Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Located in the heart of Detroit, Wayne State 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.
At a glance 🎯
- Format: Online
- Completion: Less than two years
- Credits: 30
About the 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 will complete the degree fully online (not currently offered in-person). 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.
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?
Explore the Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Juris Doctor
Earn a dual Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Juris Doctor degree and gain expertise in law and justice. This interdisciplinary program prepares students for careers in legal practice, policy analysis and criminal justice leadership. Graduates develop skills in legal reasoning, criminal justice administration and public policy, equipping them for roles in government, law enforcement, advocacy and beyond.
Scholarship
The Justice Scholars Program in Criminal Justice covers all tuition and fees for two master's students per year.
Career insights
A degree in criminal justice can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Bailiffs | $50,000 |
| Detectives and criminal investigators | $91,000 |
| Emergency management directors | $82,000 |
| First-line supervisors of police and detectives | $93,000 |
| Police and sheriff's patrol officers | $72,000 |
| Police identification and records officers | $91,000 |
| Transit and railroad police | $67,000 |
This data 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.
Contact 💬
Charles Klahm, graduate director
charles.klahm@wayne.edu
Harold Geistman, online master's coordinator
harold.geistman@wayne.edu