M.S. in Criminal Justice
Advance into leadership and research roles in criminal justice.
Inside M.S. in Criminal Justice.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice deepens expertise in criminological theory, research methods, and justice policy for working professionals and recent graduates.
Graduates move into leadership, analysis, and policy roles across the justice system.
Students in M.S. in Criminal Justice learn in small, mentorship-driven classes, work closely with faculty on research and creative projects, and build a portfolio of real-world experience before they graduate.
What You'll Learn
- 01Conduct advanced criminal justice research
- 02Critically evaluate justice policy and reform
- 03Apply quantitative and qualitative methods
- 04Lead programs and teams in justice settings
Why This Program
- Designed for working professionals
- Research and policy specializations
- Pathway to doctoral study
What You'll Study.
Major Requirements
- 01Foundational core sequence for the M.S. in Criminal Justice major
- 02Methods, theory, and applied coursework
- 03Upper-division concentration courses
- 04Capstone, portfolio, or senior research experience
General Education
- 01First-Year Experience & University Seminar
- 02Written and Oral Communication
- 03Quantitative Reasoning & Natural Sciences
- 04Humanities, Social Sciences & the Arts
Electives
- 01Free electives toward the 120-credit degree
- 02Optional minor or second concentration
- 03Study away / experiential credit options
- University core & seminar
- Introductory major foundations
- Major methods & theory
- General education breadth
- Upper-division major courses
- Internship or research
- Concentration electives
- Capstone / senior experience
Downloadable curriculum sheet — coming soon
Where This Degree Takes You.
Common Job Titles
- Justice Administrator
- Policy Analyst
- Research Associate
- Program Director
- Federal Agent
Graduate School Options
- Ph.D. in Criminology
- Doctoral policy programs
- Law school
Industry Sectors
- Government & Policy
- Law Enforcement Leadership
- Research
- Nonprofit & Advocacy
Salary outcomes vary by role and region — connect with Claflin Career Services for current, verified data for this field.
Add program placement rate and outcomes data
Experiential learning
Learn by Doing.
Real experience is built into the program — from internships and research to service learning and study abroad.
Internships
Placements with regional employers and partners connected to the Department of Social Sciences.
Undergraduate Research
Mentored, faculty-led research beginning as early as the first year.
Field Experiences
Site visits, practica, and community-based learning that apply classroom theory.
Service Learning
Projects that connect coursework to Orangeburg and the surrounding community.
Study Abroad
Global programs coordinated through the Office of Global Programs.
Learn from Dedicated Scholars.
Sample roster — replace with the department's faculty records.
Faculty Name
Professor of Political Science
American government & public opinion
Outcomes That Speak for Themselves.
Sample spotlights — replace with real student & alumni stories.
“The M.S. in Criminal Justice program gave me the mentorship and hands-on experience to step confidently into my career.”
“My professors knew me by name and pushed me to do work I didn't know I was capable of.”
Related programs
You Might Also Explore.
Students interested in M.S. in Criminal Justice often consider these related programs.
How to Apply.
Requirements
- Completed Claflin University application
- Official high school transcript (or college transcripts for transfers)
- Self-reported test scores (test-optional pathways available)
- Personal statement and any program-specific materials
Deadlines
- Fall priority: November 1 — Spring priority: November 15
- Rolling admission after priority dates while space remains
- Financial aid: complete the FAFSA by the published priority date
Application Process
- 01Submit your free application online
- 02Send official transcripts and supporting documents
- 03Connect with your admissions counselor
- 04Receive your decision and financial aid package
Answer the call
Your M.S. in Criminal Justice Journey Starts Here.
Take the next step toward a Claflin education — apply, request information, or schedule a visit today.