About Our Program

Graduate Program (M.S. Degree)

Our program is designed to develop leaders in policy, research and practice within the criminal justice system.  With a rigorous curriculum, expert faculty and hands-on learning opportunities, we prepare graduates to excel in careers in law enforcement, public policy, research, and beyond.  Whether you are a recent graduate or a professional looking to advance, our program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed.   A master’s degree is a mark of distinction and can help job applicants stand out from the rest of the crowd. In some places of employment, an advanced degree is required for promotion, and/or may count toward years of work experience. A master’s degree can also be used as a steppingstone toward a Ph.D.

Our Master’s in Criminal Justice stands out by offering a unique blend of practical experience, cutting-edge research, and flexibility tailored to the needs of modern criminal justice professionals.

  • Focus on Evidence-Based Solutions:
    Our curriculum emphasizes evidence-based decision-making, preparing students to address criminal justice challenges using data-driven methods and proven solutions.
  • Certificate in Crime Analytics:
    Gain a competitive advantage by earning a specialized certificate that focuses on advanced data analysis, a critical skill as criminal justice systems become increasingly reliant on technology and evidence-based practices.
  • Develop Analytical Expertise:
    Students will acquire analytical skills essential for today’s professionals, including data analysis, research design, and problem-solving—skills that are in high demand in law enforcement, corrections, policy development, and more.
  • Learn from Award-Winning Faculty:
    Study under faculty who are not only accomplished researchers but also experienced practitioners. They bring real-world insights from years of hands-on experience in criminal justice research, law enforcement, and policy development.
  • Low Faculty to Student Ratio and Small Class Sizes:  Currently 1.5 to 1.  Our core classes are typically capped at 15 students.
  • Graduate Internships:
    Enhance your practical knowledge through internships with criminal justice agencies, research organizations, and government institutions, giving you hands-on exposure to the field.
  • Graduate Assistantships:
    Fund your education while gaining valuable research and teaching experience through competitive assistantship positions available to qualified students.
  • Early Entry Options for Current UNC-Charlotte Students:
    Current undergraduates at UNC-Charlotte can accelerate their progress by enrolling in our early-entry program, allowing them to begin earning graduate credit before completing their bachelor’s degree.
  • Flexibility in Your Capstone Experience:
    Tailor your culminating experience to fit your career goals. Choose between a comprehensive exam to demonstrate your mastery of core concepts or a thesis project to dive deeply into a specific research area.
  • R-1 Status: Our university is proud to have achieved R-1 status, placing us among the top research institutions in the nation. This designation reflects our commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.