This program equips you to step into management roles in criminal justice settings across the public and private sectors. Advanced knowledge can also help you transition from local or state-level positions to competitive roles in federal agencies.
Coursework blends operational and policy understanding with quantitative research methods and statistical training. Upon graduation, you’ll have the expertise to:
- Assess societal and economic factors contributing to crime and identify areas for change.
- Demonstrate proficiency in program evaluation, statistical analysis and academic research.
- Design research projects that address key issues in criminal justice and synthesize findings to guide practice and policy.
- Evaluate crime reduction strategies using data analysis, planning and assessment tools.
- Examine and apply theoretical perspectives on criminal behavior and justice system operations.
Criminology vs. criminal justice: The differences between the two
Criminology focuses on the psychology of criminal behavior, while criminal justice addresses the processes and operations of the U.S. legal system. Graduate studies in either field offer a foundation in crime and justice, but the right path depends on your career goals.
Criminology is a strong choice if you're interested in research or lab-based roles. A master’s in criminal justice, on the other hand, is a practitioner-focused degree ideal for careers in policing, corrections and the courts.
Interested in a specialty? Pair ASU’s master’s in criminal justice with a graduate certificate by applying your elective credits toward the required coursework. With no added time to completion, you can concurrently earn this master’s degree and an online graduate certificate in:
Earn an online Master of Arts in criminal justice from Arizona State University to elevate your career in justice leadership. This program offers a deep understanding of the causes and impacts of crime and how the legal system is structured to respond. You’ll examine challenges in the justice system and gain the skills to drive positive change through policy and program reform.
The curriculum offers advanced training in theory and research related to the U.S. justice system, with courses in strategic planning, policy evaluation and data analysis. You’ll also complete electives based on your interests in areas such as corrections, homeland security, juvenile justice and policing. The program concludes with a capstone project where you’ll apply your knowledge to reduce crime through a policy or program in a criminal justice agency.
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
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Applicants to the Master of Arts in criminal justice program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.
You’re eligible to apply to the program if you have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in criminology or criminal justice or another closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
You must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of your bachelor's program. Alternatively, you must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master's program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- A written statement
Your written statement must be at least one page and should outline your educational and career goals, as well as your long-term professional development strategy.
- An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
- The GRE or other test scores are not required for admission
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”