Graduate Degree

Master's in Criminal Justice (MCJ) Degree

Widener's online master's in criminal justice program provides a foundation in criminological theory and research methods with a focus on developing knowledge for practical application.

Criminal Justice Students

Program Overview

In Widener's master of criminal justice (MCJ) program, you will learn from criminal justice leaders and practitioners with years of teaching experience, expand your knowledge of the criminal justice system, sharpen your critical thinking and research skills, and find unique opportunities to nurture a rewarding career in criminal justice.

The MCJ degree curriculum allows students to explore why crime occurs, discover how components of the criminal justice system work, and critically assess ongoing challenges faced by various parts of the system. Built on a basis of intensive study, the curriculum encourages the development of effective analytical and problem-solving skills in the areas of:

  • Criminological theory
  • Operation of criminal justice agencies
  • Research methodology and data analysis

Program Options for the Criminal Justice Master's Degree

View the Loading... for information regarding the master's program requirements.

MCJ Program Options to Consider

    Our flexible curriculum, with a variety of electives, gives you the opportunity to choose a specialization tailored to your personal interests and career goals.

    Specializations include:

    • Loading...: Develop expertise in fraud analysis and forensic accounting with a specialization in white collar crime.

    • Loading...: Students whose professional and career goals are in organizational leadership or working in government or nonprofit sectors can specialize in public administration by completing courses from Widener’s masters in public administration program. [Please note: MPA courses are offered in-person on our Chester campus.]

    Students pursuing careers that require clinical experience in the psycho-legal aspects of criminal justice can choose to graduate with a dual degree in criminal justice and psychology (PsyD/MCJ). This program is designed to fit within the 5-year duration of our doctoral program in psychology.

    For more information about this dual degree, view the Loading....

    The criminal justice certificate is designed to provide an introduction to criminal justice for students interested in gaining entry into any area of the criminal justice field and for established professionals in the field looking to advance their careers. After completion of the certificate program, students can apply to the master's program, and if accepted, courses can be transferred to that program.

    Admissions Requirements

    • Applicant must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university
    • 3.0 undergraduate GPA
    • A completed application form
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
    • A personal statement describing reasons for applying to the MCJ program and expectations of the program
    • GRE scores will be considered as part of an application but are not required

    We review applications on a rolling basis.

    Master's in Criminal Justice Degree Program Highlights

    The flexible MCJ program offers classes taught by full-time faculty members who hold PhD degrees and have published research in the field of criminal justice, or by adjuncts with master’s degrees or law degrees and are practitioners in the field.

    Flexible Online Program

    With online courses, the MCJ program is designed to meet the needs of busy professionals. Whether you're established in a career or a recent graduate looking to pursue an advanced degree, you can earn your degree with courses tailored to your interests and professional goals.

    Learn more about how an online master’s degree in criminal justice can fit into your ever-changing schedule. 

    Advantages of an Online Master's in Criminal Justice Degree

    Distinguished Faculty

    Learn from professors whose leadership and research are shaping the criminal justice field. Our instructors include full-time faculty and practitioners in the criminal justice system, each with diverse research experiences, published research, and expertise in their field.

    Clubs & Organizations

    Criminal justice majors have the opportunity to join various clubs and organizations across and outside of campus to expand their network, including the Criminal Justice Organization, the Alpha Phi Sigma - Criminal Justice Honor Society, and many more

    Faculty

    Our criminal justice professors stay up-to-date on recent technologies and research shaping the criminal justice field.

    Your Inside Track to Success

    Your Inside Track to Success

    Launch your criminal justice career—or prepare to rapidly advance in the field—through our flexible graduate program.

    MCJ Degree Outlook & Outcomes

    Potential Careers

    • Law enforcement (local, state, and federal)
    • Probation/parole officer
    • Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor
    • Victim's advocate

    Industry Growth

    Jobs for criminal justice are growing by 7%, as fast as the average as other occupations

    Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

    Recent Employers

    • George W. Hill Correctional Facility
    • Delaware Valley Intelligence Center
    • Montgomery County Adult Probation
    • Delaware County Juvenile Probation

    Student Stories

    Samirah Thompson watches security cameras

    "To have [a supportive network of faculty and alumni] in your corner is amazing. They helped me gain the confidence to go into the field and to be on my ‘A’ game."

    Samirah Thompson

    Class of 2020 & 2021

    Take the Next Steps

    Apply

    We are glad you made the decision to apply. All applications and supplemental materials are submitted through the online application system. There is a $35 application fee to apply to Widener.