $62,695 .
What Skills Will I Gain from a Master’s in Criminal Justice Program?
A Master’s in Criminal Justice Program equips students with a comprehensive skill set that includes advanced research capabilities, analytical thinking, effective communication, technical proficiency, and a keen attention to detail. These skills are essential for leadership roles within the criminal justice field and are highly valued by employers.
GET STARTED ON A MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE TODAY
If one of these career paths seems like a good fit for your skills and interests, the right degree paired with experience could catapult you to success. Studying criminology and detective work in a master’s degree program can give you the training you need for a leadership role in the field. JWU College of Professional Studies makes it convenient to earn this degree in a straightforward, online environment that provides flexibility without sacrificing the quality of your education.
Get started by earning your Master of Science – Criminal Justice online or your Master of Public Administration – Criminal Justice from JWU. For more information, complete the Request Info form, call 855-JWU-1881, or email [email protected] .
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Earn your Doctorate, Graduate Program in Criminal Justice (PhD) from UCF's College of Community Innovation and Education in Orlando, FL. Learn about program requirements and tuition.
Doctoral Program Considered the best doctoral program in the country as evidenced by multiple articles in The Journal of Criminal Justice Education, the FSU College of Criminology offers you the opportunity to be part of an intellectual community and learn from the most productive scholars in the country. The Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice trains students to conduct original ...
The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice (DCCJ) offers a Ph.D. in International Crime and Justice (ICJ) onsite and fully online. Considered to be the first and only doctoral program in international crime and justice in the United States, the curriculum offers a rigorous set of courses to equip students to produce original research that generates insights into criminology issues and ...
Gain an in-depth understanding of the justice system and reform it from the inside with a doctoral degree in criminal justice from NSU.
The Ph.D. Degree Program in Criminology, Law and Society (CLS) The doctoral program consists of 90 semester hours of credit beyond the B.A. degree. Students with a Criminology, or closely related M.A. received within the last seven years from an accredited U.S. university may request up to 30 hours credit from their M.A. work toward this total. Those with an M.A. from this department may apply ...
PhD in Criminology These web pages contain materials pertaining to admission and completion of the Ph.D. program in Criminology.
The department offers graduate study in Criminology, Law and Society (CLS) leading to an M.A. degree, a Ph.D. degree, and a joint M.A./J.D. degree. Graduate education typically involves training in both crime and justice and law and society. There are 12 criminologists appointed to the graduate faculty of the CLS program.
The criminal justice doctoral program puts substantive emphasis on core coursework in criminal justice theory and institutions as well as on in-depth concentrations in policing, corrections or juvenile justice. Students in the program complete 57 credit hours. The credit hour breakdown is as follows: For additional information, including ...
For consideration to admission in the doctoral program, applicants must fulfill these requirements: A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. A 3.5 GPA or higher for the final two years of undergraduate study or a 3.5 GPA or higher for all masters coursework*. Most students accepted into our program have GRE scores ...
Earn your Doctorate, Graduate Program in Public Affairs (PhD) - Criminal Justice from UCF's College of Community Innovation and Education in Orlando, FL. Learn about program requirements and tuition.
Criminology, law & Society (PHD) SLO 1 Knowledge Identify, define and describe criminological and law and society theories and criminological and law and society research methods. SLO 3 Professional Behavior Prepare and produce documents professionally and ethically. SLO 4 Professional Behavior Practice the role of the professional criminologist.
Learn About Our Department and Join Our Ranks! PhD in International Crime and Justice The Ph.D. in International Crime and Justice focuses on international areas of study within the criminology and criminal justice field.
Doctoral Degree Requirements. The Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology and Criminal Justice is only granted to students who have demonstrated the following: Mastery of the body of knowledge in criminology and criminal justice. The capacity to do original and independent thinking in the fields of criminology and criminal justice.
Criminal justice PhD programs are interdisciplinary, exploring a wide range of topics in areas such as law enforcement, crime, sanctions, psychology, sociology, public administration and more. Most programs help students to apply a variety of research methods to the study of crime causation, social reaction, and the legal system.
Priscilla Aybar Priscilla is a Ph.D. student and Graduate Research Assistant in the International Crime and Justice Program at FIU. She holds a BA in International Criminal Justice with a double minor in Political Science & Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Strategic Communication from Seton Hall University.
Graduate Programs in Criminal Justice offer students the opportunity to specialize in the criminal justice field that interests them the most. Criminal justice is the system of practices and institutions that are responsible for upholding social control, preventing, and mitigating crimes, and sanctioning violators of the laws in place.
The MACJ program offered from the Sarasota-Manatee campus focuses on contemporary issues in criminal justice management and the current challenges facing the field. As a graduate degree, it allows students to apply principles, theories and research in the field of criminal justice to "real world" issues affecting the criminal justice system. Students also have opportunities to work with ...
The mission of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice is to promote teaching and learning through challenging undergraduate and graduate programs, while instilling students with academic and professional integrity grounded in a solid ethical foundation. The School cultivates student curiosity and critical thinking through fostering ...
Earn your Graduate Program, Master in Criminal Justice (MS) from UCF's College of Community Innovation and Education in Orlando, FL. Learn about program requirements and tuition.
Criminology < University of Florida. Criminology. Home. Graduate Catalog. Graduate Courses A-Z. Criminology. CCJ 5934 Contemporary Issues in Criminology and Law 3 Credits, Max 12 Credits. Grading Scheme: Letter Grade. Policy, theory, and research issues in crime, criminal justice, and law.
For any questions regarding the Master of Science in Criminology & Criminal Justice degree program, please contact Dr. Lincoln Sloas (Graduate Coordinator) at [email protected]. For questions about the application and admission process, please contact Academic Advising at [email protected] or (561) 297-2316. Whether your goal is to become more ...
The graduate program at the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice is the nation's premier institution for inspiring intellect and creativity. Designed by a world-class faculty - many of whom are experts in their field - is a curriculum which produces critical thinkers and leaders. Our graduates are consistently recruited by top universities and advanced criminal justice agencies ...
Learning Goals. Students in the criminal justice program will learn about the components of the juvenile and criminal justice systems, become acquainted with the issues affecting these systems, apply theoretical concepts to real-world phenomena, interface with criminal justice and social service providers, and plan an academic and/or applied career in criminal justice.
The College of Criminology & Criminal Justice leads national and international rankings for academic excellence and reputation, value, faculty productivity, and veteran friendliness. Our Rankings.
Explore the careers available with a master's in criminal justice. Learn more about 15 potential criminal justice occupations available for you with a graduate degree.
A U.S. judge in Florida on Monday dismissed the criminal case accusing Donald Trump of illegally keeping classified documents after leaving office, handing the Republican former president another ...