MS in Criminal Justice

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Kaplan University's Master of Science in Criminal Justice online program is designed to help students understand and expand their knowledge of criminal justice theories, practices, and legal issues. The program's core curriculum offers discussions regarding law enforcement procedures, corrections, judicial decisions, causes of criminal behavior, research processes in criminal justice, and the structure and management of criminal justice organizations. Students can opt to pursue an area of specialization within criminal justice. Specialization areas include:

• Law
• Corrections
• Global Issues in Criminal Justice
• Leadership and Executive Management

What Are the Prerequisites?

You should currently be employed in a criminal justice environment, or have a strong interest in working in law enforcement, security, or a similar setting. Previous courses in criminology and law can be helpful. Applicants to Kaplan University's programs should have a high school diploma or GED and be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. Since the program is offered online, applicants should have access to a computer.

What Are the Course Requirements?

Students of the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice at Kaplan University have the option to pursue a thesis, comprehensive exam, or research project track of study. All tracks require the completion of 55 credits, which combines the core curriculum and electives or specialization courses. Specific course requirements are subject to change.

Thesis Track Core Requirements

• Critical Legal Issues in Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theory
• Research Methodology
• Organizational Behavior
• Data Analysis
• Research and Thesis I
• Research and Thesis II

Comprehensive Exam Track Core Requirements

• Critical Legal Issues in Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theory
• Research Methodology
• Organizational Behavior
• Critical Issues in Criminal Justice
• Comprehensive Examination

Applied Research Track Core Requirements

• Critical Legal Issues in Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theory
• Organizational Behavior
• Applied Research in Criminal Justice
• Applied Research Project

What Are My Post-Graduation Opportunities?

Career Opportunities

Once you have successfully met all the requirements of Kaplan University's Master of Science in Criminal Justice program, you could pursue management positions in law enforcement organizations, government agencies, security firms, courts, or prison systems. You could assume jobs that utilize your knowledge of criminology and leadership, organizational, and communication skills you might have developed in the program. Positions you could pursue include:

• Drug enforcement administrator
• Criminal investigator
• Warden
• Criminologist
• Court administrator