The Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice is a 30-credit hour graduate program offered in a fully online asynchronous format. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the integration of theory, policy, and research within leadership and administrative roles in criminal justice systems. The MS cultivates critical thinking in examining the synthesis of social and legal systems, structures, and institutions in implementing and evaluating outcomes.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice prepares students for careers as administrators in public and private criminal justice settings including advocacy, probation and parole, re-entry, prosecution and enforcement, correctional facilities, and court systems, and much more.
UK’s program is unique in emphasizing the application of perceptual frameworks, articulating the importance of culturally relevant practice, and connecting critical examination and succinct, meaningful communication. Our MSCJ program emphasizes transdisciplinary processes and problem solving to ensure that graduates develop job-ready, employability skills to address and implement best practices in criminal justice settings.
The MSCJ program is offered fully online, allowing flexible MSCJ completion from anywhere. Online students have access to the same support and services as on campus students.
All MSCJ Advisors have a certificate of appreciative advising, which means that they are well-equipped to help you optimize your educational experiences and achieve your goals for your career in Criminal Justice.
CoSW is home to several unique research centers and labs, including the Training Resource Center, Interdisciplinary Research Center on Children and Families, Kentucky Kinship Resource Center, Self-Care Lab, Suicide Prevention and Exposure Lab, and Military Behavior Health Lab. Students can leverage these entities for unique learning and research opportunities.
MSW students have the option to earn specialized certificates in Clinical Social Work, Child Welfare, Military Behavioral Health, Rural Population Wellbeing, and Substance Use Disorder, to name a few.
KY Rank for Graduate licensing Pass Rates
Student Field Placement Options
Student who receive some type of aid
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
The Gathering Spot will be a monthly opportunity to connect with Kentucky Kinship Resource Center staff to learn more about our programs, find a group to join, get tech assistance so […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Citizen Review Panels (CRPs) are groups of caring volunteers that work to improve the well-being of children, families, and communities across Kentucky. To learn more about CRPs or join a […]
Please join us as we discuss the upcoming Master of Science in Criminal Justice program! This info session will be held virtually over Zoom. Please register by using the link […]
Are You Wildly Passionate About Social Work? Explore the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program during an online info session. REGISTER HERE The UK Difference Graduates from our […]
Pursue your Passion for the Greater Good Explore College of Social Work’s newest Criminal Justice program during our online info session! REGISTER HERE The UK Difference Graduates from our […]