phd programs in criminal justice and criminology

Criminology and Criminal Justice, PhD

• Program description
• At a glance
• Degree requirements
• Admission requirements
• Tuition information
• Application deadlines
• Program learning outcomes
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Advocacy, Corrections, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Justice, Police, Policing, Social Justice, Violence, law, sociology

Ranked No. 2 in the nation by U.S News & World Report, this doctoral program prepares you for success in numerous and varied professions. You can work with professors on innovative research projects exploring a range of important topics and study with world-renowned faculty.

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University offers an on-campus program of coursework and research leading to the PhD in criminology and criminal justice.

This program emphasizes criminal justice theory, research and policy, and is designed to produce highly skilled criminology and criminal justice faculty and agency researchers and administrators.

The doctoral program is organized around a core of required courses in research methods, analytic techniques, criminological theory, and policies and practices in the criminal justice system. The program offers distinctive elective courses in criminology, criminal justice and related fields. To complete the program, students complete both a comprehensive examination and a doctoral dissertation.

• College/school: Watts College of Public Service & Community Solut
• Location: Downtown Phoenix
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (12 credit hours) CRJ 601 Seminar on Criminological Theory (3) CRJ 602 Seminar on Criminal Justice Policies and Practices (3) CRJ 604 Regression Models (3) CRJ 605 Topics in Quantitative Methods (3)

Theory Coursework (6 credit hours) CRJ 521 Topics in Psychological Criminology (3) CRJ 523 Seminar in Network Criminology (3) CRJ 524 Theories of Punishment (3) CRJ 525 Seminar on Life-course Criminology (3)

Criminal Justice Systems Coursework (9 credit hours) CRJ 512 Seminar in Policing (3) CRJ 513 Seminar in Courts and Sentencing (3) CRJ 514 Seminar in Corrections (3) CRJ 517 Seminar on Juvenile Delinquency and Juvenile Justice (3)

Criminal Procedures Coursework (3 credit hours) CRJ 537 Criminal Procedure of Investigations for Social and Forensic Scientists (3) CRJ 538 Criminal Law and Social Control (3) CRJ 539 Topics in Law, Crime and Justice (3)

Research Methods (6 credit hours) CRJ 510 Criminal Justice Planning and Program Evaluation (3) CRJ 531 Crime Mapping (3) CRJ 540 Qualitative Methods (3) CRJ 560 Topics in Research Methods (3)

Electives (36 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) CRJ 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information A maximum of 30 credit hours of coursework from a previously awarded master's degree or JD may, with approval of the supervisory committee and the Graduate College, be applied toward the doctoral plan of study.

For the theory, criminal justice systems, criminal procedures and research methods courses, students select the number of required credit hours from the list provided. Other courses may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.

The following professional development workshop courses are recommended but not required: CRJ 614 Professional Development Workshop I: Professionalization CRJ 615 Professional Development Workshop II: Preparing to Teach Effectively CRJ 616 Professional Development Workshop III: Navigating the Academic Job Market in CCJ

All students must demonstrate proficiency in research design as well as quantitative and qualitative methods.

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

Applicants will often hold a master's degree from an accredited institution; it may be in criminal justice, criminology or another field (e.g., sociology, political science, history, social work, public administration, psychology or philosophy). Our program also allows for direct admission into our doctoral program for highly qualified students with only a bachelor's degree; these students will earn their master's degree along the way to completing their doctoral degree.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• two letters of recommendation
• current curriculum vitae or resume
• personal statement
• sample of the applicant's written work
• proof of English proficiency.

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Requirements can be found on the admission services website .

Official transcripts must be submitted from every university or institution from which a degree was awarded.

The letters of recommendation must be from faculty members or others qualified to evaluate the applicant's academic potential for doctoral study.

The personal statement should not exceed five pages, and it should describe the applicant's prior education, relevant professional experience and career goals. The statement must explain how the doctorate in criminology and criminal justice will help the applicant attain their goals. The statement should explicitly explain how the student's plans are consistent with the role and mission of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at ASU.

The applicant's sample of written work should be submitted electronically. The writing sample may be an article (published or unpublished), a research paper or any other extended sample of expository skill, and the sample must be no longer than 35 pages. Longer writing samples should not be submitted without first consulting the graduate director. Documents should not be password protected. Acceptable file types are .rtf, .pdf, and .doc.

Students should see the unit website for application deadlines.

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

• Apply appropriate theoretical principles and procedures to issues and problems at the frontiers of criminology and the criminal justice system.
• Select appropriate data collection and data analysis techniques for conducting criminology and criminal justice research.
• Able to conduct dissertation research resulting in an original contribution to knowledge in criminology and criminal justice.

Graduates of the criminology and criminal justice doctorate program find a strong job market in the public and private sectors. Employment opportunities include supervisory and management positions in criminal justice agencies (federal, state and local), policymaking, and teaching and research, such as:

• city, county and state government liaison to criminal justice agencies
• court administrator
• detective or investigator
• evidence and crime scene supervisor (CSI activities)
• forensic scientist
• intelligence analyst
• law enforcement or police crime analysis supervisor
• policy analyst
• probation, parole or community supervisor
• professor of criminal justice

Opportunities also include supervisory and management positions in social service agencies, such as:

• child and family services (e.g., Head Start, child support enforcement, foster care, elder care)
• Department of Economic Security
• homeless outreach
• victim advocacy

Graduates also have the opportunity to work in supervisory and management positions in the private sector, including online security, as well as in the cybersecurity sector.

School of Criminology and Criminal Justice | UCENT 600 [email protected] 602-496-2356

Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Criminology and justice policy, phd.

The doctoral program in criminology and justice policy at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Northeastern University seeks to prepare students for professional and research careers in criminal justice, criminology, and related fields by applying multidisciplinary and comparative social science to understand, predict, and explain crime and contribute to the development of public policy within urban communities. Using an active-learning approach, the school seeks to develop its students intellectually and ethically, while providing them with a keen appreciation for the complexities of crime and public and private efforts to make communities safer and to ensure justice. 

The program is full time and is small and student centered. Students may enter the program with either a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. It is expected that students will be able to complete the program in four to five years, and students entering with a master's degree will be able to complete the program in three to five years.

Year one in the doctoral program offers students an opportunity to obtain a broad foundational knowledge in the discipline: one semester on theories of criminal justice process, two semesters of criminological theory, two semesters of statistics, and one semester of advanced research methods. To ensure that all students have mastered the foundational material emphasized across the required courses for the PhD program and can successfully integrate theory, research, and policy, all PhD students take a “foundations” qualifying examination at the end of their first year in the doctoral program.  

After demonstrating mastery of the foundational knowledge in year one, students devote themselves to a more specific area of research in years two and three. Students demonstrate this commitment through the second and third qualifying examinations: an area exam and a publishable paper.

Following successful completion of the three qualifying examinations, and required and elective course work, the students proceed to a formal dissertation proposal defense.

Doctoral Degree Candidacy

A student achieves candidacy when they have successfully completed all course work (54 semester hours for students entering with a bachelor's degree or 42 semester hours for students entering with advanced standing), passed all three qualifying examinations, and deposited the final version of their dissertation proposal (approved by their full committee) with the school’s graduate program office. Candidacy is certified, in writing, by the college.

• Concentrations and course offerings may vary by campus and/or by program modality.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for the course availability each term at your campus or within your program modality.  
• Certain options within the program may be  required  at certain campuses or for certain program modalities.  Please consult with your advisor or admissions coach for requirements at your campus or for your program modality. 

Bachelor's Degree Entrance

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Annual review Three qualifying examinations—foundations exam, area exam, and publishable paper Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal PhD candidacy Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

Dissertation

Program Credit/GPA Requirements

54 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

Advanced Degree Entrance

Annual review Three qualifying examinations—foundations exam, area exam, and publishable paper Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal Candidacy achieved Dissertation defense

42 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

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FSU | College of Criminology & Criminal Justice

College of Criminology & Criminal Justice

Florida State University

• Graduate Programs

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 research that generates new insights on issues of scientific and public policy importance. This degree emphasizes comprehensive training in theory, research methods, and statistics delivered by faculty members recently ranked as having the most productive criminology program in the country.

Click on the links below to learn more about our program.

• Ph.D. Admission Requirements
• Current Ph.D. Students
• Student Research
• Doctoral Degree Requirements
• Major Professor and Doctoral Dissertation Committee
• Professional Ethics
• Comprehensive Exam Requirements
• Dissertation and Admission to Candidacy

Related Downloads

• FAQs: Campus Graduate Program
• FSU IRB Policy Memo
• FSU IRB Human Subjects Committee Approval
• Declaration of Major Professor Form
• Prospectus Defense Approval Form
• Doctoral Dissertation Committee Form
• Graduate Assistant Evaluation Form
• Exit Survey
• 2015-2016 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2014-2015 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2013-2014 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2012-2013 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2011-2012 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2010-2011 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• 2016-2017 Criminology Graduate Handbook
• Annual Doctoral Review
• Doctoral Info Sheet
• 2018-2019 Grad Campus Handbook
• 2019-2020 Grad Campus Handbook
• 2020-2021 Campus Grad Handbook
• 2021-2022 Campus Grad Handbook
• 2022-2023 Campus Grad Handbook

PhD Justice, Law & Criminology

You are here: american university school of public affairs phd programs phd justice, law & criminology.

PhD Justice, Law & Criminology (On-Campus)

Prepare for university teaching and research, and a career as an authority and leader in fields related to justice, law, criminology, and homeland security.

(202) 885-6230

[email protected]

Kerwin Hall, Room 306 on a map

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At the Epicenter of Effectiveness

The PhD in Justice, Law & Criminology in the School of Public Affairs draws from the breadth and depth of resources across American University. Our program is rooted in contemporary theory, principles, practices, and research methods in criminology, criminal justice, terrorism and homeland security studies, and legal studies. Students come here not only for the academics, but for the chance to work firsthand with experts in our nation's capital.

Our students organize their programs around two fields of study. Our department offers options in three fields: Justice, Law & Society, and Terrorism & Political Violence. PhD students select one of these as their primary field. Their secondary field may be one of the other two, or they can take courses in Political Methodology or Public Policy from other departments in the School of Public Affairs. Students also have the flexibility to select relevant coursework from other schools at AU, or to take courses in another PhD-granting department at AU or through the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area, which includes George Washington University, Georgetown University, George Mason University, University of Maryland, and others.

Connection & Impact

SPA's PhD in Justice, Law & Criminology puts our students in the middle of one the best places to influence change in crime and policing, terrorism and homeland security, and the criminal justice system. They dive into research that addresses today's most pressing challenges and produce scholarship with real-world connection and immediate impact.

Each of our doctoral programs reflects values that guide the School of Public Affairs. We encourage engagement and discourse to influence policy makers; formulate critical thinking skills that are crucial to advancing lines of inquiry; cultivate strong leadership skills; prioritize evidence-based reasoning and analytics when addressing societal issues; and challenge the guideposts on equity, fairness, and inclusion to ground students in the institutions of justice and the rule of law. Along the way, we champion truth and self-awareness, as students undertake personal and professional journeys.

The PhD degree in Justice, Law & Criminology requires 36 credit hours of coursework.

All students must complete 12 credits of research design and methodology courses, 12 credits in their primary field of study, and 12 credits in their secondary field of study.

As work on the dissertation project progresses, students register for dissertation credit in order to maintain enrollment. They take Doctoral Continuing Enrollment (JLC-898) and Doctoral Dissertation (JLC-899) after their dissertation proposals are approved.

A minimum grade point average of 3.20 in all coursework is required to remain in good standing and to earn the degree. Full-time status is considered to be nine credit hours per semester.

Students advance to PhD candidacy by successfully completing all required courses, passing the oral qualifier and two written comprehensive exams (one in each of their fields of study), and defending their dissertation proposals. To earn the degree, students must pass a final oral defense of the dissertation.

More information about course requirements can be found here .

For more information, please contact the SPA Graduate Admissions Office at 202-885-6230 or [email protected] .

Applicants are considered and students admitted for the fall semester only. Please refer to the application deadlines page for the deadline to apply. 

While previous academic or professional work in justice, law, or criminology is not required, applicants need to demonstrate a serious commitment to a career in this field. The personal statement on reasons for pursuing graduate study in the program is essential, along with the other required application materials .

We accept PhD applicants for full-time study only. Students must be funded either by the School of Public Affairs or by an external sponsoring organization (self-funding is not permitted for newly-admitted doctoral students).

The PhD in Justice, Law & Criminology is a 36-credit-hour program for students who already have a related master’s degree. To estimate the cost of tuition, please see the current cost per credit hour for graduate students.

Unless applicants expect to be funded through a reliable external source, they must request consideration for funding on their application. Upon acceptance into the program, students selected for AU funding are granted a fellowship with full funding for four years of study, contingent on maintaining satisfactory progress each year, with opportunities for further funding available.

As a requirement for the fellowship, students work 20 hours a week with a faculty member. If at all possible, our graduate office will assign students to faculty members with expertise in their areas of research interest.

Students must advance to candidacy by the end of their third year of study to continue receiving funding and to maintain their enrollment.

• Justice, Law, & Criminology Department
• Curriculum & Requirements
• Program Handbook

90 percent of SPA graduates are employed or in graduate school, or both within six months of graduation

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Criminology, Law and Society Ph.D. program

​​ The Ph.D. program in Criminology, Law and Society is ranked #2 in the US News and World Reports rankings. The program focuses on the causes, manifestations, and consequences of crime; the impacts of crime on society; social regulation; the civil justice system; the social and cultural contexts of law; and the interactive effects of law and society. With high-caliber faculty and an interdisciplinary perspective, the program aims to develop students’ theoretical and methodological sophistication to prepare them for faculty positions at major universities and colleges or for research, training, and administrative work in the justice system.   

Program Overview

In this doctoral program, students must pass nine (9) required courses and four (4) electives, all with a grade of B or higher. For a description of the following courses and others, please visit the UCI Course Catalogue .

Students are also required to complete a Second Year Project, pass comprehensive examinations (comps), prepare & defend a dissertation proposal, and prepare & defend a dissertation.

Second Year Project/Master's Thesis

Beginning in their first year, students initiate independent research projects under faculty supervision. Approaches to research vary widely and may include questionnaire and survey analysis, systematic field observation, computer simulation, archival searches, ethnographies, oral histories, and legal analysis. This project is further expanded on and completed during the second year. This Second Year Project is designed to introduce students to developing their own research projects and writing for an academic audience. The report of the Second Year Project should be comparable in scope and format to articles that appear in leading journals within the field of criminology, law and society. Each project is evaluated and approved by the advisor and one other faculty member.

Students may submit the written report of their Second Year Project as a Master's Thesis for an M.A. in Social Ecology. For the Ph.D. degree, however, an M.A. is not required, and most students move directly to the completion of the doctoral requirements.

Comprehensive Exams

The comprehensive examination (comps) is an untimed take-home written exam consisting of two essays, to be completed in the third year of graduate study. The goal of comps is to allow graduate students to demonstrate mastery of major theoretical, substantive, and methodological issues in both criminology and law & society. The examination consists of two sections – criminology, and law & society. Beginning in 2021, students must complete the exam by the first day of classes in the Winter Quarter of their third year (adjusted for any Leaves of Absence), and must pass all sections of the exam by the last day of classes in Winter Quarter of their third year (adjusted for any Leaves of Absence). Students who do not pass one or both sections on the first attempt will retake the failed section(s) in the subsequent quarter. Students are allowed to take the exam twice, but must pass all sections according to this timeline.

Dissertation

During the fourth year of study, students draft and defend a proposal for dissertation research. The proposal is developed under the guidance of a faculty advisor, and clearly presents the research questions, theories, and methods which will inform the doctoral dissertation project. Once students complete the proposal, they must defend the proposal to a committee comprised of the faculty advisor and four other faculty members. Upon approval of the defense, the student will advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. Students generally complete the proposal defense by the end of the fourth year.

Once students have advanced to candidacy, they spend their remaining time at UCI completing data collection and analysis for their dissertation. Following the completion of the written dissertation, students must orally defend their project to a committee comprised of the faculty advisor and two other faculty members. The dissertation defense usually occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Upon passage of the oral defense and approval of the committee, the student has completed all of the requirements of the Ph.D. program.

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Program Learning Outcomes

Graduate Student Emphases

UCI offers graduate students the opportunity to earn emphases in several substantive areas. Many of our students earn one or more of these emphases, and several of our faculty are associated with the emphases-granting departments.

Asian American Studies

This graduate emphasis is a formal component of graduate studies at the University of California, Irvine, in addition to the fulfillment of requirements towards the Ph.D. or M.F.A. degree in an array of fields in the Schools of Humanities, Social Sciences, Social Ecology, and the Arts. Designed to complement existing graduate degree-granting programs by providing interdisciplinary training in Asian American Studies, this particular specialty is comprised of four courses: two foundation courses introducing theories, methods, and historical and contemporary special topics in Asian American Studies; one elective course in Asian American Studies; and one related elective course in a student’s specific discipline or area of study. Learn more...

Critical Theory Emphasis

The Critical Theory Emphasis (CTE) graduate specialty is the curricular arm of UCI's Critical Theory Institute (CTI). Scholars of Critical Theory explore and develop theoretical models to analyze and critique cultural forms from literature and art to more general systems of information, social relations, and symbolic categories of race, gender and ethnic identity. The goal of the CTE is to promote the study of shared assumptions, problems and commitments of the various discourses in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Learn more...

Graduate Feminist Emphasis

The Department of Gender and Sexuality Studies at UCI offers a graduate emphasis in Feminist Studies for students pursuing Ph.D. or Master's programs across the campus. Participating in the GFE provides students with advanced interdisciplinary training in Feminist Studies, and offers them an opportunity to become part a network of feminist scholars at UCI and beyond. GFE students are subscribed in our email listserv , which features current job openings, fellowship information, and important news about our upcoming events. Learn more...

Law, Society and Culture Emphasis

The Center for Law, Society and Culture sponsors the LSC Emphasis. This concentration is designed a) to instill an intellectual ethic on inter -disciplinarity among participating students early in their training and b) to create trans -disciplinary communities of emerging socio-legal scholars whose intellectual development is enhanced by formal and informal exchange across diverse fields. In the spring of each year, students in their first through third years of graduate study are invited to apply to the Emphasis, which is composed of 4 inter-connected components: 1) a year-long theory and research seminar, with each quarter taught by one faculty member from a different school at UCI; (2) cross-disciplinary mentorship and advising; (3) ongoing professionalization opportunities and responsibilities; and (4) a culminating intellectual project.  Each student is assigned a faculty mentor outside of his or her home department and will meet with that mentor on a monthly basis to discuss the student's ongoing research. Learn more...

Race and Justice Studies Emphasis

Students from any UCI state-supported graduate or professional program, including J.D., Master’s and M.F.A. students, are eligible to apply to the Emphasis in Race and Justice Studies (RJS), housed in the Department of Criminology, Law and Society (CLS). The Race and Justice Studies Emphasis is comprised of four requirements that promote inclusive excellence in graduate training at UCI: (1) A first-year mentorship proseminar offered over three quarters by faculty from across campus whose research and teaching foster inclusive excellence; (2) one RJS-approved course offered under the supervision of the Emphasis; (3) a writing seminar in which a paper developed through the Emphasis will be workshopped and revised toward publication; and (4) a public presentation which translates the student’s RJS-influenced research for an interdisciplinary audience. Learn more...

Visual Studies

The Emphasis in Visual Studies offers a focus on Visual Studies available to Ph.D. and M.F.A. students in all departments at UCI. Satisfactory completion of this concentration is certified by the Graduate Advisor in Visual Studies and is noted in the student's dossier. Learn more...

Research Centers

Students in the Ph.D. program often work with various Research Centers, including the Center for Evidence-Based Corrections , the Center in Law, Society and Culture , the Center for Psychology and Law , the Newkirk Center , the Irvine Lab for the Study of Space and Crime , and the Metropolitan Futures Initiative .

Financial Support

Students in the Ph.D. program have a variety of financial support options. The most common sources of support are Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships.

Research Assistantship. Many students work with faculty on research projects funded by external grants or university monies. As with Teaching Assistants, RAs generally work for up to 20 hours per week and are involved in a wide variety of research activities (e.g., data collection and analysis, article preparation, etc.). Compensation for RAs is roughly equivalent to that for a Teaching Assistant, and covers fees and tuition.

Teaching Assistantship. Ph.D. students in CLS are eligible for 12 quarters of support as a Teaching Assistant (TA), making this the most common means of financial support. TAs work up to 20 hours a week, are responsible for assisting the professor with many common classroom tasks (e.g., creating exams, grading papers, etc.), assist students understand course material and meet course requirements, and experience the opportunity to practice the art of teaching (usually through discussion sections and/or guest lecturing). To maintain their eligibility, students must be in good academic standing and must have a satisfactory record as a Teaching Assistant . Some students may even receive a TAship after this 12-quarter period (subject to CLS and Graduate Divivsion approval). A Teaching Assistantship is not only an important means of financial support (a monthly salary plus fees and tuition coverage), but the work also serves a vital role in training Ph.D. candidates, particularly those who intend to pursue academic careers.

Additional funding is available through student loans, departmental and university fellowships, and outside funding sources. In addition to support during the academic year, students are often able to secure research grants from the Department for the summer. These grants are allotted on the basis of academic standing and financial need.

Award Opportunities

Listed below are the CLS Department awards current students have the opportunitiy to be nominated or apply for.

• Arnold Binder Award
• Dickman Award
• Gil Geis Award
• Kitty Calavita Award
• Michelle Smith-Pontell Award
• Peer Mentoring Award

Graduate Student Housing

A number of housing alternatives are available for graduate students at UCI. Two apartment complexes and a residence hall are available exclusively for graduate students and those with families who wish to live on campus. In addition, there are many off-campus options, including apartments/houses at the beach or apartment complexes just across the street from the university. Due to their affordability and convenience, more than half of our graduate students choose to live on campus.

Among the on-campus options are Verano Place Apartments, Palo Verde Apartments, and Vista del Campo/VdC Norte. Verano Place includes 862 units which are one-, two-, or three-bedroom unfurnished apartments. Palo Verde is designed solely for graduate students and post-doctoral students, and consists of 204 apartments that range from studio to three-bedroom apartments. Vista del Campo is a privately owned and managed apartment community located on the UCI campus, offering furnished apartments to single students who are sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students. For information on all of these housing options, please visit the UCI Housing website .

For more information, please contact:

Irice Castro Assistant Director of Graduate Student Services [email protected] 949-824-1874

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Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

Program description.

The PhD in Criminology degree program is an interdisciplinary, research-oriented degree offered in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences at UT Dallas. The objective of the PhD program is to provide students a coherent, yet intellectually challenging degree that adequately prepares them to conduct research among the many aspects of criminology and criminal justice, varying with individual interests and areas of specialty. Graduates of the PhD program will be qualified to teach at the university level as professors. Graduates will also be competent to enter into analytic and administrative posts within the vast array of research and policy institutions, criminal justice organizations, and in the private sector.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program seek positions such as: academics and teaching; criminologist, policy advisor or research officer in state and federal justice agencies; analytical and administrative positions in international and domestic research and policy institutions; and positions in legal and corrections systems and non-profits and private consulting.

Marketable Skills

Review the marketable skills for this academic program.

Application Requirements

Degree requirements: The PhD in Criminology seeks applicants from a baccalaureate in criminology, sociology or a relevant discipline.

GPA: A score of 3.5 is preferred.

Test score required: Yes

A combined verbal and quantitative score of 300 on the GRE is preferred.

Letters of recommendation: 3

Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals who can judge the candidate’s probability of success in graduate school. Use the electronic request form in the graduate application to submit the letters. Contact the graduate academic program department if you have any questions.

Admissions essay required: Yes

A one-page essay outlining personal background, education, and professional objectives.

Deadlines: To be considered for funding opportunities, applications must be submitted in full by January 15. Students can apply as late as May 1, per University policy, but they will likely not be considered for funding opportunities. Students should note their desire to be considered for graduate funding in their letter of intent at the time of application.

About the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences

Every new generation inherits a world more complex than that of its predecessors, which prompts a need for new thinking about public policies that impact people’s daily lives. In the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (EPPS), we examine the implications of innovation and change for individuals and communities. The social sciences are where the world turns to for answers to the important issues of today and the future such as education and health policy, financial crises, globalization, policing, political polarization, public management, terrorism, and the application of geographical information sciences to study social, economic and environmental issues.

As an undergraduate in EPPS, you will have the opportunity to work with professors who are probing issues that will affect your future. You will develop the vital skills you need to thrive in a rapidly evolving, highly competitive job market. EPPS will prepare you for careers in government, non-profits and the private sector that enable you to make a real difference in the world of today and tomorrow. EPPS is at the forefront of leadership, ethics and innovation in the public and nonprofit sectors. Our students and faculty look forward to new opportunities to study and address the complex and evolving issues of the future. Research informs much of the instruction. The school has four centers of excellence:

• Center for Global Collective Action
• Texas Schools Project
• Institute for Urban Policy Research
• The Negotiations Center

Degrees Offered

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts : Criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , international political economy , political science , public affairs , public health , public policy , sociology

Master of Science : Applied sociology , criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , international political economy , social data analytics and research

Master of Arts : Political science

Master of Public Affairs : Public affairs

Master of Public Policy : Public policy

Doctor of Philosophy : Criminology , economics , geospatial information sciences , political science , public affairs , public policy and political economy

Certificates

EPPS offers the following 15-hour graduate certificates, which generally can be completed in one year of part-time evening classes:

• Economic and Demographic Data Analysis : focusing on the understanding and application of quantitative analysis of demographic and economic data.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) : focusing on the application of GIS in government, private sector and scientific areas.
• Geospatial Intelligence : focusing on the application of geospatial ideas and techniques to national security and other intelligence activity.
• Local Government Management : designed to broaden knowledge of important issues and approaches employed by professional local public administrators.
• Nonprofit Management : designed to provide an overview of the nature and context of nonprofit organizations and develop competencies needed by nonprofit managers.
• Program Evaluation : designed to provide students the opportunity to gain competencies in the design and implementation of program evaluations in fields such as education, health care, human services, criminal justice and economic development.
• Remote Sensing : focusing on remote sensing and digital image processing.

Contact Information

Patricia Pacheco Graduate Program Administrator Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-3548 Office: GR 2.402C

Degree Information Dr. John Worrall PhD Advisor Email: [email protected] Phone: 972-883-6901 Office: GR 2.126

EPPS Advising The University of Texas at Dallas 800 W. Campbell Road, GR 31 Richardson, TX 75080-3021 [email protected]

epps.utdallas.edu/

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The doctoral program in Criminology and Justice Policy is student-centered, with the goal of preparing students for academic careers in research and policy development.

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Students of this full-time, fully-funded PhD program complete the degree in five years on average.  Additionally, PhD students are offered several benefits throughout their studies, including:

• Generous, full-year funding packages
• Extensive summer research opportunities
• Flex fellowship: one semester off from graduate assistantship responsibilities
• Experiential and dissertation completion fellowships

In keeping with Northeastern’s long-standing, practice-oriented approach to education, the PhD in Criminology and Justice Policy links students to city, regional, and national agencies.  Students gain valuable experience working with practitioners through faculty who collaborate with policy-makers via grant work.  Students are encouraged to put skills obtained through the PhD into practice.

Our doctoral program is strongly committed to producing the next generation of research-productive scholars.  Coursework, qualifying examinations, and dissertation structure are geared toward providing students with the theoretical, methodological, quantitative, qualitative, and practical skills needed to obtain top-tier academic positions in the discipline.  Students also work with faculty to individualize their courses of student within existing frameworks to fulfill career aspirations.

Learn more about the doctoral program in Criminology and Justice Policy from the College of Social Sciences and Humanities.

• The Center on Crime, Race, and Justice (CRJ), comprised of the Corrections and Reentry Lab (CRL), the Crime Prevention Lab (CPL), the Race and Justice Lab (RJL), and the Violence and Justice Research Lab (VJRL), offers the students the opportunity to participate in action-oriented research.
• Students complete a foundations exam, area exam, and publishable paper before defending the dissertation proposal and embarking on the dissertation.
• Students enroll in both a teaching practicum and a writing and publishing practicum.
• Produce research-productive scholars in criminology and criminal justice.
• Emphasize action-oriented work by linking students to local, regional, and national agencies.
• Instill criminological and organizational theoretical knowledge via rigorous coursework.
• Provide the methodological, qualitative, and quantitative tools needed for an array of research, teaching and policy careers.
• Prepare students to teach undergraduate courses independently via a teaching practicum.
• Discuss the rigors of academic publishing and guide students through the process of formulating a research question and submitting a publishable paper through a writing a publishing practicum.

Our graduates pursue four primary career paths:

1. Tenure-track assistant professor positions at research universities

2. Tenure-track assistant professor positions at teaching institutions

3. Post-doctoral research fellowships

4. Research and policy professions locally, regionally, and nationally (e.g. the Pew Charitable Trusts, RAND Corporation, Boston Police Department, California Department of Rehabilitation and Correction

Application Materials

Application.

• Application fee – US $100
• Personal statement
• Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended
• English proficiency for international applicants
• Three letters of recommendation
• Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) – Optional
• Writing sample

Online admissions deadline for Fall term: December 1

• Program Website

Request Information for PhD in Criminology and Justice Policy

Phd/JD Law, Criminology & Justice Policy

Comprehensive curriculum.

The PhD/JD program is a dual-degree program that allows students to earn a PhD from the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice and a Juris Doctor from the School of Law in six years. Students of the PhD/JD delve deeply into how the legal system informs both the study and practice of criminal justice. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of what influences criminal justice problems and the opportunity to conduct original research in issues relating to law and criminal justice.

Plan Your Co-op

Students in the PhD/JD program are required to satisfy the law school’s co-op requirement. Given the academically-rigorous nature of the PhD/JD program, one co-op option may be teaching a course in the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Applicants to the PhD/JD program must apply separately to the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice PhD Program and to the School of Law JD Program. Applicants must submit two applications including required test scores (LSAT and GRE), academic transcripts, resume, as well as any additional admissions requirements determined by the programs. Admission to one school does not ensure admission to the other. A small number of students may also apply to the joint program during their first year at either school. 

For additional information, contact:

Kevin Drakulich

Phd program director.

617.373.7427 [email protected]

Type of Program

Helpful links.

• Course Catalog

Admissions Requirements

• CJ Admissions Requirements
• Law School Admissions Requirements

Get more information about this graduate program.

More programs, bs in criminal justice, bs/jd in law, criminology & criminal justice, ms in criminology & criminal justice, ms/jd law, criminology & criminal justice, phd in criminology & justice policy.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice

Contribute to the field of criminal justice academically and practically.

Admission Requirements

• Admissions Checklist
• Transfer Credits

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Ask any law enforcement agency—for example, our educational partners at the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BCO)—to combat crime effectively, decision-makers need to be armed with all the facts. It takes more than a clear understanding of the law and insight into the mind of a criminal. The ability to research and critically analyze root causes to offer practical long-term solutions is also essential.

Bottom line: The right education can help you assess, present and implement those solutions as well as effectively lead criminal justice efforts. The right education can be found at Keiser University. Our Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology offers the expertise—and the credential—you need to make your mark in the field of criminal justice.

At a Glance

54 credit hours, 24 - 40 months*, 8 week terms.

Up to 18 credits of transfer credits

Career opportunities in law enforcement, the courts, and more.

Financial aid for those who qualify**

** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

* Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology offers a thorough overview of criminal justice and criminological theory. Coursework for the PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology covers how to evaluate an agency’s ability to meet community safety needs, analyze deficiencies in criminology services and assess contemporary criminal justice systems and their policies and practices. Students will also investigate what it takes to ethically and effectively lead criminal justice efforts within local communities and human and social service agencies as well as in the private sector.

Student First Philosophy

Featuring a “Student First” mentality, Keiser University is committed to providing the education students need to excel in their careers and their lives—whether that is in this criminal justice PhD program or one of dozens of graduate programs. Our commitment to putting students first leads us to offer a number of learning options, including both on-campus and online delivery formats.

Through our PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology, we help criminal justice and criminology students gain the skills and expertise needed to pursue relevant leadership and research positions for any number of agencies, from the federal government to city and state agencies.

Know Your “WHY” Commit to Graduation

This PhD in criminal justice and criminology program offers the highest level of educational value to help students be successful in today’s criminal justice community. We give students the tools needed to:

• Assess agency capabilities for meeting community safety needs—from homeland security and law enforcement to corrections and the administration of justice
• Critically analyze gaps or deficiencies in criminal justice and criminology services
• Lead and manage criminal justice, criminology and community services, and human/social services professionals in both public and private sectors
• Evaluate contemporary criminal justice systems and their policies and practices
• Understand the psychological basis, nature and root causes of crime: typologies and offenders

What Can You Expect to Learn

Keiser University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology enables students to better contribute to the field of criminal justice with:

• A thorough understanding of criminal justice and criminology issues
• The intellectual and methodological skills necessary for the continuing process of discovery and understanding of crime- and justice-related issues
• The capacity for integrative and analytical thinking
• Competency at transmitting knowledge
• Problem-solving skills
• The ability to disseminate research findings in published scholarship

The Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology produces students capable of making contributions to the criminal justice and criminology discipline through the academic and applied components of the discipline. Curriculum is designed to ensure graduates are well equipped to participate in criminological positions emphasizing research and statistics, theory, and administration of justice.

Program Prerequisites

Keiser University offers two matriculating doctoral program paths toward earning a PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology. Take your career in the field of criminal justice to the next level by pursuing coursework for your PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology through the:

• Traditional Path:  Graduate students enter the PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology with a master’s degree from an accredited institution
• Baccalaureate Entry:  Graduate students may pursue the doctorate in criminal justice with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related social science from an accredited institution and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0

Note: Dissertation courses are eight-weeks in length and students are scheduled for two dissertation courses per semester.

Program Outline

To receive a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 54 graduate semester credit hours as described below. To be eligible, students must have completed all degree requirements of the MA in Criminal Justice. The length of the master’s entry program is approximately 36-40 months.

Upper Division Courses

• Doctor of Philosophy Residency One
• Doctor of Philosophy Residency Two

Career Pathways in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Upon graduation of our doctoral program, you will have earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology as well as gained the abilities you need to:

• Effectively and ethically lead relevant criminology efforts
• Evaluate justice systems, policies and practices
• Research deficiencies in criminal justice services

Through this advanced criminal justice and criminology program, you will possess a deeper understanding of every aspect of criminal justice as well as the skills needed to pursue and excel in relevant leadership or research positions, such as:

• Researcher for relevant government agencies
• University Faculty
• Emergency Management Director
• Law Enforcement Administrator/Analyst
• Police Analyst
• Threat Assessor
• Criminal Justice Consultant
• Policy Institute/Think Tank
• Criminal Justice Policy Analyst
• Intelligence Analyst

For requirements, objectives, or a more detailed description of the program, please see the graduate catalog

Start Your PhD Program Now!

Whether you can come to campus or you need to earn an online PhD criminal justice and criminology degree, Keiser University has the education you need to elevate your criminal justice career! Learn more about our Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology today by Requesting More Info now!

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"My search for a doctoral program led me to the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP), which listed Keiser in the top five for an online degree. After reaching out to the school for more information, I decided to go with Keiser for my doctoral journey. The class sizes and faculty stood out as deciding factors for me."

"Education is the most important thing in every individuals life and taking one class at a time allowed me to focus. What I’d say to future students looking to come to Keiser University and being part of the Criminology program is that you’re making a good decision and it’s highly encouraged."

Aaron Reynolds

"Keiser University taught me how to realize my full potential. You learn things that just really opens up your mind. I wound up taking a lot of these principals back to my sales team. I became the idea person. Dara, after Keiser, goes after things that she wants. And she’s not afraid."

Dara Kalvort

"My experience at Keiser University was so incredible. I met wonderful staff and faculty who stretched me and made sure that I became the real version of who I was meant to be. The philosophies that I learned at Keiser University will help shape how I approach my new career assisting businesses become more efficient."

Anthony Oboh

"A relocation to Florida led me to Keiser after a poor experience at another University. I happened upon colleagues that graduated from the KU program and it came highly recommended by them. The program quality, small student to teacher ratio and a faculty support network that truly cares is the reason I chose KU!"

Andrea Vanorio

"It was easy to transition from the military to Keiser University because the structure was similar – with one-on-one learning and everything was hands on. I graduated from Keiser with my asssociates degree in Business Administration, followed by a bachelors degree in Business Administration Management. I’m currently pursing my MBA at Keiser and plan to be a three time graduate of Keiser University!"

Victor Guerrero

"Keiser’s commitment to their Students First philosophy made it easy for me to decide. The palpable impetus of every team member at Keiser University to serve, educate, and guide is unlike anything I have ever experienced. A truly remarkable journey!"

Joseph Larrea

"I chose Keiser because it was a localuUniversity that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities."

Marie Boone

"The biggest factor in my decision to come to Keiser was the student-centered experience. Students always come first."

Patrick M. Mendez

"Keiser’s C & I program is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and the student-first learning, and providing rigor and growth needed to be prepared for my future endeavors. "

Jennifer Kotzur

This program is available in the following florida campuses.

Keiser Benefits

We understand that today’s students have many responsibilities and obligations in their lives. At Keiser, we deliver the same quality education through different scheduling options to accommodate busy schedules. Whether you choose day, evening, or online classes, chances are, you will find a schedule that fits yours and allows you to fulfill one of the most important commitments you can make – a commitment to your education.

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• Student Opportunities

The Association of Doctoral Programs in Criminology and Criminal Justice (ADPCCJ) is comprised of universities and colleges offering the doctorate in criminal justice, criminology, and related areas of study. 

Membership is by invitation, and is open to any program that either currently offers the doctorate or is in some stage of developing such a program. The members meet annually (in conjunction with the meetings of the American Society of Criminology), conduct an annual survey of doctoral program activities, and work to advance the interests of advanced study of crime and justice.

Copyright © 2024 ADPCCJ - All Rights Reserved.

School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Arizona State University is a nationally recognized leader in higher education and highly regarded for its distinguished faculty and research productivity

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Criminology, PhD

Impact the Future of Criminology with a Highly Respected PhD

Please note that we’re not accepting applications for a 2024–25 cohort. Check back for potential future enrollment terms, or visit our program list to see what other options are available.

You can impact the future of criminal justice with a PhD in Criminology from IUP. You’ll gain the essential knowledge and skills to become a researcher and leader in your profession, as well as the means to influence the next generation of students as a university professor.

Why Pursue a Criminology PhD from IUP?

IUP's PhD in Criminology and Criminal Justice is the sixth-oldest doctoral program in the country and has awarded more than 150 PhDs. Alumni are either successfully teaching at other universities and colleges or applying their expertise at respected research institutes and agencies at the state and federal levels.

At IUP, you can take advantage of:

• A broad curriculum focused on integrating theory, research, and policy.
• An extensive professional network of alumni and research partners. Tap into the experience and connections provided by our network of more than 150,000 alumni worldwide.
• Dedicated faculty members. Our professors will do more than teach. They’ll serve as mentors, working alongside you on research projects and engaging you in one-on-one learning experiences.
• Opportunities to gain teaching experience before you graduate.
• The possibility for part-time completion.

Teaching is the primary focus of our PhD in Criminology program, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice your classroom skills as a teaching assistant.

Working with quantitative and qualitative research strategies, you may also have opportunities to serve as a research assistant or full-fledged researcher for government or private entities. Upon completing your degree, you could continue to work on special topics through post-doctoral research grants and jobs.

What You’ll Learn

Unlike other programs that focus narrowly on training researchers, IUP’s doctoral program gives you instruction in all aspects of scholarship, especially the link between research, scholarship, and teaching.

As a PhD in Criminology student, you'll:

• Apply criminology and criminal justice theories and ethical and philosophical issues to your teaching and research
• Become highly knowledgeable in criminal justice policy
• Develop essential skills to help you balance the demands of teaching, research, and service commitments you'll encounter throughout your career
• Master qualitative and quantitative strategies and methods in developing your skills as a researcher
• Take full advantage of the possibility of teaching associate positions to sharpen your teaching skills in a university setting

Imagine Your Future

Earning a PhD shows the world you’re not afraid of hard work, that you have the discipline and a personal commitment to shaping your profession. With a PhD in Criminology from IUP, your future will be one in which you influence students and future leaders, research some of today’s most gripping issues, and drive reform from within the highest levels of criminal justice administration.

As a doctoral-prepared educator, you have a very bright future. In addition to the more than 400 open faculty positions in higher education throughout the United States, there is a similarly high demand for researchers and policymakers.

Postsecondary (University-level) Instructors:

2021 Median Pay:

Number of Jobs in 2021:

Employment Change, 2021-31:

Classes and Requirements

The main purpose of the PhD in Criminology is to prepare you for a career in academics. At IUP, you’ll receive a balanced and integrated approach to the study of justice systems, theory, research, and educational issues.

The main requirements for this doctoral program are:

• Completing 42 credits of coursework (some students can transfer in coursework from their MA programs)
• Meeting skill and specialization requirements
• Passing qualifying exams
• Finishing your dissertation

Full Academic Catalog Listing

The course catalog is the official reference for all our degree and course offerings. Check it out for a full listing of the classes available and requirements for this degree.

How IUP Supports Your Academic Success

As a doctoral student, you’ll also get plenty of support throughout this challenging academic journey. We’re committed to helping with your success at every stage throughout your progression toward dissertation publication, graduation, and beyond.

Research Opportunities

Because IUP is classified as a public doctoral/high research activity institution, you’ll have opportunities to present your research at conferences, symposiums, and exhibits.

You’ll be relieved to know that support is available at every stage of your doctoral program, including:

• A range of resources that are free for IUP graduate students
• Editing assistance from the Kathleen Jones White Writing Center
• Help in data modeling and quantitative analysis through IUP’s applied research lab.

Dig Deeper with Help from the Center for Criminology Research

The mission of the Center for Research in Criminology (CRC) is to:

• Act as a resource center
• Attract scholars for residency programs
• Conduct, promote, and sponsor scholarly research
• Establish relationships with other institutions/agencies
• Provide technical assistance
• Seek external funding
• Serve as a clearinghouse for proposals and information

The CRC works with, and is supported by, the IUP Department of Criminology and the School of Graduate Studies and Research to nurture postgraduate research and maintain a supportive research environment for faculty members. The CRC also facilitates research contacts among faculty, state and local criminal justice officials, and funding agencies .

Write for the Criminal Justice Policy Review

The Criminal Justice Policy Review (CJPR), edited by IUP professor Jennifer Gossett, is a multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal committed to the study of criminal justice policy through quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methodological approaches.

CJPR serves as a bridge between academics, policymakers, and practitioners by publishing sound research that addresses critical issues in crime and justice and examines the implementation and effectiveness of criminal justice policies, programs, and practices. This journal appeals to criminologists, sociologists, political scientists, and other scholars and professionals with an interest in policy and research.

CJPR is published quarterly and accepts articles, essays, research notes, and book reviews. Manuscripts appropriate for submission include:

• Full-length articles that present the findings of original empirical research
• In addition to its regular issues, CJPR also provides a forum for scheduled special issues on notable topics in crime and justice
• Research notes, allowing authors to present early and preliminary results
• Review essays that thoroughly review and critique the “state of current research” on a particular topic and discuss the associated policy implications, or those that address an emerging issue in the field and outline a proposed research agenda
• Reviews of books on relevant topics in criminal justice

To have your material considered for publication, please submit manuscripts via Manuscript Central .

Get Help Funding Your Doctoral Journey

Graduate assistantships.

Graduate assistantships at IUP are selective and awarded to highly qualified master’s and doctoral students. In addition to earning a stipend, you may receive a full or partial tuition waiver.

One such graduate assistantship includes the opportunity to serve as managing editor of our academic journal, Criminal Justice Policy Review. You’ll get real-world experience while furthering your understanding of the publication process, which is essential in academia.

You can also become a research assistant in the Criminology Research Center, where you’ll gain practical research experience. Internal funding for graduate student research includes:

• Graduate Student Research Grant
• Graduate Student Funding to Present Papers
• Graduate Student Professional Development
• Graduate Student Outstanding Research Award

Become a Teaching Associate

After completing the necessary coursework and qualifying exams, you’ll have the opportunity to apply to become a teaching associate at IUP. Our program includes a supportive mentoring process to better prepare you for the classroom and a career in higher education, which is a natural next step for most doctoral students.  

A Leader in Research: IUP Research Institute

The Indiana University of Pennsylvania Research Institute is affiliated with IUP but is a separate, private, nonprofit corporation. Its mission is to advance the research agenda and educational objectives of IUP and partner institutions within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and to promote greater collaboration across the entire state system.

The Institute’s vision is to enhance the culture of research at IUP and partner institutions while being recognized as a leader in research administration.

CGSO: Your Program, Your People

Finding special-interest groups that nurture you throughout your education is essential for your academic success—and a great way to begin networking for your future.

At IUP, the Criminology Graduate Student Organization (CGSO) is committed to serving graduate students like you and supporting your success. The CGSO sponsors two “Brown Bag” luncheons featuring criminology faculty members discussing various topics each semester. Past luncheons have covered:

• Academic job searches
• Doing research with faculty
• Professional development in academia
• Web-based surveys

Involvement in the local community is vital to CGSO. Its “Bowling for Kids” event raises money for Big Hearts/Little Hands of Indiana County.

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Pursue a graduate degree in sociology or criminology, training in theory, research and teaching.

The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at the University of Delaware offers  master of arts and doctor of philosophy degree programs in both sociology and criminology . Since 1986, the program has been preparing the next generation of sociologists and criminologists with systematic training in theory and research methodology as well as teaching. The advanced education degrees are intended for persons interested in careers in academia, public service, or private enterprise. 

To offer a wide range of professional experiences, the sociology and criminology programs are structured around course work, seminars, research, and teaching opportunities. Students build on strong theoretical and methodological foundations and tailor their programs to meet their individual needs. They work with full-time distinguished faculty from the disciplines of sociology, philosophy, law, political science, criminology, history, and criminal justice. 

Explore our graduate programs

Criminology (M.A., Ph.D.)

Graduate students who pursue the M.A. degree may choose to complete a thesis or a master's examination. Students take required courses in methods, data collection, and data analysis and elective courses in at least two concentration areas.

Ph.D. students take a broad array of courses and complete a doctoral dissertation as part of their comprehensive exam. Core requirements emphasize methods; data collection and analysis; theory; and teaching. They must take elective courses in at least two concentration areas.

Sociology (M.A., Ph.D.)

Graduate students who pursue the M.A. degree in sociology choose options to complete a thesis or a master's examination. Core requirements emphasize research methods with a focus on theory and data collection and analysis. M.A. students must take elective courses in at least two concentration areas.

Ph.D. students take a broad array of courses and complete a doctoral dissertation as part of the comprehensive exam. Core requirements emphasize research methods; data collection and analysis; theory; and teaching. Ph.D. students must take elective courses in at least two concentration areas.

Program Concentrations

Criminology

Disasters and the environment

Law and society

Sociology of health

Sociological theory

Visit UD catalog for requirements

Graduate education goals.

• Conduct original research and demonstrate skills in academic instruction and service.
• Master the theoretical knowledge and methodological skills required for their chosen degrees and fields of study.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge in at least two specialized areas within sociology or criminology.

Work closely with faculty mentors

Graduate students are encouraged to establish professional identities in both research and teaching. They work closely with department faculty, join professional associations, attend and present work at professional conferences. 

Research opportunities  are available with the Disaster Research Center and the Center for Drug and Health Studies, internationally recognized centers for social science research.  They offer research training for graduate students, including stipends for research assistants and use of data sources. Three faculty members serve as editors of the Sociological Forum , the flagship journal of the Eastern Sociological Society.

Why choose the University of Delaware?

The University of Delaware offers 11 graduate programs ranked among the top 50 best in the nation. Centrally located between New York City and Washington, D.C., UD is driven by a rare combination of Land Grant, Sea Grant and Space Grant missions—with a legacy of innovation and service stretching back more than 275 years.

Visit the Graduate College to learn More

How to apply?

Applications are accepted each year for fall admission. Applicants should submit a complete application by  January 3 .  

The following items must be uploaded to your online application: 

• On-line application
• Unofficial transcript containing GPA. Applicants should only mail official transcripts upon request from the Graduate College. 
• Three letters of recommendation. Each recommender will receive upload instructions via email. The application system provides a link to technical support in case of problems.
• Given our department’s focal areas, what areas of research are you most interested in and/or do you have new interests you’d like to learn more about from our current faculty?
• What kinds of research experiences or course work as an undergraduate or graduate student have shaped your interests, or how do ideas you have from your career/applied settings/other work experiences or positions inform your interests?
• Why do you want an M.A. or Ph.D. and what are your eventual career goals?
• ​TOEFL (minimum 100) or IELTS (7.5) for international students. The ETS University of Delaware institution code is 5811.
• Writing sample is required.​
• Recommended GPA is at least 3.5 and above. 
• Applicants must have earned a B.A. or M.A. degree before matriculation in fall.
• The application fee is $75.  View information regarding fees and possible fee waivers​ .
• All incoming students are subject to a criminal background check as per  UD policy 4-111 .

Graduate Program Policy

The department's graduate program policy statement specifies degree requirements, policies, and procedures for sociology and criminology graduate students. The statements are reviewed and approved by the  Faculty Senate's Graduate Studies Committee .

Sociology and  Criminal Justice Graduate Program Policy Statement

Visit the UD ​Graduate Catalog​​​  to review the M.A. and Ph.D. degree requirements​.

Visit the Graduate College's Academic Support page for academic and graduation forms including:

• Application for advanced degree
• Course substitution
• Request for transfer of graduate credit
• Change of major/concentration
• Recommendation for candidacy
• Dissertation defense certification
• Thesis/dissertation manual

Sociology and criminology graduate students are fully funded within the program. Awards are competitive and merit-based.  Financial aid is available to graduate students in the form of teaching assistantships, research assistantships, tuition scholarships, and University fellowships. 

Assistantships and fellowships consist of full tuition plus a stipend for the September to May academic period. For more information, visit the  UD Graduate Catalog, Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships.

First-year international students receive financial aid if they have a TOEFL score of at least 600 paper-based, 250 computer-based, and 100 iBT-based.

The funding package is detailed in the admissions offer letter. Renewal of funding packages each year depends on satisfactory progress toward the degree. For more information, review the Graduate College's page on funding opportunities .

Travel : Students must apply to the department's graduate program committee to request travel support to attend national and international conferences. Graduate students may also  apply for travel awards from the Graduate College , which are funded by the Office of the Provost.

Visit the Graduate College's Emergency Support page for resources available to students experiencing financial hardships or mental health issues.

UD Sociology and Criminal Justice Graduate Council

As a registered student organization, the Sociology and Criminal Justice Graduate Council addresses the needs of the M.A. and Ph.D. students in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at UD. The purpose of this organization is to promote the academic and professional development of graduate students and to serve as the official voice for those students in representing their interests to the faculty, administration, and University community at large. For more information, email  [email protected] .

Visit the UD Sociology and Criminal Justice Grad Council Website

Area Committees

Fall 2024 – spring 25.

The area committees are responsible for policies and procedures in their areas. Graduate students have voting representatives at faculty meetings.

Continuing Education

Non-admitted students can take graduate-level courses in sociology or criminology through UD's Division of Professional & Continuing Studies. Students who later formally enroll in one of UD’s sociology or criminology graduate programs may transfer up to nine credits upon approval by the department's graduate policy committee.

registering for courses, UD Professional & continuing Studies

Please visit UD's Student Financial Services for tuition and related fees (subject to yearly change).

UD Student Financial Services, Cost of Attendance

Supporting tomorrow's leaders, scholars and innovators

The University of Delaware holistically supports its graduate students, beginning with their health and wellbeing . Benefits include a subsidized health plan and physical and behavioral health services. UD fosters a culture of academic excellence , with committed faculty and staff and access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technology. UD prioritizes professional development with job training, internships and industry partnerships. Graduates further enhance their professional growth and visibility with opportunities to work on interdisciplinary research teams, present their work at conferences and publish in academic journals. Visit the links below to learn how UD is supporting society’s future leaders, scholars, and innovators.

Academic Support >

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Criminology, Law, and Criminal Justice, MS

Casl graduate programs, related resources.

• Meet the Faculty
• College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters

Advance in Your Criminal Justice Career

• Personalize your degree and specialize your expertise with courses that interest you
• You can complete all of your courses in person, online, or a combination of both
• We offer a non-thesis option

Although a broad range of students can benefit from the program, we’ve designed it primarily for three groups:

• Working criminology and criminal justice professionals who want to advance to a policymaking or upper-level management position
• Students pursuing an academic career in criminology and criminal justice who plan to continue their studies in a doctoral program
• Students interested in pursuing law school or careers in the field of law

Public safety professionals from partnering organizations may qualify for a  Community Service Personnel Scholarship that covers 20 percent of tuition and fees.

Where Will an MS in Criminology, Law, and Criminal Justice Take Me?

It will give you the knowledge, skills, and credential you need to move up to a leadership position in a criminal justice organization, a role where you may even set and guide policy. Or it will give you a strong boost on your way to a law degree or a Ph.D. in the field. 

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is meant to be averages across the United States for 2022. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

Police and Detectives

$74,910 Median Salary

Overall employment of police and detectives is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 64,500 openings for police and detectives are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

$61,800 Median Salary

Employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 7,400 openings for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Forensic Science Technicians

$64,940 Median Salary

Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 2,600 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$145,760 Median Salary

Lawyers (law degree required)

Employment of lawyers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 39,100 openings for lawyers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

$60,970 Median Salary

Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 4 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 38,000 openings for paralegals and legal assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

What you’ll study.

The program consists of two required theory courses (8 credits), two required methods courses (6-8 credits), and three-four electives courses from a list of over two dozen options that cover intelligence and homeland security, civil rights and liberties, corrections, restorative justice, juvenile justice, gender, sexuality and justice, immigration, media, white collar crime, environmental justice, and government and nonprofit leadership, among other topics. You'll also have the option to complete a master's thesis grounded in your own independent research.

Practical Skills You’ll Gain

At UM-Dearborn, we understand the value of practical experience. You’ll get the chance to apply your acquired knowledge in practice-oriented learning environments, giving you the real-world experience that potential employers appreciate. Through a combination of theory, methods, and applied courses,you'll develop skills in research, criminology and criminal justice program planning and evaluation, and the organization and administration of public criminal justice systems.

For example, share a transformative learning environment with state inmates in the Inside Out Prison Exchange (CRJ 476/576) , a course that co-enrolls UM-Dearborn students and incarcerated students taught inside a correctional facility. 

Or, investigate decades-old cases with local law enforcement through our Cold Case Partnership .

More opportunities for hands-on experiences are available in our  internship ,  research , and  study abroad programs. Check out the pages for these programs, and talk to your professors to learn more.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the Master’s program is at the discretion of the Graduate Program Director in consultation with Graduate Program faculty and the Office of Graduate Studies. Supplemental application materials required for applicants include: official academic transcripts, a personal statement describing academic and career goals, a resume, and two recommendation letters.

• Completion of a Bachelor's degree with at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA

• Completion of the following courses or equivalent:

◦ CRJ 200 Introduction to Criminal Justice

◦ CRJ 468 Criminology

◦ CRJ 488 Criminal Law & Procedure

Applicants who meet the GPA requirement but lack one or more required courses may be admitted conditionally with the permission of the Program Director. These course deficiencies may be completed concurrently with graduate courses in the program upon Program Director approval.

Ready to Apply?

Estimate your cost of attendance per semester.

Application Deadline

This program operates on a rolling admission basis. It is advised to submit all documents by the advisory deadline to ensure consideration for your preferred term and to facilitate pre-term planning. Advisory deadlines differ for domestic and international students.

Graduate Scholarships

Learn about scholarship opportunities for new and continuing graduate students.

Criminology and criminal justice today is no longer just being a beat cop. Criminology and criminal justice is about educated law enforcement and public safety professionals in our society.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved at UM-Dearborn. You can join the  Criminology and Criminal Justice Collective or the  Pre Law Association , participate in the  Inside-Out Prison Exchange program , attend the annual Criminal Justice Exposition to meet recruiters from local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies, check out  general student organizations devoted to a wide range of interests and topics, and much more.

Related Programs

Clinical health psychology, ms, cybersecurity and information assurance, ms, master of public administration and policy (mpap).

Become a part of the UM-Dearborn community and put your dreams to work for you.

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Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminology

"i truly would not be where i am today if it wasn’t for the constant support  from the criminology department at isu. now, i am a strategy and transformation consultant focusing on mass violence and domestic terrorism within the national security segment. i feel that there was no better place than the isu criminology department for me to kick off my career.".

Linzy Kraemer, Class of '20

The four programs in the Department of Sociology, Social Work and Criminology at Idaho State include include Sociology ,  Criminology ,  Social Work , and  Gender and Sexuality Studies.  

A degree in sociology, social work, or criminology from Idaho State University opens up a variety of career prospects. Graduates of our programs have gone on to pursue fulfilling careers in fields such as social services, criminal justice, advocacy, research, and community development. The knowledge and skills acquired through our programs prepare students to address social issues, promote social justice, and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

Explore Our Programs

Meet Our Faculty

We believe in learning beyond the classroom. Our faculty members actively engage with local communities, partnering with organizations and agencies to bring the curriculum to life and provide valuable experiential learning opportunities for our students. Our faculty are committed to mentoring students and guiding them on their academic and professional journeys.

Interdisciplinary Approach: The fields of sociology, social work, and criminology are inherently connected. Our faculty collaborate across disciplines, allowing students to gain a holistic understanding of social systems, individual behaviors, and the justice system.

Comprehensive Sociology Programs

• Deeper understanding of social life complexities
• Emphasis on sociological research
• Exploration of various sociological perspectives
• Solid foundation in sociological theory and research methodologies
• Study of human society, social behavior, and interactions

Social Work Degrees for Impactful Change

• Addressing social issues and promoting justice
• Advocating for vulnerable populations
• Blend of classroom, fieldwork, and practical training
• Equipping students with knowledge and skills
• Focus on positive impact on individuals, families, and communities
• Preparation for rewarding social work careers

Exploring Criminology

• Causes of crime exploration
• Criminal behavior understanding
• Criminal justice system insights
• Criminology courses available
• Crime impact on society examination
• Crime prevention strategies study
• Economic, psychological, social factors analysis
• Passionate about crime and justice
• Social, psychological, economic factors consideration

Want to know more about our programs? Watch this video.

A glimpse into sociology, social work, and criminology at ISU

The four programs in the department include Sociology ,  Criminology ,  Social Work , and  Gender and Sexuality Studies.

Earn your  BASW  or  MSW  fully online!

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Department of Culture, Society and Justice

Culture, society & justice, anthropology.

Physical Address: Student Health Center, 3rd Floor

Mailing Address: Culture, Society & Justice Department University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 4207 Moscow, ID 83844-1110

Phone: 208-885-6751

Email: [email protected]

Web: Culture, Society and Justice Department

Criminology and Sociology

Physical Address: 101 Phinney Hall

Mailing Address: Culture, Society & Justice Department University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1110 Moscow, ID 83844-1110

Asian American Comparative Collection

Physical Address: 404 Sweet Avenue

Mailing Address: Asian American Comparative Collection University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1111 Moscow, Idaho 83844-1111

Phone: 208-885-7075

Master of Science in Criminology

Career information is not specific to degree level. Some career options may require an advanced degree.

Current Job Openings and Salary Range

in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Entry-Level

Senior-Level

• Career Options
• Fraud Examiner, Investigator or Analyst
• Digital Forensics Analyst
• Social Science Research Assistant
• Probation Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist
• First-Line Supervisor of Correctional Officers
• First-Line Supervisor of Police and Detectives
• Correctional Officers and Jailer
• Detective / Criminal Investigator
• Intelligence Analyst
• Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officer
• Private Detective and Investigator

Regional Employment Trends

Employment trends and projected job growth in ID, WA, OR, MT & HI

*Job data is collected from national, state and private sources. For more information, visit EMSI's data sources page .

• Degree Prep

An undergraduate degree in criminology or a related field is preferred but not required.

• Degree Roadmap

Master’s Degree: Thesis option (30 credits) Core Classes

• CRIM 506 (3 cr) Advanced Criminological Theory
• CRIM 507 (3 cr) Justice Institutions 
• CRIM 511 (3 cr) Data Analysis in Criminology
• CRIM 512 (3 cr) Qualitative Methods in Criminology
• CRIM 530 (3 cr) Criminology in Practice
• Graduate Electives (9 cr): Students will complete three graduate electives. Two of those classes must be graduate-level electives offered through the criminology program.  The other may be a criminology-related class taken through another program or a 400-level criminology class, with permission of the Graduate Director. 
• Thesis Preparation Classes (6 cr): Students will complete six thesis and/or directed study credits.

Master’s Degree: Non-Thesis option (30 credits) Core Classes

• Graduate Electives (9 cr): Students will complete three graduate electives. Two of those classes must be graduate-level electives offered through the criminology program. The other may be a criminology-related class taken through another program or a 400-level criminology class, with permission of the Graduate Director. 
• Internship/Directed Study Classes (6 cr): Students will complete six thesis and/or directed study credits.

More information is available in the University of Idaho Catalog . 

• Scholarships

The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences provides annual scholarship awards totaling approximately $1,600,000. For information on specific scholarships, please email [email protected] .

You can find University of Idaho scholarships and tuition waivers on the  Financial Aid scholarships page.

To learn more about FAFSA deadlines and processes, available scholarships, and financial aid program types and eligibility requirements, please visit the University of Idaho Financial Aid Office .

• Hands-on Learning
• Participate in the state of Idaho’s only Inside-Out program with the Idaho Correctional Institution – Orofino
• Join the “Citizens Police Academy” jointly run between U of I and the Moscow Police Department
• Help support the university's Prison Education Initiative 
• Compare and contrast international justice systems through the Idaho Criminology Abroad spring break program
• Work directly with professors on research projects
• Present your research at regional and national conferences
• Join Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society
• Internships

More than 75% of all criminology majors complete an internship or experiential learning activity before graduation. The Criminology Program has established internship opportunities with several agencies including;

• Moscow Police Department
• Latah County Probation
• Latah County Youth Services
• Alternatives to Violence on the Palouse
• Idaho Fish and Game
• Idaho Department of Corrections
• Idaho State Police
• Ada County Courts
• Job Openings and Salary Range
• Employment Trends

Crime and Punishment

Go behind the scenes to study the real-life implications of crime. Develop a deep understanding of why crimes are committed, how they’re handled, and how we can prevent them. You’ll learn how to be an advocate for victims and a voice for justice in this dynamic Master of Science (M.S.) program. Jumpstart or advance your career in criminal justice, or continue your studies at the doctoral level. 

• #1 Best Value Public University in the West, 3 Years running (USNWR, 2022).
• Complete the criminology degree either  online  or on the Moscow campus.
• Full-time, online students pay in-state tuition, regardless of location.
• Thesis and non-thesis track options.  
• Demand for criminal justice professionals is expected to grow 9.8% over the next decade (Idaho Department of Labor). 
• Hands-on learning through internships with law enforcement agencies, probation and parole, victim services, and other organizations.
• Participate in research projects with faculty members in areas such as human rights, firearms policy, deviance, law and society, criminal justice policy, social crime in the media, and terrorism.

Meet Our Students

Students and Alumni

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Gain New Insights and Knowledge

What Can You Do With a Criminal Justice Degree?

Earning a degree in criminal justice can lead to a number of highly rewarding careers. Criminal justice majors explore investigative methods, the judicial process, and the causes of criminal behavior. They also strengthen their analytical and problem-solving skills.

There are many options for what you can do with a criminal justice degree . Criminal justice graduates work as police officers, criminal investigators, and probation officers, to name just a few of the positions that a bachelor’s in criminal justice can open up.

Career Paths for Criminal Justice Graduates

After earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, many graduates pursue job opportunities in protective services, corrections, and the justice system. For example, criminal justice graduates become police officers, detectives, and investigators. A bachelor’s degree also meets the educational requirement for jobs in federal law enforcement as an FBI agent or Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent.

Within the legal system, criminal justice graduates work as correctional treatment specialists, paralegals, and victim advocates. They also work with minors in the juvenile justice system.

Professionals with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice have a median annual salary of approximately $66,000, according to February 2024 data from Payscale.

9 Criminal Justice Careers

The options for what you do with a criminal justice degree depend on your interests. Graduates pursue careers in law enforcement and the justice system. They work in settings such as police departments, government agencies, the courts, and legal offices. A degree in criminal justice can also lead to opportunities to work for private companies.

The following are nine in-demand criminal justice careers.

Police Officer

Median Salary (May 2023): $72,280

Police officers patrol the community, respond to emergencies, and protect public safety. Patrol officers typically engage with the public, observing the community and addressing any problems. After working as a patrol officer for several years, police officers may join a special unit. In addition to working in police departments, police officers also work in sheriff’s offices.

While police officers typically do not need a bachelor’s degree, holding a criminal justice degree can help officers move into specialized roles.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Crime Scene Investigator

Median Salary (May 2023): $64,940

Crime scene investigators collect evidence at the scene of a crime, and then catalog and store that evidence to help build a criminal case against a perpetrator or perpetrators. Crime scene investigators may collect fingerprints, DNA evidence, and other documentation from a scene. They may also work in a laboratory and testify in criminal trials.

As a specialization within the broader field of forensic science, crime scene investigator positions typically require a bachelor’s degree.

Source: BLS

Criminal Investigator

Median Salary (May 2023): $91,100 Projected Job Growth: 1%

Criminal investigators are law enforcement officers who specialize in investigating crimes. They interview witnesses and suspects, collect evidence, and testify in court. This law enforcement category also includes detectives, who investigate major crimes including fraud and homicide.

A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice helps detectives and criminal investigators launch and advance their careers.

Median Salary (May 2023): $60,970

Paralegals assist attorneys by organizing legal documents, investigating legal matters, and obtaining statements used in court. They may also assist attorneys during trials, including by filing legal documents or organizing materials for discovery. Paralegals need strong legal research and writing skills.

Earning a bachelor’s in criminal justice helps paralegals strengthen their knowledge of the legal system and judicial process. Paralegals may specialize in an area such as criminal law, corporate law, or litigation.

Probation Officer

Median Salary (May 2023): $61,800

Probation officers work closely with individuals on probation to help them meet the requirements of their probation and to ensure public safety. They meet with probationers to monitor their progress and help them stick with their treatment plan. Some probation officers work primarily with juvenile offenders.

Along with individuals in related roles such as parole officers and correctional treatment specialists, probation officers typically need a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a closely related field to qualify for the job.

Criminal Intelligence Analyst

Median Salary (April 2024): Approximately $77,990

Criminal intelligence analysts evaluate relevant information to look for security threats and conduct investigations using analytical tools and databases. In government agencies and law enforcement settings, criminal intelligence analysts may try to identify high-risk targets or discern crime patterns to appropriately allocate resources. Some criminal intelligence analysts also work in forensics, where they profile individuals who have committed crimes.

Many criminal intelligence analyst jobs require a bachelor’s degree along with criminal justice experience. Strong analytical and communication skills help criminal intelligence analysts advance their careers.

Source: Payscale

Criminologist

Median Salary (April 2024): Approximately $55,480

Criminologists investigate the behavioral elements of a crime. Many criminologists work for government agencies and in law enforcement settings. Criminologists help police understand lawlessness and develop crime prevention methods.

Strong data analysis and psychological profiling skills are required to excel as a criminologist. Criminologist positions typically require a bachelor’s degree with coursework in criminology and psychology.

Fraud Investigator

Median Salary (May 2024): Approximately $68,320

Fraud investigators specialize in financial crimes. They work in law enforcement and for insurance companies identifying fraudulent activity. These investigators evaluate evidence, interview witnesses, and determine whether fraud has taken place.

Positions in fraud investigation often require a background in law enforcement, and companies often prefer to hire college graduates.

Security Manager

Median Salary (April 2024): Approximately $80,580

Security managers oversee an organization’s security needs. They implement safety plans, train employees, and manage teams of security officers. Security managers also respond to emergency incidents and coordinate with law enforcement when necessary.

Some employers prefer to hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree or experience in security. Coursework in criminal justice can prepare individuals for successful careers in private security.

Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree at East Carolina University®️

Ready to learn more about what you can do with a criminal justice degree? The online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree completion program at East Carolina University can help you reach your career goals. With its emphasis on real-world skills and hands-on learning, ECU’s criminal justice program can prepare you for a career in law enforcement, the justice system, or criminal investigation.

Students can choose a minor in criminal law or legal process and criminology to focus their studies. Students also have the option to pursue an internship or field experience to strengthen their career-ready skills. Contact ECU today to discover how earning an online criminal justice degree can lead to a new career path.

Recommended Readings

Criminal Justice Careers & Outlook in NC

Payscale, Average Criminologist Salary

Payscale, Average Fraud Investigator Salary

Payscale, Average Intelligence Analyst Salary

Payscale, Average Security Manager Salary

Payscale, Bachelor’s Degree, Criminal Justice Degree

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forensic Science Technicians

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paralegals and Legal Assistants

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Police and Detectives

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

U.S. Department of Justice, Careers

Recent Articles

Criminology vs. Criminal Justice: Differences and Similarities

East Carolina University®

Sep 19, 2024

Criminal Justice Careers and Outlook in NC

Sep 18, 2024

Victim Advocate: Role and Responsibilities

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Idaho college killings suspect is criminology PhD student

Authorities in Pennsylvania arrested a suspect in the killings of four University of Idaho students who were found stabbed to death in their beds more than a month ago, Moscow Police Chief James Fry said Friday. (Dec. 30)

Here’s the latest for Friday December 30th: Congress releases Trump’s tax returns; Authorities make an arrest in University of Idaho killings; Southwest Airlines return to normal flight schedule; Pele fans pay tribute in his hometown

Police removed boxes of personal belonging from a rental home near the University of Idaho campus where four students were killed November 13th. (Nov. 6)

This photo provided by Monroe County (Pa.) Correctional Facility shows Bryan Kohberger. Arrest paperwork filed by Pennsylvania State Police in Monroe County Court, Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, said Kohberger, 28, was being held for extradition in a criminal homicide investigation in the killings of four University of Idaho students, based on an active arrest warrant for first degree murder issued by the Moscow Police Department and Latah County Prosecutor’s Office. (Monroe County (Pa.) Correctional Facility via AP)

FILE - A flyer seeking information about the killings of four University of Idaho students who were found dead is displayed on a table along with buttons and bracelets on Nov. 30, 2022, during a vigil in memory of the victims in Moscow, Idaho. A suspect in the killings of four University of Idaho students was arrested in eastern Pennsylvania, a law enforcement official said Friday, Dec. 30. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)

FILE - A Moscow police officer stands guard in his vehicle, Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022, at the home where four University of Idaho students were found dead on Nov. 13, in Moscow, Idaho. A suspect in the killings of four University of Idaho students was arrested in eastern Pennsylvania, a law enforcement official said Friday, Dec. 30. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren,File)

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HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A 28-year-old criminal justice graduate student was arrested in eastern Pennsylvania on Friday as a suspect in the mysterious stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students last month, authorities said.

DNA evidence played a key role in identifying Bryan Christopher Kohberger as a suspect in the killings, and officials were able to match his DNA to genetic material recovered during the investigation, a law enforcement official said. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation.

The students — Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin — were stabbed to death at a rental home near campus in Moscow, Idaho, sometime in the early morning hours of Nov. 13.

Moscow Police Chief James Fry said Kohberger attends Washington State University, which is only a few miles across the state line from Moscow.

Investigators are still looking for a weapon, Fry said at a press conference. He was emotional as he announced the arrest, calling the victims by their first names.

The killings initially confounded law enforcement and shook the small farming community of about 25,000 people, which hadn’t had a murder for five years. But tips began pouring in after law enforcement asked the public for help finding a white Hyundai Elantra sedan seen near the home around the time of the killings.

In addition to the DNA evidence, authorities also learned Kohberger had a white Hyundai Elantra , the official who spoke anonymously said. In recent days, federal investigators had been watching Kohberger and arrested him early Friday morning at a home in Chestnuthill Township, Pennsylvania.

Federal and state investigators are now combing through his background, financial records and electronic communications as they work to identify a motive and build the case, the official said. The investigators are also interviewing people who knew Kohberger, including those at Washington State University, the official said.

During the press conference, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said investigators believe Kohberger broke into the students’ home “with the intent to commit murder.” He is being held without bond in Pennsylvania, and will be held without bond in Idaho once he is returned, Thompson said. The affidavit for four charges of first-degree murder in Idaho will remain sealed until he is returned, as required by state law.

Kohberger is also charged with felony burglary in Idaho, Thompson said. An extradition hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.

Kohberger just completed his first semester as a PhD student in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Washington State University. He is also a teaching assistant for the university’s criminal justice and criminology program, according to WSU’s online directory . University police assisted Idaho law enforcement in executing search warrants at Kohberger’s campus apartment and office, the university said. WSU officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Kohberger’s work as a teaching assistant.

“This horrific act has shaken everyone in the Palouse region,” said WSU provost Elizabeth Chilton in a prepared statement, referring to the scenic rolling hills surrounding both universities. “We will long feel the loss of these young people in the Moscow-Pullman community and hope the announcement today will be a step toward healing.”

WSU and UI are partners in several academic programs, and students sometimes attend classes and seminars or work at the neighboring schools. That doesn’t appear to be the case with Kohberger: University of Idaho President Scott Green wrote in a memo to students and employees on Friday evening that the Idaho school had no record of him.

Kohberger graduated from Northampton Community College in Pennsylvania with an associate of arts degree in psychology in 2018, said college spokesperson Mia Rossi-Marino. DeSales University in Pennsylvania said that he received a bachelor’s degree in 2020 and completed graduate studies in June 2022.

Goncalves, 21, of Rathdrum, Idaho; Mogen, 21, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Kernodle, 20, of Post Falls, Idaho; and Chapin, 20, of Conway, Washington, were members of the university’s Greek system and close friends. Mogen, Goncalves and Kernodle lived in the three-story rental home with two other roommates. Kernodle and Chapin were dating and he was visiting the house that night.

Autopsies showed all four were likely asleep when they were attacked. Some had defensive wounds and each was stabbed multiple times. There was no sign of sexual assault, police said.

Police said Thursday the rental home would be cleared of “potential biohazards and other harmful substances” to collect evidence starting Friday morning.

Shanon Gray, an attorney representing Goncalves’s father, Steve Goncalves, said law enforcement officials called the family last night to let them know about the arrest, but gave no additional information about how or why they believe he might be connected to the murders.

Ben Roberts, a graduate student in the criminology and criminal justice department at WSU, described Kohberger as confident and outgoing, but said it seemed like “he was always looking for a way to fit in.”

“I had honestly just pegged him as being super awkward.” Roberts said.

Roberts started the program in August — along with Kohberger, he said — and had several courses with him. He described Kohberger as wanting to appear academic.

“One thing he would always do, almost without fail, was find the most complicated way to explain something,” he said. “He had to make sure you knew that he knew it.”

Ethan Chapin’s family emailed a statement after the press conference. “We are relieved this chapter is over because it provides a form of closure. However, it doesn’t alter the outcome or alleviate the pain,” the family wrote. “We miss Ethan, and our family is forever changed.”

The case enticed online sleuths who speculated about potential suspects and motives. Safety concerns also had the university hiring an additional security firm to escort students across campus and the Idaho State Police sending troopers to help patrol the city’s streets.

Kohberger was arrested in eastern Pennsylvania in the Pocono Mountains. No lawyer for Kohberger was listed in court documents and phone calls to the county public defender’s office went answered Friday.

Boone reported from Boise, Idaho, and Balsamo reported from Washington. News Researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York, and reporters Mark Scolforo and Brooke Schultz in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Michael Kunzelman in Silver Spring, Maryland, and Martha Bellisle in Seattle also contributed.

International Master’s in Advanced Research in Criminology (IMARC)

Is this the programme you're looking for?

IMARC is a 2-year interdisciplinary research programme in international criminology offered by two universities, focusing on the critical, cultural and global dimensions of border crossing, security and social justice. IMARC aims to address the need for internationally oriented and interdisciplinary trained researchers that can offer original insights and analyses as well as innovative, effective and ethical solutions to advance both policy and practice and academic research. The overall programme provides students with an opportunity to study a broad range of substantive criminological issues whilst simultaneously providing a robust theoretical foundation within which students can develop deeper analytical and critical thinking. As a research-intensive master’s programme, there is also a strong emphasis on providing students with training in a variety of research approaches and methodologies and an extended dissertation. Because these issues cross disciplinary, cultural and national boundaries, the labor market will increasingly need employees who are able to think, communicate and act across borders. International companies and universities demand professionals with this knowledge. IMARC facilitates a programme for a multidisciplinary group of students who, on the one hand, want to develop knowledge, skills and expertise around the themes of migration, security and social issues and who, on the other hand, want to develop more research skills and have more time for research. IMARC aims to train students for the professional field at NGOs, (semi) public authorities, international private companies and research institutes within Europe and beyond.

More information on the IMARC-website .

Key Facts & Figures

The study programme in a nutshell.

• Critical theoretical and practical perspectives on border-crossing, security and social justice.
• Qualitative and quantitative criminological research skills. One year is allocated in the curriculum for conducting research. In this way, the program meets the research ambitions of excellent students who want to grow into research positions.
• Engagement in research and being open minded to reflect and respond to new developments and current discussions in criminology and the work field of borders, security and social justice.
• The programme brings together learning, research and practice through collaboration with already well-established partners among which governments, ngo’s, corporate actors and other Universities, which contributes to the employability of our students.
• Participation in international conferences, twice a year with students form other universities (Common Sessions).
• You will have the possibility to attend a joint master programme devoting special attention to research mobility and intercultural exchange. 
• Upon successful completion of the Joint Master’s Programme, you will be awarded with a double degree: the national degree of the university you spent at least one semester.

What you will learn

You will learn:

• to combine academic expertise and research in order to tackle complex issues from a European and global perspective. This allows you to contribute effectively to the protection of human rights. Students gain a well-founded understanding of border issues, social justice and security.
• about border issues with special attention to migration. Points of view from different disciplines (legal, political, cultural and sociological approaches) are combined. The concept of social justice draws from legal, sociological, and political research traditions and includes concerns that may overlap and interact.
• transversal skills such as creativity, entrepreneurship, problem-solving attitude, reflective thinking and perseverance. Through program mobility, organising social events and reflective meetings about differences in learning methods, you develop cultural sensitivity to ethics, cross-cultural differences and integrity. Skills related to leadership, communication and cooperation are included in the IMARC curriculum.

Is this the right programme for you?

Are you looking for:

• a research-oriented programme? One year (2nd year) is allocated for conducting research and writing your thesis. During the first year you follow taught modules.
• an interdisciplinary criminology programme that is distinctive from related offerings on the themes of border crossing, migration, human rights and social justice?
• a critical-reflexive approach to these themes?
• mobility in your master programme? The compulsory mobility promotes employability and personal development.
• building a network during your programme? IMARC has an international collaboration with international universities and organisations (associate partners and network partners).
• gaining a new experience in an informal setting with a group of international fellow students? An important part of IMARC is the Common Study Program in Critical Criminology (CSP), a 40-year collaboration with 15 international universities. Twice a year, students and staff come together in one of the university centers for a 'Common Session'. The CSP offers students the opportunity to participate in a series of structured and informal sessions.

Want to know more? Meet us here

Find out everything you need to know at one of these (online) events.

Master open day.

• Saturday 23 Nov 2024, 10:00 - 16:00

Career opportunities after graduation

• The geopolitical changes show that there are more and more organisations involved in combating or preventing migration, security, crime and social justice.
• Alumni can work in a variety of industries at different levels in analytical roles, policy-making roles, research roles or PhD positions.
• Potential employers are inter- and non-governmental organisations, national and European government departments, consultancy firms, research and academic institutions, banks and insurance companies and consultancies.
• IMARC alumni work at international organisations in the Netherlands, EU organisations or national organisations in other countries. The analysis, policy or research roles are fulfilled in both (semi-)government organisations and in the private sector, where they often work in positions to understand and explain international trends in the field of migration and social exclusion.

Your student life starts in the vibrant city of Rotterdam

This vibrant city offers a variety in art, nightlife, culture and sports. Everything you wish for to enjoy your student life to the fullest.

Not sure yet about your choice? Request a brochure!

Choosing a study is quite a challenge! Still in doubt about this study and want to have a good overview? Receive a clear digital brochure for this study.

Is this your programme?

• Visit our Master Open Day!

Digital information session IMARC

More info? Check our digital information session!

Compare @count study programme

• Duration: @duration

• Rankings > Criminal Justice
• SEP 19, 2024

2024 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs Ranking in Lowell, MA

by Paweł Dąbrowski, Phd

Higher Education Data Scientist

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Chief Data Scientist & Ranking Editor

For students in Lowell, MA, pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice can be both an exciting and daunting journey. With rising tuition costs and a plethora of program options, many prospective students face significant financial concerns and uncertainty about which programs will best meet their needs. This article aims to alleviate those worries by providing a comprehensive overview of the 2024 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs Ranking in Lowell, MA. Created by the Research.com team of data scientists, this ranking will help you navigate the landscape of online degree offerings, ensuring you make informed decisions about your education. For instance, students considering the popular Criminal Justice program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell can benefit from insights into affordability and program quality. By the end of this article, you’ll have the tools and knowledge necessary to choose a program that aligns with your career aspirations and financial situation.

• Key benefits of getting a Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA
• Graduates with an Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, can expect competitive salaries, with Police Officers earning a mean annual wage of $71,380 and Crime Scene Investigators making around $91,610 annually. These figures highlight the financial benefits of pursuing a career in this field.
• A graduate from a local university in Lowell, MA, found success as a Correctional Officer, earning approximately $54,760 per year. This role, along with others like Forensic Science Technician and Court Clerk, showcases the diverse career paths available to Criminal Justice degree holders.
• An online degree in Criminal Justice offers flexibility that traditional programs may not, allowing students to balance work and studies. A recent online graduate from a popular Lowell university emphasized how this format enabled them to gain practical experience while completing their education.
• What can I expect from a Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA?

Students pursuing an online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA can expect a rich and engaging educational experience that prepares them for various roles within the criminal justice system. Graduates often share how the comprehensive curriculum, which includes subjects like criminology and criminal law, allowed them to explore their interests deeply. For instance, one graduate recalled how a course on police operations sparked their passion for community policing, leading them to a fulfilling career in local law enforcement.

• Comprehensive Curriculum : The programs typically cover a wide range of topics, enabling students to align their studies with specific career goals. Many graduates appreciated the opportunity to take electives in areas like forensic science, which they found particularly intriguing and relevant to their aspirations.
• Skill Acquisition : Students develop essential skills such as analytical thinking and effective communication. A graduate mentioned how a research project on crime statistics not only honed their analytical abilities but also gave them a deeper understanding of societal impacts, which they now apply in their daily work.
• Flexible Learning Environment : The adaptability of online programs is a significant advantage for many students. One graduate shared how the flexible schedule allowed them to balance their studies with a part-time job in security, making their educational journey manageable and rewarding.
• Career Pathways : Graduates often find themselves well-prepared for diverse career options, from law enforcement to private security. One former student noted that their degree served as a stepping stone to further education in social work, illustrating the degree's versatility.
• Importance of Accreditation : Many graduates emphasized the importance of choosing an accredited program, as it enhanced their job prospects in a competitive market. They felt confident knowing their education met recognizedstandards.
• Financial Aid Opportunities : Access to federal loans and grants was a game-changer for many students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of overwhelming debt. One graduate reflected on how understanding financial aid options made their educational journey much smoother.

Overall, the online Criminal Justice degree programs in Lowell, MA, provide a supportive and enriching environment for students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in this dynamic field.

• Where can I work with a Online Criminal Justice degree?

Graduates with an Online Criminal Justice degree from institutions in Lowell, MA, can find themselves in a variety of fulfilling roles across the criminal justice spectrum. Many alumni have shared their experiences, highlighting the diverse career paths available to them after completing their studies.

• Law Enforcement : Graduates often pursue careers as police officers or detectives, contributing to community safety. One graduate recounted the excitement of joining the local police force, emphasizing the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes with protecting the community.
• Corrections : Some students find rewarding positions as correctional officers, where they play a crucial role in maintaining order within jails and prisons. A graduate shared how this role allowed them to make a difference in the lives of individuals while ensuring safety and security.
• Federal Agencies : For those aiming higher, opportunities within federal agencies like the FBI or DEA are appealing. A graduate described the rigorous training and the thrill of working on high-stakes investigations, underscoring the prestige associated with these positions.
• Legal Support : Many graduates become paralegals, assisting attorneys with research and case preparation. One former student expressed satisfaction in supporting the legal process, finding fulfillment in helping clients navigate complex legal challenges.
• Forensic Science : Students drawn to the scientific aspects of criminal justice often become forensic science technicians. A graduate shared their passion for collecting and analyzing evidence, noting the excitement of contributing to solving crimes through scientific methods.
• Victim Advocacy : This role allows graduates to support individuals affected by crime, helping them through the emotional and legal complexities. A graduate highlighted the rewarding nature of this work, emphasizing the impact they can have on victims' lives.
• Crime Analysis :Graduates can also work as crime analysts, using data to identify trends and assist law enforcement. One graduate described the satisfaction of using analytical skills to help shape community safety strategies.
• Investigative Reporting : For those interested in journalism, careers in investigative reporting focusing on crime and justice stories are available. A graduate shared their passion for storytelling, emphasizing the importance of shedding light on critical issues within the community.

With a Criminal Justice degree from a respected institution in Lowell, MA, graduates are well-equipped to embark on meaningful careers that contribute to public safety and justice.

• How much can I make with a Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA?

Graduates with an Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, can expect to earn competitive salaries across various roles in the field. For instance, a police officer in the area has a mean annual wage of approximately $71,380, translating to an hourly wage of about $34.32. This reflects the rewarding nature of a career dedicated to public safety and community service.

Many graduates recall their experiences at local institutions, sharing how their education prepared them for these roles. One graduate mentioned how their coursework in criminal law and ethics at a well-known Lowell college equipped them with the knowledge needed to navigate complex situations on the job.

Correctional officers, another common career path for Criminal Justice graduates, earn a mean annual wage of around $54,760, or $26.33 per hour. A recent graduate reflected on their internship experience at a local correctional facility, emphasizing how hands-on training made them feel confident in their ability to manage challenging environments.

For those interested in forensic science, the role of a crime scene investigator offers a higher mean annual wage of about $91,610, with an hourly rate of $44.04. Graduates often share their excitement about the investigative techniques they learned, which prepared them for real-world applications in solving crimes.

Additionally, forensic science technicians earn a mean annual wage of $69,260, or $33.30 per hour. One graduate recounted how their capstone project on evidence collection techniques sparked a passion for the field, leading to a fulfilling career.

Court clerks, while earning a lower mean annual wage of $46,280 ($22.25 per hour), play a vital role in the judicial system. Graduates often highlight the importance of organizational skills and attention to detail, which they honed during their studies.

In summary, pursuing an Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, opens doors to various rewarding career paths, each with its ownsalary potential and unique experiences that resonate with graduates.

Table of Contents

How do we rank schools, what online criminal justice degree graduates have to say, key findings, how long does it take to complete a online criminal justice degree in lowell, ma, what’s the difference between online and on-campus criminal justice degree, what is the average cost of a online criminal justice degree in lowell, ma, what financial aid is available to online criminal justice degree students in lowell, ma, what are the prerequisites for enrolling in a online criminal justice program in lowell, ma, what courses are typically in a online criminal justice program in lowell, ma, what types of specializations are available in a online criminal justice program in lowell, ma, how do you choose the best online criminal justice degree program in lowell, ma, what career paths are available for online criminal justice graduates in lowell, ma, other things you should know, see what experts have to say about studying criminal justice.

Investing in education is a significant decision that can shape one’s future, and the Research.com team understands the importance of making informed choices. To assist prospective students in Lowell, MA, we have meticulously crafted the “2024 Most Affordable Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs Ranking.” Our commitment to quality, credibility, and accuracy is reflected in the extensive research and analysis we conducted, utilizing reputable data sources to ensure the reliability of our findings.

The following data sources were instrumental in creating this ranking:

• IPEDS database
• Peterson’s database
• College Scorecard database
• National Center for Education Statistics

By exploring this ranking, readers will gain valuable insights into affordable online criminal justice programs, empowering them to make educated decisions about their educational investments. For more details on our methodology, please visit our Research.com methodology page .

# 1 position

University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a Master's degree program in Criminal Justice with a graduation rate of 69%. The program lasts for 14 months and costs an average of $18,975 USD. Financial aid is available to 90% of students, making it accessible to many. With an acceptance rate of 85%, the program is open to a wide range of applicants. Additionally, there are 6,430 online students enrolled, providing flexibility for those who require it.

# 2 position

The University of Massachusetts Lowell offers a Master's program with a focus on Accounting, Business, Finance, and Criminal Justice. With a graduation rate of 69% and an average total cost of 19650 USD, this 8-month program is accessible to many students, as evidenced by the 90% receiving financial aid. The program also boasts an acceptance rate of 85% and has 6430 online students enrolled. For those seeking a quality education in these fields, the University of Massachusetts Lowell provides a valuable opportunity for furthering their career goals.

# 3 position

The Bachelor's Degree Program in Criminal Justice at the University of Massachusetts Lowell boasts a graduation rate of 69% and an acceptance rate of 85%. With a program length of 14 months, it offers a quick path to a degree. The average total cost is $45,600, but 90% of students receive financial aid. The program also caters to online learners, with 6,430 students currently enrolled. For those interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice, this program provides a solid foundation.

• Thomas: "Pursuing my Online Criminal Justice degree at the University of Massachusetts Lowell was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The flexibility of the online program allowed me to balance my studies with my job as a police officer. The professors were incredibly supportive and brought real-world experience into the virtual classroom, making the coursework engaging and relevant. I felt like I was part of a community, even from a distance. Graduating with this degree has opened doors for me in my career, and I’m excited about the future!"
• Margaret: "I chose to study Criminal Justice online at Middlesex Community College, and it was a transformative experience. The curriculum was comprehensive, covering everything from criminology to ethics in law enforcement. What I loved most was the emphasis on practical applications; the case studies and discussions helped me connect theory to real-life situations. The online format was perfect for me as a busy mom, allowing me to study during my kids' nap times. I graduated feeling empowered and ready to make a difference in my community!"
• Katherine: "My journey at the Lowell Institute for Technology was nothing short of inspiring. The online Criminal Justice program was designed with working professionals in mind, which was a huge plus for me. The faculty were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in our success. I appreciated the diverse perspectives shared by my classmates, which enriched our discussions. The program helped me develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the justice system. I graduated with confidence, ready to tackle challenges in the field, and I owe it all to the supportive environment at the institute."
• Graduates with an Online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, can earn competitive salaries, with police officers averaging $71,380 and crime scene investigators around $91,610 annually.
• Career opportunities include roles such as police officers, forensic technicians, probation officers, and private investigators, with a projected 7% job growth for police officers from 2020 to 2030.
• Approximately 30% of police officers hold a college degree, and many law enforcement agencies prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree for higher-ranking positions.
• Tuition for online programs typically costs about $420 per unit, with an average course (3 units) costing around $1,260, and additional fees may apply for administrative tasks.
• Full-time students usually take four courses per semester, leading to a total tuition of approximately $5,040 for 12 units, while part-time students may incur lower costs based on their course load.

Completing an online Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, typically varies based on the level of the program. For an associate degree, students can expect to finish in about two years if attending full-time. This degree often serves as a stepping stone for those looking to enter the workforce quickly, with graduates finding roles in law enforcement or community service shortly after graduation.

For a bachelor’s degree, the timeline extends to approximately four years of full-time study. Many graduates from local institutions have shared their experiences of balancing coursework with internships, which not only enrich their education but also enhance their employability. For instance, students often engage in practical experiences with local law enforcement agencies, providing them with invaluable insights and networking opportunities.

Master’s degree programs in Criminal Justice can take an additional one to two years to complete. These programs are designed for those aiming for advanced positions in the field, such as criminal analysts or policy advisors. Graduates have reported that the rigorous curriculum and research components have equipped them with critical thinking skills essential for tackling complex issues in criminal justice.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the timeframes:

• Associate Degree : ~2 years (full-time)
• Bachelor’s Degree : ~4 years (full-time)
• Master’s Degree : ~1-2 years (full-time)

Many students appreciate the flexibility of online programs, allowing them to manage their studies alongside work or family commitments. Graduates often express a sense of accomplishment and readiness to contribute positively to their communities, inspired by their studies and practical experiences in Lowell. This supportive environment fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among students, making the journey through their online Criminal Justice degrees both fulfilling and impactful.

The primary difference between online and on-campus Criminal Justice degrees lies in the flexibility and learning environment they offer. Online programs, such as those provided by local institutions in Lowell, MA, allow students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. This is particularly beneficial for those already engaged in law enforcement or related fields, as they can apply their learning in real-time without disrupting their careers.

In contrast, on-campus programs typically offer a more structured environment, which can be advantageous for students who thrive on face-to-face interaction and hands-on experiences. For instance, graduates from on-campus programs often cite the value of networking opportunities and direct access to faculty, which can enhance their educational experience and career prospects.

Key differences include:

• Flexibility : Online degrees allow students to study at their own pace, making it easier to manage work and family obligations. Graduates often express relief at being able to complete coursework during evenings or weekends.
• Learning Environment : On-campus students benefit from immediate access to resources like libraries and labs, which can enrich their understanding of criminal justice concepts. Many graduates appreciate the camaraderie and support found in classroom settings.
• Networking Opportunities : On-campus programs often facilitate connections with local law enforcement agencies through internships and events. Graduates frequently mention how these experiences helped them secure jobs post-graduation.
• Cost : Online programs can sometimes be more affordable, as they eliminate commuting costs and allow students to continue working while studying. Many graduates have noted significant savings in tuition and related expenses.

Ultimately, the choice between online and on-campus Criminal Justice degrees in Lowell, MA, depends on individual learning preferences and career goals.Each path offers unique advantages that can lead to fulfilling careers in the criminal justice field.

The average cost of obtaining an online criminal justice degree in Lowell, MA, is approximately $19,650. This figure reflects the financial commitment required for students pursuing this path, making it essential to understand the various components of this investment.

Graduates from local institutions often share their experiences, highlighting the affordability and flexibility of online programs. Many appreciate the ability to balance work and study, allowing them to gain practical experience while earning their degree. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those considering the average cost of online criminal justice degree in Lowell MA.

Key cost considerations include:

• Tuition Fees : Online programs typically offer competitive rates, making them a budget-friendly option compared to traditional on-campus degrees. Students often find that they can save significantly on commuting and campus-related expenses. The tuition fees for criminal justice programs in Lowell Massachusetts are designed to accommodate a range of budgets, further enhancing accessibility.
• Textbooks and Materials : Annual costs for textbooks can range from $1,000 to $3,000. Graduates frequently mention utilizing digital resources and library services to minimize these expenses, enhancing their learning experience without breaking the bank.
• Technology and Campus Fees : While online students may not incur all the fees associated with on-campus attendance, budgeting for technology and any necessary software is crucial. Many graduates have found that investing in a reliable laptop and internet connection pays off in the long run.
• Health Insurance and Living Expenses : Health insurance can add between $1,000 and $4,000 annually, while living expenses typically range from $10,000 to $20,000. Graduates often emphasize the importance of planning ahead to manage these costs effectively.

By understanding these financial aspects, prospective students in Lowell, MA, canmake informed decisions about their educational journey in criminal justice, paving the way for rewarding careers in the field. For those looking for options, there are many affordable accelerated degrees online that can help streamline the path to graduation.

Students pursuing online degrees in Criminal Justice in Lowell, MA, have access to a wealth of financial aid options that significantly alleviate the costs associated with their education. Approximately 90% of these students receive some form of financial assistance, showcasing the strong support system in place.

• Federal Financial Aid : Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for unlocking federal financial aid. Graduates often share how receiving Pell Grants made a substantial difference in their ability to focus on studies rather than worrying about tuition. One graduate recalled, “The Pell Grant covered my tuition, allowing me to take on an internship that ultimately led to my first job in law enforcement.”
• State Grants and Scholarships : Massachusetts offers various state-specific programs, such as the Massachusetts State Grant Program, which provides need-based support. A recent graduate mentioned, “The state grant helped me cover my books and supplies, which was a huge relief.” Additionally, the Massachusetts Commonwealth Commitment program encourages timely degree completion, offering further financial incentives.
• Institutional Scholarships : Local institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell and Middlesex Community College provide scholarships tailored for Criminal Justice majors. One student shared, “I received a merit-based scholarship from UMass Lowell that not only eased my financial burden but also motivated me to maintain a high GPA.”
• Work-Study Programs : Many students participate in work-study programs, allowing them to earn while they learn. A graduate reflected, “Working part-time at a local police department through the work-study program not only helped pay my bills but also gave me invaluable experience in the field.”
• Private Scholarships : Numerous organizations offer scholarships specifically for Criminal Justice students. A graduate noted, “I applied for ascholarship from a local foundation, and it helped me cover my last semester’s tuition, making graduation possible.”

These financial aid options create a supportive environment for students in Lowell, enabling them to pursue their Criminal Justice degrees with confidence and less financial stress.

To enroll in an Online Criminal Justice program in Lowell, MA, prospective students typically need to meet several prerequisites. Most institutions require a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. Additionally, some programs may ask for a minimum GPA, often around 2.5, to ensure students are academically prepared for the coursework.

Many online programs also require applicants to submit standardized test scores, like the SAT or ACT, although some colleges have adopted test-optional policies. For instance, graduates from a local university shared that they appreciated the flexibility of the application process, which allowed them to focus on their personal strengths rather than just test scores.

Other common prerequisites include:

• Application Form : Completing an online application form is essential, often accompanied by a personal statement outlining your interest in criminal justice.
• Transcripts : Official high school or previous college transcripts are usually required to verify academic history.
• Letters of Recommendation : Some programs may request one or two letters of recommendation from teachers or employers who can vouch for your character and readiness for the program.

One graduate recalled how the supportive admissions team at a Lowell college guided them through the process, making it less daunting. They emphasized the importance of reaching out with questions, which helped clarify any uncertainties about the prerequisites.

Additionally, many programs offer orientation sessions for new students, which can be invaluable for understanding the curriculum and connecting with peers. A recent graduate mentioned that attending these sessions helped them feel more confident and excited about starting their journey in criminal justice.

Overall, the enrollment process for online criminal justice programs in Lowell is designed to be accessible, encouraging students to pursue their passion for the field.

Online Criminal Justice programs in Lowell, MA typically offer a diverse range of courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a career in the field. Common courses include:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice : This foundational course provides an overview of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections. Graduates often recall how this course sparked their interest in understanding the complexities of crime and justice.
• Criminal Law : Students delve into the legal principles governing criminal behavior. Many graduates have shared how engaging with real-life case studies in this course helped them grasp the nuances of legal proceedings and the importance of due process.
• Criminology : This course examines the causes of crime and societal responses. Graduates frequently mention how discussions on crime theories and sociological impacts opened their eyes to the broader implications of criminal behavior in communities.
• Ethics in Criminal Justice : Focusing on moral dilemmas faced by professionals in the field, this course encourages critical thinking. Students often reflect on how ethical discussions prepared them for real-world challenges they might encounter in law enforcement or legal settings.
• Research Methods in Criminal Justice : This course teaches students how to conduct research and analyze data relevant to criminal justice issues. Graduates have expressed appreciation for the hands-on projects that allowed them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Community Policing : Emphasizing the relationship between law enforcement and communities, this course highlights strategies for building trust and cooperation. Many graduates fondly recall group projects that involved collaborating with local organizations to address community safety concerns.

These courses not only provide essential knowledge but also foster a sense of community amongstudents, as they share experiences and insights that resonate with their aspirations in the criminal justice field.

Students pursuing an online degree in Criminal Justice in Lowell, MA, have access to a range of specializations that cater to their unique interests and career aspirations. These specializations not only enhance knowledge but also improve employability in a competitive job market. Here are some of the key options available:

• Homeland Security : Graduates often share how this specialization equipped them with skills to handle real-world crises, such as coordinating emergency responses during natural disasters. They appreciate the focus on counter-terrorism strategies, which they find crucial in today’s security landscape.
• Forensic Science : Many students are drawn to this field due to its investigative nature. They recount thrilling experiences in labs, analyzing evidence and learning about the legal implications of their findings. This hands-on approach prepares them for careers in crime scene investigation.
• Corrections and Case Management : Graduates in this area often express a passion for rehabilitation, sharing stories about working with offenders to help them reintegrate into society. They value the coursework that emphasizes social services and support systems available post-incarceration.
• Law Enforcement : Those specializing in law enforcement frequently highlight the importance of community relations and ethical policing. They feel empowered by their education to foster trust and transparency within communities, which is vital for effective policing.
• Cybersecurity : With the rise of digital crime, students in this specialization find themselves at the forefront of combating cyber threats. They often share experiences of working on projects that simulate real cyber-attacks, preparing them for the challenges of protecting sensitive information.
• Juvenile Justice : Graduates focusing on juvenile justice express a deep commitment to helping young offenders. They recount their involvement in programs aimed at prevention andrehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the unique needs of youth in the justice system.
• Emergency Management : Students in this track often reflect on their training in developing response plans for emergencies. They feel a sense of fulfillment knowing they can make a difference in public safety during crises.

Interestingly, while women are less likely to pursue careers in policing, more than half express interest, influenced by personal characteristics and the socio-political climate. This highlights the importance of supportive educational environments that encourage diverse participation in all areas of criminal justice. As students explore affordable online criminal justice specializations in Lowell, MA, they find that these programs not only provide valuable skills but also foster a sense of community and support.

For those considering a broader educational path, exploring options like an online bachelor's in accounting can also be beneficial, showcasing the diverse opportunities available in higher education.

Overall, the specializations in online criminal justice programs in Massachusetts offer students a chance to tailor their education to their career goals while preparing them for the challenges of the modern workforce.

When selecting an online criminal justice degree program in Lowell, MA, students should consider several key factors that can shape their educational journey and career prospects.

• Accreditation : Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency. Graduates often recall how attending an accredited institution opened doors for internships and job opportunities, as employers prioritize candidates from reputable programs.
• Curriculum and Specializations : Look for a curriculum that includes essential subjects like criminology and law enforcement. Some graduates appreciated programs that offered specializations in forensic science or homeland security, allowing them to focus on their specific interests and career goals. This is particularly important when searching for affordable online criminal justice degrees in Lowell MA, as specialized programs can enhance employability.
• Flexibility and Format : Opt for programs with asynchronous classes, which provide the flexibility to balance studies with work or family commitments. Many students shared how this flexibility helped them manage their time effectively, making it easier to juggle responsibilities while pursuing their degree.
• Cost and Financial Aid : Evaluate the total cost, including tuition and fees. Graduates often emphasized the importance of researching financial aid options, such as scholarships and grants, which significantly eased their financial burden and made education more accessible. This is especially relevant for those looking into the best online criminal justice programs in Lowell, as financial considerations can greatly influence program choice.
• Support Services : Investigate the support services available to online students. Access to academic advising and career services can enhance the learning experience. Many graduates fondly recalled how career services helped them secure internships and job placements, providing a crucial stepping stone into the workforce.

- Reputation and Outcomes : Research the program’s reputation through student reviews and job placement statistics. Graduates noted that programs with strong outcomes often reflect a quality education, which is vital for success in the competitive field of criminal justice, where women make up a significant percentage of professionals.

By keeping these factors in mind, prospective students in Lowell can make informed decisions that align with their aspirations in the criminal justice field. For those also considering business education, exploring options like business school scholarships NJ can provide additional financial support.

Graduates of Criminal Justice degree programs in Lowell, MA, have access to a variety of rewarding career paths that reflect the diverse opportunities within the field. Many graduates express a strong interest in pursuing careers in federal law enforcement, with roles such as FBI agents and police officers being particularly appealing. This preference aligns with national trends, where students overwhelmingly report a desire to enter federal law enforcement, while corrections positions rank lower in desirability.

Career paths available to graduates include:

• Law Enforcement : Graduates often find themselves in local police departments or federal agencies, where they enforce laws and investigate crimes. One graduate shared their excitement about joining a local police force, emphasizing the fulfillment they feel in serving their community and making a difference. This aligns with the growing demand for affordable criminal justice careers in Lowell MA.
• Legal Support Roles : Many graduates transition into paralegal positions, assisting attorneys with case management and legal research. A graduate recounted how their role as a paralegal allowed them to engage deeply with the legal system, providing them with a sense of purpose and connection to justice. These positions are often accessible to those pursuing online criminal justice degree job opportunities in Lowell.
• Forensic Science : For those drawn to the scientific aspects of criminal justice, careers as forensic science technicians or crime scene investigators are popular. A graduate described the thrill of working on real cases, collecting evidence, and contributing to solving crimes, highlighting the dynamic nature of the job.
• Victim Advocacy : Some graduates pursue roles as victim advocates, providing crucial support to individuals affected by crime. One graduate reflected on the emotional rewards of helping victims navigate the legal system, emphasizing the importance of compassion intheir work.
• Research and Policy : Graduates interested in criminology can engage in research to inform crime prevention strategies. A graduate noted how their analytical skills developed during their studies enabled them to contribute valuable insights into crime patterns, making a tangible impact on community safety.

With the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting job growth in these areas, graduates from Lowell’s Criminal Justice programs can look forward to fulfilling careers that not only offer personal satisfaction but also contribute positively to society.

• Cybersecurity and Cybercrime : With the rise of technology, cybercrime has become a significant concern. Professionals in this niche focus on preventing, investigating, and prosecuting crimes that occur in digital spaces. According to the FBI, cybercrime complaints increased by over 300% during the pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for experts in this area.
• Forensic Psychology : This niche combines psychology and criminal justice, focusing on understanding criminal behavior and assisting in legal processes. Forensic psychologists often work with law enforcement agencies and the judicial system, providing insights into criminal motives and aiding in rehabilitation efforts.
• Restorative Justice : This approach emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behavior through inclusive processes that engage victims, offenders, and the community. Programs focusing on restorative justice are gaining traction in Massachusetts, with universities like the University of Massachusetts Lowell offering courses that explore these innovative practices.
• Homeland Security : As threats to national security evolve, so does the need for professionals trained in homeland security. This niche involves protecting the nation from terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Online degree programs often include specialized training in risk assessment and emergency management.
• Data Analysis in Criminal Justice : The use of data analytics is transforming how law enforcement agencies operate. Professionals skilled in data analysis can help identify crime trends, allocate resources effectively, and improve community safety. This niche is increasingly relevant as agencies seek to leverage technology for better outcomes.
• Community Policing : This approach focuses on building relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It emphasizes proactive measures to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Programs that teach communityengagement strategies are becoming essential in criminal justice curricula.
• Victim Advocacy : This niche involves supporting victims of crime through the legal process and helping them access necessary resources. With a growing emphasis on victim rights, professionals in this field play a crucial role in ensuring that victims receive the support they need.
• Environmental Crime : As environmental issues gain prominence, the need for specialists in environmental crime is increasing. This niche focuses on crimes that harm the environment, such as illegal dumping and wildlife trafficking. Educational programs are beginning to incorporate environmental law and policy into their criminal justice curricula.
• International Criminal Justice : With globalization, understanding international law and human rights violations is becoming increasingly important.
• Engage with Local Resources : Students in Lowell can take advantage of local law enforcement agencies, courts, and community organizations. Internships or volunteer opportunities with these entities can provide practical experience and networking opportunities that enhance classroom learning.
• Utilize Online Learning Tools : Many online programs offer resources such as virtual libraries, discussion forums, and interactive simulations. Familiarizing yourself with these tools can deepen your understanding of criminal justice concepts and improve your research skills.
• Participate in Online Discussions : Engaging actively in discussion boards and group projects can foster a sense of community. Sharing insights and perspectives with peers from diverse backgrounds enriches the learning experience and can lead to valuable collaborations.
• Connect with Faculty : Building relationships with professors can be beneficial. They can provide mentorship, guidance on career paths, and insights into the criminal justice field. Don’t hesitate to reach out via email or during virtual office hours.
• Stay Updated on Local Issues : Following local news and developments in Lowell can provide context to your studies. Understanding the specific challenges and dynamics of your community can make your coursework more relevant and applicable.
• Join Professional Organizations : Consider joining organizations such as the Massachusetts Criminal Justice Association. Membership can provide access to resources, networking events, and professional development opportunities that are crucial for career advancement.
• Leverage Technology for Study Groups : Forming or joining virtual study groups can enhance your understanding of complex topics. Collaborating with classmates allows for the exchange of ideas and can make studying more effective and enjoyable.
• Seek Out Scholarships and Financial Aid : Investigate financial aid options specific to online criminaljustice programs. Institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer various scholarships that can alleviate financial burdens and allow you to focus more on your studies.
• Attend Webinars and Workshops : Many universities and organizations host online events that cover current trends and issues in criminal justice. Participating in these can provide additional insights and enhance your knowledge beyond the standard curriculum.
• Explore Specializations : If your program allows, consider focusing on a specific area of criminal justice, such as cybersecurity or forensic science. Specializing can make you more marketable and provide a deeper understanding of your chosen field.

Employers in Lowell, MA, seek a diverse set of skills from graduates of Criminal Justice degree programs. Here are the top skills that can enhance employability in this field:

• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving : Graduates must analyze complex situations, assess evidence, and make informed decisions. This skill is essential for roles in law enforcement, corrections, and legal services.
• Communication Skills : Effective verbal and written communication is crucial. Graduates should be able to convey information clearly to colleagues, victims, and suspects, as well as prepare reports and documentation.
• Ethical Judgment and Integrity : Given the nature of criminal justice work, employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong ethical standards and integrity. This is vital for maintaining public trust and upholding the law.
• Attention to Detail : In criminal justice, small details can have significant implications. Graduates need to be meticulous in their work, whether it involves investigating crimes or compiling legal documents.
• Interpersonal Skills : The ability to interact positively with diverse populations is essential. Graduates should be adept at building rapport with community members, victims, and offenders, which is particularly important in community policing initiatives.
• Knowledge of Legal Systems : A solid understanding of local, state, and federal laws is fundamental. Graduates should be familiar with the legal processes and regulations that govern criminal justice in Massachusetts.
• Technological Proficiency : Familiarity with law enforcement technologies, data analysis software, and digital communication tools is increasingly important. Employers look for candidates who can leverage technology to enhance their work efficiency.
• Crisis Management : The ability to remain calm and make quick decisions in high-pressure situations is vital. Graduates should be trained to handle emergencies and de-escalateconflicts effectively.
• Research and Analytical Skills : Employers value graduates who can conduct thorough research and analyze data to inform policy decisions or investigative strategies. This skill is particularly relevant for roles in criminal justice research or policy development.
• Cultural Competency : Understanding and respecting cultural differences is crucial in a diverse community like Lowell. Graduates should be equipped to engage with various cultural backgrounds sensitively and effectively.

Institutions such as the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer online Criminal Justice degree programs that equip students with these essential skills, preparing them for a range of careers in the field.

• An online Criminal Justice degree can significantly enhance career mobility in Lowell, MA, by providing the necessary credentials for various roles in law enforcement, corrections, and legal services. Many employers in the region, including local police departments and correctional facilities, prefer candidates with formal education in criminal justice.
• Graduates from online programs often report higher starting salaries compared to those without a degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice can earn an average salary of around $60,000 annually, which is notably higher than those with only a high school diploma.
• The flexibility of online programs allows working professionals to balance their studies with job responsibilities, making it easier to pursue promotions or new job opportunities without sacrificing current employment. This is particularly beneficial in Lowell, where many students may already be engaged in entry-level positions within the criminal justice field.
• Networking opportunities through online degree programs can lead to internships and job placements. Institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer connections to local law enforcement agencies, enhancing students' chances of securing positions post-graduation.
• Online degrees often include practical components, such as virtual simulations and case studies, which prepare students for real-world challenges. This hands-on experience can make graduates more competitive candidates for advanced roles, such as criminal analysts or federal agents.
• Many online programs in Lowell, such as those offered by Merrimack College, provide specialized tracks in areas like forensic science or cybersecurity, which are increasingly in demand. This specialization can open doors to niche roles that may not be accessible to those with a general education background.
• Employers in Lowell are increasingly recognizing the valueof online degrees, especially from accredited institutions. A degree from a reputable program can enhance a candidate's resume, making them stand out in a competitive job market.
• Continuing education options, such as certifications or master's degrees, are often available to online graduates, allowing for further career advancement. Many professionals in Lowell pursue these additional qualifications to move into leadership roles or specialized fields within criminal justice.

Choosing between a thesis and a non-thesis Criminal Justice degree program in Lowell, MA, involves several considerations that can significantly impact your educational experience and career trajectory. Here are key factors to weigh:

• Career Goals : If you aspire to work in research, academia, or specialized roles within criminal justice, a thesis program may be more beneficial. Conversely, if you aim for practical roles in law enforcement, corrections, or public policy, a non-thesis program might better suit your needs.
• Program Structure : Thesis programs typically require a significant research project, which can be time-consuming and demanding. Non-thesis programs often focus on coursework and may include practical experiences, such as internships or capstone projects, which can provide immediate, hands-on skills.
• Time Commitment : A thesis can extend the duration of your degree, often requiring an additional semester or more to complete. Non-thesis programs generally allow for a quicker path to graduation, which can be appealing if you are eager to enter the workforce.
• Research Interests : If you have a specific area of interest within criminal justice—such as forensic science, criminology, or criminal law—a thesis can provide an opportunity to delve deeply into that subject. If your interests are broader or more applied, a non-thesis option may offer a wider range of courses.
• Financial Considerations : Some thesis programs may offer funding opportunities, such as research assistantships, which can alleviate tuition costs. Non-thesis programs might have fewer funding options but could allow you to work while studying due to their flexible structure.
• Institutional Offerings : In Lowell, MA, institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer both thesis and non-thesis options in their online Criminal Justice programs. Researching specific program details, faculty expertise, and alumni outcomes can help you make aninformed decision.
• Networking Opportunities : Non-thesis programs often emphasize networking through internships and practical experiences, which can be crucial for job placement. Thesis programs may provide networking through academic conferences and research presentations, which can also be valuable.
• Personal Learning Style : Consider how you learn best. If you thrive in structured environments with clear guidelines, a thesis might be a good fit.

Studying for a Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, equips students with a diverse skill set that is essential for interdisciplinary roles across various sectors. Here’s how:

• Comprehensive Curriculum : Programs often include courses in sociology, psychology, and public policy, fostering a well-rounded understanding of societal issues. This interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates to tackle complex problems that require insights from multiple fields.
• Local Context and Community Engagement : Lowell's unique socio-economic landscape provides a rich backdrop for practical learning. Students engage with local law enforcement and community organizations, gaining firsthand experience that enhances their ability to work collaboratively across disciplines.
• Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills : The emphasis on research methodologies and data analysis in criminal justice programs cultivates strong analytical skills. Graduates are trained to assess situations critically, making them valuable in roles that require strategic decision-making and problem-solving.
• Communication Proficiency : Effective communication is a cornerstone of criminal justice education. Students learn to articulate complex ideas clearly, which is crucial in interdisciplinary roles that involve collaboration with professionals from various backgrounds, such as social work, law, and public health.
• Ethical and Cultural Competence : Courses often address ethical dilemmas and cultural diversity, preparing students to navigate the complexities of working in diverse environments. This competence is vital in roles that intersect with social justice, community outreach, and policy development.
• Networking Opportunities : Institutions like the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer connections to local agencies and organizations, facilitating internships and job placements. These opportunities allow students to build networks that span multiple disciplines, enhancingtheir career prospects.
• Adaptability to Emerging Fields : The evolving nature of criminal justice, influenced by technology and social change, encourages students to be adaptable. This flexibility is essential for interdisciplinary roles in areas such as cybersecurity, forensic science, and restorative justice.

By pursuing a Criminal Justice degree in Lowell, MA, students not only gain specialized knowledge but also develop the interdisciplinary skills necessary to thrive in a variety of professional environments.

Read our interview with Criminal Justice experts

Frank Schmalleger

Criminal Justice Expert

Professor Emeritus

The University of North Carolina

David Carter

Professor, School of Criminal Justice

Michigan State University

Research Professor of Public Management

Harvard University

James W. Marquart

Associate Provost and Professor of Criminology

Texas Christian University

• wilmu.edu (n.d.). Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. wilmu.edu https://www.wilmu.edu/behavioralscience/crimjust.aspx
• academics.potomacstatecollege.edu (n.d.). Criminal Justice (BAS) Online. academics.potomacstatecollege.edu https://academics.potomacstatecollege.edu/majors/four-year-programs/criminal-justice-bas-online
• quora.com (n.d.). Is it worth getting an online bachelor's in Criminal Justice and Security Studies (online)? What can you do with this degree after graduation?. quora.com https://www.quora.com/Is-it-worth-getting-an-online-bachelors-in-Criminal-Justice-and-Security-Studies-online-What-can-you-do-with-this-degree-after-graduation
• asuonline.asu.edu (n.d.). Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice. asuonline.asu.edu https://asuonline.asu.edu/online-degree-programs/undergraduate/bachelor-science-criminology-and-criminal-justice/
• careervillage.org (02 Apr 2024). What kind of jobs can I get with a criminal justice BA?. careervillage.org https://www.careervillage.org/questions/873034/what-kind-of-jobs-can-i-get-with-a-criminal-justice-ba
• gmercyu.edu (n.d.). Criminal Justice Jobs: Careers You Can Pursue with a Criminal Justice Degree. [gmercyu.edu] https://www.gmercyu.edu/academics/learn/criminal-justice-career-options
• online.uc.edu (12 May 2024). 21 Top Jobs You Can Land with a Criminal Justice Degree. [online.uc.edu] https://online.uc.edu/blog/criminal-justice-jobs/
• pointloma.edu (n.d.). Criminal Justice Jobs: 11 Careers You Can Pursue With a Criminal Justice Degree. [pointloma.edu] https://www.pointloma.edu/resources/adult-degree-completion/criminal-justice-jobs-11-careers-you-can-pursue-criminal-justice
• collegevaluesonline.com (14 May 2024). What Is the Job Outlook for Criminal Justice?. [collegevaluesonline.com] https://www.collegevaluesonline.com/faq/what-is-the-job-outlook-for-criminal-justice/
• lapu.edu (06 May 2024). 7 Careers in Criminal Justice That Are in High Demand. [lapu.edu] https://www.lapu.edu/seven-careers-in-criminal-justice-in-high-demand/

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Criminal Law and Social Justice LLM

Postgraduate taught degree

This course is for 2025/26 entry.

Key information

This LLM aims to deepen your knowledge of criminal law and social justice, enhance your legal skills and understanding of criminal litigation in the UK and internationally, and prepare you for careers in various legal and governmental organisations, with a focus on critical reflection on legal practice.

Choose from multiple start dates

• September 2025
• January 2026

City, University of London

Northampton Square

• Online sessions
• Open evening
• Register interest

September and January start.

Study on campus in London or online.

• Course overview

Teaching and assessment

Fees and funding, how to apply, criminal law and social justice llm course overview, benefits of this course.

This degree is subject to approval

This LLM programme offers a sophisticated understanding of criminal law, social justice, and criminal litigation principles both in the UK and internationally.

You will develop professional and specialist legal skills, gain insights into the relationship between law and societal issues, and have opportunities for critical reflection and interdisciplinary study.

You can select to apply for one of the available exit points for this course.

Master of Laws (LLM)

Who is this course for.

The LLM in Criminal Law and Social Justice is ideal for those seeking to deepen their academic understanding of criminal law and social justice, as well as for those aiming to enhance their career prospects in this field.

This flexible programme caters to students with diverse study goals, whether they seek full-time or part-time study, on-campus or remote learning, making it suitable for new graduates, aspiring academics, practitioners, and those looking to advance in national and international legal, governmental, or NGO sectors.

• Full-time: 1 year
• Part-time: 2 years

Total credits: 180

Made up of:

• Elective modules (150 credits)
• Research project module (30 credits)

PGDip Total credits: 120 If you successfully complete 120 credits , you have the opportunity to graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma in Law.

PGCert Total credits: 60 If you successfully complete 60 credits , you have the opportunity to graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate in Law.

You will complete 5 taught elective modules (30 credits each) and write a 30 credit research project or dissertation.

All taught modules run across a 10 week term (September – December or January – April) rather than the whole academic year.

If you choose to study full-time, you will take three modules in one term and two in the other.

Research Projects/Dissertations are written during the summer term when there are no classes, but you will participate in a series of skills workshops to support your work on this module, which take place during teaching periods

You will have a wide range of elective modules from which to choose, you must take at least two of the compulsory electives (indicated by an asterisk below) along with any three other modules from the list below.

Additionally, you will write your Research Project/Dissertation in the area of Criminal Law and Social Justice

NOTE: Not all elective modules will run every academic year, they and are subject to sufficient numbers of students choosing them and staff availability.

Elective modules

Advocacy: Trial Stories (30 credits)

The Advocacy: Trial Stories module explores how advocates shape trial narratives to influence criminal justice outcomes. It critically examines the roles of decision-makers and advocates, teaching students to construct case theories and understand ethical implications. Interdisciplinary perspectives and global comparisons enrich understanding of advocacy's impact in legal contexts.

Gender, Sexuality and Law (30 credits)

This module aims to provide advanced knowledge of laws related to gender and sexuality, covering issues like consent, sexual violence, hate crime, LGBTQ rights, and more. It integrates feminist and queer theory to enhance critical legal analysis of power, privilege, and societal positions.

International Criminal Law: Crimes and Institutions (30 credits)

In this module you will learn about core international crimes and how the international system decides which acts are to be punished, who are the perpetrators and what court can pass judgement on them.

International Mediation and Negotiation (30 Credits)

This module aims to provide you with a detailed academic understanding of the use of mediation processes within national and international contexts and help you to understand how to use mediation effectively in practice.

Law and War: The Use of Force and the Conduct of Hostilities by State and Non-state Actors (30 credits)

This module deals with the legal regime governing the use of force and the legal regulation of armed conflict. It will look at both conceptual and practical aspects. Focus will be put on the constant and growing tension between the state-centric nature of international law and the role that non-state armed groups play in situations of armed conflict.

Copyrights & Patents (30 credits)

The module aims to equip you with comprehensive knowledge of acquiring, managing, and enforcing intellectual property (IP) rights like copyright and patents. It focusses on their commercial exploitation across various sectors such as publishing, music, pharmaceuticals, and technology, enhancing career prospects in IP law firms, corporate roles, or consultancy in both legal and non-legal roles in this area.

Corporate Social Responsibility, Business Law and Human Rights (30 Credits)

This module examines the relationship between business and human rights law from both a theoretical and practical perspective. You will explore corporate responsibility and accountability by studying international standards, industry case studies, relevant case law, government actions, work of international organisations, and academic literature.

Creative Industries and IP Law (30 Credits)

This module offers insight into the nature and significance of intellectual property rights in relation to the creative sectors. You will learn to identify these rights, understand how they support business models in the creative industries, and explore the methods to both leverage and comply with them.

International Human Rights in Law and Practice (30 Credits)

The module will focus on empowering you to navigate the human right landscape and advocate for justice in diverse contexts. Focused on developing practical legal skills, this module seeks to equip you with the ability to apply your human rights knowledge in legal practice, government, non-governmental organisations and other contexts.

International Intellectual Property Law and Policy (30 Credits)

This module will provide you with in-depth knowledge of the specialised area of policy and legal studies of International Intellectual Property Law and Policy. It will provide you with a grounding in the essential aspects of intangible assets such as trademarks, patents, designs, copyright, geographical indications and confidential information, as regulated by various international treaties.

International Organisations and Global Challenges (30 Credits)

The LLM module aims to impart a thorough understanding of international organisations like the UN and EU, their legal frameworks, and their roles in tackling global challenges such as climate change, peace, trade, and human rights. It emphasises practical and theoretical insights, critical analysis of organisational strategies, and enhances legal research and writing skills for careers in global legal practice.

International Tax Law (30 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a thorough knowledge of the principal issues in international tax law, including types of income liable for taxation, jurisdictional issues related to taxation, and international tax avoidance.

Merger Controls (30 credits)

This module offers a comprehensive overview of the merger control regime of the European Union, covering the procedural and substantive elements of the law applicable to business concentrations.

Minorities and Indigenous Peoples in International Law (30 credits)

This module offers you the rare opportunity to learn how ethno-cultural diversity is approached in international law. It explores the complex set of rules, principles and institutions that form the well-established regimes of minority and indigenous peoples’ rights in international law and examines the human rights struggles of other ethno-cultural groups. This module engages with issues of discrimination, marginalised and dispossession and explores the impact of the colonial experience on indigenous peoples' rights.

Public International Law (30 credits)

In this module, we will examine the building blocks of international law. We will analyse the sources of international law and explore how they come about and how they interact. Ywill learn about the main subjects of international law, notably States and international organisations, and their powers, obligations, and rights within the world order. We will discuss the various mechanisms for resolving disputes between States and the exceptional rules under which they can resort to force, all while reflecting on current geopolitical events.

Trademarks, designs and allied rights (30 Credits)

This module aims to equip students with comprehensive knowledge of trademarks, designs, and related intellectual property rights. It focusses on their creation, management, and legal enforcement, exploring their impact across diverse industries like fashion, automotive, music, and broadcasting. The course emphasises practical skills applicable to legal practice, corporate IP roles, and consultancy.

Dissertation

Research Dissertation or Project (30 credits)

You will be required to complete a 6,000 to 8,000 word research project or dissertation on a subject related to Criminal Law and Social Justice. This provides you with the opportunity to undertake a piece or original, independent research, building on and focussed on the topic or topics that are of particular interest to you. This research can be conducted in the form of a theoretical dissertation or a more practical, self-selected research project. The particular format of your work will depend on the subject area, case studies, research questions or project objectives you choose and may include reviewing literature or doing a work-based research project. This module allows some autonomy and enables you to show that you can manage information as well as developing complex arguments and innovative ways to solve problems.

Programme specification

The programme specification contains more information on how the course is organised, the requirements for progression for each part and credits required for awards.

Download course specification:

• Criminal and Social Justice LLM

This LLM offers flexible blended learning with a choice of studying in-person or online. You will have weekly lectures and seminars, supported by comprehensive online resources.

A structured approach guides your learning, with opportunities for interactive discussions and independent study. You can choose to attend classes in person or participate online synchronously or asynchronously.

You will be assessed in a range of formats including written coursework and presentations, evaluating your understanding of legal principles, research skills, and analytical abilities.

The dissertation demonstrates your independent research and ability to develop complex arguments. Feedback is provided throughout to support your learning and development.

Hybrid teaching

Our LLM programmes are designed for hybrid learning. You have the choice of studying at our central London campus or online from anywhere in the world.

You can follow all classes synchronously and asynchronously. However, please note that all live teaching, personal tutoring and dissertation supervision will take place between 9:00 – 19:00 UK time.

Classroom technology enables academic staff to present to their class and lead discussion with students on campus and online simultaneously.

All classroom teaching is supplemented by online materials.

All classes are recorded and can easily be accessed at any time if you wanted to follow the classes asynchronously.

If you intend to study fully online please email [email protected] to confirm this once you have submitted your application.

Please note that it will not be possible to change your mode of study during the course.

Fees for academic year 2025/26

Explore up-to-date information about funding options, available financial support and typical living costs.

The City Law School scholarships

The City Law School is firmly committed to a generous programme of scholarships awarded on the basis of academic excellence. Our scholarships range in value and include both partial and full fee waiver awards. Scholarships are available for all Master of Laws (LLM) courses at City.

Find out more about the scholarships offered by The City Law School .

10% Loyalty Discount

We offer City students a loyalty discount upon enrolling on a second course at The City Law School. All you need to do is meet the entry requirements for your second course (postgraduate level) and we will automatically take 10% off of your tuition fees.

This can be received in addition to receiving a scholarship and will be applied to the second round of payments due.

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees.  Find out more about additional expenses .

Our bursaries are non-repayable sums of money granted by the University, usually based on need.

Our loans are repayable sums of money granted by the University or other body.

Our scholarships are when the University pays towards your Study fees. You may also be eligible for further funding.

When you graduate from the LLM in Criminal Law and Social Justice you will have a diverse set of highly-valued skills and strong prospects.

You will be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of criminal law and a mix of specialist competencies that can give immediate value in the workplace.

Our aim is for you to be well positioned for legal and non-legal careers.

You will be well placed to pursue careers in:

• in general or specialist legal practice
• international organisations
• non-governmental organisations

Gain experience

You will also have the opportunity to participate in skills enhancing extra-curricular activity such as mooting or pro bono work via our LawIRL (in real life)  Programme .

Entry requirements

Below is a list of countries with information on each about which qualifications we accept. If your country is not listed please email [email protected] .

We are interested in receiving applications from individuals with at least an upper second-class honours undergraduate degree in law (or international equivalent) from a recognised international institution. Applicants with an undergraduate degree in another subject will also be considered.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Zimbabwean equivalent required.

The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Zimbabwean Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1 (65%) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 (60%) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

If you don't meet the entry requirements please check to see if there is a suitable preparatory programme available for your course at INTO City, University of London or Kaplan International College London .

Visa requirements

International Students coming to study in the UK may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

• Students on courses of more than six months
• Students on courses of less than six months

For more information see our main Visa page .

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Zambian equivalent required.

Zambian Masters degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Vietnamese equivalent required.

Vietnamese Bachelor degrees (Bang Tot Nghiep Dai Hoc or Bang Cu Nhan) from selected institutions are typically accepted with 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6.5 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Uzbekistani equivalent required.

Uzbekistani Bachelor / Bakalavr degrees are typically accepted with 71% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 55% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Ukrainian equivalent required.

Ukrainian Bachelor / Specialist Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a GPA 4.3 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Ugandan equivalent required.

Ugandan Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.0/5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0/5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the US equivalent required.

US Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Emirati equivalent required.

Emirati Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Turkish equivalent required.

Turkish Bachelor / Lisans Diplomasi degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.7 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Tunisian equivalent required.

Tunisian Bachelor / Diplome degrees are typically accepted with 14 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Trinidad and Tobago

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Trinidadian and Tobagonian equivalent required.

University of the West Indies Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2.1 (grade B+) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 (grade B) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Thai equivalent required.

Depending on the awarding institution Thai 4 year Bachelors degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 to 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.6 to 2.8 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Tanzanian equivalent required.

Tanzanian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1 or 60% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 or 50% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Taiwanese equivalent required.

Taiwanese Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 75% or grade B equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 70% or grade C equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Syrian equivalent required.

Depending on the awarding institution Syrian Bachelor degrees or Licence are typically accepted with 70-80% or 'very good' equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60-70% or 'good' equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Switzerland

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Swiss equivalent required.

Swiss Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 4.75 out of 6.0, 8 out of 10 or 2 out of 5 (5 to 1 scale) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 4.0 out of 6.0, 6 out of 10 or 3 out of 5 (5 to 1 scale equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a Student visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study if they do not have EU Settlement Status.

• Students on courses of less than six months.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Swedish equivalent required.

Swedish Bachelor degrees or Kandidatexamen are typically accepted with B- 180 ECTS minimum overall or at least 50% of credits graded at VG overall equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and C- (180 ECTS minimum overall) or at least 20% of credits graded at VG overall equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Sri Lankan equivalent required.

Sri Lankan 4 year Bachelor Special Degrees or Professional Degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1, grade B+ or GPA 3.3 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2, grade B or GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Spanish equivalent required.

Spanish Título de Licenciado, Título de Ingeniero and Título de Arquitecto are typically accepted with 7 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

South Korea

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the South Korean equivalent required.

South Korean Bachelor degrees (Haksa) are typically accepted with GPA 3.5 out of 4.5 or grade B equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 out of 4.6 or grade C equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

South Africa

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the South African equivalent required.

South African Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1 or 70% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 or 60% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Slovenian equivalent required.

Slovenian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 8 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Slovakian equivalent required.

Slovakian Bakalar degrees are typically accepted with GPA 1.5 - 2.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 2.0 - 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Singaporean equivalent required.

Singaporean Bachelor and Bachelor Honours degrees are typically accepted GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 or 3.8 out of 5.0 or II (upper) - Second Class (Upper) Honours equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 out of 4.0 or 3.3 out of 5.0 or II (lower) - Second Class (lower) Honours equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Serbian equivalent required.

Advanced Diploma of Higher Education and Diplomirani are typically accepted with 8 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Saudi Arabia

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Saudi Arabian equivalent required.

Saudi Arabian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 or GPA 4.0 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.4 out of 4.0 or GPA 3.0 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Rwandan equivalent required.

Rwandan Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1 or 16 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 or 14 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Russian equivalent required.

Russian Bachelor or Specialist Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.3 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Romanian equivalent required.

Romanian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 8 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Qatari equivalent required.

Qatari Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 or GPA 3.6 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.4 out of 4.0 or GPA 3.0 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Portuguese equivalent required.

Portuguese Licenciado are typically accepted with 14 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 12 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Polish equivalent required.

Polish Bachelor / Licencjat or Magister degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Philippines

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Filipino equivalent required.

Filipino Masters degree from any recognised institution and Bachelor degrees from selected institutions (i.e. Asian Institute of Management, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University Manila, University of Santo Tomas, University of the Philippines Diliman) are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 out of 4.0, GPA 1.75 out of 5 or 86% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 out of 4.0, GPA 2.5 out of 5 or 80% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Peruvian equivalent required.

Peruvian Grado Académico de Bachiller or Título de Licenciado or Título (Profesional) degrees are typically accepted with 14 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Palestinian equivalent required.

Palestinian Bachelor or Bakalorius degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.6 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Pakistani equivalent required.

Pakistani 4 year Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.6 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Omani equivalent required.

Omani Bachelor or Licence degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 typically equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.4 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Norwegian equivalent required.

Norwegian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a B grade typically equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a C grade equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Nigerian equivalent required.

Nigerian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2:1 or GPA 3.5 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 or GPA 2.7 out of 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

New Zealand

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the New Zealand equivalent required.

New Zealand 4-year Bachelor degrees with Honours are typically accepted with Second Class (Division 1) Honours equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree, and Second Class (Division 2) Honours equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

New Zealand 3-year Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with B+ overall equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and C+ overall equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Netherlands

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Dutch equivalent required.

Dutch Bachelor degrees or Doctoraal are typically accepted with 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honour Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Nepali equivalent required.

Nepali 4-year Bachelor degrees (post 2017) are typically accepted with GPA 3.3 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Burmese equivalent required.

Burmese Masters degrees are typically accepted with 70% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Moroccan equivalent required.

Moroccan Bachelors, Licence or Diplome degrees are typically accepted with 14 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Mexican equivalent required.

Mexican Titulo de Licenciado are typically accepted with 8 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Mauritian equivalent required.

Mauritian Bachelor degrees are accepted with a 2:1 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Maltese equivalent required.

Maltese Bachelor Honours degrees are accepted with a 2:1 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

International Students from within the European Economic Area (EEA) may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study. The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

• EEA nationals joining the programme in 2021 and EEA nationals joining from January 2022

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Malaysian equivalent required.

Malaysian Bachelor degrees from Berdaya Saing (Competitive) institutions are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree, and GPA 2.6 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Malaysian Bachelor degrees from Berdaya Maju (Viable) institutions are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree, and GPA 2.8 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Macanese equivalent required.

Macanese Bachelor degrees or Grau de Licenciatura are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 or B+ equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.7 or B- equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

For more information  see our main Visa page .

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Luxembourgian equivalent required.

Luxembourgian Bachelors degrees are typically accepted with 14 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Lithuanian equivalent required.

Lithuanian Bakalauras or Magistras are typically accepted with 8 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Lebanese equivalent required.

The equivalents provided are intended as a guide only and individual applications are assessed on a case by case basis.

Lebanese License or Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 or 13 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 or 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Latvian equivalent required.

Latvian Bakaluara Diploms are typically accepted with 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Laotian equivalent required.

Laotian Masters degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.6 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Kuwaiti equivalent required.

Kuwaiti Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.6 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Kenyan equivalent required.

Kenyan Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 2:1 (60%) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 2:2 (50%) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Kazakhstani equivalent required.

Kazakhstani Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.3/ 5.0 or GPA 3.3 / 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 4.0 / 5.0 or 3.0 /4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Jordanian equivalent required.

Jordanian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Japanese equivalent required.

Japanese Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0, grade B or 80% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5, grade C or 70% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Jamaican equivalent required.

University of the West Indies Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2.1 (65%) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 (55%) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Italian equivalent required.

Italian Diploma di Laurea degrees are typically accepted with 104 (out of 110) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 94 (out of 110) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Israeli equivalent required.

Israeli Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 80% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 65% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Irish equivalent required.

Irish Bachelor Honours degrees are accepted with a 2:1 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Iraqi equivalent required.

Iraqi Bachelor degrees from selected institutions are typically accepted with 75% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Iranian equivalent required.

Iranian Bachelor degrees (Licence Kharshenasi) are typically accepted with 15 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 13 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Indonesian equivalent required.

Depending on their accreditation Indonesian S1 / Sarjana and Dip IV (Sarjana Terapa) are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 to 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.7 to 2.9 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Indian equivalent required.

Depending on the awarding institution Indian 3 year Bachelor (Honours) or Bachelor (Special) degrees are typically accepted with 60 to 70% (7/10 to 8/10) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 50 to 60% (6/10 to 7/10) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Icelandic equivalent required.

Icelandic Baccalaurreatus degrees are typically accepted with 7.25 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Hungarian equivalent required.

Hungarian Bachelors degrees or University Diplomas are typically accepted with GPA 4 out of 5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3 out of 5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Hong Kong equivalent required.

Hong Kong Bachelor Honours degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 (or second class honours upper division) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 (or second class honours lower) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Greek equivalent required.

Greek Bachelor degrees or Ptychion are typically accepted with 7.0 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Ghanaian equivalent required.

Ghanaian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 2:1 (GPA 3.2/4.0) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 2:2 (GPA 2.5/4.0) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the German equivalent required.

German Magister Artium / Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 3.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the French equivalent required.

French License are typically accepted with 12 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 11 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Finnish equivalent required.

Finnish Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.5 out of 5 or 2.0 out of 3.0 typically equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 out of 5 or 1.4 out of 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Ethiopian equivalent required.

Ethiopian Masters degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Estonian equivalent required.

Estonian Bakalaurusekraad degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.5 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Egyptian equivalent required.

Egyptian Bachelors degrees are typically accepted with 75% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 65% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Ecuadorian equivalent required.

Ecuadorian 4 year Título de Licenciado or Título de [subject area] are typically accepted with 80%, 8.0/10 or 18/20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 70%, 7.0/10 or 14/20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Danish equivalent required.

Danish Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with grade 6 - 7 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 4 - 5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Czech Republic

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Czech equivalent required.

Czech Bachelor degrees or Bakalar are typically accepted with 2+ equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 2 or 2- equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Cypriot equivalent required.

Cypriot Bachelor degree or Ptychio are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 (7.0 out of 10) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 / 4.0 (6 out of 10) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Croatian equivalent required.

Croatian Bachelor degree or Baccalaureus or Baccalaurea are typically accepted with GPA 4.0 / 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 / 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Colombian equivalent required.

Colombian 4 year Licenciado en [subject area] or Título de [subject area] or Profesional en [subject area] or Maestro en [subject area] degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.0 / 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.5 / 5.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Chinese equivalent required.

Depending on the awarding institution Chinese 4 year Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 75 to 80% (GPA 3.0 to 3.3 out of 4.0) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 70 to 75% (GPA 2.8 to 3.0 out of 4.0) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Chilean equivalent required.

Chilean 4 year Grado de Licenciado en [subject area] degrees are typically accepted with GPA 5.5 / 7.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 5.0 / 7.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Canadian equivalent required.

Canadian Bachelor degrees / Baccalauréat degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.2 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Cameroonian equivalent required.

Cameroonian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 18/20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 16/20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Cambodian equivalent required.

Cambodian Masters degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 or 70% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.5 out of 4.0 or 60% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bulgarian equivalent required.

Bulgarian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.75 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 4.0 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bruneian equivalent required.

Bruneian Bachelor (Honours) degrees are typically accepted with an Upper Second Class Honours classification equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a Lower Secind Class Honours classification equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Brazilian equivalent required.

Brazilian 4 year Título de Bacharel or Título de [subject area] or Título de Licenciado are typically accepted with 7.5/10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6.5/10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Botswanan equivalent required.

Botswanan Masters degrees are typically accepted with 80% (A grade) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 70% (B grade) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bolivian equivalent required.

Bolivian 4 year Licenciado or Título de [subject area] are typically accepted with 75% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 64% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Belgian equivalent required.

Belgian Bachelor degrees (Bachelier) are typically accepted with 70% (14/20) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60% (12/20) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Barbadian equivalent required.

The University of the West Indies Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with a 2.1 (65%) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and a 2:2 (55%) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bangladeshi equivalent required.

Bangladeshi Bachelor degrees (from selected universities) and Masters degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.25 out of 4.0 or 65% equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 or 60% equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Bahraini equivalent required.

Bahraini Bachelors degrees are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.3 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Azerbaijani equivalent required.

Azerbaijani Bachelors / Bakalavr Diplomu degrees are typically accepted with GPA 4.5 out of 5.0 (80%) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 4.0 out of 5.0 (70%) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Austrian equivalent required.

Austrian Bachelor degrees are accepted with GPA 2.5 typically equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 3.5 typically equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Australian equivalent required.

Australian Bachelor Honours degrees are typically accepted with 70% (Second Class Division A) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60% (Second Class Division B) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Australian Bachelor degrees are typically accepted with 70% (Distinction) equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 60% (Credit) equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Argentine equivalent required.

Argentine 4 year Titulo / Grado de Licenciado or Titulo de [subject area] are typically accepted with 7.5 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 6.0 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Algerian equivalent required.

Algerian Bachelors, Licence and Diplome degrees are typically accepted with 15 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 13 out of 20 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Albanian equivalent required.

Second Level Integrated Diploma (5 years) and First Level University Diploma are typically accepted with 8 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and 7 out of 10 equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

Afghanistan

Please refer to the UK entry requirements for the course, check for any prerequisites such as compulsory or preferred subject areas, and use the following as an indication of the Afghan equivalent required.

Afghan Master's degrees from any recognised institution and Bachelor of Science (Engineering) from Kabul University are typically accepted with GPA 3.0 out of 4.0 or 80% overall equivalent to a UK 2:1 (second-class upper) Honours Bachelor degree and GPA 2.4 out of 4.0 or 70% overall equivalent to a UK 2:2 (second-class lower) Honours Bachelor degree.

If you are unable to find your country equivalents in the above list, City will consider other international qualifications on a case by case basis.

For further details, please contact us using the contact details at the bottom of this page.

English language requirements

Into city, university of london.

Don’t meet the entry requirements?  INTO City, University of London offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare you for study at City, University of London. You’ll learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre.

These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.

Kaplan International College London

City works in partnership with  Kaplan International College (KIC) London to provide preparatory courses for international students. Pre Masters courses at KIC London offer comprehensive support to students wishing to complete their postgraduate study at City. Progression to this degree is guaranteed if you complete the  KIC London Pre-Masters course at the required level.

English requirements

If you are an applicant whose first language is not English and you have not successfully completed an academic qualification at least equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree which was taught in a majority English-speaking country as defined by UK Visas and Immigration, the following qualifications (or equivalent) are also required:

• IELTS: 7.0 or above with a minimum of 6 in each area
• For the LLM we require an overall TOEFL score of 100 or better, with a minimum of 25 in Speaking, and at least 24 in every other component of the test

English language programmes

Don’t meet the English language requirements?  INTO City, University of London offers English language programmes to help prepare you for study at university.

These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for entry to degree courses.

Application process

When you apply you will be expected to submit the following:

• One application form
• A short personal statement (c800-1200 words) outlining why you are applying for this programme
• A copy of your degree transcript: We require an original transcript or a copy certified by your institution. If you have not yet graduated, you will be required to send us your degree transcript as soon as it is available. You will not be able to register as a City student without having supplied your degree transcript.

Please note: At least one academic reference is required in order for us to assess your application. However, the admissions tutor may permit professional references if you have been out of higher education for a number of years.

This course is not currently open for applications.

September 2025 entry

• Apply online for LLM Criminal Law and Social Justice with full-time study in London
• Apply online for LLM Criminal Law and Social Justice with part-time study in London

January 2026 entry

Contact the postgraduate team.

Telephone: 020 7040 8877

Email: [email protected]

Our academics

Your studies are supported by a team of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. On occasion we also work with external professionals to enhance your learning and appreciation of the wider subject.

Dr Marc Mimler

Senior Lecturer in Law

Academic law programmes

Alexander Maine

Senior Lecturer (Education and Research)

Marcus Soanes

Principal Lecturer

Professional law programmes

Dr Andrew Wolman

Senior Lecturer - Education and Research

Our students

Ask a student.

Want to find out more about student life? Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any question you have

Housing and student life

Accommodation and housing  

We offer accommodation options and support for all postgraduate students. Our dedicated Accommodation Service can help you to find private accommodation in London if required.

Student wellbeing  

Our extensive support network spans from learning support and disability support through to counselling, financial advice and career advice. Please do tell us if you need our help.

Living in London  

We are based in the heart of one of the most vibrant and colourful cities in the world. London offers a rich variety of cultural experiences far beyond your studies.

What's happening

Nov  06

Postgraduate Open Evening

Join us at our Postgraduate Open Evening to learn more about our postgraduate courses and discover all the benefits of studying at City, University of London.

Wednesday, 6 th November 2024 , 17:00 – 19:00

Location: Northampton Square

Audience: Prospective students

Wednesday, 18 th September 2024

British Academy/Leverhulme Funding awarded for project to protect and accommodate the rights of minorities

Dr Lilija Alijeva and Professor Tawhida Ahmed have been awarded the funding for the project, ‘Mainstreaming Inclusivity and Decolonisation in International Minority Rights Legal Norms’.

Monday, 5 th August 2024

“We continue to fight for our minds”: Art Not Evidence makes the case against using drill lyrics as evidence in court

Dr Lambros Fatsis curates event "Art Not Evidence: All Angles" to discuss why drill music lyrics should not be used in court as evidence.

Related course

International commercial law llm.

Gain extensive knowledge of international commercial law and regulation with our unique International Commercial Law LLM from The City Law School.

Award: Master of Laws

Useful links

• The City Law School
• Law at City, University of London

Contact details

Postgraduate admissions office.

020 7040 8877

[email protected]