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Kender DesRosiers '21G
Kender DesRosiers '21G
MS, Criminal Justice, Criminology
"The conversations in my classes have always been dynamic, engaging, fruitful, and often challenging. Students have expressed anticipation of taking courses together again a number of times. It is a spirit of diverse perspectives that complement us to one another."
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James Bacigalupo '18G
James Bacigalupo '18G
MS, Criminal Justice, Criminology
"I definitely learned a lot in the program, which allowed me to pursue a PhD in criminology. For me, deciding to do the thesis option was very helpful because I learned a lot about research methods. Hopefully, it will someday turn into a career in academia."
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Program Overview
The master of science in criminal justice emphasizes both theory and research. Students will have the opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge of current and developing criminological theory, data analysis, and criminal justice policy and practice. The curriculum consists of five core course courses and concentrations in one of two areas: administration and criminology.
The administration concentration focuses on the organizational structure and functions of criminal justice agencies. The criminology concentration is interdisciplinary in nature drawing from psychology, sociology, biology, and economics and focuses on understanding the cause of crime and ways to assist criminal justice professionals and officials in implementing the most effective ways to prevent and reduce crime.
Our individualized curriculum helps students develop the competence to conduct sophisticated crime analysis, policy development and problem-solving while preparing students for leadership roles in their chosen fields. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available.
Program highlights
- Individualized 36 credit curriculum geared toward developing competencies in sophisticated crime analysis, policy development, and problem-solving
- Quinn Bill certified program
- Flexible evening course schedule
- Complete your degree on a full and part-time basis
Hybrid and Online Offerings
Pursue your master of science in criminal justice on either a full or part-time basis. Courses are available through a combination of hybrid and online classes. The five core courses are offered in a hybrid format which includes a face-to-face component as well as online work. The hybrid format affords students the opportunity to interact in person with faculty and their classmates. Students come to campus once a week throughout the semester and are able to take two core courses simultaneously as they run alternating weeks. Upon completing the five core courses, students take their electives online.
Careers
The MS in criminal justice prepares students for leadership roles in their chosen fields. Many of our students are already employed in the field and are seeking to advance their careers. Professional opportunities in criminal justice are diverse and include areas such as law enforcement, homeland security, security management, corrections, probation, and criminal investigation.
Admissions Information
Have Questions?
Ready to learn more about this program? Contact program coordinator Joseph Gustafson.
To find out more about graduate school at Salem State, make an appointment with a graduate admissions counselor or register for an upcoming event.
Ready to Apply?
Your future is waiting. Take the next step by learning about program-specific admissions requirements and applying today!
Highlights
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A Degree with Value
Quinn Bill-Certified
Graduates of our program are eligible for PCIPP pay incentives -
Faculty Spotlight
How Humanity Can Heal: A TEDxSalemStateUniversity Talk
Professor Amanda Howerton-Orcutt examines the power of humility -