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Criminal Justice

Degree Type
  • Master of Science
Location
  • Main Campus in Radford, VA
Format
  • In-Person

Overview

The graduate program in criminal justice allows students to prepare for careers in criminal justice and related fields. The program is designed both to enhance students' existing capabilities and to develop unique competencies and skills for future academic and career goals.

students in a courtroom

Students pursuing the Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice complete a minimum of 30 semester hours, that can be accomplished in one calendar year. There are no additional exit requirements.

Why Study Criminal Justice at Radford?

  • You’ll be able to earn a master’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Crime Analysis and Criminal Intelligence certificate at the same time.
  • Our students can complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 5 years, as part of the accelerated program.
  • We offer a well-rounded education with our courses including, but not limited to, policing and corrections, criminal justice policy, victimology, understanding crime in everyday life, and white-collar crime.
  • You may gain teaching and research-related experiences as a graduate assistant.
  • Our classes have fewer than 15 students.

Careers and Internships

Our recent graduates are engaged in a range of careers, including positions as analysts or sworn officers at local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as well as private companies and non-profit agencies.

They have also been hired as child abuse investigators, victim advocates, state or federal probation and parole officers, and have continued their education by attending law school or doctoral programs.

You will be able to intern at criminal agencies including law enforcement, victim services, court services, and correctional agencies.

We sponsor a variety of special events, including criminal justice conference presentations, criminal justice agency visits, a government career fair, and guest speakers.

Opportunities for Criminal Justice students at Radford

You will be part of a small cohort of students who take classes together, build relationships with one another, and hang out with one another outside of classes.

You will be able to work out at an excellent gym: the Student Recreation and Wellness Center.

There are opportunities for students to engage in activities on campus, as well as engage in activities off campus including hiking, biking, hanging out in Bissett Park and going to the Farmer’s Market in Radford.

We have Criminal Justice-specific clubs:

Admissions Requirements

Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.9, official transcripts (OPTIONAL: resume, letters of recommendation, and personal statement).

Aligned Undergraduate Degrees

Find a path that works for you

The department offers an undergraduate major in criminal justice, undergraduate minors in criminal justice, forensic studies, crime analysis, and conservation law enforcement, a graduate program in criminal justice, and a graduate certificate in crime analysis.

student in a forensic field

“The most meaningful experience during my graduate program was the first time I taught a class as a graduate teaching assistant. Knowing I am capable of educating students serves as an accomplishment that has set the path for my future. With the help of my graduate mentors, Dr. Owen, and Dr. Elis, I have the confidence to share my knowledge of criminal justice.”

Cade FisherMaster of Sciences Student & Graduate Teaching Assistant 2024

Ready to Study at Radford?

We want to get to know you better and we are excited that you are ready to take your next step and learn more about us. We are here to help you and look forward to working with you during your college search process.