Criminal Justice

Degree Overview

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

South University's Online Programs College of Nursing and Public Health 2023 Commencement — South University Criminal Justice Graduation

Earn your master’s in criminal justice online from South University. The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program dives into the historical and contemporary criminal justice system, examining relationships among law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. Prerequisites for the graduate criminal justice program are limited so that qualified students with bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as criminology, psychology, business or public administration, anthropology, political science, sociology or related social sciences may enroll, along with students who have undergraduate degrees in criminal justice.

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program, you can choose to enter doctoral programs in related fields or seek a leadership position within law enforcement, corrections, local and state government, or legal institutions*.

Please note: While you may be able to take some general education courses at the campuses, all other courses, including specialized courses, will be taken online.

*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

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Available Locations

Austin, TX Columbia, SC Online Richmond, VA Savannah, GA Tampa, FL Virginia Beach, VA West Palm Beach, FL

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Locations

South University Campuses

Discover the benefits of an education from all South University locations. Since 1899, South University has committed to the professional, social, intellectual, and personal development of our diverse students by providing a faculty that lends professional experience to the learning experience, and a student body that shares a goal of professional fulfillment.

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* Not all programs at campuses are offered Online.

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Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

We're committed to helping our graduates make an impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our Criminal Justice & Legal Studies graduates have to say.

Tyra Mitchell

Class of '06

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies-South University, Columbia

“All of the instructors that I had were very understanding and actually cared about the students.”

Tiffany Wood

Class of '09

Associate of Science in Legal Studies-South University, Columbia

“My classes at South University challenged me to find the answers I was looking for and inspired me to keep seeking the truth in any situation presented to me. Being at South University has definitely brought me closer to my family and a step closer to my dreams!”

Tami Stuart

Class of '11

Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies-South University, Montgomery

“I knew I would need to pursue a career I could be passionate about, and something I would be happy doing for a long time. My father was an attorney and he taught me respect for the justice system. I remembered spending many happy hours in his office, when he would point to his statue of Lady Justice and explain the importance of justice being blind and the scales being fair. The fact that the Paralegal Studies program at South University is approved by the American Bar Association was a big part of my decision.”

Steve Knafelc

Class of '13

Master of Science in Criminal Justice-South University, Columbia

“All of my classes were conducted online, and with my work schedule at the sheriff's office this was the best move for me to make.”

Peter Gross

Class of '10

Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies-South University, West Palm Beach

“My classes at South University were inspiring, not just informative; a thorough curriculum absolutely gave me the background I needed to be hired immediately at my law office.”

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Campuses offer flexible learning formats* including: on-campus, virtual instructions, and online courses.

*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.

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