Criminal Justice - Master's

USM Home/Graduate Programs/Criminal Justice - Master's

Get Your Master's in Criminal Justice

The Master’s in Criminal Justice program at the University of Southern Mississippi is nationally recognized. It is ranked 48th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and the highest-ranked program in Mississippi. This program provides an advanced course of study designed to prepare students for career advancement, admission to Ph.D. programs, or law school. Students complete interesting and interactive courses in seminar format in theory, research methods, civil liberties, criminal justice policy, juvenile law, policing, and other topics.

The program is offered entirely online (with a blend of synchronous and asynchronous coursework), yet it provides the benefit of interaction with our research-active faculty from the Hattiesburg Campus. Faculty members bring expertise in diverse and specialized areas, including forensic sciences, law enforcement, criminal and constitutional law, forensic mental health, juvenile justice, and sports security. Interactions between faculty and students promote academic success in our program and offer a range of opportunities for collaboration and tailored professional development.

The master's program admits students for each of two semesters (Fall and Spring), following the priority deadlines set below. Applications for admission for other terms, or those received outside the priority deadlines for admission may not be considered.

Priority Application Deadlines:

Fall Semester Admissions	Apply by April 15
Spring Semester Admissions	Apply by November 15

Request info Apply

Why Graduate School?

The master's degree is designed to develop analytical, communication, and research skills while mastering advanced content in the field of criminal justice. Graduate school provides the knowledge needed for those seeking advancement in law enforcement, policy development, investigations, or preparation for doctoral or law school.

Faculty Interaction and Mentoring

Graduate students are engaged in advanced coursework and research with university faculty. Graduate students assist faculty with research and are strongly encouraged to develop an independent focus while in the program. Integration of faculty and student research interests allows for meaningful experiences which significantly develop research and applied evaluation skills among our students. Our graduate students are encouraged to present their research at professional conferences and work to publish their research in reputable outlets.