Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program at Rutgers University–Camden provides a comprehensive and advanced education in the field of criminal justice and public policy principles. With a focus on practical application and research skills, students are equipped to excel in justice-related careers or pursue further study at the doctoral level. Key features of the program include:

• Advanced Understanding: Gain a deep understanding of criminal justice and public policy principles through a multidisciplinary curriculum that encompasses various facets of the field.
• Metropolitan Advantage: Study in one of the most exciting metropolitan areas in the country, providing opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to diverse justice systems and professionals.
• Experiential Learning: Engage in hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that bridge theory and practice, giving you practical skills and insights into the complexities of the criminal justice system.
• Statistical Research Techniques: Learn to utilize statistical social science research techniques to analyze and address real-world problems in the criminal justice system.

Program Details

Degree

• Master of Arts (M.A.)
• The department also offers a dual M.A./M.P.A. degree.
• Accelerated option available

Credits

• 30 credits

Format

• Full-time or part-time, on-campus

Duration

• 3-5 semesters

Funding

• University, and Graduate School Funding Available (Partial Funding Only)

Featured Courses

• Using Crime Data (56:198:554): This course teaches innovative spatial analysis techniques for crime data, theory, and application in addressing policy issues. Students create research questions and use mapping software.
• Children and Families of the Incarcerated (56:202:674): This course links research on parental incarceration, brain development, trauma, attachment, and resilience to children with incarcerated parents and explores best practices.
• Cannabis and Social Institutions (56:202:675): This course explores cannabis’s history, societal impact, and influence on institutions, emphasizing cultural significance, research, policies, and equity-related issues.
• Policy Analysis in Criminal Justice (56:202:500): This research-oriented seminar readies students for criminal justice policy analysis. Covering interest groups, policy types, research models, and current policies’ analysis.
• Law and Society (56:202:529): Examine law’s role in societal change, exploring its dual role as a product and source of change. Topics include legal analysis, white-collar crime, and power dynamics.
• Community Corrections (56:202:552): Study historical and philosophical foundations of corrections alternatives. Analyze implementation, assess impact, and explore future implications of these alternatives.

Admissions Requirements

Transcripts

• A transcript showing the completion of a B.A. or B.S. degree.
• Applicants with a GPA under 3.0 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Completion of an undergraduate course in statistics and research methods. This requirement can be fulfilled after admission.
• Prior coursework or experience in criminal justice is also recommended.

Letters of Recommendation

• Two letters of recommendation (academic reference preferred)

Personal Statement

• Personal statement about academic interests and career goals

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

• A brief resume if one’s work experience is relevant to the application

Application Deadlines

• Fall: March 15
• Spring: October 15
• Summer: Not Offered

Program Outcomes

By pursuing an M.A. in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University–Camden, you will join a program that values a comprehensive understanding of crime, the justice system, and contemporary issues. Develop strong analytical and research skills for careers in the criminal justice field or to prepare for doctoral studies, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and shaping the future of the field.