Program Overview

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Introduction to the Ph.D. in Criminal Justice Program

The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice program at Nova Southeastern University is designed for individuals seeking to make a lasting impact in the field through research, teaching, and evidence-based practice. This program prepares students to excel in academic research while fostering a deep commitment to teaching the next generation of criminal justice professionals.

Program Overview

Through rigorous research, advanced study, and a focus on evidence-based practices, students will contribute to the development of policies that shape the future of criminal justice. The program emphasizes preparing graduates to teach at the university level and apply their knowledge to improve the effectiveness of criminal justice practices.

Quick Facts

• Tuition: Visit the Tuition and Fees page for more information.
• Curriculum: The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice is 60 total credits to complete.
• Start Dates: The program is available to start in August, with a deadline to apply by May 31.
• Delivery Options: Coursework is conducted entirely online, allowing students to earn their degree without work disruption or long commutes.

Specialize Your Degree with Concentrations

Students can become experts in their area of study with a concentrated degree path in one of the following areas:

• Behavioral Science: Gain an in-depth understanding of current psychological theories and practices to manage complex situations involving criminals and mental health.
• Criminal Justice Policy, Practice, and Leadership: Learn about organizational systems in criminal justice and best practices for managing diverse organizations.
• Crisis and Emergency Management: Gain comprehensive expertise in emergency management principles and practices to effectively handle crises caused by disasters.
• Juvenile Justice and Human Services: Dive deep into the challenges facing the juvenile justice system, including contemporary legal and ethical issues, and acquire skills to remedy them.

Career Opportunities

Many graduates go on to administer social policy, teach in academia, and break new ground in research. Others hold upper-level jobs such as:

• Criminal Investigators
• Correctional Authorities
• Consultants
• Criminologists

What Will You Learn in the Program?

The program provides an interdisciplinary, comprehensive curriculum that covers theories, best practices, and research methods, giving students an edge in whichever sector of criminal justice they decide to work in.

Core Curriculum

Required Courses (33 Credits):

• Criminological Theory (3 credits)
• Applied Statistics I (3 credits)
• Applied Statistics II (3 credits)
• Research Methods I (3 credits)
• Research Methods II (3 credits)
• Administration of Justice (3 credits)
• Comparative Criminology & Criminal Justice (3 credits)
• Teaching in the Criminal Justice Classroom (3 credits)
• Policy and Program Evaluation (3 credits)
• Grantsmanship & Publishing in Criminal Justice (3 credits)
• Graduate Orientation Seminar (3 credits)

Concentration Curriculum

Each concentration requires 15 credits and includes specific courses tailored to the area of study.

Dissertation Curriculum

A dissertation is required, and coursework consists of 12 credits. Students who have not completed their dissertation after completing the dissertation course sequence will be required to enroll in additional courses until completion of their final dissertation defense.

Admission Requirements

• Master's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• $50 nonrefundable application fee
• GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Additional requirements may include a copy of a master's thesis or equivalent capstone project, GRE score, sample of published work, or a J.D. or doctorate in a related field.

International Applicants

Applicants who have attended foreign universities or colleges are required to have their academic credentials evaluated for U.S. institutional equivalence.

Questions

For more information, contact the Graduate Admissions office.

Related Degrees

Interested individuals may also consider the Juris Doctor (J.D.) or the Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution for careers in law, education, or conflict resolution.