Advance Into Leadership with a Master's in Criminal Justice

Whether you’re aiming for a command-level role in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, or justice administration, ÐÔÊÓ½ç’s online MA in Criminal Justice prepares you for leadership. Designed for working professionals, this 30-credit program can be completed in under a year with flexible, fully online courses. Learn from experienced practitioners, engage in real-world research, and position yourself for career-defining advancement.

Why This Program Matters

  • Finish in less than 12 months — Fast-track your path to leadership in under a year with our 100% online format.
  • Fully online, 7-week courses — Balance your education with your current professional and personal commitments.
  • Top-3% ranked online CJ program — Join a program recognized for excellence and relevance.
  • Expert faculty with real-world experience — Learn from instructors who have served in law enforcement and correctional leadership roles.
  • Transfer up to 6 credits — Leverage past graduate work and shorten your path.

Modality & Benefits

Get your master's degree in less than 12 months with our 100% online CJ program. Advance your career and upgrade your pay grade with this degree designed for working professionals. 

Start Dates:

January & August

  • Finish in 1 Year
  • 100% Online
  • 7-Week Courses—Fall, Spring & Summer Sessions
  • 30-Hour Program, Transfer Up to 6
  • 20-Hour Weekly Commitment (varies)

Criminal Justice Curriculum

Degree Requirements

Popular Criminal Justice Classes

  • Administration of Organizations in Criminal Justice 
    Learn how to conduct general systems-based analysis of criminal justice organizations.
  • Standard Operating Procedures
    Create a standard operating procedures manual for a criminal justice agency.
  • Leadership Strategies
    Discuss strategies around leadership ethics, communication, and empowerment of personnel.

Next Steps for Your Degree in Criminal Justice

Solidify Your Expertise

Job opportunities in public service and law enforcement are growing, with almost 70,000 job openings expected to occur between 2021 and 2031 (BLS). As many law enforcement positions require bachelor's degrees, a master's in CJ can quickly set you apart for command-level positions. 

Qualify for Top Positions

  • Police Chief or Police Commissioner
  • Warden of Corrections Facilities
  • Director of Statewide Criminal Justice Agencies
  • Federal Law Enforcement Officer
  • Criminologist
  • Attorney General Investigator
  • Consultant and Legislative Liaison for Policy Decisions
  • Forensic Examiner

Our Graduates Have Gone on to Serve:

  • SLED (SC Law Enforcement Division)
  • SC Highway Patrol
  • Connecticut State Police
  • Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Student Experiences

Student Experiences

"I have been promoted as the new Chief of Police for my Department since graduating. This is in large part of me completing the program."

Gregory Allen

Faculty

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