Program Overview

Criminology and Criminal Justice Master's Program

The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice (MSCCJ) is designed to provide students with competency in research, policy planning, evaluation, and agency leadership. This program also prepares students for continued graduate study in criminology, criminal justice, or other related fields.

Program Benefits

• Career Advancement: Graduates are prepared to advance in their current position, pursue higher-level roles, and increase their earning potential.
• Convenient Course Offerings: Classes meet once a week in the evenings with some online options, providing a flexible learning experience.
• Networking & Mentorship: Expand your professional network through collaboration with peers and nationally recognized faculty mentors.

Why Pursue a Criminology and Criminal Justice Master's Degree

The MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice (MSCCJ) offers opportunities to develop skills in written and oral communication, research, critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Graduates are prepared for roles in community and organizational leadership, as well as for continued study at the PhD level. Smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention from faculty and opportunities to network with other students.

What You'll Learn

This 36-credit hour program is designed for both traditional students and working professionals, with all courses conveniently offered once a week in the evening. Core courses like Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis prepare students to interpret data and contribute to evidence-based policies. Gain an in-depth understanding of institutional structures and theoretical frameworks through courses such as The Criminal Justice System, Criminal Justice Policy, and Criminological Theory. Students also develop a global perspective through the exciting Study Abroad: International Crime and Justice course, and apply knowledge to real-world challenges through our Capstone Course.

Admission & Application Requirements

Applications are submitted through the UT San Antonio Graduate Application. Required documents include:

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or have proof of equivalent training at a foreign institution.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale); departments may consider GPA of last 60 semester credit hours.
• Completed adequate credit hours or foreign institution equivalent coursework as preparation for the program.
• Transcripts from all institutions attended; international transcripts must be recorded/translated to English.
• Credential Evaluation if you have earned university-level credit from foreign institutions.
• English Language Proficiency: 550 TOEFL Paper / 79 TOEFL Internet / 6.5 IELTS / Duolingo 100.
• Purpose Statement.
• Resume.
• Letters of Recommendation: 2 academic or professional references.

Application Deadlines

• Fall 2026: June 1 for both international and domestic applicants.
• Spring: Not available.
• Summer: Not available.
• Completed applications will be reviewed for admission on a rolling basis, with decisions generally made within 4 to 6 weeks of receiving the application.

Funding Opportunities

Our students can apply for graduate assistantships to work with faculty and financially support their program of study. Additionally, both Bexar County and the City of San Antonio offer tuition assistance to provide financial support for employees.

Career Options

UT San Antonio prepares you for future careers that are in demand. Possible careers include:

• Local: San Antonio Housing Authority, Child Protective Services, San Antonio Police Department, USAA, Community Supervision & Corrections Department.
• State/Federal: Federal Bureau of Intelligence, National Security Agency, Texas Department of Public Safety (Crime Analysis), Texas Office of the Attorney General, Central Intelligence Agency, Homeland Security.

Program Benefits

• Advancement in current job and broaden new job opportunities.
• Increase salary potential.
• Evening classes at the downtown campus.
• In-person and online class offerings.
• Networking with like-minded students and professionals.
• Work closely with faculty, who are nationally recognized experts.
• Financial support through graduate assistantships.