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Criminology, Law and Society Ph.D. program

​​ The Ph.D. program in Criminology, Law and Society is ranked #2 in the US News and World Reports rankings. The program focuses on the causes, manifestations, and consequences of crime; the impacts of crime on society; social regulation; the civil justice system; the social and cultural contexts of law; and the interactive effects of law and society. With high-caliber faculty and an interdisciplinary perspective, the program aims to develop students’ theoretical and methodological sophistication to prepare them for faculty positions at major universities and colleges or for research, training, and administrative work in the justice system.   

Program Overview

In this doctoral program, students must pass nine (9) required courses and four (4) electives, all with a grade of B or higher. For a description of the following courses and others, please visit the UCI Course Catalogue .

Students are also required to complete a Second Year Project, pass comprehensive examinations (comps), prepare & defend a dissertation proposal, and prepare & defend a dissertation.

Second Year Project/Master's Thesis

Beginning in their first year, students initiate independent research projects under faculty supervision. Approaches to research vary widely and may include questionnaire and survey analysis, systematic field observation, computer simulation, archival searches, ethnographies, oral histories, and legal analysis. This project is further expanded on and completed during the second year. This Second Year Project is designed to introduce students to developing their own research projects and writing for an academic audience. The report of the Second Year Project should be comparable in scope and format to articles that appear in leading journals within the field of criminology, law and society. Each project is evaluated and approved by the advisor and one other faculty member.

Students may submit the written report of their Second Year Project as a Master's Thesis for an M.A. in Social Ecology. For the Ph.D. degree, however, an M.A. is not required, and most students move directly to the completion of the doctoral requirements.

Comprehensive Exams

The comprehensive examination (comps) is an untimed take-home written exam consisting of two essays, to be completed in the third year of graduate study. The goal of comps is to allow graduate students to demonstrate mastery of major theoretical, substantive, and methodological issues in both criminology and law & society. The examination consists of two sections – criminology, and law & society. Beginning in 2021, students must complete the exam by the first day of classes in the Winter Quarter of their third year (adjusted for any Leaves of Absence), and must pass all sections of the exam by the last day of classes in Winter Quarter of their third year (adjusted for any Leaves of Absence). Students who do not pass one or both sections on the first attempt will retake the failed section(s) in the subsequent quarter. Students are allowed to take the exam twice, but must pass all sections according to this timeline.

Dissertation

During the fourth year of study, students draft and defend a proposal for dissertation research. The proposal is developed under the guidance of a faculty advisor, and clearly presents the research questions, theories, and methods which will inform the doctoral dissertation project. Once students complete the proposal, they must defend the proposal to a committee comprised of the faculty advisor and four other faculty members. Upon approval of the defense, the student will advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. Students generally complete the proposal defense by the end of the fourth year.

Once students have advanced to candidacy, they spend their remaining time at UCI completing data collection and analysis for their dissertation. Following the completion of the written dissertation, students must orally defend their project to a committee comprised of the faculty advisor and two other faculty members. The dissertation defense usually occurs in the fifth or sixth year. Upon passage of the oral defense and approval of the committee, the student has completed all of the requirements of the Ph.D. program.

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Program Learning Outcomes

Graduate Student Emphases

UCI offers graduate students the opportunity to earn emphases in several substantive areas. Many of our students earn one or more of these emphases, and several of our faculty are associated with the emphases-granting departments.

Asian American Studies

This graduate emphasis is a formal component of graduate studies at the University of California, Irvine, in addition to the fulfillment of requirements towards the Ph.D. or M.F.A. degree in an array of fields in the Schools of Humanities, Social Sciences, Social Ecology, and the Arts. Designed to complement existing graduate degree-granting programs by providing interdisciplinary training in Asian American Studies, this particular specialty is comprised of four courses: two foundation courses introducing theories, methods, and historical and contemporary special topics in Asian American Studies; one elective course in Asian American Studies; and one related elective course in a student’s specific discipline or area of study. Learn more...

Critical Theory Emphasis

The Critical Theory Emphasis (CTE) graduate specialty is the curricular arm of UCI's Critical Theory Institute (CTI). Scholars of Critical Theory explore and develop theoretical models to analyze and critique cultural forms from literature and art to more general systems of information, social relations, and symbolic categories of race, gender and ethnic identity. The goal of the CTE is to promote the study of shared assumptions, problems and commitments of the various discourses in the arts, humanities and social sciences. Learn more...

Graduate Feminist Emphasis

The Department of Gender and Sexuality Studies at UCI offers a graduate emphasis in Feminist Studies for students pursuing Ph.D. or Master's programs across the campus. Participating in the GFE provides students with advanced interdisciplinary training in Feminist Studies, and offers them an opportunity to become part a network of feminist scholars at UCI and beyond. GFE students are subscribed in our email listserv , which features current job openings, fellowship information, and important news about our upcoming events. Learn more...

Law, Society and Culture Emphasis

The Center for Law, Society and Culture sponsors the LSC Emphasis. This concentration is designed a) to instill an intellectual ethic on inter -disciplinarity among participating students early in their training and b) to create trans -disciplinary communities of emerging socio-legal scholars whose intellectual development is enhanced by formal and informal exchange across diverse fields. In the spring of each year, students in their first through third years of graduate study are invited to apply to the Emphasis, which is composed of 4 inter-connected components: 1) a year-long theory and research seminar, with each quarter taught by one faculty member from a different school at UCI; (2) cross-disciplinary mentorship and advising; (3) ongoing professionalization opportunities and responsibilities; and (4) a culminating intellectual project.  Each student is assigned a faculty mentor outside of his or her home department and will meet with that mentor on a monthly basis to discuss the student's ongoing research. Learn more...

Race and Justice Studies Emphasis

Students from any UCI state-supported graduate or professional program, including J.D., Master’s and M.F.A. students, are eligible to apply to the Emphasis in Race and Justice Studies (RJS), housed in the Department of Criminology, Law and Society (CLS). The Race and Justice Studies Emphasis is comprised of four requirements that promote inclusive excellence in graduate training at UCI: (1) A first-year mentorship proseminar offered over three quarters by faculty from across campus whose research and teaching foster inclusive excellence; (2) one RJS-approved course offered under the supervision of the Emphasis; (3) a writing seminar in which a paper developed through the Emphasis will be workshopped and revised toward publication; and (4) a public presentation which translates the student’s RJS-influenced research for an interdisciplinary audience. Learn more...

Visual Studies

The Emphasis in Visual Studies offers a focus on Visual Studies available to Ph.D. and M.F.A. students in all departments at UCI. Satisfactory completion of this concentration is certified by the Graduate Advisor in Visual Studies and is noted in the student's dossier. Learn more...

Research Centers

Students in the Ph.D. program often work with various Research Centers, including the Center for Evidence-Based Corrections , the Center in Law, Society and Culture , the Center for Psychology and Law , the Newkirk Center , the Irvine Lab for the Study of Space and Crime , and the Metropolitan Futures Initiative .

Financial Support

Students in the Ph.D. program have a variety of financial support options. The most common sources of support are Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships.

Research Assistantship. Many students work with faculty on research projects funded by external grants or university monies. As with Teaching Assistants, RAs generally work for up to 20 hours per week and are involved in a wide variety of research activities (e.g., data collection and analysis, article preparation, etc.). Compensation for RAs is roughly equivalent to that for a Teaching Assistant, and covers fees and tuition.

Teaching Assistantship. Ph.D. students in CLS are eligible for 12 quarters of support as a Teaching Assistant (TA), making this the most common means of financial support. TAs work up to 20 hours a week, are responsible for assisting the professor with many common classroom tasks (e.g., creating exams, grading papers, etc.), assist students understand course material and meet course requirements, and experience the opportunity to practice the art of teaching (usually through discussion sections and/or guest lecturing). To maintain their eligibility, students must be in good academic standing and must have a satisfactory record as a Teaching Assistant . Some students may even receive a TAship after this 12-quarter period (subject to CLS and Graduate Divivsion approval). A Teaching Assistantship is not only an important means of financial support (a monthly salary plus fees and tuition coverage), but the work also serves a vital role in training Ph.D. candidates, particularly those who intend to pursue academic careers.

Additional funding is available through student loans, departmental and university fellowships, and outside funding sources. In addition to support during the academic year, students are often able to secure research grants from the Department for the summer. These grants are allotted on the basis of academic standing and financial need.

Award Opportunities

Listed below are the CLS Department awards current students have the opportunitiy to be nominated or apply for.

  • Arnold Binder Award
  • Dickman Award
  • Gil Geis Award
  • Kitty Calavita Award
  • Michelle Smith-Pontell Award
  • Peer Mentoring Award

Graduate Student Housing

A number of housing alternatives are available for graduate students at UCI. Two apartment complexes and a residence hall are available exclusively for graduate students and those with families who wish to live on campus. In addition, there are many off-campus options, including apartments/houses at the beach or apartment complexes just across the street from the university. Due to their affordability and convenience, more than half of our graduate students choose to live on campus.

Among the on-campus options are Verano Place Apartments, Palo Verde Apartments, and Vista del Campo/VdC Norte. Verano Place includes 862 units which are one-, two-, or three-bedroom unfurnished apartments. Palo Verde is designed solely for graduate students and post-doctoral students, and consists of 204 apartments that range from studio to three-bedroom apartments. Vista del Campo is a privately owned and managed apartment community located on the UCI campus, offering furnished apartments to single students who are sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students. For information on all of these housing options, please visit the UCI Housing website .

For more information, please contact:

Irice Castro Assistant Director of Graduate Student Services [email protected] 949-824-1874

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Ranked in 2021, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

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Criminology programs combine principles of sociology, law and psychology to prepare students to deal with criminals, understand the justice system and work to prevent crime. These are the top graduate schools for criminology. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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Graduate Programs

Master of arts in criminal justice.

The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice is designed to serve the growing number of individuals in the criminal justice system who desire post baccalaureate education, as well as those in more traditional public and private employment who may wish to acquire further education in criminal justice.

After completion of all required courses, students choose either the thesis culminating experience or the comprehensive exam culminating experience. The thesis is designed for students who intend to pursue graduate studies beyond the M.A. level and those who are interested in conducting specific research projects in criminal justice. The comprehensive exam is geared for those with administratice and management goals. 

The program can serve a variety of student interests. It has been designed with a limited prerequisite requirement to enable students with baccalaureate degrees in related fields such as psychology, administration, anthropology, sociology or social sciences to enroll along with students with undergraduate degrees in criminal justice.

All of our required courses are offered online to accommodate various student schedules.  There are a limited number of electives that may be held in the classroom. The MA degree is generally meant to be completed fully online. 

National Recognition

2023 :  Ranked #23 for the “Best Online Master's Degree in Criminal Justice” (UniversityHQ.org)

2022 : Ranked #34 in “Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs” (U.S. News & World Report)

2022 : Ranked #32 “Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice” (OnlineMastersDegrees.org - OMD)

2022 : Ranked #15 in “Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs for Nationally Recognized Faculty” (Intelligent.com)

2022 : Ranked #8 in “Best Master’s in Criminal Justice Degree Programs – Best Value” (Intelligent.com)

2021 : Ranked #4 in “15 Best Online MA Programs in Criminal Justice, 2021” (Best Value Schools)

2021 : Ranked #38 in "Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs" (U.S. News and World Report)

2020 : Ranked #18 in “Top 50 Criminal Justice Degree Programs for 2020” (Intelligent.com)

2020 : Ranked #35 in “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs” (U.S. News and World Report)

2019 : Ranked #30 in “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs” (U.S. News and World Report)

2018 : Ranked #21 in “Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice Degree Program, 2018” (College Choice)

2018 : Ranked #34 in “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs” (U.S. News and World Report)

2018 : Ranked #39 in 'The Top 50 Institutions for Online Master of Criminal Justice Degree Programs' (Master's Programs Guide)

2017 : Ranked #15 in “The 25 Best Online Master of Criminal Justice Degree Programs” (The Best Schools)

2016 : Ranked #4 in “Most Affordable online Master’s in Criminal Justice Program” (Collegevaluesonline)

2016 : Ranked #12 in “Best Online Masters in Criminal Justice Degree Program, 2016” (College Choice)

2015 : Ranked #3 in “50 Best value Colleges for a Criminal Justice Degree, 2015” (Best Value Schools)

2015 : Ranked # 17 in “50 Best Online Criminal Justice Programs, 2015” (Super Scholar)

2015 : Ranked #20 in “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs” (U.S. News and World Report)

Program Learning Outcomes

At the end of the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice, students will have:

  • Acquired an in-depth awareness of the criminal justice system and its components.
  • Developed a working knowledge of research methods as used in the social sciences, with a particular emphasis on the basic skills necessary to conduct (and direct) research in criminal justice agencies.
  • Developed an ability to employ advanced statistical tools, especially as they are applied in criminological research.
  • An ability to apply the primary concepts and assumptions of the traditional and contemporary theories of crime.

The department has a highly qualified faculty that is nationally recognized. They received doctorates from the most prestigious programs in the field and they consistently publish in leading journals reporting on cutting-edge research. We also work with a number of criminal justice agencies in the region and nationally including the Riverside Probation Department, San Bernardino Probation Department, San Bernardino Police Department, Ontario Police Department, Fontana Police Department, Colton Police Department, and San Bernardino County Police Chiefs and Sheriff’s Association. Additionally, the department operates two research centers: the Criminal Justice Research Center and the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism.

View our Faculty & Staff section .

California State University, Long Beach

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California State University Long Beach

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Graduate Programs

The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice will expand and increase individual competency, develop and mature thought processes, aid in gaining insights into professional leadership and knowledge, permit an exchange between students and faculty, and further the spirit of research and scholarship to enhance professional and personal development. The curriculum is designed to offer a balance of theory and practical application that will prove to be challenging to students and useful in the field.

The M.S. provides the requisite knowledge and opportunity for individuals:

  •  to be competitive for administrative positions in the courts, corrections, law enforcement, security, probation and parole;
  •  to fill research positions in criminal justice agencies;
  •  to pursue advanced degrees (J.D. or Ph.D.);
  •  and to fill community college teaching positions in criminal justice.

The School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management offers the M.S. in two formats:

A full-time traditional program on CSULB's campus that is designed to be completed in two-year academic years (i.e., this program is not designed for students with full-time jobs); and  

A part-time, online accelerated program for Justice Professionals

Regardless of whether a student pursues the traditional, on-campus master's degree program as a full-time student or pursues the accelerated M.S., the degree requirements are the same. The M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice requires 36-semester units of course work. The program consists of six core courses and a series of electives.

Please note transferring from the M.S. Online program to the Traditional M.S. program and vice versa AND enrollment in the M.S. Online program and taking classes in the Traditional M.S . program and vice versa are NOT permitted.

Program Learning Outcomes

The master’s degree program offered by the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management is designed to empower students as critical thinkers, ethical actors, and competent communicators concerning matters of crime and justice at the local, state, national, and international levels, to include, at degree-appropriate levels, the abilities to:

  • Explain, connect, differentiate, apply, and critique theories of crime, criminal behavior, law, justice, and social control within social-cultural-political-racial contexts;
  • Critically analyze and critique criminal justice policy, the operation of the criminal justice system, and their effects on individuals, communities, and societies, with particular attention to Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and other People of Color;
  • Apply the scientific method and analytic tools to interpret research and data related to crime and the criminal justice system to assess effectiveness of theories and policies;
  • Use jurisprudential and ethical theories to analyze the role of diversity, culture, power, white supremacy, and racism on national and global criminological and criminal justice issues;
  • Integrate theories, methods, and statistics to construct research questions, examine literature and data, and deduce/extrapolate implications for theory, policy, and research; and
  • Demonstrate the ability to effectively develop and communicate ideas and arguments through written work and oral presentations.

Degree Requirements

The master’s degree in criminology & criminal justice requires 36 semester units of course work, a qualifying exam, and a capstone experience. 

Required Core Courses

All graduate students must complete the following core courses with a grade of A or B.   Graduate students earning a C or below in a core course will be required to retake the course for a passing grade.  The core courses are:

  • CRJU 501: Proseminar and Professional Writing (3 units)
  • CRJU 504: Criminological Theory (3 units)
  • CRJU 520: Advanced Criminal Justice Research Methods (3 units)
  • CRJU 525: Advanced Statistics for Criminal Justice (3 units)
  • CRJU 530: Criminal Justice Ethics, Values, & Diversity (3 units); may be waived if completed similar course at undergraduate level.
  • CRJU 535: Justice Policy (3 units)
  • CRJU 555: Law and Social Control (3 units)

Successful Completion of the Qualifying Examination

Regardless of whether a student plans to write a thesis or take the comprehensive examination as his/her/their capstone experience, all students must take and pass the qualifying examination (also known as the “qualifier”) to advance to candidacy.  

The qualifier is comprised of between 120 and 150 multiple-choice questions.  It tests three subjects: criminological theory (CRJU 504), criminal justice research methods (CRJU 520), and applied statistics in criminal justice (CRJU 525). The qualifying exam is administered over the course of three hours.  

Details about the Qualifying Exam are contained in Part 5 of the Handbook.

Elective Courses

A. approved graduate-level electives:.

  • CRJU 540: Substantive Criminal Law (3 units)
  • CRJU 550: Constitutional Criminal Procedure (3 units)
  • CRJU 601: Victimology (3 units)
  • CRJU 604: Terrorism, Homeland Security, & Criminal Justice (3 units)
  • CRJU 605: Crime Analysis (4 units)
  • CRJU 606: Delinquency and the Juvenile Justice System (3 units)
  • CRJU 608: Serial Killers & Psychopaths: The Psychology of the Criminal Mind (3 units)
  • CRJU 609: Drugs and the Drug War (3 units)
  • CRJU 621: Administration & Management of CJ Organizations (3 units)
  • CRJU 623: Correctional Environments (3 units)
  • CRJU 624: Successful Reentry: Theory and Practice (3 units)
  • CRJU 631: Legal Issues in Criminal Justice (3 units)
  • CRJU 640: Criminalistics:  Forensic Science in the Crime Laboratory (3 units)
  • CRJU 641: Investigating High-Tech Crimes (3 units)
  • CRJU 642: Forensic Psychology & the Criminal Justice System (3 units)
  • CRJU 643: Forensic Pathology & the Medical-Legal Investigation of Death (3 units)
  • CRJU 660: Introduction to Crime Analysis (3 Units)
  • CRJU 661: Crime Analysis Technique 1: Social Network Analysis (4 units)
  • CRJU 662: Crime Analysis Technique 2: Crime Mapping (3 units)
  • CRJU 663: Crime Analysis Technique 3: Intelligence Analysis (3 units)
  • CRJU 670: Qualitative Approaches to Criminal Justice Research (3 units)
  • CRJU 690: Advanced Special Topics in Criminology & Criminal Justice (3 units)
  • CRJU 691: Instructional Strategies for Criminal Justice Professionals (3 units)
  • CRJU 692: Internship (6 units)
  • CRJU 693: Internship (3 units)
  • CRJU 695: Directed Readings/Independent Study in Criminal Justice (3 units)
  • CRJU 697: Directed Research in Criminology & Criminal Justice (3 units)

With the consent of the Graduate Advisor, graduate-level courses in related disciplines (e.g., psychology, public policy, social work, sociology, political science, law) may also be used to satisfy the elective requirements for the master’s degree in criminology & criminal justice.

B.Undergraduate-Level Electives:

With the consent of the Graduate Advisor, a maximum of two (2) undergraduate courses, which require additional writing and research requirements for graduate students, may be used to satisfy the elective requirements for the master’s degree in criminology and criminal justice.

  • CRJU 402: Crime and Inequality (3 units)
  • CRJU 403: Comparative Criminal Justice and Transnational Crimes (3 units)
  • CRJU 407: White Collar Crime (3 units)
  • CRJU 410: Police Administration (3 units)
  • CRJU 412: Criminal Investigation (3 units)
  • CRJU 420: Legal Aspects of Corrections (3 units)
  • CRJU 421: Probation, Parole, and Community Corrections (3 units)
  • CRJU 422: Correctional Counseling (3 units)
  • CRJU 430: Criminal Evidence and Trials [Mock Trial] (3 units)
  • CRJU 450: Domestic Violence and the Criminal Justice System (3 units)
  • GEOG 471: GIS for Justice (3 Units)

With the consent of the Graduate Advisor, 400-level courses in related disciplines (e.g., psychology, public policy, social work, sociology, political science, law), which require additional writing and research requirements for graduate students, may also be used to satisfy the elective requirements for the master’s degree in criminology & criminal justice.

Capstone Experience

Graduate students in the traditional master’s program have three options to complete the master’s in criminology & criminal justice. 

 Thesis Option – Graduate students may elect to take three (3) elective courses totaling at least nine (9) credit units and take both CRJU 694: Thesis I (3 units), and CRJU 698: Thesis II (3 units). Students who struggle with writing, conceptualizing, and paper organizing (i.e., earn less than an A in CRJU 501) may want to consider the Comprehensive Exam. Students who are on academic warning should not complete a thesis.

 Comprehensive Examination Option – Graduate students taking the comprehensive exam must take four (4) elective courses, totaling at least 12 credit units, enroll in CRJU 695 the semester they are taking the exam, and pass the comprehensive examination.

  • Project Option –  This option is solely available to those graduate students concentrating their studies in Crime and Intelligence Analysis.  Those in this concentration must complete the five (5) elective courses required, totaling 16 units, and enroll in CRJU 697 to complete their Crime and Intelligence Analysis portfolio.

Concentration in Crime and Intelligence Analysis

The Crime and Intelligence Analysis concentration produces graduate-level trained crime and intelligence analysts. To concentrate in Crime & Intelligence Analysis, students must complete the 21 units of required core courses and the following six electives (19 units):

  • CRJU 660: Introduction to Crime Analysis (3 Units)
  • CRJU 661: Crime Analysis Technique 1: Social Network Analysis (4 units)
  • CRJU 663: Crime Analysis Technique 3: Intelligence Analysis (3 units)
  • CRJU 697: Directed Research in Criminology & Criminal Justice (2 units)

In CRJU 697, students complete an Analyst Portfolio as their Capstone Experience that could be used to secure positions in the local, state, and federal law enforcement as well as the private sector.

California State University, Long Beach

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California State University-Fresno offers 2 Criminology degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 405 Criminology students graduated with students earning 399 Bachelor's degrees, and 6 Master's degrees.

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Criminology

Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminology

Graduate students in regalia at commencement

The Master of Science degree in Criminology is a 30-unit, flexible program which provides a solid core in the field of Criminology while permitting students to pursue specialized areas of interest. The program is designed to prepare students for service and responsible administrative and professional positions in agencies in the criminal justice system. The program also prepares students for a wide variety of occupations including in-service education; administrative education and management; community college teaching; pre-doctoral studies; and research. Since offering our first graduate criminology course in 1957, the master's program has become the most comprehensive master's program in the discipline between Sacramento and Los Angeles. It is an advanced program that now draws students from all over the United States.

For more information regarding our graduate program, please contact our graduate program coordinator, Dr. Jordan Pickering .

Graduate Program Overview

Interested in learning more about the requirements to earn a graduate degree in Criminology from Fresno State? Please visit our "Prospective Students" page to read about our degree requirements.

Graduate Degree Requirements

Decorative graduation cap that says "Next stop: Grad School"

Apply to Our Program

The Department of Criminology admits new graduate students during the fall of each academic year. To apply for Fall 2024 admission, applicants will need to submit all of their application materials via Cal State Apply by April 1, 2024.

To be considered for admission to the graduate program in the Department of Criminology at California State University, Fresno, applicants must:

  • Have earned an acceptable baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 (on a 4-point scale) in the last 60 semester units attempted Complete the application for graduate study in criminology (which is part of the online application via Cal State Apply)
  • Submit three academic/professional letters of recommendation (to be completed via Cal State Apply ). At least two of the three letters of recommendations must be provided by academicians (e.g., college professors or instructors) who can speak directly to your academic capabilities at the college level
  • This is a typed statement of about 500-750 words explaining your reasons for wanting to pursue a master's degree in Criminology and the benefits you expect to derive from your graduate studies

To learn more about the admissions process and requirements, please visit our admissions page.

More About CRIM Grad Program Admissions

Meet Our Faculty

Criminology faculty members at commencement

Our graduate students have the opportunity to learn from, and work along side of, our faculty members. The Department of Criminology is proud to have a large faculty, all with varying and diverse research interests. 

Meet Our Faculty Members

Virtual Information Session

Would you like to learn more about our graduate program? Do you have questions about the program, requirements, admissions, etc.? If so, consider attending one of the virtual information sessions hosted by our program coordinator, Dr. Pickering.

  • Please email Dr. Pickering to request the Zoom link for this virtual session ( [email protected] )

Spring 2024:

  • Please email Dr. Pickering to request the Zoom link for this virtual session ([email protected])

Graduate Program Requirements

Students who are admitted to our graduate program must complete the following in order to earn their M.S. in Criminology:

  • 30 units of graduate course work 
  • Pass the graduate writing requirement
  • Complete a culminating experience

More About Degree Requirements

View Our Graduate Program Handbook

Important Deadlines for the 2023-2024 Academic Year

Are you eligible to advance to candidacy? When should you apply for graduation? What are the thesis deadlines for the semester?

Important dates for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 are below:

  • The last day to apply to advance to candidacy to graduate in Spring 2024 is September 11, 2023
  • Students planning to graduate in Fall 2023 must file for graduation by September 1, 2023
  • Students planning to complete their thesis in Fall 2023 must have passed their oral defense and submit and the final, committee-approved version of their thesis to DRGS by November 3, 2023
  • Students planning to graduate in Spring 2024 must file for graduation by February 2, 2024
  • Students planning to complete their thesis in Spring 2024 must have passed their oral defense and submit and the final, committee-approved version of their thesis to DRGS by April 2, 2024

Current & Future Course Offerings

The Department of Criminology offers required and elective courses each semester. Our required courses are on a set Fall/Spring semester schedule, while our graduate elective courses vary depending on faculty availability and students' interests.

Fall 2023 Course Offerings:

  • CRIM 200: Research Methods in Criminology
  • CRIM 201: Advanced Criminological Theory
  • CRIM 203: Criminal Justice Systems
  • CRIM 270T: Punishment & Corrections
  • CRIM 295: Controversial Issues in Crime, Criminology, & Law

[Tentative] Spring 2024 Course Offerings:

  • CRIM 202: Law & the Criminal Justice System
  • CRIM 204: Quantitative Methods & Analysis
  • CRIM 270T: Psychology & the Criminal Justice System
  • CRIM 275: Victimology & Social Change

Graduate Writing Requirement

Candidates for the Master of Science degree in Criminology will meet the university’s requirement for demonstrating graduate-level competence in written English by satisfactorily preparing and completing a scholarly research paper related to the area of criminology. This paper will be completed as part of the course requirements for CRIM 200 (Research Methods in Criminology). Writing competency will be assessed using a four-point (4.0) scoring scale. To demonstrate competency, the student must score a three (3.0) or higher in each of three areas: 

  • Style and format
  • Content and organization

Students’ research papers will then be evaluated by graduate faculty. Inability to demonstrate competence will necessitate remediation, which may require (but is not limited to): additional coursework, experiences in the Writing Center, tutoring and/or independent study. The student must demonstrate writing competence to be advanced to candidacy. 

Students can read more about our department's graduate writing requirement, as well as access the grading rubric for the requirement, in the graduate program handbook:

CRIM Graduate Program Handbook

Advancement to Candidacy

Soon after graduate students attain “classified graduate standing,” they should plan to achieve advancement to candidacy. This is a critical step in the graduate degree process, as it establishes an official list of coursework to be used toward the completion of the degree. The program of study will be reviewed and approved by both the Department of Criminology and the dean of the Division of Research and Graduate Studies. Once a student has been advanced to candidacy, he or she has official permission to proceed toward qualifying for their master’s degree. 

To advance to candidacy, graduate students must meet the following criteria:

  • Achieve classified graduate standing
  • Complete at least 9 units at Fresno State in the graduate program in Criminology and be in good standing
  • Have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in all coursework on their advancement to candidacy petition
  • Pass the graduate writing requirement for the Criminology program

Students who are eligible to advance to candidacy are encouraged to meet with Dr. Pickering in order to complete the necessary paperwork. 

Please visit the Division of Research and Graduate Studies webpage to learn more about this process and to access the advancement to candidacy form:

More Info on Advancement to Candidacy

Filing for Graduation

Graduate student receiving her graduate hood at graduation

When graduate students are nearing the completion of their degree requirements, it is their responsibility to adhere to the university's graduation application deadlines. These deadlines vary each semester. As such, graduate students are encouraged to monitor their email accounts for relevant information pertaining to graduation distributed by the Division of Research and Graduate Studies.

Please visit their website to find out more about graduation deadlines and how to file for graduation with the university:

More Info About Graduation

Other Helpful Resources

In addition to the Department of Criminology, graduate students have access to a variety of resources across campus. Below are links to a few campus resources that can be utilized by our graduate students at Fresno State:

Division of Research and Graduate Studies

Graduate Writing Center

Graduate Statistics Studio

Student Health Center

Office of Financial Aid

International Office

Contact the Graduate Coordinator

Dr. Jordan Pickering Associate Professor [email protected] 559.278.5712

Department of Criminology: Attn: Graduate Program 2576 E. San Ramon Ave, M/S ST104 Fresno, CA 93740-8039

Phone: 559.278.2305 Fax: 559.278.7265

Department Hours: Academic year: 8:00am-5:00pm Summer: 7:00am-3:30pm Closed for lunch: 12:00pm-1:00pm

  • Last Updated Feb 22, 2024

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Renowned cop turns to UCI for online degree

2024 Best Online PhD in Criminology Programs [Guide]

Are you interested in earning an online PhD in Criminology?

Online PhD in Criminology Programs

Online doctorate programs in criminology educate students in the sociology of crime. You can learn what social factors contribute to increasing crime rates and how to conduct scientific research on crime.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Experts in the field can help draft laws to prevent crime, assist in the rehabilitation of criminal offenders, or conduct academic research. The field of criminology plays an important role in making communities safer for everyone.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Criminology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California University of Pennsylvania

California University of Pennsylvania offers an online Doctorate in Criminal Justice program. It can typically be completed in 2 years. Those interested in the program must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students must submit a personal statement and a writing sample when applying.

The California University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice. The program requires students to complete a semester on campus before moving to online classes. Applicants with a master’s degree are required to complete 49 semester hours, while those with a law degree need to complete 52 hours. Texas A&M International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a Doctor of Psychology with a specialization in Criminology and Justice Studies. Each course is 6 to 9 weeks long. Students are required to complete 62 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit official transcripts from a master’s degree program that they completed with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The University of Arizona is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of North Georgia

The University of North Georgia offers an online PhD in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Intelligence. To graduate, students must complete 54 credit hours, including two teaching practicums. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.2 or higher and official GRE test scores. UNG is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Washington State University

Washington State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

To graduate, students must complete 72 credit hours, with 33 of those hours dedicated to dissertation research. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 3 letters of recommendation, official GRE test scores, and a personal statement. Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Online PhD in Criminology Programs

PhD in Criminology Programs

Criminology is the branch of sociology that deals with crime and criminals. You may want to look into doctoral programs in criminology if you have already studied sociology or a related field at the bachelor’s or master’s level and would like to develop more specialized knowledge.

Criminology PhD programs, much like masters programs in criminology , can help prepare you for a variety of career paths. Professionals with a PhD tend to pursue careers in research or academia. Advanced knowledge of criminology could also be beneficial if you work in a rehabilitation or correctional facility for criminal offenders.

It’s also applicable to government agencies and private nonprofits that work to lower crime rates and increase public safety.

Here are some subjects that are typically covered in doctoral criminology programs:

  • Criminal law
  • Criminal psychology
  • Statistical analysis
  • Research methods

A doctorate in criminology is usually a very research-intensive degree program. You will likely learn a lot about how to collect data and analyze research methodology.

As part of a PhD program, you will probably be expected to complete a dissertation. A dissertation demonstrates that you know how to conduct methodologically correct research and contribute new knowledge to the field for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Ideally, this knowledge would have practical applications that could help to improve society.

Criminology Careers & Salaries

Criminology Careers & Salaries

Advanced knowledge of criminology could be useful for career paths in which people attempt to understand and mitigate criminal behavior.

Criminology expertise could be applied to a career in sociology, social and community service management, research, correctional treatment, or counseling. A doctoral degree can also help you qualify for a career in academia or for senior or leadership positions in the field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some careers related to the advanced study of criminology.

Social and community service managers can work in a variety of industries, but they are most often employed by individual and family services. They may also work for the local government or for religious, grantmaking, civic, professional, and similar organizations.

Other employers of social and community service managers include nursing and residential care facilities as well as community and vocational rehabilitation services. Most sociologists work in research and development.

Criminology Doctorate Curriculum

Criminology Doctorate Curriculum

Here are some examples of courses you might take while earning your doctoral degree in criminology:

  • Theories of Crime : You’ll study sociological theories about why people commit crimes.
  • Criminology and Public Policy : You’ll learn how the study of crime and criminals can influence public policy to be more effective.
  • Applied Statistics : You’ll learn how to correctly analyze and interpret data that you have collected while conducting research.
  • Philosophy of Law, Justice, and Social Control : This course covers the legal and criminal justice systems from a philosophical perspective.
  • Race and Ethnicity in Crime and Criminal Justice : You’ll study systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
  • Civil Liability for Criminal Justice Professionals : This course covers the legal obligations of criminal justice professionals as well as situations in which they could face civil lawsuits for misconduct.
  • Advanced Criminal Law : You’ll study laws that define criminal offenses and regulate the penalties of convicted offenders.
  • Police and Society : This course explores the role of police, the ways in which police can affect society positively or negatively, and the ways police can be more effective at their work.
  • Criminal Justice Policy and Administration : You’ll study policies within the criminal justice system and how they affect the judicial process and corrections system.
  • Analysis of Crime Data : You’ll study the numbers collected in crime research and learn how to interpret them.

Exact course requirements can vary from one university to another. It’s common for doctoral programs to require the completion of a dissertation or capstone project as well.

How to Choose an Online Doctoral Program in Criminology

Online Doctoral Program in Criminology

Here are some factors you may want to take into account when choosing an online doctoral program in criminology:

  • Affordability . Some schools may charge higher tuition than others.
  • Available concentrations . Some programs allow you to choose a concentration within the field of criminology, such as cybercrime or juvenile justice.
  • Synchronous or asynchronous coursework . In a synchronous online format, online classes meet at a specific time, just like traditional classes. In an asynchronous course, you may be able to complete all assignments according to your own schedule.
  • Job placement rate . You may want to attend a program that is known for being able to place most of its graduates in jobs after completion of the degree.
  • On-campus requirements . Some online programs offered by traditional universities may require that you come to campus occasionally to meet with your adviser or attend seminars. Other programs may be fully online.

Since there are many different types of programs, it’s beneficial to explore your options so you can find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Admissions Requirements

Doctoral Program in Criminology admissions

What qualifications should you have before you even apply to an online doctoral program in criminology? Here are some common admissions requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university
  • Minimum grade point average of 3.0
  • Previous professional experience
  • Background in research

Admissions requirements can vary at different universities. Some universities may consider GPA to be the most important qualification, while others might prefer candidates with previous work experience. Some universities require that you have a master’s degree, especially if you do not already have work experience in the field.

Accreditation

Doctoral Program in Criminology accreditation

Regionally accredited universities are regularly evaluated by an outside agency to ensure the quality of their educational programs and student services. The name of the agency that provides a university’s accreditation can usually be found on the university’s website.

Before you apply to an online criminology degree program, you may want to check to make sure it is accredited. A university’s accreditation status can affect how easily you can transfer course credits to other universities and whether you can qualify for federal financial aid.

A degree earned from an accredited institution is also widely respected by employers and universities alike. To learn more about regional accreditation, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

Criminology Licensure and Certifications

Criminology Licensure and Certifications

In addition to pursuing a terminal degree in the field of criminology, you may also be interested in earning a certification from a professional organization.

The American Correctional Association (ACA) offers professional certifications for corrections workers, such as the Certified Corrections Executive (CCE) certification. Earning a certification often requires passing an exam that corresponds with specialized knowledge or training.

Certifications are not always required for criminal justice careers, but they can indicate your expertise in the field and your commitment to continuing education.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Doctoral Program in Criminology financial aid

There are many financial aid opportunities available for qualifying students, even for those in online doctoral programs.

Scholarships exist for students in nearly every field and at every level of education. Some professional organizations and nonprofits have scholarship opportunities for students who are studying criminal justice or a related field, such as criminology.

You may also be able to receive financial assistance from your current employer, especially if furthering your knowledge of criminology would benefit your work. To apply for federal financial aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Criminology Professional Organizations

Criminology Professional Organizations

Professional organizations sometimes host in-person networking events. They can also provide members with access to job listings, continuing education opportunities, online trade journals, and other professional publications.

Here are some professional organizations for people who work in criminology and the broader field of criminal justice:

  • American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA)
  • American Society of Criminology (ASC)
  • National Criminal Justice Association (NCJA)

These organizations may be able to provide you with useful resources while you complete your PhD program and after you graduate.

Is There a PhD in Criminology?

PhD programs in criminology

Yes, there are PhD programs in criminology. These doctoral programs teach students how to use rigorous scientific research to inform public policy and practice within the criminal justice system.

You can also take advanced interdisciplinary coursework in subjects such as law, statistics, and sociology. Most PhD programs also require the completion of a dissertation under the guidance of a supervisor.

Similar to what you may find in top criminal justice PhD programs , a PhD in Criminology can help you develop advanced research skills that are highly applicable in academia or in organizations that utilize criminological research.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Criminology?

Doctoral degrees in criminology are primarily intended for students who want to teach or conduct research. Some professionals who hold a criminology PhD work as postsecondary teachers, criminologists, or survey researchers.

Doctoral degrees are a standard requirement for postsecondary teachers and researchers. This type of degree could also be useful for careers in the criminal justice and corrections systems. A doctorate may also help qualify you to take on leadership roles in institutions that aim to rehabilitate criminal offenders.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Criminology Online?

PhD programs generally take 3 to 5 years to complete, but your time to completion can vary depending on the length of the program and how many hours of coursework you take on each semester.

doctoral degree in criminology

Programs that require a dissertation generally take longer to complete than non-dissertation programs. Without a dissertation requirement, you may be able to complete your PhD in as little as 3 years if you attend full-time.

What Jobs Can You Get with a Doctorate in Criminology?

There are many challenging and rewarding jobs you can pursue with a doctorate in criminology. Exactly what jobs you can qualify for once you have completed your doctorate depends on a variety of factors, such as your work experience and area of specialty.

Criminology-related occupations include postsecondary teacher, social and community service manager, sociologist, survey researcher, probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, and rehabilitation counselor.

What Does a Criminologist Do?

jobs with Doctorate in Criminology

Criminology is one of the branches of sociology. So, a criminologist is technically a type of sociologist. Criminologists conduct scientific research regarding criminals and the types of crimes they commit.

They may look for the answers to questions such as:

  • What factors lead people to commit crimes?
  • Which types of people are most likely to commit which types of crimes?
  • What are the most effective methods society can use to prevent crimes?
  • How can we help offenders become productive members of society?

There is much research to be conducted in this field, and the knowledge that could be gained from criminological research might help make communities safer for everyone.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctoral Program in Criminology vs. Criminal Justice?

Here are some key differences between the fields of criminology and criminal justice:

While criminology and criminal justice do overlap somewhat, they are two distinct fields.

Is a PhD in Criminology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Criminology is worth it for many students. Job growth is expected for a number of occupations related to criminology. Employment of postsecondary teachers is expected to grow 9% over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Meanwhile, employment of social and community service managers is expected to grow 17%, and employment of sociologists is expected to grow 4%. Criminology is a fascinating area of study for many people, and doctoral studies can help you expand your knowledge and career opportunities in this growing field.

Getting Your PhD in Criminology Online

PhD in Criminology Online

If you’re interested in analyzing crime from a sociological perspective, you may have decided that getting a PhD in Criminology is the next step for your education and career.

A number of accredited universities offer this doctoral program on campus as well as online. Online programs, whether it’s an online degree in criminology or a broader online criminal justice degree , are typically known for their convenience and flexibility. Plus, you would likely save time by avoiding the commute to campus.

With so many options available, you can compare programs to discover which ones best match your learning preferences and your professional interests. You can start your doctoral journey today by exploring accredited universities!

criminology phd programs california

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Masters in Criminology Programs in California

1-5 of 5 results

School of Social Ecology - University of California - Irvine

Irvine, CA •

University of California - Irvine •

Graduate School

  • • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: enrolled as a student within the MAS Criminology program online. It was over all a great experience and as a full time employee, the program fit well with work schedules. I eventually got married and had my first child during the time I was studying within the program and being online I did not have to worry about missing so much class time. ... Read 3 reviews

University of California - Irvine ,

Graduate School ,

IRVINE, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says enrolled as a student within the MAS Criminology program online. It was over all a great experience and as a full time employee, the program fit well with work schedules. I eventually got married and... .

Read 3 reviews.

College of Arts and Letters - San Diego State University

San Diego, CA •

San Diego State University •

  • • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The SDSU program for Social Work is amazing!! You get to practice real scenarios and are prepared for when you have to apply tools when emplyed. Professors are amazing and help you throughout your journey! By far the best experience. ... Read 2 reviews

San Diego State University ,

SAN DIEGO, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The SDSU program for Social Work is amazing!! You get to practice real scenarios and are prepared for when you have to apply tools when emplyed. Professors are amazing and help you throughout your... .

Read 2 reviews.

College of Social Sciences - California State University - Fresno

Fresno, CA •

California State University - Fresno •

California State University - Fresno ,

FRESNO, CA ,

Mississippi State University

Graduate School •

MISSISSIPPI STATE, MS

  • • Rating 4.52 out of 5   50

Southern California Institute of Architecture

LOS ANGELES, CA

  • • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9

Lam Family College of Business

San Francisco State University •

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

  • • Rating 3.67 out of 5   3

The California School of Forensic Studies

Alliant International University •

Alliant International University ,

College of Professional and Global Education - San Jose State University

San Jose, CA •

San Jose State University •

San Jose State University ,

SAN JOSE, CA ,

Touro University - Worldwide

LOS ALAMITOS, CA

  • • Rating 4.67 out of 5   107

Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey

Middlebury •

MONTEREY, CA

  • • Rating 4.16 out of 5   88

San Francisco Bay University

FREMONT, CA

  • • Rating 3 out of 5   2

Showing results 1 through 5 of 5

A closeup photo of a graduate wearing PhD regalia

Numerous Criminal Justice Alums Accepted to PhD Programs

By equipping you with a rounded set of critical-thinking skills and specialized practical law enforcement knowledge, Metropolitan College’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice prepares graduates for a wide array of professional and personal opportunities. One such potential pathway is to pursue a doctorate—and five recent MET MSCJ graduates have been accepted to doctoral programs.

“Students moving into doctoral programs is a major accomplishment for them,” says Applied Social Sciences Chair Shea Cronin . “It shows the diverse paths that students take professionally coming out of our program, from breaking into the professional field and advancing within established career paths to launching into a doctoral program and a career in academia or research.”

Lucie Andrews (MET’21), who earned her MSCJ with a concentration in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity , has been accepted to Nova Southeastern University’s cybersecurity management PhD program.

Anthony Ford (MET’23) was a career-changer when he came to MET to earn his MSCJ with a concentration in Strategic Management , and now he’s off to the University of Georgia to pursue an EdD in learning, leadership, and organizational development.

While she was earning her MSCJ with concentrations in Crime Analysis and Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity, Bo Ra Jung (MET’23) acted as a graduate research assistant to CIC Director Kyung-shick Choi . Her hard work paid off, and now she heads to UNLV where she will pursue her PhD in criminology and criminal justice on a full scholarship.

Michael Ross (MET’23) also earned his MSCJ with a concentration in Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity, and he will now pursue his PhD in criminology and criminal justice at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, with full funding.

Finally, Madeline Uretsky (MET’21), who earned her MSCJ, has been accepted to the University of Connecticut’s clinical psychology PhD program.

“These student accomplishments also show the dedication of our faculty to working with students to guide them in this journey,” added Dr. Cronin. “These students should be proud of the work they have done to prepare for this next step in their education.”

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COMMENTS

  1. Criminology, Law and Society Ph.D. program

    Assistant Director of Graduate Student Services. [email protected]. 949-824-1874. . The Ph.D. program in Criminology, Law and Society is ranked #2 in the US News and World Reports rankings. The program focuses on the causes, manifestations, and consequences of crime; the impacts of crime on society; social regulation; the civil justice ...

  2. 2023-2024 Top Criminology Graduate Programs in California

    Explore criminology graduate programs and graduate schools offering criminology degrees. Compare graduate criminology programs with government statistics and graduate student reviews. Find the best criminology graduate schools for you. Compare the top criminology graduate schools in California.

  3. 2023-2024 Top Criminology Graduate Programs

    School of Social Ecology - University of California - Irvine. University of California - Irvine,Graduate School,IRVINE, CA,3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says enrolled as a student within the MAS Criminology program online. It was over all a great experience and as a full time employee ...

  4. Criminology Graduate Programs in California 2024+

    Criminology Graduate Programs teach ways to analyze and potentially prevent crime. To do this, programs first examine leading factors of crime. This could involve studying human behavior or law enforcement challenges to better predict criminal patterns. Some programs may then go a step further and help students design new policies and methods ...

  5. Best Criminology Schools

    These are the top graduate schools for criminology. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer ...

  6. 2023-2024 Top Doctor of Criminology Graduate Programs

    Graduate students, however, are less cohesive. Likely due to politics, our graduate student union is in jeopardy, and it is so difficult to get the union membership to 60%. In the Department of Sociology, Criminology, and Law, we have a very low union membership status, which is somewhat ironic considering the nature of our disciplines.

  7. Graduate Programs

    School of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Graduate Programs. Page Menu ... Graduate Program Coordinator [email protected]. Christine Famega, Palm Desert Campus Coordinator ... [email protected]. Footer Region. California State University, San Bernardino 5500 University Parkway San Bernardino, CA 92407 +1 (909) 537-5000. Follow Us. CSUSB's ...

  8. Graduate Programs

    The master's degree program offered by the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management is designed to empower students as critical thinkers, ethical actors, and competent communicators concerning matters of crime and justice at the local, state, national, and international levels, to include, at degree-appropriate levels, the abilities to:

  9. Best Criminology Degree Colleges in California

    University of California-Irvine. Irvine, CA. University of California-Irvine offers 3 Criminology degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 447 Criminology students graduated with students earning 398 Bachelor's degrees, 42 Master's degrees, and 7 Doctoral degrees. Based on 4 Reviews.

  10. M.S. in Criminology

    The Department of Criminology admits new graduate students during the fall of each academic year. To apply for Fall 2024 admission, applicants will need to submit all of their application materials via Cal State Apply by April 1, 2024.. To be considered for admission to the graduate program in the Department of Criminology at California State University, Fresno, applicants must:

  11. 15 PhD programmes in Criminology in United States

    25,369 EUR / year. 6 years. This Ph.D. program in Criminology, Law and Society is offered at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). UCI offers graduate students the opportunity to earn emphases in several substantive areas. Ph.D. / Full-time / On Campus. University of California, Irvine (UCI) Irvine, California, United States.

  12. criminology

    Officer who cracked Jaycee Dugard case enrolls in first-of-its-kind program, now 10 years old. Subscribe to criminology. The University of California opened its doors in 1869 with just 10 faculty members and 40 students. Today, the UC system has more than 280,000 students and 227,000 faculty and staff, with 2.0 million alumni living and working ...

  13. 2023-2024 Top Online Criminology Programs in California

    University of California - Irvine,Graduate School,IRVINE, CA,3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says enrolled as a student within the MAS Criminology program online. It was over all a great experience and as a full time employee, the program fit well with work schedules.

  14. Best 15 Criminology PhD Programmes in United States 2024

    University of Illinois at Chicago. This page shows a selection of the available PhDs in United States. If you're interested in studying a Criminology degree in United States you can view all 15 PhDs. You can also read more about Criminology degrees in general, or about studying in United States. Many universities and colleges in United States ...

  15. School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

    The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice includes an undergraduate and graduate degree program for learners interested in how to become leaders in the field of criminal justice. At CalSouthern, learners can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice or Master of Science Law Enforcement Executive Leadership.

  16. 2024 Best Online PhD in Criminology Programs [Guide]

    California University of Pennsylvania offers an online Doctorate in Criminal Justice program. It can typically be completed in 2 years. Those interested in the program must have a master's degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students must submit a personal statement and a writing sample when applying.

  17. 2023-2024 Top Masters in Criminology Programs in California

    Explore masters in criminology programs and graduate schools offering criminology degrees. Find the best criminology programs for you with government statistics and graduate student reviews. Compare the top masters in criminology graduate schools in California.

  18. Numerous Criminal Justice Alums Accepted to PhD Programs

    Numerous Criminal Justice Alums Accepted to PhD Programs. By equipping you with a rounded set of critical-thinking skills and specialized practical law enforcement knowledge, Metropolitan College's Master of Science in Criminal Justice prepares graduates for a wide array of professional and personal opportunities. One such potential pathway is to pursue a doctorate—and five recent MET MSCJ ...