Criminal Justice

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Degree Overview

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

South University's Online Programs College of Nursing and Public Health 2023 Commencement — South University 2020 Graduation

The South University Montgomery Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is designed for individuals employed in the criminal justice system, as well as those in other careers, both public and private, who wish to acquire further education in criminal justice. Prerequisites 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. The program is primarily designed to foster a learning community of criminal justice professionals who will use their knowledge within law enforcement, correctional, political, and legal arenas.

Admission Requirements

Please see the South University academic catalog for program specific admissions requirements.

Course Requirements

Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

Demonstrate mastery of skills in the areas of theoretical and applied criminal justice as well as in managerial principles and practices to effectively solve a variety of real-life problems within a complex organization.
Understand the relationship between crime theory, crime policy, and professional practice.
Demonstrate interactive skills and learn behavioral strategies for improving systemic communication within and between criminal justice agencies.
Demonstrate the ability to effectively interpret and make use of research methodology by completing a final research project prospectus on a topic related to professional practice in an actual criminal justice agency.

Career Outlook

Graduates of the MS in Criminal Justice program are prepared to seek management, administrative, research, and teaching positions. Program graduates will also be prepared for admission to doctoral programs in criminal justice, criminology and other related fields as well as for promotions within existing law enforcement, correctional, local and state government, and legal institutions.

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Success STories

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.”