Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Albany State University offers a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice delivered both face-to-face and fully online. The M.S. degree program is designed to prepare students for professional careers within the criminal justice system and related fields. Theoretical, methodological and philosophical understanding of the criminal justice system is stressed during the matriculation process. As a result, students are well-prepared for careers in criminal justice and related fields.

The philosophy and objectives embraced by the Criminal Justice Department are to educate students in such a way to channel their talents and capabilities toward the enrichment of the Community, state and the nation. Embracing this idea, the Department strives toward the broad-based development of the individual to meet the technological and legal complexities of a modern democratic society.

Program Concentrations:

• Law Enforcement (fully online)
• Corrections (fully online)
• Forensic Science
• Public Administration

The Master of Science in Criminal degree program can be completed in one year for seriously committed students. With only a 30-semester hour requirement for program completion, including Thesis or None Thesis option, students must successfully complete a comprehensive examination in core, statistics/methodology and a chosen area of specialty. The comprehensive examination is administered after the student has completed the core courses and three courses in a chosen area of specialty. A grade of B or better must be earned for each course and 3.0 grade point average must be maintained to remain in the program.

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or University
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Applicants whose undergraduate degree was not in Criminal Justice are required to complete 6 semesters of required undergraduate criminal justice pre-requisites and must earn a B or better in those courses.
• Applicants admitted on provisional basis must complete 9 hours of Criminal Justice core courses with a B or better and must have a 3.0 or better grade point average
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) tests are accepted.
• Two letters of recommendation
• For regular admissions, the candidate must have a 3.5 GPA or above.
• For provisional admission, the candidate must have a 3.0-3.4 GPA.
• For candidates under 3.0 GPA must take either GRE or MAT, GRE combined scores 250 or higher or MAT combined scores 350 or higher for provisional admission.

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges