The master of arts program in criminal justice promotes study for those seeking career opportunities or advancement in justice-related fields as well as those seeking preparation for doctoral study. The graduate program builds on the multidisciplinary strength of the faculty. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of crime and the justice system, including contemporary issues affecting it, and the analytic skills required to conduct and to apply research and to assess public policy.

The department also offers a dual M.A./M.P.A. degree with the Department of Public Policy and Administration.

Admission Requirements

  • A transcript showing the completion of a B.A. or B.S. degree. Applicants with a GPA under 3.0 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Completion of an undergraduate course in statistics and research methods. This requirement can be fulfilled after admission. Prior coursework or experience in criminal justice is also recommended.
  • Three letters of recommendation (academic reference preferred)
  • A statement of purpose
  • A brief resume if one’s work experience is relevant to the application

Application Deadlines

Spring Priority Deadline: December 1st
Fall Priority Deadline for financial consideration: March 1st

*We are still reviewing and accepting applications for the Fall 2023 term. Apply by April 17th.

Degree Requirements

30 total credits

  • Criminal justice core courses (nine credits)
  • Criminal justice elective courses (21 credits from approved courses)
  • Comprehensive exams or a thesis

Concentrations

  • Social Justice
  • Forensic Science

Dual M.A./M.P.A. Degree Requirements

48 total credits

  • Criminal justice core courses (nine credits)
  • Criminal justice elective courses (12 credits from approved courses)
  • Public management core courses (12 credits)
  • Public management electives (15 credits from approved courses)
  • Comprehensive exams in criminal justice or a thesis

Graduate Faculty

Visit the Criminal Justice Graduate Faculty Listing.

Contact the Department

Dr. Nathan Link
(856) 225-6470
nathan.link@rutgers.edu

Program Website

Visit the Criminal Justice Program website.