Master's in Criminal Justice

Our Master's in Criminal Justice is designed for individuals committed to making a difference in law enforcement, corrections and the justice system. With a focus on critical thinking, research and hands-on experience, you will gain the advanced skills and knowledge needed to lead in today's complex criminal justice landscape. You'll learn from faculty who are leading experts in their fields.

Whether you're a working professional or looking for a traditional academic experience, our program offers full-time and part-time enrollment to fit your schedule. Additionally, you may complete courses through the online Criminal Justice program or through a hybrid format. International students must complete this program through a mix of online and on-campus courses. Our program has a long history of producing graduates highly regarded and in demand by federal, state and local agencies.

The M.A. in Criminal Justice is a 33-credit master's degree. Graduate students can choose to complete a thesis option.

For a complete list of courses and academic requirements, please visit the Academic Catalog.

• Reputation: In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked our program as the #3 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice nationwide.
• Quinn-Bill Certification: Through our master's program, full-time officers who work in participating towns and cities qualify for salary increases.
• Certificate Specializations: Depending on your interests and career goals, you may complete a graduate certificate in Domestic Violence Prevention, Forensic Criminology, Leadership & Policy Development, Security Studies or Victim Studies with courses that will count toward the Master's in Criminal Justice.
• Value: According to Payscale.com, UMass Lowell ranks #1 for lifetime return on investment among public research universities in Massachusetts.
• Flexibility: Depending on your schedule and learning style, you may study online, part-time or full-time.

• Massachusetts Trial Court
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Massachusetts State Police 
• Army National Guard
• Drug Enforcement Administration
• Middlesex Sheriff's Office
• United States Air Force
• U.S. Department of Justice
• Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
• Allied Universal
• Essex County Sheriff's Department

Eligible students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for financial assistance.

Complete the FAFSA

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