Criminal Justice Master of Science (M S)
Westchester Campus, United States
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (M.S.)
Mercy University
Criminal Justice
Program Overview: M.S. in Criminal Justice at Mercy University
Mercy University's Master of Science in Criminal Justice prepares students for leadership roles by providing a comprehensive understanding of criminology, research methods, and critical thinking. The program is designed for both aspiring and current criminal justice professionals, including police, court, and corrections personnel who want to advance their careers.
With small class sizes taught by full-time faculty who bring real-world expertise as attorneys and law enforcement officers, students receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout their studies. The program is offered in-person at the Westchester campus, fully online, or in a hybrid format, giving working professionals the flexibility to balance their education with career and personal responsibilities.
Graduates of this program are prepared for management, supervisory, and leadership roles as practitioners and academics within the criminal justice field. Mercy University partners with employers such as the NYPD to provide students with professional development opportunities and tuition assistance programs.
Key Program Highlights
- Small class sizes with dedicated full-time faculty who are practicing attorneys, law enforcement officers, and criminal justice professionals
- Flexible delivery options including in-person, online, and hybrid formats designed for working professionals
- Employer partnerships with organizations such as the NYPD offering tuition discount and remission programs
- Located in the New York metropolitan area with access to one of the largest criminal justice systems in the nation
Curriculum & Course Modules
The 36-credit M.S. in Criminal Justice program combines core foundational courses with specialized electives that allow you to tailor your studies to your career interests. The curriculum emphasizes criminological theory, advanced research methods, and practical applications within the criminal justice system.
Criminal Justice Foundations
3 CreditsThis foundational course examines the major areas, theoretical perspectives, and academic and practical concepts involved with law enforcement, the U.S. criminal court system, corrections, and the causes of crime and delinquency.
Criminology
3 CreditsAn in-depth study of criminological theories and their application to understanding criminal behavior, examining biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives on the causes of crime.
Research Methods in Criminal Justice
3 CreditsStudents develop and write reports using research methods in criminal justice and criminology, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation of findings.
White-Collar Crime
3 CreditsFocuses on criminal activity committed within occupational settings across financial, political, and various sectors, using a systemic approach to understand how white-collar crime moves through policing, the court system, and corrections.
Cybercrime
3 CreditsExplores the history and evolution of cybercrime, examining challenges faced by society in protecting against digital threats while introducing steps for detecting, collecting, and analyzing digital evidence for criminal investigation.
Victimology
3 CreditsStudents examine various criminal activities and the effects those crimes have on victims, including victimization theory, victim-focused advocacy, court processes, and victim rights and remedies.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
The M.S. in Criminal Justice program at Mercy University welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Mercy operates on a rolling admissions basis, allowing you to apply and begin your studies at multiple points throughout the year. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is required
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities
- Letters of RecommendationPreferably from college instructors or professors who can speak to the applicant's critical thinking and academic writing ability
- Personal StatementA brief statement conveying your reasons for pursuing the M.S. in Criminal Justice, including academic background, career interests, and relevant experiences (500 words maximum)
- Credential EvaluationInternational applicants must submit a Foreign Academic Credential Evaluation (FACE) for U.S. equivalency assessment
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL (iBT)Minimum score required; contact Uni4Edu for current program-specific score thresholds
- IELTSMinimum overall band score required; contact Uni4Edu for current details
- Duolingo English TestAccepted as proof of English proficiency; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score requirements
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Mercy University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable. Several scholarship and funding opportunities are available to help offset the cost of your M.S. in Criminal Justice degree. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on financial aid options.
Mercy University Alumni Scholarship
USD 1,000 (one-time award)Available to Mercy University and College of New Rochelle undergraduate alumni, as well as dependents of alumni, when enrolling for the first time in a graduate program. This scholarship cannot be combined with other Mercy University scholarships.
Employer Tuition Remission Programs
Varies by employer partnershipMercy partners with employers such as the NYPD and other organizations to provide tuition discounts and tuition remission programs for eligible employees pursuing graduate studies.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the M.S. in Criminal Justice program are prepared for management, supervisory, and leadership roles across the criminal justice system. With Mercy University's location in the New York metropolitan area, students gain access to extensive networking and employment opportunities in one of the nation's largest criminal justice markets.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Mercy University is a private institution founded in 1950, accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The university has earned consistent national recognition for its commitment to accessible education and student outcomes, particularly in social mobility and regional academic excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Universities North | U.S. News & World Report | #116 |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #28 |
| Best Online Master's in Business | U.S. News & World Report | #156 |
| Criminal Justice (Bachelor's - ACJS Endorsed) | Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences | Endorsed Program |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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