Master of Science in Criminal Justice
| Formats: Online and in-person | Completion: Less than two years | Credits: 30 |
Overview
Located in the heart of Detroit, Wayne State's Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive and flexible master's degree focusing on a broad range of justice issues, emphasizing both the problem of crime and the criminal justice system's response. Applicants for the master of science in criminal justice also have the option to complete the degree fully online.

Our curriculum provides an integrated appreciation of crime and justice in contemporary society. Here, you'll learn the latest evidence-based practices to reduce crime and promote justice. Our program will also develop your analytic skill-set to prepare you for a career in today's leading agencies.
Small classes with students from various backgrounds help to deepen the dialogue in the classroom. Our students benefit from studying alongside traditional graduate students, professionals working in the field, advocacy-oriented students, and those preparing for doctoral studies. Our working relationships with local agencies provide opportunities for student research and networking.
For more information on the benefits of earning a master's degree see, U.S. News: What Can You Do With a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice?
Admissions
Visit criminal justice admissions to learn about specific program admissions requirements.
Scholarship
The Justice Scholars Program in Criminal Justice covers all tuition and fees for two master's students per year.
Online degree program
Wayne State's online master's degree in criminal justice provides students with the ability to advance their career and academic credentials while taking courses that fit into hectic work schedules and lifestyles.
Applicants for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice have the option to complete the degree fully online. And, by taking just two courses per semester, year-round, students can complete the master's in less than two years. The online program is identical to our traditional classroom-based program and focuses on a broad range of criminal justice issues, emphasizing both the problem of crime and the criminal justice system's response to it.
Students learn the latest evidence-based practices for crime control, how to understand and interpret data and how to find resources to implement innovative methods. Students in the online master's program enjoy the benefit of basic in-state tuition, regardless of the state in which they reside.
Contact 💬
Charles Klahm, graduate director
charles.klahm@wayne.edu
Harold Geistman, online master's coordinator
harold.geistman@wayne.edu
Career insights
This tool provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills, or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.