Pursue a Master's in Criminal Justice

Choose a 100% online degree that adapts to you.

At Widener, you'll experience a flexible program designed around your schedule,  interests, and vision for the future.

How it works

  • Complete asynchronous online courses on the day and time that works for you.
  • Take up to six elective classes in your areas of greatest interest. 
  • End your program with a comprehensive exam or a master's thesis. By completing the exam, you'll free up space for more elective credits. 
  • Learn from faculty mentors who go above and beyond to help you achieve your career goals—even in a virtual environment. 

Ready to learn more?

Prepare to break through in the criminal justice field. Sign up for insider information from Widener University and our graduate program.

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Why Widener?

Business professional on phone at top of escalator

Go All-in on Flexibility

100% online courses allow you to study on your terms. Complete asynchronous coursework with your morning coffee, over lunch, or after dinner. Engage with classmates and professors when it makes sense for you. Every step of the way, you'll benefit from faculty who hold open office hours, schedule one-on-one meetings, and seek opportunities to push your career forward. 

Adult student at home taking notes in meeting on iPad/tablet

Earn an Adaptable Degree

With guidance from our faculty, you'll have the power to make your degree yours. Take 12-18 credits of elective courses that match your career goals. Work with an advisor on a master's thesis and explore your criminal justice interests in detail. Or, in place of a thesis, take two additional elective credits and complete a comprehensive exam. This adaptable degree will prepare you to break into the field or secure your next big promotion.

Students network with law enforcement officers during Widener's criminal justice career fair.

Make Career-Shaping Connections

Through our annual criminal justice career fair, you'll connect with employers and professionals from across the industry. And in your classes, you'll build relationships with students and faculty who bring diverse experiences—both personal and professional—into your virtual classroom. This network will follow you long after graduation. 

Criminal Justice professor Shana Maier at Widener's Criminal Justice Career Fair

Learn from industry insiders

Top scholars and industry leaders, your professors will eagerly share their knowledge and experiences with you. Some hold a PhD and have published breakthrough research. Others actively work in the field and have unique insight into the pulse of their profession. As you prepare for whatever comes next, these professors will fuel your journey. 

Adult graduate student taking notes while on a computer

More Interested in a Graduate Certificate?

We're flexible there, too. Complete our four core graduate courses (a total of 12 credits) and earn a certificate in criminal justice. At any time, you can roll your certificate credits into the full master's program. That means you can get a feel for our graduate program while deciding if a master's degree is the right fit for you. 

Your Inside Track to Success

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

Career Outlook & Outcomes for Criminal Justice Students

Recent Employers

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

Industry Growth

Employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are expected to increase by 22% by 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Employment Projections.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Potential Careers

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

Ready to learn more?

Prepare to break through in the criminal justice field. Sign up for insider information from Widener University and our graduate program.

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