criminal justice phd programs tennessee

PhD in Criminal Justice Programs in Tennessee

As a working criminal justice professional in Tennessee, you may have started to hone your professional goals and interests. With your work experience and prior education, you may have the background needed to think critically about regional and national criminal justice issues. Furthering your education can elevate your knowledge and your professional skills.

If you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and you’re ready to advance your criminal justice career, contact criminal justice PhD programs at the bottom of this page.

What Can I Do With My PhD in Criminal Justice in Tennessee”

Tennessee has taken many significant steps toward improved equality in the criminal justice system. State legislators have passed a law that makes it easy for the court system to wipe the records of people who have been arrested but who were never convicted ( Times Free Press , 2016). This may protect people from having their futures restricted by crimes they did not commit.

However, you may find plenty of work left to do in the area of victims’ rights. Despite Tennessee’s Crime Victims Bill of Rights, independent studies have found numerous examples of victims’ rights being violated ( Tennesseean , 2016).

Anticipated job growth in Tennessee is promising for doctoral-level jobs. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net predicts a 12% boost in job openings for judicial law clerks (2016). During this period, you may see a 6% increase in demand for judges ( O*Net , 2016).

Salaries in this state are fairly close to national averages. Tennessee judicial law clerks have an average income of $ 47,610 per year , compared to $ 109,260 per year for judges ( Bureau of Labor Statistics , 2016 ).

What Will It Take to Earn My Criminal Justice Graduate Degree in Tennessee?

Earning a PhD in criminal justice is a multi-step process. Preparing for this procedure ahead of time can help you make the most of your educational time and build a reputation for yourself while earning a doctoral degree. Criminal justice graduate programs that result in a PhD typically require a total of 70 to 75 credits, which may drop to 40 to 45 credits if you have a Master’s degree.

In the early days of a doctoral degree, you may take core classes that introduce high-level concepts in criminal justice. These courses pave the way for high-level elective courses, internship opportunities, and dissertation research.

Some of the courses you may enroll in as a Criminal Justice doctorate student include:

• Public Policy Statistics
• Criminal Justice Administration
• Criminal Justice Programs and Policies
• Criminological Theory and Causes of Crime
• Organizations and Communities in Criminal Justice
• Intervention Strategies
• Research Methods in Criminal Justice

Many criminal justice schools Tennessee options divide doctoral programs into two portions. Upon completion of your graduate-level courses, you may write a Master’s thesis that demonstrates your ability to complete doctoral work. In the second part of your program, you take advanced courses, go through an internship, and write your dissertation. Internships may take place at government agencies, law offices, and private places of employment.

Typically, there is room in your schedule for elective courses, which permits you to get additional experience in your area of research.

Writing a dissertation begins with the selection of a research topic. You select a doctoral advisor with whom you work to craft a dissertation plan and find sources. Over a period of one to three years, you write your dissertation and perfect it with guidance from your advisor. At the conclusion of your PhD, you defend your dissertation and earn the right to call yourself a PhD graduate.

Through your research, teaching responsibilities, and administrative duties, you may heavily influence criminal justice on a state and federal level. Request information from criminal justice doctorate programs to find out more.

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Sociology & Political Science

Criminology and criminal justice program of study, b.s. in sociology, criminology/criminal justice track.

Criminology and Criminal Justice at Tennessee Tech is part of the Department of Sociology and Political Science (SOC-CRCJ). The concentration allows students to gain an understanding of the making of criminal laws, the breaking of criminal laws, and society’s reaction to the breaking of laws (criminology) and the 3 core areas of the criminal justice system: police, courts, and corrections. Students will also examine criminal procedure as part of the program.

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There are three primary goals for this concentration:

• To provide a professional education within a liberal arts framework and with a sociological foundation
• To endorse an understanding of the relationships between social control, social structure, and the criminal justice system.
• To allow flexibility for career alternatives while providing a core of substantive criminology and criminal just coursework

The study of criminology and criminal justice is offered as a concentration with the sociology major. Students within the concentration learn about sociological theory, research methodology, and data analysis alongside the criminology and criminal justice curriculum. Students will take courses in criminology, policing, corrections, criminal procedure, and youth justice with several other course options including social deviance, crime and media, victimology, cybercrime, violence in the US, white-collar crime, and sexual offenses and offenders, among others. Though not a requirement, many students have taken advantage of opportunities to complete internships with local agencies and state agencies, including Cookeville Police Department and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

To complete the criminology and criminal justice concentration:

In addition to the required core of 27 hours, students will also be required to take:

CJ 2660 Criminology (3hrs) CJ 2700 Introduction to Law Enforcement (3hrs) CJ 2850 Criminal Law & Procedure (3hrs) CJ 3650 Juvenile Delinquency (3hrs) CJ 3610 Adv. Criminal Procedure (3hrs) CJ 4660 Corrections (3hrs) PHIL 1030: Intro. to Phil. (3hrs) POLS 1000 American Government (3hrs) Students will compete an additional 12 hours of elective courses at the upper division level chosen from courses with a sociology, criminal justice, or social work prefix. The SOC/CRCJ major includes 36 upper division hours.

Total hours in the major: 63. Total hours of sociology/SW/CJ courses: 45-54. Total hours required for graduation: 120 (at least 36 hours must be upper division [3000 or 4000 level]).

CRIMINOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE CURRICULUM PLAN

Sociology & Criminal Justice Club

The Sociology and Criminal Justice Club exists to further the academic and career development of any student, that also includes just getting together and having a good time on occasion. We sponsor social activities, guest speakers, field trips, conference trips and much, much more. We also provide a forum in which students can exchange information on courses, job prospects, and the like. To join, contact one of the officers or the faculty advisor ($5 annual fee). 

Faculty Advisor : Dr. Haynes

Alpha Phi Sigma

Alpha Phi Sigma is the national honor society for criminology and criminal justice. The purpose of Alpha Phi Sigma is to honor, promote leadership, and support unity for all National and Locally recognized Criminology and Justice Studies Honor students.

Alpha Phi Sigma was recognized by ACJS as the official Criminal Justice Honor Society in 1976 and was admitted to the Association of College Honor Societies in 1981.

The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences is the largest and most rapidly growing professional organization in the scholarly fields of criminal justice education, research, and policy analysis.  The objective of ACJS have been to promote scholarly and professional activities within the discipline of criminal justice and to aid in the employment and research interests of past, present and future educators and practitioners.

American Society of Criminology

Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences

Southern Criminal Justice Association

Graduate Programs in Criminology and Criminal Justice

University of Tennessee Knoxville

• MA in Sociology with a Criminology Concentration
• PhD in Sociology with a Criminology Concentration

University of Memphis

• MA in Criminal Justice

East Tennessee State University

• MA in Criminal Justice & Criminology (on-campus or online)
• Graduate Certificate in Forensic Document Examination (FDEX)

Middle Tennessee State University

• Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ)

Tennessee State University

Lincoln Memorial University

• MS in Criminal Justice (online)

University of Tennessee Chattanooga

• MS in Criminal Justice

Tennessee Technological University

• Master of Professional Studies, Public Safety Concentration  (not part of the Department of Sociology and Political Science)

Agency Information

Bureau of Justice

U.S. Department of Justice

U.S. Marshal Service

Central Intelligence Agency

Criminology and Criminal Justice Research Resources

https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr

National Crime Victimization Survey

National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C)

National Archive of Criminal Justice Data

Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics

Law Enforcement Resources

The FBI's Home Page

Law Enforcement Links

Officer.com

T.B.I. Home Page

Law Enforcement Careers

Nashville (Metro) Police Department

Corrections Sites

Federal Bureau of Prisons

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Graduate Programs

The Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology is proud to offer three programs for individuals interested in pursuing a graduate degree in the field. The on-campus M.A. is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of crime, its causes, and the operations of the criminal justice system. Courses are offered on our main campus in Johnson City, typically during evening hours. The online M.A. is structured after the on-campus version, but designed to provide practitioners and those interested in entering the field with applied coursework and the ability to complete all requirements via distance learning. Our graduate certificate in Forensic Document Examination (FDEX) is the only program of its type in the country, offering an overview of document examination and handwriting analysis for those seeking academic credentials in the field.

Please explore the links below to learn more about our programs and faculty, or to begin the application process!

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The University of Tennessee Southern

Pulaski, TN

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

The world needs your mind.

The University of Tennessee Southern’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice will set you up for a lifetime of fulfilling and rewarding work. Get hired right away and serve your community for years to come !

No GRE or GMAT is required! Full-time or part-time, you can proceed at your own pace. The program is accessible, affordable, and attainable. We utilize a “live classroom,” so you never have to miss a class because of the commute; class is just a click away! Learn from criminal justice practitioners with extensive backgrounds in the FBI, CIA, TBI, NYPD, and U.S. Military, to name a few. A quality education from seasoned practitioners, The University of Tennessee Southern’s M.S. in C.J. Program is the most affordable in the region and beyond- and can be done online.

Richard Schoeberl, Ph.D., has been a professor in the Criminal Justice Program at The University of Tennessee Southern since 2014 and is the current Criminology Program Chair. He has over 25 years of experience, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). The NCTC is part of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence; the group brings specialists from the CIA, the FBI, and the Department of Defense. He served various positions throughout his career, ranging from Supervisory Special Agent at the FBI’s Washington, D.C. headquarters to acting Unit Chief of the International Terrorism Operations Section at the NCTC’s headquarters in Langley, Virginia. Before his managerial duties at these organizations, he worked as a Special Agent investigating violent crime, international terrorism, terrorist financing, cyberterrorism, and organized drugs. He also was assigned numerous collateral duties during his FBI tour, including as a certified instructor and a member of the agency’s SWAT program. In addition to the FBI and NCTC, he is the author of numerous articles on terrorism and security. He has served as a media contributor for Fox News, CNN, PBS, NPR, Al-Jazeera Television, Al Arabiva Television, Al Hurra, and Sky News in Europe. Additionally, he works with the international non-profit organization Hope for Justice, combatting Human Trafficking. 

Daniel Scherr,  Ph.D., is a Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. He joined the program in the fall of the 2016 school year and teaches introductory and upper-level courses. Scherr also works as an Adjunct Professor at Western International University, teaching International Business and Public Policy courses for their online Masters programs. Scherr began his career with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language and Literature from North Carolina State University. After graduation, he entered the U.S. Army as a Second Lieutenant in the Artillery. He primarily served at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and left as a Captain after spending time in command, operations, and multiple other functions. After the military, Scherr worked as a CSX Transportation, transportation officer at numerous Eastern United States locations and completed his Master’s in Business Administration at American Military University. Scherr is a Ph.D. candidate (ABD) in Public Policy Administration with a Concentration in Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace at Walden University. His dissertation is on Cybersecurity at the State and Local levels, including policies and preparedness measures. His research interests include Cybersecurity, Terrorism, School Violence, Transportation Policy, Education Reform, and wicked problems.

Jonathan A. Dudek, Ph.D. , is an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern and a forensic psychologist with a national security and law enforcement background. He maintains an international consulting practice assisting developing countries, corporations, and other public and private sector entities with business and program development; human capital and systems-based risk management, risk mitigation, and problem-solving; identifying strategic opportunities; and forensic and investigative consultation. Dr. Dudek completed his Postdoctoral Fellowship in Forensic Psychology, Law, and Psychiatry Program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, his Ph.D. at the Drexel University in Pennsylvania, and his undergraduate in Clinical Psychology at Harvard Medical School. He served in the FBI’s Profile Division and later at the DEA.

Tina Jaeckle, Ph.D., is an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, in Criminology and Sociology in 1990 and completed a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Houston in 1995. She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida for approximately 18 years. Dr. Jaeckle also completed a second Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a specialty track in the Behavioral Sciences from Nova Southeastern University. In 2007, she completed a Ph.D. in the Humanities and Social Sciences with a major in Conflict Analysis and Resolution (specialty in conflict and crisis management) from the same institution. Dr. Jaeckle is an Assistant Social and Behavioral Sciences Professor at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. She is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family and Dependency Mediator and a Primary Trainer and Substantive Expert in family dynamics, domestic violence, child abuse, and effectively managing crisis issues within high-conflict families. Dr. Jaeckle is board certified in emergency crisis response and bereavement trauma through the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and holds Diplomate status with the same organization. Additionally, Dr. Jaeckle is a member of the American Red Cross Mental Health Crisis Team; serves as the mental health training consultant for the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Department and crisis hostage/negotiation unit and crisis intervention team; is a visiting professor at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia; serves as the chair of the crisis intervention section of the Association for Conflict Resolution; and is an active member of the FBI’s Future’s Working Group and the Homicide Research Working Group. She completed her dissertation research on the trauma and cultural representations of conflict and crisis among the Sudanese Dinka political refugees who have resettled in Jacksonville, Florida.

Anthony L. Clark , J.D. is an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. He is currently a Municipal Judge and practicing attorney, bringing over 20 years of experience to the department in criminal law, having represented clients in both Federal and State Courts. He has wide-ranging experience from the United States Military, where he served abroad with the U.S. Marine Corps and recently retired from the Tennessee Army National Guard. Furthermore, he offers a vast law enforcement background, having served as a police officer, detective, chief deputy, and Special Agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Clark graduated from Austin Peay State University and holds a Juris Doctorate from Nashville School of Law.

G. Dayton Cheatham , J.D. is an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. He has a B.A. in Philosophy from Washington College and holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Minnesota, where he graduated cum laude. During law school, he volunteered for the Asylum Law Project, assisting immigrants in El Paso, TX. He is a Research Assistant at Greensboro College’s James Addison Jones Library and a Compliance Researcher at The University of Tennessee Southern.

Richard Hannah Dunavant, J.D. is an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. Richard is a practicing attorney, bringing almost 40 years of experience to the department in criminal law, having practiced in both Federal and State Courts. He has wide-ranging expertise gleaned from his positions as a County Attorney, Assistant Public Defender, Deputy District Attorney, Assistant Tennessee Attorney General, and City Judge. He received his J.D., cum laude, from Cumberland School of Law, his B.A. from Samford University, and The University of the South (Sewanee).

Stephanie Macumber is an adjunct professor in the undergraduate and graduate Criminal Justice Program at UT Southern.  Macumber graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Loyola Marymount University and earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Pacific’s McGeorge School of Law in 1999.  She has an extensive legal background including as a paralegal for an international law firm, as a judicial assistant for various judges in several California jurisdictions, and as a Deputy District Attorney in Napa and Placer Counties in California.  While a prosecutor, Macumber conducted over 100 jury trials involving many types of criminal conduct, including homicides, sexual assaults, narcotic offenses, criminal street gang violence, robberies, burglaries and fraud, human trafficking, and others.  Macumber spent the last several years of her career as the attorney assigned to an elite law enforcement unit in Northern California consisting of agents, investigators and officers from various federal, state and local agencies focused on complex cases involving major narcotics offenses and human trafficking operations, and often worked with U.S. Attorney’s Offices in investigating and prosecuting cases involving joint state-federal jurisdiction.  Macumber, who relocated to the South in early 2022, has also served as a mentor and judge for moot court competitions and has often taught and presented case studies to law enforcement at trainings and for police academy courses.  

Anthony (Tony) Mottola, Ph.D.,  is a Professor of Criminal Justice at The University of Tennessee Southern. He has over 35 years of law enforcement and security experience, including the New York City Police Department and the United States Air Force. He retired as a sergeant detective (SDS) after 25 years as a member of NYPD. He served as executive officer for the NYPD Intelligence Bureau’s Strategic Unit, a covert counterterrorism initiative, and director of the Domestic Liaison Program. He represented the Intelligence Bureau in numerous investigations, including the Boston Bombing, civil unrest, mass shootings, and large-scale incidents outside New York City. During his tenure with the NYPD, he worked additional assignments in Counter Terrorism, Gang Intelligence, Detective Bureau, Task Force, Street Narcotics Enforcement Unit, anti-gang/graffiti units, and patrol. He was a first responder/search leader for recovery efforts and supervisor of security details in the immediate aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks. He holds a doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s degree from Marist College. He also co-authored and published the book, “Graffiti,” to assist law enforcement in gang investigations and deciphering graffiti.

Semester 1 Fall (Sept 8 – Dec 17) MW 5:30-8:15 and MW 8:30-9:55

• CJ 501 (CJ Today) Sept 8 – Oct 26
• CJ 502 (Nature of Crime & Criminology) Oct 29-Dec 17
• CJ503 (Criminal Law and Procedure) Sept 8 – Dec 17

Semester 2 Spring (TBA)

• CJ 511 (Globalization of Crime)
• CJ 550 (Current Issues in Homeland Security) / BUS 503 (1), Bus 510 (3)
• CJ 510 (Applied Research in Criminal Justice)

Semester 3 Summer (TBA)

• CJ 512 (Delinquency Identification and Prevention)
• CJ 551 (Terrorism: Legislation and Policy)
• CJ 552 (Trends in Terrorism and Radicalization) / BUS 501 (1), BUS 532 (3)

Semester 4 Fall (TBA)

• CJ 521 (Capstone) CJ 522 (Drugs, Crime, and Criminal Justice Policy) / BUS
• CJ 520 (Applied Research Project)

This course presents an advanced overview of the organization and operation of the criminal justice system in the United States. The course reviews the purpose and function of the system in apprehending offenders, the prosecution of offenders, and the punishment of offenders. Other crucial criminal justice issues, such as theories of criminal behavior, measurement of crime and assessment of crime statistics, trends in criminal behavior, management of criminal behavior in the United States, and special topics such as juvenile delinquency, comparative criminology, technology and crime, and terrorism are also covered. (3 credit hours)

Students in this course are introduced to contemporary views and theories of maladaptive and criminal behavior. They examine a broad conceptualization of criminal behavior from an interdisciplinary perspective, theories, and applications of criminal profiling. Students also explore specific views of criminal behavior germane to groups such as psychopaths, serial offenders, and sexually violent predators. At the end of this course, students will understand the theories and practices that are the foundations of the field of criminology. (3 credit hours)

In this course, current critical issues in criminal law and procedure are addressed. Emphasis is placed on the significance of recent judicial decisions to criminal law and practice. The principles of criminal law and practice are examined, including the general principles of substantive criminal law, due process requirements, punishments, criminal responsibility, and procedural requirements for the judicial processing of criminal offenders. (3 credit hours)

This course will introduce you to applied research within the profession, which encourages the adoption of the role of a reflective practitioner who seeks to understand and change the professional setting simultaneously. It will provide you with the skills needed to design and conduct ethical research studies on topics relevant to applied criminal justice settings. To accomplish these objectives, you will examine: the applied research process, the connection between theory and research, research ethics, the development of research literature reviews, sampling procedures, techniques for selecting and using appropriate data collection tools, steps for improving the validity and reliability of research, and the analysis of data. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

International crimes and organized crime. Trafficking in women, children, and body parts. Problems that are related and transcend national boundaries, such as firearm violence, money laundering, and corruption. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

Historical overview. Theories and methodologies. Models and organization of delinquency prevention and control programs. Law and public policy. Program evaluation. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

Students experience the art and science of applied research while they develop the tools of reflective inquiry and collaborative practice. Students will engage in analysis of current issues and challenges to explore and practice applied research methods as a logical extension of professional practice. Integral to this process is examining informal and systematic ways to ask and answer questions. Students will conduct their own applied research projects. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

Ethical behavior is an essential element of leadership. In this course, students examine the philosophy of ethics, responsibility, and social justice- the basic tenets of public service. Through a combination of seminal texts and contemporary case studies, students explore the complex social, political, and ethical challenges leaders face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse constituents. Course topics focus on ethics and social justice involving economic disparity, political power, and social privilege. Students analyze current social trends related to a global community’s ethical and social justice issues. Throughout the course, students assess emerging or persistent ethical and social justice issues and make recommendations for resolving specific dilemmas. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

This course examines the social construction of substances and substance abuse and the history of policies concerning licit and illicit drug use, with a particular focus on criminal justice responses, treatment, and recovery. (3 credit hours, prerequisite: CJ 501, 502, 503)

Since its inception, the Department of Homeland Security has profoundly impacted public policy and administration. Students in this course examine homeland security history, concepts, policies, strategies of prevention, and response. Topics include ethical issues, telecommunications, technology, threat assessment, contingency planning, and risk management. Students apply fundamental concepts and principles of homeland security to case studies and current issues. (3 credit hours)

The September 11, 2001, events resulted in a new and intense focus on the issue of terrorism in the United States and abroad. Through traditional literature and a wealth of contemporary journal articles and media sources, students explore the history of terrorism, the evolution and international context of terrorist groups, and the causes and motivations for terrorist acts. They learn about the laws, regulations, and legislation related to terrorism. They also analyze possible future trends in terrorism and the current role of the media, governmental agencies, and entities in the prevention of and response to terrorism. Students use concepts presented in the course and additional research to develop a proposal to change and improve an existing counterterrorism policy. (3 credit hours)

Origins, history, and mutable definitions of terrorism. Ideologies, organizational features, and state responses. Influential contemporary and historical terrorist movements. Force multipliers and media. (3 credit hours)

The Negotiations course utilizes the Interest-Based Negotiations framework in the contexts of both distributive and integrative negotiating situations. Students learn fundamental concepts such as BATNA, ZOPA, and creating value through trades, and develop effective negotiating processes from planning to table tactics. (1 credit hour)

The Supervision course focuses on the skills needed for effective management of direct report personnel, regardless of their level in the corporation. The course covers goal setting and coaching, motivating, resolving interpersonal conflict, dealing with difficult employees, and dealing with diversity. (1 credit hour)

This course aims to help students develop essential leadership and interpersonal skills. Required skills include:

• Self-awareness about preferred leadership styles.
• Influencing others.
• Negotiating and managing conflict.
• Understanding authentic and ethical leadership.
• Understanding how to delegate effectively.

This course prepares current and future managers to be effective leaders by helping them develop practical interpersonal skills. (1 credit hour)

This course studies interpersonal and group dynamics in an organizational context. Topics include team and workgroup development, motivation, interpersonal influence, organizational processes, design, change, and innovation. (3 credit hours)

This course examines the planning, recruitment, selection, training, motivation, retention, and supervision of persons expected to fill specialized positions in service organizations. Issues include legal and regulatory issues, job qualifications, job descriptions, job benefits, group development and performance, organizational culture, and external influences. (3 credit hours)

• Complete graduate application form.
• Letter of intent explaining the reasons the applicant wants to enter the MSCJ program. The applicant should discuss their work experience, aspirations, and support systems that will contribute to successfully completing the MSCJ program. Official transcripts for ALL previous undergraduate and graduate course work sent directly from the granting institution to the Office of Academic Affairs at UT Southern.
• Transcripts issued outside the United States must be evaluated and translated by the World Education Services at  http://wes.org . Or another accepted organization.
• Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution and MUST have a 3.0-grade point average or a 3.0 grade point average in the last 30 hours of 300/400 level courses.
• one from a faculty member at a baccalaureate or higher institution
• one from a manager or colleague
• an additional letter of recommendation from a faculty member or colleague
• Applicant must complete an interview with the MSCJ Admissions Committee, consisting of the MSCJ Director and other full-time faculty in the MSCJ program. The applicant will be contacted to schedule this interview.

Have questions? Ready to begin your journey now? Click on the buttons below.

University of Tennessee--Martin

117 Sociology Building, 205 Hurt Street, Martin, TN 38238

#63  in  Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice Programs (tie)

Overall Score 53 /100

Graduate Criminal Justice Program Overview

University of Tennessee--Martin is a public institution where all of the online graduate-level criminal justice classes are recorded and archived so that students can access lecture material at their convenience. The admissions deadline for these programs is rolling.

About the Online Graduate Criminal Justice Degree Program

Content in this section is provided by the school.

All courses in our Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program are delivered online in 5-week sessions. Classes do not overlap, and students can complete up to 3 courses each semester while only doing one at a time, thereby allowing them to focus on individual classes but still complete the degree in just over a year.

2024 Graduate Criminal Justice Program Quick Stats

University of tennessee--martin rankings.

• # 63 in  Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice Programs  (tie)

Best Online Programs Ranking Indicators

See how this program stacks up against 92 others, based on factors used in the U.S. News methodology.

Faculty Credentials and Training rank

Faculty Credentials and Training score

Services and Technologies rank

Services and Technologies score

Engagement rank

Engagement score

Student Excellence rank

Student Excellence score

Expert Opinion score (out of 5)

Other rankings at this school: Colleges , Grad Schools

Graduate Criminal Justice Program Data

Applying to university of tennessee--martin, application (fall 2024).

Application deadline (U.S. residents)

Application deadline (international students)

Notification of admissions

Data appear as submitted by school

Students are notified of decisions as soon as the graduate committee can meet and render a decision.

Same admissions standards are used for all online programs

Sometimes denies admittance to qualified applicants

Admits applicants living abroad

Admissions & Enrollment

New entrants

Acceptance rate

Average undergraduate GPA

Entrants providing undergraduate GPA

Average GRE score breakdown

• 143 quantitative
• 3 analytical writing

Entrants providing GRE scores

Requirements

Application essay required

Standardized test policy

GRE not used in admissions

Letters of recommendation

Letters of recommendation from professional contacts

Criminal justice-related work experience requirement

Criminal justice-related undergraduate degree requirement

Criminal justice-related undergraduate course work requirement

TOEFL required for international students

Minimum TOEFL score required

Paper N/A, Internet 71

Academic factors

Undergraduate institution

Not Considered

Undergraduate GPA

Very Important

Undergraduate field of study

Recommendation(s)

Standardized test scores

Non-academic factors

Application essay

Work experience

Character/personal qualities

First-generation college student

Alumni/alumnae relations

Geographical residence

Applicant's interest level

Admissions Contacts

Director of admissions

Dr. Joseph Mehlhorn

Admissions phone

Admissions email

Program website

Admissions website

University of Tennessee--Martin Academics

Distinguishing characteristics.

Graduate program(s)

• Master of Science in Criminal Justice

School type

5-week sessions

Program Offerings

Online master's in criminal justice programs

Concentrations with highest demand

• Criminal justice administration
• Public safety management

Concentrations offered

• Corrections
• Crime scene investigation
• Criminological theory
• Forensic sciences
• Homeland security
• Juvenile delinquency
• Juvenile justice
• Law enforcement
• Leadership, Emergency Management
• Victimology

Course Offerings

Instructional faculty who teach courses accessible online

4 full-time; 3 part-time

100% full-time; 100% part-time

Tenured or tenure-track faculty

Program fully finances faculty training

Required hours of initial training

Formal peer review of instructors

Continuing training required

Faculty gender distribution

Faculty ethnic diversity

Minority Faculty

Black or African American

Average class size

Maximum class size

Class sizes

2-9 students

10-19 students

20-29 students

30-39 students

40-49 students

50-99 students

100+ students

Integration With Campus

Can earn degree entirely abroad

Classes include campus-based students

New student retention rate (2021-2022)

New student retention rate (2020-2021)

New student retention rate (2019-2020)

New student retention rate (2018-2019)

Total program graduates (2022-2023)

Credits needed to graduate

Required time to earn degree

Three-year graduation rate (2022-2023)

Student Body at University of Tennessee--Martin

Composition.

Employed when first enrolling

Minority students

Enrolled students who are veterans or active service members

International students

Average age of new entrants

Student gender distribution

Hispanic/Latino

Two or more races

American Indian or Alaska Native

Race and/or ethnicity unknown

Nonresident aliens

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Criminal Justice Administration

Earn M.C.J. degree online at MTSU. Advance in law enforcement, homeland security, courts, corrections, and more.

Home » Program » Criminal Justice Administration, M.C.J.

Criminal Justice Administration, M.C.J.

A Master of Criminal Justice (M.C.J.) degree can help pave the way for advancement in professional opportunities in law enforcement, homeland security, courts, police administration, correctional management, probation, parole, juvenile justice, drug rehabilitation, private security, or private investigations.

Students can choose either the thesis option or a non-thesis option. MTSU's Master of Criminal Justice degree can be earned entirely online.

Requirements

Information.

News Briefs

Alum works with faith communities to combat addiction

Monty Burks (M.C.J. 2011) directs Faith-Based Initiatives for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS), working to expand addiction recovery support services across the state. Burks has more than 15 years' experience in criminal justice, including working on the faculty of two higher education institutions; as a process server; as one of Tennessee's first project coordinators for Lifeline, a state program to reduce the stigma associated with people who suffer from addiction; and as a coordinator with Middle Tennessee Rural Reentry's jail and prison program, which has earned national recognition. An accomplished and nationally recognized public speaker, Burks is pursuing a Doctorate of Theology. "MTSU was my college of choice because of its rich and diverse culture," he says. "My favorite instructors, Dr. Lance Selva, Dr. William Shulman, and the late Dr. Dennis Powell have left a lasting imprint on my career!"

Gross joins Korean Institute of Criminology

Sarah Gross signed her contract with the Korean Institute of Criminology (KIC) on February 23rd. KIC is one of the seventeen United Nations Programme Network Institutes. She will be working on government grant-sponsored research projects on human trafficking, cybercrime, and other social issues. She will represent KIC at international criminal justice and criminology institutes. She received the opportunity through Amercian Society of Criminology conference through networking. She will be working overseas in Seoul until she is admitted into a criminology Ph.D. program.

Related Media

A Master of Criminal Justice degree allows graduates to pursue advanced opportunities in law enforcement, courts, and corrections at the federal, state, or local level, or with private security or businesses associated with the criminal justice system. M.C.J. holders also may continue studies for careers in higher education or for law degrees. Some occupations for MTSU graduates from this program:

• Chief of police
• Corporate security officer/director
• Court administrator
• Criminal justice professor
• Crisis counselor
• Emergency services director
• Family resource specialist
• Forensic scientist
• Investigator
• Juvenile court judge
• Police officer
• Pre-trial release/pre-trial diversion officer
• Probation officer/director
• Public information officer
• Regulatory board investigator
• Social services district director
• Special agent
• State director of safety/homeland security
• State trooper
• U.S. deputy marshal

Employers of MTSU alumni include

• Blue Ridge Center, Asheville, N.C.
• Cannon County
• City of Atlanta
• Cope, Hudson, Scarlett, Reed, McCreary
• Cumberland University
• Eastern Kentucky University
• Family Voices of Tennessee
• Fillauer & Wilson, P.C., Cleveland, Tenn.
• Forensic Medical
• Gallatin Police Department
• Hendersonville Police Department
• Humphreys County 911
• Keiser University
• La Vergne Police Department
• Litigation Paralegal
• Metro-Nashville Government
• Metro-Nashville Police Department
• Murfreesboro Police Department
• Oasis Center
• Regions Bank
• Rutherford County
• State of Tennessee
• State of West Virginia
• Tennessee Bureau of Investigation
• Tennessee Correction Academy
• Tennessee Department of Human Services
• Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security
• Tennessee Highway Patrol
• Tennessee Parole Board
• U.S. Department of Justice
• U.S. Probation Office (various locations)
• University of South Carolina

Click  here  for more helpful career links.

REQUIREMENTS

Dr. Joshua Harms

Dr. Thomas J. Jurkanin

Dr. Deborah W. Newman

Dr. Robert D. Rogers

William L. Shulman

Dr. Carter F. Smith

Dr. Ben Stickle

Dr. Lee Wade

Dr. Elizabeth Quinn Wright

INFORMATION

A Master of Criminal Justice (M.C.J.) degree can help pave the way for advancement in professional opportunities in law enforcement, homeland security, courts, police administration, correctional management, probation, parole, juvenile justice, drug rehabilitation, and private security or investigations. Master's candidates may choose either the thesis option or a non-thesis option.

Thinking About Getting a Master's Degree? 

If after taking the survey and exploring our website, you find that you have questions about the M.C.J program, feel free to contact Dr. Carter Smith at [email protected] .

If you do not have above 3.0 GPA, but have criminal justice experience since college that would mitigate your grades, please contact Dr. Smith at [email protected] to discuss your readiness for attaining an MCJ Degree.

Take the M.C.J. Readiness Survey

Other programs within our department

• B. S. Criminal Justice
• B.S. Emergency Management and Homeland Security
• B.S. Law Enforcement

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Criminal Justice Online Program

Criminal justice leadership.

Our Criminal Justice Leadership Online Degree Completion program provides non-traditional students the opportunity to complete their bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice fully online, through affordable, flexible classes.

The program is designed to open doors for advancement for adult students by providing the opportunity to learn administration and leadership skills for many law enforcement professions. Concentrations in Administration of Justice and Behavioral Sciences promote current knowledge foundations while supporting upward professional mobility.

Criminal Justice Leadership Online Program Details

Entrance requirements.

To be considered for admission to our online criminal justice leadership degree completion program, a candidate must be at least 23 years of age. Candidates who are younger than 23 years of age but who desire to enroll must meet at least two of the following qualifications, which preclude him/her from being able to enroll in the traditional academic programs (adapted from the National Center for Education Statistics definition of a nontraditional student): 1. delayed enrollment to postsecondary study of at least one calendar year after high school graduation 2. attend college part-time 3. work full-time 4. financially independent for financial aid purposes 5. have dependents other than a spouse

Admissions Process

•Complete TWU application •Submit required transcripts •After acceptance, the Program Director will contact the student to set up one-on-one orientation and advising session

Course Requirements

CORE (30 hours) CJS201 Speech for the Criminal Justice Professional CJS202 Writing for the Criminal Justice Professional CJS211 Intro to Criminal Justice CJS321 Ethics in Criminal Justice CJS331 Criminology CJS342 Multiculturalism & Diversity CJS412 Administration & Management CJS422 Issues in Criminal Justice Leadership CJS431 Constitutional Law & Criminal Process CJS471 Criminal Justice Senior Seminar ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE CONCENTRATION (students choose 15 hours, each course is three hours) CJS333 Corrections in America CJS335 The Juvenile Justice System CJS350 Organizational Theory CJS351 Crime Scene Investigation & Prioritization CJS352 Theory & Practice of Law Enforcement CJS366 Terrorism & Homeland Security CJS375 Drugs & Crime BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE CONCENTRATION (15 hours) PSY101 Introduction to Psychology SOC101 Introduction to Sociology SOC270 Social Research Methods PSY/SOC261 Social Psychology SOC301 Race & Ethnicity

Cliff Couch – Criminal Justice Leadership Program Director [email protected] 423-746-5281

Meet Criminal Justice Leadership Online Program Director Cliff Couch

Cliff is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, and has served as the chief of police in several small towns in Kansas and East Tennessee. He’s a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, the FBI National Academy and Harvard’s Executive Education for State and Local Government program. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree with a double-major in Criminology and Psychology from Florida State University.

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• Criminal Justice Department
• > Master of Science in Criminal Justice (M.C.J.)

Master of Criminal Justice (M.C.J.)

Master of criminal justice at tennessee state university.

The department offers the Master of Criminal Justice degree.   Since it began, students have earned the MCJ degree and scattered across the United States and the world.  Some have pursued even more study and earned doctorate degrees or law degrees.  Many are working in local, state or federal agencies and a few are college professors of Criminal Justice. Structure

The students must complete 36 hours.  Which include five core classes: CRMJ 6000, CRMJ 6010, CRMJ 6020, CRMJ 6030 and CRMJ 6900.  In addition the students are required to choose between the Thesis (CRMJ 6640) and non Theisis option class (CRMJ 6630).  This leave an available 18 hours of electives, 12 of which must be CRMJ and an additional 6 hours of electives that can be outside of the department.

The Thesis option requires the students successfully complete an original research paper.

The non Thesis option requires the student successfully completes a comprehensive exam.

Applicants for admission complete the joint MCJ form that admits the applicant, if successfully admitted, to both universities.   A copy of the application for admission form and a review of TSU Graduate School policies and procedures can be accessed on the Graduate School home page .

General Education

(see General Education Requirements   for list of approved courses)

Rhetoric and Composition: (6 hours)

• Two approved courses in rhetoric and composition

Mathematics: (3 hours)

• One approved mathematics course

Statistics: (3 hours)

• One approved statistics course

Natural Sciences: (7-8 hours)

• Two approved natural science courses, at least one including a laboratory component

Humanities and Fine Arts: (6 hours)

• Two approved humanities and fine arts courses, one from fine arts and one from either

Cultures and Civilizations: (9 hours total)

• Option A: Western Humanities I and II and one approved Non-Western Cultures and Civilizations course or
• Option B: World Civilization I, II, III

Behavioral and Social Sciences: (6 hours)

• SOC 1510 - Introduction to Sociology *
• PSY 1010 - Introduction to Psychology *

Program Requirements

• PSY 1010 - Introduction to Psychology #
• SOC 1510 - Introduction to Sociology #

27 hours of core courses including:

• CRMJ 1000 - Introduction to Criminology
• CRMJ 1100 - Introduction to the Criminal Justice System
• CRMJ 3030 - Comparative Criminal and Juvenile Justice Systems or
• CRMJ 3170 - Minorities and Criminal Justice or
• CRMJ 3180 - Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice
• CRMJ 3100 - Law Enforcement in Criminal and Juvenile Justice
• CRMJ 3110 - Criminal Justice Research Methodology
• CRMJ 3120 - Correctional Perspectives in Criminal and Juvenile Justice
• CRMJ 3250 - Law and Justice System
• CRMJ 4300 - Philosophical and Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice
• CRMJ 4105 - Advanced Theories in Crime and Justice or
• CRMJ 4110 - Advanced Criminal Justice Methods or
• CRMJ 4850 - Advanced Community Engagement Seminar

21 hours of the following:

• 18 hours Criminal Justice electives with at least 9 of the 18 elective hours at the 3000/4000 level and
• One course selected from Legal Assistant Studies Courses or  
• 15 Criminal Justice electives with at least 9 of the 15 elective hours at the 3000/4000 level and
• Two courses selected from Legal Assistant Studies Courses

Legal Assistant Studies Courses:

• LAS 1700 - Introduction to Criminal Law
• LAS 2250 - Commercial Law
• LAS 2450 - Family Law
• LAS 3500 - Law of Evidence
• LAS 4010 - Constitutional Law
• LAS 4060 - Juvenile Law
• LAS 4100 - Employment Law

Additional Information and Notes

(No more than 6 hours of Criminal Justice 4780 and 4790 may be applied toward Criminal Justice electives.)

A minimum grade of C required in all core Criminal Justice courses, and a 2.0 overall GPA in the major is required.

Electives to complete 120 hours.

Minimum of 39 hours of 3000-4000 levels courses.

See Degree and Graduation Requirements   for additional requirements.

*Also satisfies requirement in the major.

#Also satisfies general education requirements.

Showcase/Suggested Plan of Study

Please see the Courses   section of this catalog for complete course descriptions.

Department Information

Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology PO Box 70555 Phone (423) 439-5346 Web Address:  www.etsu.edu/cas/cj

Why a student might choose a Major in Criminal Justice & Criminology:

• To gain knowledge about criminal justice and criminology, for example, the administration of justice in the United States and theories of crime and delinquency causation.
• To prepare for a career in the criminal justice field including law enforcement, probation, parole, or prisons.

Program Objectives

The criminal justice and criminology program of East Tennessee State University seeks to accomplish four major objectives:

• To develop a critical understanding of crime and the role and function of the criminal justice system in a democratic society.
• To provide courses of instruction that complement the education received by students in related disciplines.
• To prepare students for professional service in the criminal justice system.
• To provide an opportunity for persons currently serving in criminal justice professions to advance their level of education.

The criminal justice and criminology curriculum is highly interdisciplinary, encompassing the study of law, the social and behavioral sciences, and other academic areas. Consistent with the above objectives, the curriculum seeks a careful balance of theoretical inquiry and applied knowledge and features a core curriculum that all majors are required to complete.

Contact the Center for Advisement and Student Excellence (CASE) to schedule an appointment with your advisor. Visit the CASE website  www.etsu.edu/cas/case/  and call (423) 439-5602.

Criminal Justice & Criminology Advisor: 

Ms. Josie Klepper [email protected] (423) 439-4324

Transfer Students

Transfer students majoring in Criminal Justice should contact the Center for Advisement and Student Excellence (CASE) for advising as soon as possible. This will ensure that the student’s previous work will be coordinated efficiently with ETSU requirements.

Residency Policy

All students must:

• Complete a minimum of 27 credits at ETSU in the Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology.
• Maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.50 in criminal justice and criminology coursework completed at ETSU.

For general information about the department or courses, contact Dr. Larry Miller at  [email protected]  or (423) 439-5964.

Degree Requirements: 120 credits

Suggested Four-Year Program of Study: CJCR-BA    

GPA requirements : Must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5 in Criminal Justice and Criminology coursework completed at ETSU. No grade earned in a Criminal Justice and Criminology Major core course below a “C” (2.0) will be accepted.

College of Arts and Sciences    : Visit link to view the complete list of B.A. degree requirements.

• Completion of a foreign language course numbered 2020 or above with a grade of C- or better. Students may be required to take courses numbered 1010, 1020 and/or 2010 based on a placement test or equivalent.
• Non-U.S. History (3 credits)
• MATH 1530    or MATH 1910    

Compass Core Curriculum      

These requirements include earning 40-43 credits in Strengthening Foundations, Understanding Natural and Social Worlds, Exploring Connections, Cultivate Artistic Awareness, and Growing as an Individual and Global Citizen categories.

Total Requirements for Criminal Justice and Criminology Major: 42 credits

Criminal justice and criminology core requirements: 24 credits.

Grade Requirement: No grade earned in the Criminal Justice and Criminology major core course below a “C” (2.0) will be accepted.

• CJCR 1100 - Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
• CJCR 2540 - Criminal Law (3 credits)
• CJCR 3000 - Statistics for Criminal Justice and Criminology (3 credits)
• CJCR 3010 - Research Methods for Criminal Justice and Criminology (3 credits)
• CJCR 3310 - Criminology (3 credits)
• CJCR 3330 - Police in America (3 credits)
• CJCR 3440 - Corrections in America (3 credits)
• CJCR 4680 - Senior Seminar (3 credits) or   CJCR 4800 - Field Experience I in Criminal Justice (3 credits)    

Advisor Approved Electives: 18 credits

Note: CJCR electives to be selected in consultation with academic advisor

Minor: 18-24 credits

Free electives: 12-19 credits, additional information.

Click here to view  Degree and Graduation Requirements    for all ETSU students.

CSCI 1100    or Proficiency exam : Must be completed to meet Bachelor’s Degree Requirements. 

Most minors range from 18-24 credits. Those few minors with more than 24 credits may affect the number of free electives allowed.

• Extended University
• UTEP Connect

Whether you're aspiring to advance your existing career, plan your college major or find one of the highest-paying criminal justice jobs , it's essential to understand the degree requirements at every step of the way. This includes knowing what's expected from the moment you enroll in a bachelor's degree to the time you decide to undertake specialized studies in a master's program. 

In this article, we'll explain what type of degree you need to start and advance your career in criminal justice, along with a comprehensive look at the criminal justice degree requirements for both graduate and undergraduate programs. 

Our goal is to provide you with the insights needed to strategically navigate your educational journey, ensuring you're well-prepared for the competitive job market ahead.

Types of Criminal Justice Degrees

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Doctorate in criminal justice, criminal justice admission criteria, undergraduate prerequisites, graduate prerequisites, criminal justice major requirements.

• And What About Math  

The best degree for a career in criminal justice mostly depends on your career goals, the specific area you wish to focus on, and how quickly you want to enter the workforce. 

Here's a brief overview of different types of criminal justice degrees and their potential benefits for your career: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice:

You should know there are two types of bachelor’s degrees: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice . 

A B.S. tends to be more specialized and focuses on criminal justice's technical and practical aspects, diving into more scientific content, data analytics, forensics, or other technical areas in the field. It's perfect if you're aspiring for a job in law enforcement, forensic analysis, or any position where knowing criminal justice science is key. 

A B.A., on the other hand, is suitable for students interested in broader liberal arts education, covering a mix of topics like psychology, sociology, and humanities. This way, you get a fuller picture of the social and cultural sides of the criminal system. It's the way to go if you're thinking about careers in social work, criminal justice reforms, legal studies, or any area where a solid background in social sciences really comes in handy. 

Nowadays, there are online programs that you can complete without compromising your current lifestyle. These programs are designed with your convenience in mind, offering flexibility and accessibility so you can learn at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

A master's degree in criminal justice is a program that goes beyond the basics, offering specialized knowledge and focusing on research, policy analysis and leadership over an additional two-year post-bachelor’s. This degree is the first step to influential roles, whether in leadership, academia, or high-level administration. 

A master’s degree is ideal for professionals looking to deepen their knowledge and advance their careers within the criminal justice system. It suits professionals currently working in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields seeking advancement, as well as recent graduates aspiring to enter these sectors. Some programs offer a curriculum grounded in criminological theory and practical application, preparing students for leadership roles and advanced research.

The doctorate is the highest-level of degree in criminal justice and takes around 3-5 years post-master’s, on average. This path is best for those passionate about research, teaching, and leading at the highest levels, and aiming to become a leader in the academic community, a consultant, or even an executive in criminal justice organizations.

The admission requirements for criminal justice programs can change based on the type of program you’re interested in. Let’s take a closer look at the general eligibility criteria for each.

To get started with your application to an undergraduate program, you'll need to meet a few admission requirements. Keep in mind they can vary by school. That said, there are some universal elements to look out for to get yourself ready for your studies. Here's a rundown to help you sort everything out: 

Complete the Admission Application: This is your first step. Make sure to fill out the institution’s application form thoroughly, as it's your initial introduction to the admissions committee. 

Submit Your Official High School Transcript(s): You'll need to have your high school send your transcript(s) directly to the institution. These documents should include important details like your diploma type, class rank, and GPA (Grade Point Averages). It's crucial because it gives the admissions team a comprehensive look at your academic history and achievements. 

Provide Your Official Test Scores: Next up, you'll need to submit your standardized test scores. This includes any combination of SAT, ACT, GED, and TAKS scores. These scores offer a standardized measure of your academic capabilities and readiness for college-level work. Make sure these are sent directly from the testing agency or are included in your official high school transcript. 

Just a heads up: there are often some extra requirements for applicants from abroad or the military. Make sure to look them over before you send in your application.

As we said before, the institution's guidelines might change, but we’ll provide you with a broad picture of what's typically needed for a grad school application. 

When applying for graduate studies, you usually need to have a B.A. or B.S. in criminal justice, criminology, or something similar from an accredited school. Additionally, your GPA should be at least 3.0 for your last 60 hours of upper-level undergrad classes. Don't forget to include a professional resume too, especially if you've got any relevant internships or work experience on your track record. 

Besides that, institutions often require a 3–4-page Statement of Purpose where you detail your background and what you want to achieve with your degree. This essential requirement demonstrates your academic history, interests and objectives to the admissions committee. Therefore, dedicate enough time to write it, explaining in detail why you are interested in pursuing graduate studies, what led you to this decision and how your past experiences have prepared you for it. 

Finally, you’ll need two letters from professionals or academics who can attest to your potential for success in graduate studies. If you are a non-native English speaker, a language proficiency certificate could also be requested.

Now that you know the types of criminal justice degrees and what you need for the admission, let’s look at the degree requirements: 

Usually, you must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours to get your bachelor’s degree, including at least 39 hours at the advanced level. 

For example, at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), the advanced-level courses in the B.A. in Criminal Justice program dive deep into specialized topics, research methods and contemporary issues within the field, getting you ready for professional careers or further academic study. These courses cover a wide range of subjects, from Applied Research Methods in Criminal Justice to Cyber Crime. 

You’ll also need to fulfill general education, block electives, foreign language core requirements, and minor or additional electives. 

To deepen your understanding of societal and behavioral factors influencing criminal justice, at UTEP we encourage students to take courses in Sociology and Psychology as well.

For master's degree programs, you are required to complete 36 credit hours. In some cases, such as at UTEP, you have the option to choose between two tracks: a professional/non-thesis track or a thesis track. 

In the first option, the curriculum includes 9 credits of courses focused on the practical aspects of criminal justice, such as organization and management, program evaluation, and evidence-based practices, culminating in a capstone project. Additionally, you must complete 18 credits of electives, 9 of which must be specifically designated to criminal justice topics. 

Alternatively, the thesis track requires students to engage more deeply with research, requiring 12 credits in track-specific courses and a smaller portion of electives, totaling 15 credits, with the same stipulation for criminal justice-specific courses.

And What About Math?

At this point, you’re probably asking what kind of math you need for criminal justice. 

Typically, for a criminal justice degree, you'll take math courses applied to social sciences. This approach helps you build a critical foundation to develop necessary quantitative skills. 

These math classes encompass college algebra and geometry, as well as key concepts such as set algebra, diverse types of functions (linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic), matrix algebra and addressing systems of equations and inequalities. They also provide a basis in probability and finance-related mathematics. 

If you are interested in delving deeper into the criminal justice curriculum and its requirements, visit the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice program's webpage, review the coursework details and reach out to one of our enrollment counselors for personalized guidance. 

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