Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice
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Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice
The online Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice at the University of Louisville (UofL) is designed for professionals within the legal system in Kentucky and in the U.S., who want to advance their career or strengthen their knowledge.
Strengthen your knowledge and skills to take the next step in your career.
The career-forward criminal justice program at UofL, emphasizes ethics, responsibility and social dynamics in the criminal justice system. Here, you can learn from award-winning faculty with extensive expertise in all facets of criminal justice, including justice administration, theories of crime and delinquency, legal issues, as well as advanced statistics and research methods.
The online Master of Science in Criminal Justice is offered through the College of Arts & Sciences at UofL, and has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report among the Best in the Nation for several consecutive years, reflecting consistent academic quality, strong student support and knowledge outcomes that matter for working adults.
UofL's Online MSCJ Program
100% online, No GRE required - Apply today and advance your career in criminal justice!
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
100% Online
The big picture
Today’s criminal justice professionals are expected to think critically, lead ethically and respond to complex legal and social challenges. The online master of science in criminal justice at the UofL is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their expertise, expand their influence and help shape a more effective justice system. Grounded in real-world application and taught by experienced faculty, the program prepares you to lead across law enforcement, courts, corrections and policy-focused roles.
Advance your leadership career and expand your expertise with courses in ethics, history, personnel management, corrections, cybercrime, juvenile justice, international terrorism, as well as electives addressing capital punishment, violent crime, domestic violence, criminal justice in media, substance abuse and more.
Online MS in criminal justice degree highlights
- Develop leadership and strategic decision-making skills for roles across law enforcement, courts and corrections
- Apply research methods and data analysis to evaluate crime trends and justice programs outcomes
- Learn from experienced faculty with real-world expertise in criminal justice administration and reform
- Complete your degree in just 3 intensive semesters with year-round courses 100% online and 8-week terms
- Transfer up to 6 credit hours of graduate coursework completed from other accredited universities
UofL’s online MSCJ follows an interdisciplinary approach with electives and partnerships that allow students to customize their degree to meet their professional goals. The combination of coursework and partnership with the Southern Police Institute in Louisville, Kentucky, makes our master’s in criminal justice program a unique blend of theory and practice. The Southern Police Institute is one of the oldest, most respected police management and administration educational organizations in the United States.
"Getting a master’s degree in criminal justice helps you elevate yourself in whatever trajectory you’re on. Learning the leadership skills, and the legal parameters and ethical parameters within criminal justice, certainly will put you ahead of those who don’t have that."
Cherie Dawson-Edwards, PhD
Professor, Criminal Justice
Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs
Take the step today to pave the way for your career growth in criminal justice.
How to apply to UofL’s online MSCJ degree
Check out typical application deadlines for the MS in criminal justice online program at UofL and prepare your application packet according to the requirements outlined below.
A holistic approach to admissions
By evaluating applicants based on their demonstrated passion, commitment to the criminal justice field and interpersonal skills, we aim to build a cohort poised to drive evidence-based change in the justice system.
Application Deadlines
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| July 1 | Fall I | August |
| September 1 | Fall II | October |
| December 1 | Spring I | January |
| February 1 | Spring II | March |
| April 1 | Summer | May/June |
Note: We admit students on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance and enroll before the term begins. We review applications as they become complete, and admit students for a specific term up to the day classes start. We recommend you work on and submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
How to apply for the online MSCJ
- Start your application for graduate admission
- Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
- Upload required materials*
- Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292.
- Create a financial plan
What admissions requirements are for the online MSCJ
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
- a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
- a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)
Required application packet materials include:
- two letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic or professional capabilities
- an original essay identifying the applicant's background, professional interests and goals. The essay should be 300-500 words and should allow the faculty to better understand the applicant's motivation and the potential for graduate work.
* Your application portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
For more information on the application and admission process, please contact our online learning enrollment services specialists through an information request.
How much it costs to earn an online MSCJ degree at UofL
Academic Year Tuition
$850 per credit hour
$250 per credit hour active-duty tuition rate
This program is a Title IV federal financial aid eligible program. Tuition rate does not include costs associated with a specific course or program, such as textbooks.
Please note that other fees apply – check our tuition page for all applicable costs.
Tuition, fees and charges are subject to change and effective on the date enacted. For additional information on educational expenses and the cost of attendance, please visit the Student Financial Aid Office website.
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?
Many employers often have programs available to assist their employees financially in their educational pursuits. Do not miss out on any potential opportunities. Reach out to your organization’s HR department to learn about available options.
What you learn in the online master of science in criminal justice
Online courses
The online master of science in criminal justice is a 36 credit hour program that requires 15 credit hours in core criminal justice courses, 18 credit hours in electives and one professional research paper (worth three credit hours), offered 100% online. Courses are delivered asynchronously, in eight-week terms.
The online master of science in criminal justice curriculum is designed to build advanced expertise across the full scope of the criminal justice system. Coursework explores criminological theory, criminal justice administration, ethics, research methods and applied statistics, while electives allow students to specialize in areas such as law enforcement leadership, corrections, juvenile justice, crime analysis, cybercrime, homeland security, emergency management and justice policy.
To see all available online courses and degree requirements, please visit UofL's Academic Catalog page (select Degree Requirements tab).
UofL’s flexible, graduate-level online curriculum can prepare you to analyze complex justice issues, lead law enforcement organizations and drive evidence-based decision-making across public safety and legal environments.
Take the next step with confidence.
Start working on your application and feel free to connect with us anytime if you have questions or need further guidance.
What will I learn as an online MSCJ student?
Demand for skilled criminal justice professionals continues to grow as agencies and organizations respond to evolving legal, social and public safety challenges.
The expertise you’ll develop as a student in the criminal justice master’s program will enable you to become an advocate of justice. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of ethics, history, personnel management, corrections, cybercrime, juvenile justice, international terrorism and more. Specific expertise gained from the program includes:
- Comprehensive understanding of the interrelationships of all the various components as well as the social and political issues related to the criminal justice system.
- Awareness of the effects of constitutional provisions, statutes, ordinances and judicial decisions on justice administration and criminal justice management.
According to Lightcast occupation outlook data, on average, jobs in the criminal justice field are projected to grow 7% between 2025 and 2033, with 160,139 annual job postings. The median salary for criminal justice-related jobs is nearly $88,900 (Lightcast.io). Career opportunities and earnings vary based on actual job role, geographic location, prior experience and employer. These figures reflect overall industry trends and are not a guarantee of individual results.
Roles in criminal justice administration, policy analysis and leadership are projected to remain strong, particularly for professionals with advanced education and specialized training.
What can I do with a master's in criminal justice?
Some of the career opportunities available to master's in criminal justice graduates are:
- Criminal investigator
- Criminal records manager
- Crime prevention specialist
- Correctional treatment specialist
- Corrections officer supervisor
- Court case manager
- Emergency management director
- Juvenile justice supervisor
- Police chief; Police commissioner
- Probation and parole officer; supervisor
- Security planning manager
- Special agent
- Victim advocate
This degree also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study or advanced roles in justice-related research and policy development.
Take the step today to pave the way for your career growth in criminal justice.
What else should I know?
The questions and answers below help you learn more about our program, financial aid options and how to succeed as an online student at UofL and beyond.
What are the different fields of criminal justice?
The main fields within criminal justice include law enforcement, courts/law, corrections, victim advocacy, homeland security, legal studies and forensic science.
Is UofL's MS in criminal justice program accredited?
Yes, the University of Louisville is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
When can I begin this program?
This program offers 5 starts per year: 2 in Fall, 2 in Spring and 1 in Summer. You can apply when you’re ready, obtain your admission decision and start in the next available class.
Will I earn my degree from UofL?
Yes. UofL is a four-year public university and a degree-granting higher education institution. The “master of science” will be granted by UofL and represented as such on the diploma.
Is tuition assistance (TA) available for active-duty military?
Yes, TA is currently available for active-duty military, Coast Guard and qualifying members of the Reserve Component and National Guard eligible for Title X (Federal) TA, at the rate of $250 per credit hour (subject to change without prior notice). However, other fees apply, as outlined in the Tuition & Aid tab above.
How many credits are required for an online MS in Criminal Justice?
A master's in criminal justice from UofL requires completion of 36 graduate-level credit hours. You can check out our Courses tab for more info.
How long is the master's degree in criminal justice?
Our master's degree in criminal justice is 36 hours and can be completed in a little as three intensive semesters with year-round courses and eight-week terms.
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
What your support network looks like
At UofL, online students are supported by a team that understands the demands of working professionals and what it takes to achieve their education goals and career aspirations. Enrollment specialists, academic advisors, program leadership staff and faculty collaborate to provide clear guidance, timely support and practical insight so you can stay focused, confident and on track throughout your degree.
| Name, Title | Phone | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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| Cameron Murray-Hicks Online Enrollment Specialist | online@louisville.edu | 800.871.8635 |
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| Kim Hendricks, M.ED Advisor | kim.hendricks@louisville.edu | 502.852.0373 |
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| George Higgins, Ph.D. Department Chair, Professor | george.higgins@louisville.edu | 502.852.0331 |
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| Viviana Andreescu, Ph.D. Director of Graduate Studies - Master's | viviana.andreescu@louisville.edu | 502.852.0378 |
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| Alex Widdowson, Ph.D. Director of Graduate Studies - PH.D | alex.widdowson@louisville.edu | 502.852.0376 |
Whether you need more info or are ready to apply and need further guidance, reach out to us – we are here for you!
Online MS in criminal justice student organizations and involvement
Lambda Alpha Epsilon and Alpha Phi Sigma stream all of their meetings as well as their lunch and learns. Visit our website to learn of any additional new ways that you, as an online student, can be connected with our on-campus students and faculty.
Partnerships/practicums for online MS in criminal justice students
The Department of Criminal Justice faculty actively engage in community service. These partnerships provide opportunities for internships and networking that enhance the student experience.
- Metro Louisville Government
- Alcohol Beverage Control
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms & Explosives - Anne Braden Institute of Social Justice
- Center for Women and Families
- Administrative Office of the Courts
- Crime Analysis/Real Time Center
- Drug Enforcement Agency
- Department of Corrections
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- International Service Learning Program
- Jefferson County Public Schools
(JCPS) Advisory Board for Public Safety - Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training
- Kentucky Department of Insurance Fraud Investigation
- Office of Homeland Security
- Kentucky Court of Justice
- Kentucky Derby Festival
- Kentucky State Police
- Louisville Metro Police Department
- Medical Examiners Office
- Public/Private Security/Loss Prevention
- Restorative Justice
- Think IR
- UL Police Department
- U.S. Marshal Service
- U.S. Postal Inspectors
- U.S. Secret Service
Over 5.4 million dollars in department grants
Our faculty has been awarded research grants totaling more than 4.5 million dollars. Granting agencies include:
- Vanderbilt University
- John Jay College
- Office of the Attorney General-Kentucky
- Kentucky Administrative Offices of the Courts
- DHHS Department of Homeland Security
- Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice
- University of Maryland
- U.S. Department of Justice
- Kentucky Department of Corrections
- National Institute of Justice
- Louisville Metro Police Department
Department of Justice professional organizations
The faculty are active members in the following professional organizations:
- National Sheriff's Association
- Midwest Criminal Justice Association
- NSA-Education
- NSA-Cyber Security
- European Society of Criminology
- Southern Criminal Justice Association
- American Society of Criminology
- Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- American Correctional Association (ACA)
- International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP)
- Kentucky Bar Association
- Louisville Bar Association
- Alpha Phi Sigma
- Society for Study of Social Problems
- Kentucky Council on Crime and
Delinquency - American Bar Association
- Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police
- American Criminal Justice Association
Take the step today to pave the way for your career growth in criminal justice.
