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Master of Science with a Major in Criminal Justice Administration

  • Total Credit Hours: 36
  • Degree Format: Online

About this field

Criminal justice is a rapidly expanding field of academic study. Many governmental agencies are requiring advanced degrees for those seeking administrative and managerial positions. The Master’s Degree is designed to broaden the perspectives of criminal justice practitioners, to equip practitioners with advanced knowledge and administrative skills, and to prepare students with further graduate work and scholarship. Graduates are provided the necessary skills to succeed in the governmental agencies and private sectors.

Applications for the MS degree are accepted during the Spring, Summer and Fall semesters.

The Valdosta State Difference

In our contemporary society, organizations, including criminal justice agencies are faced with numerous administrative challenges.  Advanced education is needed for those who will become leaders in the criminal justice system by providing the administrative skills needed to upgrade levels of professional practice, improve standards, develop and implement innovative policies and practices, initiate new perspectives, and act as agents of change. The MS degree is exclusively focused on organizational administration and managing criminal justice agencies. The degree equips students with administrative skills in order to lead the CJ organization and manage agency operations. Course curriculum was developed in consultation with Field Practitioners.

What You'll Learn

Required courses include: CJ administration and organizational culture; research strategies for administrators; civil liability issues in criminal justice; personnel management; leadership and ethics; budget preparation; program and policy development and evaluation; and Policy Paper research (24 credits).  Students are required to complete 12 credits of elective courses. Completion of 36 credits is required and the degree can be completed in two years. Competition of the degree prepares students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue supervisory and command positions.

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    1500 N. Patterson St. Valdosta, Georgia 31698