Online Masters Program
We are still accepting applications for our new Online Masters Program!
Check out our CJ Online website for more information.
Degree Programs
The College of Criminal Justice offers five masters degrees.
- Master of Arts in Criminal Justice and Criminology:
designed to prepare graduate students to conduct research and actively participate in the development of knowledge in the areas of criminological theory, crime control, correctional and police administration, and legal issues in criminal justice
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The degree is especially beneficial for students already working in a criminal justice occupation who seek to increase their professional knowledge and skills, as well as those who have an interest in teaching at the college or university level, or who want to pursue a doctoral degree.
The program is based on a multi-disciplinary study of the behavioral and social sciences as they apply to specialized areas within criminal justice and criminology.
- Master of Science in Forensic Science:
one of the first of its kind in the State of Texas and one of only a handful of such programs in North America. The forensic science program is designed to provide both classroom and laboratory exposure for students. This degree seeks to apply the principles of the physical sciences, chemistry, and biology to the purposes of law. A formal internship, conducted in a forensic laboratory, provides students with hands-on training in the areas of forensic DNA, forensic toxicology, firearms and ballistics, trace evidence analysis, and controlled substance analysis. Many students in the MSFS program go on to work for both public and private forensic laboratories, federal, state and local governments, hospitals, colleges, and toxicology laboratories.
- Master of Science in Security Studies:
a unique program that provides a comprehensive security management program to individuals wanting to advance their knowledge, skills, and qualifications within the dynamic field of security. Security already has an affinity to the administration of justice. This specialized degree program is intended to produce professionals who are best qualified to meet the unique demands of the criminal justice system and homeland security. The broad educational objective of the program is to graduate "managers and leaders," individuals who will possess expertise in both theoretical and experiential dimensions of security management. The rationale of this approach is to produce managers who are knowledgeable of pragmatic issues and who are on the cutting edge of strategic issues facing security in the future. A graduate of the Master of Science in Security Studies will possess the necessary skills and credentials that will be in high demand in both public and private sectors in Texas, throughout the United States, and internationally.
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management:
designed to deliver skills critical for effective functioning in managerial positions in criminal justice and for career advancement. This degree is offered in the flexible delivery formats available. The non-traditional student has three alternative options to complete this degree, and the traditional "thesis" requirement has been replaced by a capstone course.
"In the "Proposed Area of Study" section on the on-line Application Form, write-in the option that best fits your needs, either the "Online option," or "Weekend option."
- Weekend Option: This intensive weekend program is held at the Criminal Justice Center on campus at Sam Houston State University. Designed to serve the needs of the experienced criminal justice professional, this program teaches skills necessary for career advancement and administrative and managerial positions in the criminal justice field. (2009-2010 Schedule)
- Online Option: All classes are held online; you will engage in most learning activities during time which you set aside for study. There will be a need to interact live online occasionally, but these sessions will be arranged to the greatest extent possible to not interfere with your personal or professional obligations.
