Criminal Justice, M.S. (Program Suspended, 2020-2021)

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Uniquely situated in the Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center with the LAPD and LA Sheriff’s Department crime labs, the applied focus of the Master of Science program in Criminal Justice provides opportunities for students to bridge the gap between research and practice. The M.S. prepares students to become civic professionals with problem solving skills that can effect change through a commitment to community building and evidence-based practices.

The curriculum is designed to cultivate students’ scholarly perspective by expanding their capacity for critical analysis and evaluation of emergent issues and controversies that characterize the administration of the criminal justice system. The practicum component of the program gives students the opportunity to participate in engaged scholarship while developing leadership abilities and research skills.

In addition to University requirements for admission to graduate study, applicants must possess a baccalaureate from an accredited college or university with acceptable preparation in criminal justice and general principles of theory and research.

Prerequisites

Undergraduate preparation must include the following courses or equivalents:

Requirements for the Degree (30 units)

A total of 30 units is required.

Required Core Courses (27 units)

Electives (3 units)

Electives must be completed by taking one of the courses below from the criminal justice program and/or by taking classes in other related disciplines that provide the student with the opportunity to pursue his/her particular interest as it relates to criminal justice. Electives from other departments must be approved by the Graduate Director.
CRIM 5380 - Seminar: Criminal Justice Problems (3)
CRIM 5980 - Graduate Directed Study (1-3)
Students in the Criminal Justice Master’s Program may receive credit for these courses in their academic plan with approval from the instructor. Students taking these courses for graduate level credit must complete extra assignments that involve writing and oral presentation. Final requirements will be defined by the course instructor.
CRIM 4010 - Gangs (3)
CRIM 4020 - Substance Use and Crime (3)
CRIM 4030 - Violence (3)
CRIM 4450 - Legal Issues for Police Officers (3)
CRIM 4460 - Community Policing and Problem Solving (3)
CRIM 4480 - Police and the Media (3)
CRIM 4540 - Special Topics in Criminal Justice (3)
CRIM 4600 - Hate Crimes (3)
CRIM 4610 - Offender Reentry (3)
CRIM 4700 - Women and Crime (3)

Criminal Justice Capstone (3)

During the second year of the program all students are required to register for CRIM 5920 and complete a service learning capstone project. In addition to the field experience, students are also required to meet for the CRIM 5920 course and complete an applied research project.

The thesis may only be selected after approval from the school Graduate Committee. Oral defense of the thesis is required.

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