Criminal Justice (M.A)
Main Campus Camden, United States
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Rutgers University–Camden
Criminal Justice
Program Overview: M.A. in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University–Camden
The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at Rutgers University–Camden provides a comprehensive and advanced education in criminal justice and public policy principles. With a focus on practical application and research skills, the program equips students to excel in justice-related careers or pursue further study at the doctoral level.
Students gain an advanced understanding of criminological theory, policy analysis, and statistical social science research techniques while learning to apply this knowledge competently in justice-related fields. The program is designed to meet the needs of both working professionals and traditional students, with classes taught primarily on weekday evenings at the Camden campus.
Located in the metropolitan Philadelphia-Camden region, the program offers unique opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to diverse justice systems and professionals. Students can also choose from two specialized concentrations — Forensic Sciences and Social Justice — to tailor their studies to their career goals.
Key Program Highlights
- Two specialized concentrations available: Forensic Sciences and Social Justice, each offering hands-on experiential learning
- Flexible scheduling with evening classes designed for working professionals and full-time students alike
- Strong emphasis on evidence-based practices, policy analysis, and critical analysis of criminal justice policies
- Option to pursue a dual MA/MPA degree with the Public Administration program through a 48-credit curriculum
Curriculum and Modules
The M.A. in Criminal Justice requires 30 credits of coursework, including 9 credits of core courses, 12 credits of criminal justice electives, and 9 credits of additional electives. Students must also pass a comprehensive examination in criminal justice policy analysis, research methods, or data analysis, and have the option to write and defend a thesis.
Policy Analysis in Criminal Justice
3 CreditsA research and writing oriented seminar that prepares students for conducting criminal justice policy analysis. Topics include the role of interest groups and organizational participants in the policy process, types of policies, models of policy research, and the development, implementation, and evaluation of current criminal justice policies.
Research Methods in Criminal Justice
3 CreditsProvides a foundation in research methods commonly used in criminal justice and the social sciences. Students learn to design, conduct, and evaluate research, developing skills essential for evidence-based decision-making in the field.
Data Analysis for Criminal Justice
3 CreditsGrounds students in the basic tools used in quantitative analysis in criminal justice, including nonparametric measures of association, parametric tests of significance, and the fundamentals of correlation, regression, and hypothesis testing.
Criminology
3 CreditsExamines major criminological theories and their application to understanding crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. Students critically assess theoretical frameworks and their relevance to contemporary justice issues.
Using Crime Data
3 CreditsTeaches innovative spatial analysis techniques for crime data, theory, and application in addressing policy issues. Students create research questions and use mapping software to analyze crime patterns and inform policy decisions.
Victimology
3 CreditsExplores the study of victims of crime, including the impact of victimization, victim-offender relationships, and the role of victims in the criminal justice process. Students examine policies and services designed to support crime victims.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
The M.A. in Criminal Justice program at Rutgers University–Camden welcomes applicants with strong academic records and a demonstrated interest in criminal justice. Prior coursework or experience in criminal justice is recommended. To begin your application, contact Uni4Edu for guidance through the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA completed baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university is required
- Academic PerformanceA strong undergraduate GPA is expected; conditional admission may be available for promising candidates
- Letters of RecommendationTwo letters of recommendation are required; academic recommendations are preferred
- Statement of PurposeA written statement of purpose outlining your academic and professional goals in criminal justice
- ResumeA brief resume is recommended if your work experience is relevant to the application
Language Requirements
- TOEFLRequired for non-native English speakers; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score requirements
- IELTSAccepted as an alternative to TOEFL; contact Uni4Edu for minimum score requirements
- English Proficiency WaiverMay be available for applicants who completed a degree at an English-medium institution; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Rutgers University–Camden offers a range of funding opportunities for graduate students in the Criminal Justice M.A. program, including merit scholarships, assistantships, and international student awards. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options available to you.
Dean's Graduate Scholarship
Up to 50% of in-state tuitionAwarded to high-achieving, matriculated graduate students based on academic merit. Eligible full-time students must be registered for at least six credits per semester. No separate application is required.
International Chancellor's Graduate Scholarship
USD 10,000 – USD 14,000Available to non-sponsored international F-1 visa students pursuing a master's degree. Award amounts range from USD 10,000 to USD 14,000 based on qualifications and GRE scores, distributed across semesters.
Dean's Competitive Scholarship for Out-of-State Students
Covers in-state/out-of-state tuition differentialCompetitively awarded to incoming domestic master's applicants who reside outside of New Jersey. Covers the tuition cost differential for full-time students taking 9 to 12 credits per semester for up to four sequential semesters.
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.A. in Criminal Justice program are prepared for leadership roles in criminal justice agencies, policy-making organizations, academic institutions, and research settings. The program's emphasis on analytical skills, evidence-based practices, and policy analysis equips graduates to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Rutgers University–Camden has seen significant gains in national rankings, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, student outcomes, and social mobility. The university is recognized among the top public universities in the United States and has earned accolades for its strong return on investment and graduate success.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice | Regional Recognition | Among leading CJ programs in the Delaware Valley region |
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #15 |
| Best-in-Class Colleges | Washington Monthly | Top 25 |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | U.S. News & World Report | #63 |
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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