Master of Science in Criminal Justice Theory and Research

University of North Texas

Our Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Theory and Research empowers current and future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to create just and safe communities. This is accomplished through an exceptional curriculum that provides you with an understanding of the nature and scope of problems posed by crime and the operation and administration of the criminal justice system. You'll examine these areas from theoretical, practical and empirical perspectives.

Why Earn a Criminal Justice Theory and Research Master's?

You can pursue your degree as part of a campus-based program or entirely online, allowing you to take advantage of your learning style and balance your work, personal and academic obligations. The campus-based program features thesis and non-thesis options. Our programs also offer:

Opportunities to participate in research under a faculty member's direction
Prospects for earning academic credit through an internship
Specialized electives so you can tailor your degree to your professional and personal goals
Study abroad opportunities

Faculty members have a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. In addition to teaching courses, they assist the Department of Criminal Justice in applied research projects, program evaluation studies and scholarly research. Some of their current research focuses on:

Capital punishment
Cybercrime and cyber security
Juvenile delinquency
Police operations and tactics
Prison violence
Victimization

Thesis option

15 credit hours of required core courses
15 credit hours of electives
6 credit hours of thesis

Non-thesis option

15 credit hours of required core courses
21 credit hours of electives
Completion of comprehensive exams