CU’s online criminology degree explores the contemporary issues of criminal justice while preparing you to take a stand against violent crime and impact positive change in your career.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Program Details
Next Start Date: 7/3/2023
Course Length: 8 Weeks
Estimated Length: 2 Years
M.S. Justice Studies – Criminology Overview
The online master’s in criminology degree from Campbellsville University is designed to prepare the next generation of criminal justice professionals to impact positive change within their communities. Delivering a strong foundation in the principles and concepts of criminal and social justice, the criminology degree investigates the leading research methods utilized within the field, along with the contemporary issues surrounding criminology and advanced criminology theory.
Our master’s in criminology program is ideal for the working practitioners who are currently involved in social advocacy positions, specifically those who focus on wrongful convictions and criminal justice reform. Founded on Christian ethics and principles, the program offers a selection of criminology courses that strongly focus on law enforcement reform and the future of the criminal justice system. Those who are not currently working in the field but are striving to complete a doctorate can also benefit from this advanced, career-centered curriculum.
As a student of the online master’s in criminology program, you’ll enhance your professional capabilities in the field of criminal justice and expand your career opportunities. With personalized attention from faculty members with field experience, you’ll graduate equipped with the skills to impact positive change and play a vital role in implementing social justice in your community.
Campbellsville University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Other Justice Studies Concentrations
Course Map
The online justice studies degree from Campbellsville University consists of 36 credit hours—15 credits of core curriculum courses, 18 credits in either track, plus an elective course. The program can be completed within two years.
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- CJ 500: Leadership in a Diverse Society
- CJ 562: Research Methods
- CJ 544: Introduction to Statistics
- CJ 525: Social Stratification
- CJ 505: Ethics and Leadership in Criminal Justice Organizations
All students are required to complete a thesis.
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- CJ 520: Contemporary Issues in Criminology
- CJ 530: Advanced Criminology Theory
- CJ 600: Applied Thesis I
- CJ 601: Applied Thesis II
- CJ 622: Research Methods for Community Change
- CJ 635: Law and Society
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- BA 620: Finance Management
- BA 614: Human Resource Management
- CJ 550: Victimology
- CJ 585: Serial Killers
- CJ 620: Seminar in Criminal Justice
- CJ 625: Policing and Immigration
- CJ 630: Crime Control and Environmental Design
- SOC/CJ 542: Race and Ethnic Relations
- SWK 615: World Problems & Advocacy
With department approval, students can take an upper level BA, SOC, or PSY course to fulfill the elective requirement
Admissions Requirements
To apply to Campbellsville’s justice studies program, prospective students must submit or complete the following:
- Complete the online application
- Official Transcript Request Form (via Adobe Sign). In most cases, this will allow us to request your transcripts on your behalf.
- All official college transcripts from each college or university previously or currently attended
- GRE exam scores – Must be taken by students with a cumulative GPA under 3.0
- Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 will not have to take the GRE or GMAT
- If student GPA is lower than 3.0, the GRE or interview may be required
- Two letters of recommendation from current or past supervisors, professors, or other professionals who can attest to the student’s qualifications
- At least one of the recommendation letters should come from academic areas (e.g., academic advisors, major professors)
- Statement of career goals (maximum 1,000 words) stating the reason for applying to the Master of Science in Justice Studies program and future plans with this degree
- International students: must show proficiency in English as a Second Language through the TOEFL exam (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- The minimum acceptable score on the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based exam, 213 on the computer-based exam, or a 79-80 on the internet-based exam.
- International transcript evaluation by WES (World Education Services) is required.
- International students who do not hold a permanent resident visa in the United States must submit evidence of financial support before an I-20 form can be processed.
Costs & Financial Aid
The online justice studies degree costs $432 per credit hour. In order to help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options.
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Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
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A maximum of 12 credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university can be transferred into this program.
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Campbellsville University is a military-friendly school and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
What Can You Do with a Criminology Degree?
Graduates of the master's in criminology program are fully equipped for a variety of careers that study the criminal mind, seek justice for victims and impact social change among diverse communities. Some of the potential career outcomes include:
- Police and detective supervisor
- Forensic psychologist
- Criminologist
- District attorney
- Probation officer
Why CU Online?
Focused on Your Growth
Our well-rounded education in the arts and sciences is central to our goal of fostering your personal and professional growth.
Faith-Based Education
Founded in 1906 as a Christian university, we welcome diverse perspectives and prepare students to become Christian servant leaders.
Affordable and Convenient
Campbellsville seeks to provide an affordable education for its students. Our online degree programs are in a convenient format, so you can study whenever and wherever you want.
Accreditation
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates, associate, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the status of Campbellsville University.
Benefits of Learning Online
Campbellsville University offers several dynamic online degrees so that students can continue their education and hone their skills. Campbellsville’s online campus has been recognized as one of the best by numerous outlets. The institution’s faculty members have real-world experience in their fields, so students can get a glimpse of working in their prospective career. Students can also conveniently fit online coursework into their busy schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Yes. We offer a generous transfer policy for our online degree programs. Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.
- Yes. You will have to complete the FAFSA form, and we will then determine your eligibility for any financial aid. Visit our financial aid page to learn more about your options, which include scholarships and grants.
- You can apply to our online degree programs through the online application form. Remember to submit official copies of your high school and/or college transcripts, along with any other required documentation that is specific to your degree program. You can visit the admissions process page to learn more about what to expect throughout the process.