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Master of Science in Criminal Justice

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Contact Information

School of Public Service

573.875.7524

SPS@CCIS.edu

We transform learners into leaders in nursing, criminal justice, social work, human services and education. Your commitment meets our dedication, equipping you to make a meaningful difference in your community.

Meet Your Faculty

Why Study Criminal Justice?

Our master’s degree program enhances your Criminal Justice knowledge so you can make the meaningful difference you envision. Our expert faculty and immersive courses will give you the insight you need to take on leadership roles in law enforcement, security, investigation, juvenile services, or corrections.  

What You'll Learn 

Gain a deeper understanding of how to balance the nuances of law, ethics and morality with the complexities of the justice system. Our forward-looking program emphasizes four foundational areas: trends, policy development and analysis, research design and ethics. You’ll learn critical skills in crisis intervention, budgeting and planning and emergent issues.

Program Details

A master's degree furthers your education upon completion of a bachelor's degree. A master's program requires a shorter period of study with a more concentrated focus on a specific subject matter. Oftentimes, a master's degree provides additional leadership opportunities and may increase earning potential.

We believe in the power of online programs to help you create your future on your terms. Because our students are all over the world living their real lives, holding down jobs and caring for others, while learning their way to something better. That’s why we’ve developed a master’s program that’s 100% online. Because a flexible degree should have flexible options, so you can make a real difference for yourself and others, starting today.

Professionals who hold a master’s degree are often the first considered for advancement and managerial roles. View the core requirements and electives needed to earn a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Columbia College.

View Core Requirements

Prerequisites

In addition to a cumulative undergraduate 3.0 GPA, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • A baccalaureate degree in criminal justice

OR 

  • completed the following MSCJ prerequisite courses with an earned grade of B or higher in each course:
    • CJAD 101: Introduction to Criminal Justice
    • CJAD 415 Criminal Procedures

View Admission Steps

Careers & Outcomes 

Having a master's degree in criminal justice can open up various career opportunities in the criminal justice field: 

  • Chief of Police Operations 
  • Correctional Program Director 
  • Probation and Parole Administrator 
  • Juvenile Justice Manager 
  • Counterterrorism Analyst 
  • Security Director

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.

Online Programs

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Classes Available In Seat

Main Campus Graduate

By submitting this form, you expressly consent to Columbia College contacting you via email, phone, or text, including automated technology for calls and texts to the provided wireless number. Message and data rates may apply. Your consent is not necessary for purchasing goods or services.

Contact Information

School of Public Service

573.875.7524

SPS@CCIS.edu

We transform learners into leaders in nursing, criminal justice, social work, human services and education. Your commitment meets our dedication, equipping you to make a meaningful difference in your community.

Meet Your Faculty

because a future built by you is a future built for you.

Too many people have been made to feel that higher education isn’t a place for them— that it is someone else’s dream. But we change all that. With individualized attention and ongoing support, we help you write a new story for the future where you play the starring role.

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