M.A. in Criminal Justice

“With the Criminal Justice Department I have visited the FBI Training Academy, the Hudson County Jail, and five foreign countries; these are only some of the opportunities available to criminal justice students.”
– Nic G. ‘13

Welcome to the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) Program!

The MACJ program is designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact within the criminal justice field. This graduate program provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in criminal justice, offering specialized pathways that cater to the evolving needs of today’s criminal justice landscape.

Program Overview

Our MACJ program emphasizes a balance between theoretical knowledge, practical application, and advanced research, equipping students with the skills required to lead and innovate in various criminal justice roles. With 36 credits, students will engage in rigorous coursework, hands-on experiences, and a capstone project or comprehensive exam, preparing them for real-world challenges and leadership positions within criminal justice agencies, government, nonprofit organizations, and private sectors.

Program Benefits

The MACJ program is designed for individuals who aspire to excel in criminal justice, combining advanced theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Whether students are new to the field or seasoned professionals, the program’s diverse curriculum and specializations equip them to meet the challenges of a dynamic and evolving criminal justice landscape.

Key benefits of the MACJ program include:

1. Comprehensive and Specialized Learning: The program offers core courses that establish a strong foundation in criminological theory, policy analysis, ethical practices, and management. In addition, students can choose from three specialized tracks—Criminal Justice Administration, Global Criminal Justice, or Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity—allowing them to tailor their studies to match their professional goals.
2. Career Advancement and Diverse Job Opportunities: With a master’s degree, graduates have access to higher-level roles and increased earning potential within criminal justice, including positions in law enforcement management, crime analysis, international justice, cybersecurity, and policy advising. This degree opens doors to both public and private sector opportunities.
3. Skill Development for Real-World Application: Students gain practical skills essential for success in the field, such as critical thinking, advanced research methods, policy development, and ethical decision-making. These skills are reinforced through experiential courses like CJ in the Field, which exposes students to real-world practices and insights from professionals across the field.
4. Networking and Mentorship Opportunities: The MACJ program connects students with experienced faculty, alumni, and industry professionals who provide valuable insights and mentorship. Through guest speakers, field visits, and collaborative projects, students build a network of contacts that can be instrumental for career development and support.
5. Preparation for Leadership and Impactful Roles: The program emphasizes leadership training, preparing graduates for impactful roles in criminal justice organizations. With courses covering human resources, community policing, and criminal justice administration, students are prepared for positions that influence policy and operational effectiveness.
6. Pathway to Doctoral Studies and Research Careers: The MACJ also serves as a foundation for doctoral studies or research-focused roles. Students interested in academic or policy research receive robust training in criminological theory and research methods, setting them up for further studies or impactful careers in criminal justice research.
7. Practical Capstone or Thesis Option: The program’s capstone requirement allows students to apply classroom knowledge to an independent research project addressing a real-world criminal justice issue. This experience prepares students to implement data-driven solutions and become thought leaders in their field.
8. Flexibility for Working Professionals: The MACJ program accommodates full-time students and working professionals with flexible scheduling options. This allows students to balance their education with other responsibilities, making the program accessible to those already employed in the criminal justice system.

Full-Time Students Taking Two Classes at a Time Will Complete the Program in 2 Years

Course highlights:

• Advanced Criminological Theory
• Theory and Practice of CJ Administration
• Multicultural Law Enforcement
• Criminal Justice in the Field
• Cybercrime & Digital Forensics
• Artificial Intelligence and Criminal Justice
• Transnational and Organized Crimes
• Comparative CJ System
• Management & Human Behavior

Capstone Requirement

Students will demonstrate their knowledge through a final applied research project or comprehensive examination. Those selecting the thesis option will engage in a Capstone Applied Research Project, conducting original research that applies directly to real-world criminal justice issues.

Flexible Learning Options

The program offers flexible course scheduling, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. Our faculty, composed of experienced practitioners and researchers, are committed to providing personalized mentorship and guiding students toward successful careers.
Whether your goal is to advance in law enforcement, explore global justice systems, or lead in cybercrime and cybersecurity, the MACJ program at Saint Peter’s University prepares you to make a lasting impact. Join us and take the next step toward an inspiring career in criminal justice.

Career Outlook

The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) program offers graduates a strong foundation for various rewarding and impactful careers in criminal justice. Here’s an overview of the career outlook and potential roles MACJ graduates may pursue:

• Police Chief or Deputy Chief
• Detective or Special Agent
• Federal Agent
• Correctional Administrator
• Probation and Parole Supervisor
• Criminal Justice Policy Analyst
• Criminologist
• International Crime Consultant
• Cybercrime Investigator
• Digital Forensics Analyst
• Cybersecurity Specialist

Why Saint Peter’s University?

Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, strives to educate a diverse community of learners who will excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing environment.

The Master’s and Doctoral programs are designed to make graduate education available and accessible. With flexible learning opportunities online, hybrid and on-campus—we make coming back to the classroom an attainable goal. Expert faculty offer real-life experiences in the classroom to ensure maximum learning potential.

In addition, the Center for Career Engagement and Experiential Learning provides students with one-on-one advising and encouragement throughout their education.