Program Overview

Master of Criminal Justice

The Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) at the University of Canterbury offers students an advanced working knowledge of the criminal justice system. This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of the system, including its policies, practices, and the skills required to work within it.

Introduction

The MCJ is a cohesive degree that includes taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities. It focuses on developing skills sought by the justice sector, such as bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.

Entry Requirements

Entry to the Master of Criminal Justice requires:

• A Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a B+ Grade Point Average or better in 90 points of 300-level courses
• A Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better
• A Postgraduate Diploma in Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better
• Another approved equivalent degree If English is not the first language, students must also meet the University's postgraduate language requirements.

Degree Structure

The Master of Criminal Justice involves 180 points of courses, including:

• Three compulsory taught courses
• A dissertation (60 points)
• An elective course of choice (which includes internships and project courses) It can be completed in 18 months full-time or up to 3 years part-time.

Subjects and Courses

Compulsory Courses

• CRJU601 Research Methods in Criminal Justice
• CRJU602 Criminal Justice Systems
• CRJU603 Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
• CRJU680 Dissertation (60 points)

Elective Courses

Students must choose one of the following:

• CRJU604 Internship
• CRJU605 Professional Cultures
• PACE495 Professional and Community Engagement Internship
• POLS449 Wicked Problems, Politics, and Justice

Fees

Domestic Students

• 2025 tuition fee estimate: $12,718 (180 points)
• 2026 tuition fee estimate: $13,481 (180 points)

International Students

• 2025 tuition fee estimate: $55,200 (180 points)
• 2026 tuition fee estimate: $57,300 (180 points)
• 2027 tuition fee estimate: $60,300 (180 points)

Student Services Levy (SSL)

• 2025 SSL: $9.72 per point ($1,166.40 per 120 points)
• 2026 SSL: $10.30 per point ($1,236.00 per 120 points)

Further Study

Graduates may choose to continue on to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminal Justice at the University of Canterbury.

Career Opportunities

The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Graduates will be well-suited for roles in:

• Ng Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police
• Th o te Ture | Ministry of Justice
• Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections
• Crown agencies
• Prisons
• Policy development and consultation
• Customs
• Private investigation and security
• Forensics
• Social services
• Criminal justice research