The University of Cincinnati Master of Science in Criminal Justice is the preeminent master’s degree in the field. With a sterling reputation, a nationally recognized brand, and a rich University history dating back to 1819, the CJ program has graduated more than 1,750 students in its ten year history online. With highly interactive courses rich in content and faculty who literally wrote the book on criminal justice, UC is committed to providing students with the very best education at an affordable rate. |
#3 Ranked CJ Program UC is the only school in the top 3 with an online program (US News & World Report) | |
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No GRE Qualified applicants may not need to take the GRE exam for admission | |
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1 or 2 Year Programs We offer a 2-year part-time program and a 1-year, full-time program | |
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3 Optional Concentrations Specialize in an area that is most relevant to you | |
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Learn more about the program from Dr. Michael Benson, Director of the Distance Learning Program.  |
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100% OnlineWith our innovative, 100% online program, you are never limited to just one learning method. You will learn through a combination of multimedia presentations, readings, discussion sessions, online assignments, and peer and professional support systems. The course website and world-class online library provides access to discussion forums, class email, assignments, exams, course schedules, and research. Each student even has his or her own personal advisor throughout the program, making this online degree a thorough, all-encompassing educational endeavor. |
1 or 2 Year ProgramsUC’s online criminal justice master’s degree is specifically designed for working professionals. The program includes 33 semester hours of coursework and can be completed in as few as two years of part-time study or one year of full-time study. In the two-year program, you will take two 3-credit hour courses each semester, taken back-to-back to enable you to focus on one course at a time. In the full-time, one-year program, you will complete four 3-credit hour courses each term, taken two at a time. |
UC professors teach a comprehensive 11-course curriculum. Over six, 15-week semesters (two years), you will be exposed to every part of the criminal justice industry: criminology, social control, corrections, law enforcement, and juvenile justice. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You will also learn about policies, professional writing, research methods, analyzing criminal behavior, and application of principles.
UC’s criminal justice program not only exposes you to the conceptual and theoretical frameworks that drive the study of crime and criminal justice, but also allows you to specialize in an area that is most relevant to you. You can elect to focus your master’s degree in Corrections and Offender Rehabilitation, Analysis of Criminal Behavior, or Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention.
The concentrations offer a way to focus your master’s degree; however, you may be required to take electives outside of your chosen concentration depending on what is offered in the current term (some courses may only be offered once a year). It is important to remain on your designated track in order to complete your degree requirements on time.
| Core courses (15 semester hours/5 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take all five of the courses listed as part of the Core Curriculum. | ||
| CJ7010 | Seminar in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the criminal justice system, including the police, courts, prosecution, and corrections. Special attention is given to the structural, organizational, and micro-level aspects of the criminal justice system and their interactions. A major goal of the course is developing an understanding of how criminal justice operates in the United States. | ||
| CJ7020 | Seminar in Criminology | 3 credit hours |
| This course presents an overview of the nature of crime in American society. Special focus is given to the major theoretical approaches to the explanation of criminal behavior at both the micro-level (why individuals commit crime) and the macro-level (why crime rates vary across communities). | ||
| CJ7040 | Applied Statistics in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course focuses on the evaluation of criminal justice policies and practices. Topics that will be covered include the development of evaluation plans, process and impact evaluations, evaluation designs, and causal inference. | ||
| CJ7041 | Basic Research Methods in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an introduction to research design as applied to crime and criminal justice research. There is an analysis of the scientific method, sampling, and basic research design. | ||
| CJ7098 | Demonstration Research Project | 3 credit hours |
| Using the theoretical and methodological skills developed in the program, students undertake an individual research paper. The paper will focus on a contemporary issue in criminology or criminal justice that will be selected by the supervising professor in his or her area of expertise. Students will be expected to assess the theoretical background and empirical research relevant to the issue chosen by the professor. The purpose of the project is to enable students to demonstrate their independent ability to apply their knowledge to a contemporary criminal justice or criminological issue or problem. | ||
| Electives (18 semester hours/6 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| CJ7011 | Seminar in Law and Social Control | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the nature of law, legal institutions, and related mechanisms of social control. Special attention is paid to critical perspectives on social control, to issues of race, class, and social justice, and to the intersection of criminal justice with other systems of social control. | ||
| CJ7060 | Correctional Theory and Policy | 3 credit hours |
| This course explores the major justifications for corrections, with a special focus on rehabilitation, deterrence, incapacitation, and restorative justice. Each theory’s central principles, empirical adequacy, and policy implications are examined. Special consideration is given to the social and political contexts that have shaped correctional policy and practice in the past and in recent times. The purpose of the course is to enable students to develop a research-based theory of corrections. | ||
| CJ7070 | Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course will explore the various approaches to reducing crime and the theories that inform those approaches. The course aims to provide understanding of the empirical evidence regarding the distribution of crime across offenders, victims, and places/spaces; various theoretical explanations for these patterns, with most emphasis on those theories that form the underpinnings of situational crime prevention; practical techniques for preventing crime using situational approaches, community-based approaches, social developmental approaches, and criminal justice system-based approaches; key issues involved in the implementation of crime prevention strategies, including competency, ethics, and displacement; and key issues involved in the rigorous evaluation of crime prevention strategies. | ||
| CJ7080 | Theory and Practice of Law Enforcement | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the development and function of policing in contemporary American society. The impact of social, economic, and political forces on the structure and definition of contemporary police agencies are employed through a review of classical and contemporary literature on policing. Contemporary problems and issues in law enforcement are analyzed within the context of recent research. | ||
| CJ8013 | Seminar in Juvenile Justice | 3 credit hours |
| A major task of the juvenile justice system is responding to various social problems that involve children and adolescents, including abuse, neglect, and violent behavior. Much public debate surrounds the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in addressing these concerns and in curtailing the misbehavior of youths. In this context, this course examines the empirical literature on the juvenile justice system, especially as it relates to effective interventions. Special attention is paid to the intersection of what is known about the causes of serious delinquent behavior and how the juvenile justice system responds to those causes. | ||
| CJ8028 | Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending | 3 credit hours |
| Why are some individuals predatory, dangerous, even psychopathic, while others, exposed to the same environmental factors, are not? This class will examine the role biology plays in crime causation, with a special emphasis on understanding serial offending. It will also examine how biological factors interact with and correlate with environmental variables to produce social pathology. Studies on twins, adoption studies, studies from molecular genetics, as well as studies from psychology, neuroscience, and sociology will be examined. No prior experience or training in biology is necessary. | ||
| CJ8029 | Sex Offenders | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to research on the prevalence and characteristics of sex offenders. It also discusses theoretical models of treatment, and reviews evidence-based practices with respect to assessment and intervention with this special population. Furthermore, this course will explore implications for the community supervision of sex offenders, cooperation between law enforcement and state/county agencies, and applicable laws pertaining to sex offenders. | ||
| CJ8060 | Seminar in Correctional Rehabilitation | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines theories, techniques, and policies of correctional treatment from applied, planning, and evaluation perspectives. Special focus is given to the classification of offenders, to how criminological theory informs rehabilitation programming, and to the principles of effective correctional intervention. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students, using the existing research, on what "works" and "doesn't work" in the treatment of offenders. | ||
| CJ8061 | Applied Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to the application of assessment and cognitive-behavioral treatment with offender populations. As such, this course emphasizes the practical and applied (i.e., hands-on) application of the principles of effective intervention to "routine programs" in corrections. Students will gain exposure to some of the latest advancements in offender classification and assessment, case management, core correctional practices, and measures of program fidelity. | ||
| CJ8062 | Seminar in Community Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course is designed to provide an overview the origins, nature, and effectiveness of various criminal justice programs found under the term "community corrections." Emphasis is given to recent developments in community corrections, such as intermediate sanctions, drug courts, and effective treatment interventions. The characteristics of effective programs and effective correctional agencies are also discussed. | ||
| CJ8065 | Offenders with Mental Illness and the Correctional System | 3 credit hours |
| Offenders with mental illness are over-represented in the criminal justice system. Effectively managing, supervising, and treating this unique correctional subpopulation is a policy-relevant concern. In this course, students will evaluate extant theories concerning the relationship between mental illness and crime, critique the empirical evidence supporting and refuting these theories, and examine the challenges and approaches for treating, supervising, and managing this population in correctional settings. | ||
| CJ8072 | Seminar in White-Collar Crime | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the definition, measurement, extent, and costs of White-Collar and organizational crime. The characteristics of "upperworld" offenders are described and contrasted to those of "street" criminals. Criminological theories proposed to explain individual and organizational forms of White-Collar crime are reviewed and assessed. Special attention is paid to the use of the criminal law in the control of organizationally based White-Collar crime. | ||
| CJ8074 | Applied Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course covers the theory, research, and application of opportunity blocking techniques to reduce crime. Opportunity blocking is widely used by police agencies to prevent crime, disorder, and many other problems. It has been applied to such problems as homicide, street robbery, assaults, burglary, terrorism, maritime piracy, internet crimes, child abuse, and crowd violence. This course describes the basic principles of crime prevention, how crime problems are analyzed to develop appropriate interventions, techniques for prevention, and the mobilization of third-parties to implement prevention. | ||
| CJ8082 | Seminar on Police Effectiveness | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines alternative criteria by which the effectiveness of police strategies can be assessed and critically reviews empirical studies of police effectiveness. Principal emphasis is placed on contemporary police innovations, such as community policing, problem-oriented policing, and "hot spots" policing. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students on policing strategies that "work" and "don't work" in law enforcement. | ||
| Core courses (15 semester hours/5 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take all five of the courses listed as part of the Core Curriculum. | ||
| CJ7010 | Seminar in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the criminal justice system, including the police, courts, prosecution, and corrections. Special attention is given to the structural, organizational, and micro-level aspects of the criminal justice system and their interactions. A major goal of the course is developing an understanding of how criminal justice operates in the United States. | ||
| CJ7020 | Seminar in Criminology | 3 credit hours |
| This course presents an overview of the nature of crime in American society. Special focus is given to the major theoretical approaches to the explanation of criminal behavior at both the micro-level (why individuals commit crime) and the macro-level (why crime rates vary across communities). | ||
| CJ7040 | Applied Statistics in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course focuses on the evaluation of criminal justice policies and practices. Topics that will be covered include the development of evaluation plans, process and impact evaluations, evaluation designs, and causal inference. | ||
| CJ7041 | Basic Research Methods in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an introduction to research design as applied to crime and criminal justice research. There is an analysis of the scientific method, sampling, and basic research design. | ||
| CJ7098 | Demonstration Research Project | 3 credit hours |
| Using the theoretical and methodological skills developed in the program, students undertake an individual research paper. The paper will focus on a contemporary issue in criminology or criminal justice that will be selected by the supervising professor in his or her area of expertise. Students will be expected to assess the theoretical background and empirical research relevant to the issue chosen by the professor. The purpose of the project is to enable students to demonstrate their independent ability to apply their knowledge to a contemporary criminal justice or criminological issue or problem. | ||
| Analysis of criminal behavior Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take both required courses for this concentration, and at least one of the electives. | ||
| CJ8028 | Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending (REQUIRED) | 3 credit hours |
| Why are some individuals predatory, dangerous, even psychopathic, while others, exposed to the same environmental factors, are not? This class will examine the role biology plays in crime causation, with a special emphasis on understanding serial offending. It will also examine how biological factors interact with and correlate with environmental variables to produce social pathology. Studies on twins, adoption studies, studies from molecular genetics, as well as studies from psychology, neuroscience, and sociology will be examined. No prior experience or training in biology is necessary. Required course in the Analysis of Criminal Behavior concentration. | ||
| CJ8013 | Seminar in Juvenile Justice (REQUIRED) | 3 credit hours |
| A major task of the juvenile justice system is responding to various social problems that involve children and adolescents, including abuse, neglect, and violent behavior. Much public debate surrounds the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in addressing these concerns and in curtailing the misbehavior of youths. In this context, this course examines the empirical literature on the juvenile justice system, especially as it relates to effective interventions. Special attention is paid to the intersection of what is known about the causes of serious delinquent behavior and how the juvenile justice system responds to those causes. Required course in the Analysis of Criminal Behavior concentration. | ||
| CJ8029 | Sex Offenders | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to research on the prevalence and characteristics of sex offenders. It also discusses theoretical models of treatment, and reviews evidence-based practices with respect to assessment and intervention with this special population. Furthermore, this course will explore implications for the community supervision of sex offenders, cooperation between law enforcement and state/county agencies, and applicable laws pertaining to sex offenders. | ||
| CJ8072 | Seminar in White-Collar Crime | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the definition, measurement, extent, and costs of White-Collar and organizational crime. The characteristics of "upperworld" offenders are described and contrasted to those of “street” criminals. Criminological theories proposed to explain individual and organizational forms of White-Collar crime are reviewed and assessed. Special attention is paid to the use of the criminal law in the control of organizationally based White-Collar crime. | ||
| General Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take three additional courses of your choice, from within or outside your concentration, to fulfill this requirement. | ||
| CJ7011 | Seminar in Law and Social Control | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the nature of law, legal institutions, and related mechanisms of social control. Special attention is paid to critical perspectives on social control, to issues of race, class, and social justice, and to the intersection of criminal justice with other systems of social control. | ||
| CJ7060 | Correctional Theory and Policy | 3 credit hours |
| This course explores the major justifications for corrections, with a special focus on rehabilitation, deterrence, incapacitation, and restorative justice. Each theory's central principles, empirical adequacy, and policy implications are examined. Special consideration is given to the social and political contexts that have shaped correctional policy and practice in the past and in recent times. The purpose of the course is to enable students to develop a research-based theory of corrections. | ||
| CJ7070 | Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course will explore the various approaches to reducing crime and the theories that inform those approaches. The course aims to provide understanding of the empirical evidence regarding the distribution of crime across offenders, victims, and places/spaces; various theoretical explanations for these patterns, with most emphasis on those theories that form the underpinnings of situational crime prevention; practical techniques for preventing crime using situational approaches, community-based approaches, social developmental approaches, and criminal justice system-based approaches; key issues involved in the implementation of crime prevention strategies, including competency, ethics, and displacement; and key issues involved in the rigorous evaluation of crime prevention strategies. | ||
| CJ7080 | Theory and Practice of Law Enforcement | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the development and function of policing in contemporary American society. The impact of social, economic, and political forces on the structure and definition of contemporary police agencies are employed through a review of classical and contemporary literature on policing. Contemporary problems and issues in law enforcement are analyzed within the context of recent research. | ||
| CJ8060 | Seminar in Correctional Rehabilitation | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines theories, techniques, and policies of correctional treatment from applied, planning, and evaluation perspectives. Special focus is given to the classification of offenders, to how criminological theory informs rehabilitation programming, and to the principles of effective correctional intervention. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students, using the existing research, on what “works” and “doesn’t work” in the treatment of offenders. | ||
| CJ8061 | Applied Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to the application of assessment and cognitive-behavioral treatment with offender populations. As such, this course emphasizes the practical and applied (i.e., hands-on) application of the principles of effective intervention to "routine programs" in corrections. Students will gain exposure to some of the latest advancements in offender classification and assessment, case management, core correctional practices, and measures of program fidelity. | ||
| CJ8062 | Seminar in Community Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course is designed to provide an overview the origins, nature, and effectiveness of various criminal justice programs found under the term "community corrections." Emphasis is given to recent developments in community corrections, such as intermediate sanctions, drug courts, and effective treatment interventions. The characteristics of effective programs and effective correctional agencies are also discussed. | ||
| CJ8065 | Offenders with Mental Illness and the Correctional System | 3 credit hours |
| Offenders with mental illness are over-represented in the criminal justice system. Effectively managing, supervising, and treating this unique correctional subpopulation is a policy-relevant concern. In this course, students will evaluate extant theories concerning the relationship between mental illness and crime, critique the empirical evidence supporting and refuting these theories, and examine the challenges and approaches for treating, supervising, and managing this population in correctional settings. | ||
| CJ8074 | Applied Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course covers the theory, research, and application of opportunity blocking techniques to reduce crime. Opportunity blocking is widely used by police agencies to prevent crime, disorder, and many other problems. It has been applied to such problems as homicide, street robbery, assaults, burglary, terrorism, maritime piracy, internet crimes, child abuse, and crowd violence. This course describes the basic principles of crime prevention, how crime problems are analyzed to develop appropriate interventions, techniques for prevention, and the mobilization of third-parties to implement prevention. | ||
| CJ8082 | Seminar on Police Effectiveness | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines alternative criteria by which the effectiveness of police strategies can be assessed and critically reviews empirical studies of police effectiveness. Principal emphasis is placed on contemporary police innovations, such as community policing, problem-oriented policing, and “hot spots” policing. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students on policing strategies that "work" and "don't work" in law enforcement. | ||
I used to focus on just getting the bad guy, but now I have an appreciation for the system as a whole. – Thomas Lynch, Investigator
| Core courses (15 semester hours/5 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take all five of the courses listed as part of the Core Curriculum. | ||
| CJ7010 | Seminar in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the criminal justice system, including the police, courts, prosecution, and corrections. Special attention is given to the structural, organizational, and micro-level aspects of the criminal justice system and their interactions. A major goal of the course is developing an understanding of how criminal justice operates in the United States. | ||
| CJ7020 | Seminar in Criminology | 3 credit hours |
| This course presents an overview of the nature of crime in American society. Special focus is given to the major theoretical approaches to the explanation of criminal behavior at both the micro-level (why individuals commit crime) and the macro-level (why crime rates vary across communities). | ||
| CJ7040 | Applied Statistics in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course focuses on the evaluation of criminal justice policies and practices. Topics that will be covered include the development of evaluation plans, process and impact evaluations, evaluation designs, and causal inference. | ||
| CJ7041 | Basic Research Methods in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an introduction to research design as applied to crime and criminal justice research. There is an analysis of the scientific method, sampling, and basic research design. | ||
| CJ7098 | Demonstration Research Project | 3 credit hours |
| Using the theoretical and methodological skills developed in the program, students undertake an individual research paper. The paper will focus on a contemporary issue in criminology or criminal justice that will be selected by the supervising professor in his or her area of expertise. Students will be expected to assess the theoretical background and empirical research relevant to the issue chosen by the professor. The purpose of the project is to enable students to demonstrate their independent ability to apply their knowledge to a contemporary criminal justice or criminological issue or problem. | ||
| Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take both required courses for this concentration, and at least one of the electives. | ||
| CJ7070 | Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention (Required) | 3 credit hours |
| This course will explore the various approaches to reducing crime and the theories that inform those approaches. The course aims to provide understanding of the empirical evidence regarding the distribution of crime across offenders, victims, and places/spaces; various theoretical explanations for these patterns, with most emphasis on those theories that form the underpinnings of situational crime prevention; practical techniques for preventing crime using situational approaches, community-based approaches, social developmental approaches, and criminal justice system-based approaches; key issues involved in the implementation of crime prevention strategies, including competency, ethics, and displacement; and key issues involved in the rigorous evaluation of crime prevention strategies. Required course in the Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention concentration. | ||
| CJ7080 | Theory and Practice of Law Enforcement (Required) | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the development and function of policing in contemporary American society. The impact of social, economic, and political forces on the structure and definition of contemporary police agencies are employed through a review of classical and contemporary literature on policing. Contemporary problems and issues in law enforcement are analyzed within the context of recent research. Required course in the Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention concentration. | ||
| CJ7011 | Seminar in Law and Social Control | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the nature of law, legal institutions, and related mechanisms of social control. Special attention is paid to critical perspectives on social control, to issues of race, class, and social justice, and to the intersection of criminal justice with other systems of social control. | ||
| CJ8074 | Applied Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course covers the theory, research, and application of opportunity blocking techniques to reduce crime. Opportunity blocking is widely used by police agencies to prevent crime, disorder, and many other problems. It has been applied to such problems as homicide, street robbery, assaults, burglary, terrorism, maritime piracy, internet crimes, child abuse, and crowd violence. This course describes the basic principles of crime prevention, how crime problems are analyzed to develop appropriate interventions, techniques for prevention, and the mobilization of third-parties to implement prevention. | ||
| CJ8082 | Seminar on Police Effectiveness | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines alternative criteria by which the effectiveness of police strategies can be assessed and critically reviews empirical studies of police effectiveness. Principal emphasis is placed on contemporary police innovations, such as community policing, problem-oriented policing, and "hot spots" policing. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students on policing strategies that “work” and "don't work" in law enforcement. | ||
| General Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take three additional courses of your choice, from within or outside your concentration, to fulfill this requirement. | ||
| CJ7060 | Correctional Theory and Policy | 3 credit hours |
| This course explores the major justifications for corrections, with a special focus on rehabilitation, deterrence, incapacitation, and restorative justice. Each theory’s central principles, empirical adequacy, and policy implications are examined. Special consideration is given to the social and political contexts that have shaped correctional policy and practice in the past and in recent times. The purpose of the course is to enable students to develop a research-based theory of corrections. | ||
| CJ8013 | Seminar in Juvenile Justice | 3 credit hours |
| A major task of the juvenile justice system is responding to various social problems that involve children and adolescents, including abuse, neglect, and violent behavior. Much public debate surrounds the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in addressing these concerns and in curtailing the misbehavior of youths. In this context, this course examines the empirical literature on the juvenile justice system, especially as it relates to effective interventions. Special attention is paid to the intersection of what is known about the causes of serious delinquent behavior and how the juvenile justice system responds to those causes. | ||
| CJ8028 | Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending | 3 credit hours |
| Why are some individuals predatory, dangerous, even psychopathic, while others, exposed to the same environmental factors, are not? This class will examine the role biology plays in crime causation, with a special emphasis on understanding serial offending. It will also examine how biological factors interact with and correlate with environmental variables to produce social pathology. Studies on twins, adoption studies, studies from molecular genetics, as well as studies from psychology, neuroscience, and sociology will be examined. No prior experience or training in biology is necessary. | ||
| CJ8029 | Sex Offenders | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to research on the prevalence and characteristics of sex offenders. It also discusses theoretical models of treatment, and reviews evidence-based practices with respect to assessment and intervention with this special population. Furthermore, this course will explore implications for the community supervision of sex offenders, cooperation between law enforcement and state/county agencies, and applicable laws pertaining to sex offenders. | ||
| CJ8060 | Seminar in Correctional Rehabilitation | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines theories, techniques, and policies of correctional treatment from applied, planning, and evaluation perspectives. Special focus is given to the classification of offenders, to how criminological theory informs rehabilitation programming, and to the principles of effective correctional intervention. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students, using the existing research, on what "works" and "doesn't work" in the treatment of offenders. | ||
| CJ8061 | Applied Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to the application of assessment and cognitive-behavioral treatment with offender populations. As such, this course emphasizes the practical and applied (i.e., hands-on) application of the principles of effective intervention to "routine programs" in corrections. Students will gain exposure to some of the latest advancements in offender classification and assessment, case management, core correctional practices, and measures of program fidelity. | ||
| CJ8062 | Seminar in Community Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course is designed to provide an overview the origins, nature, and effectiveness of various criminal justice programs found under the term "community corrections." Emphasis is given to recent developments in community corrections, such as intermediate sanctions, drug courts, and effective treatment interventions. The characteristics of effective programs and effective correctional agencies are also discussed. | ||
| CJ8065 | Offenders with Mental Illness and the Correctional System | 3 credit hours |
| Offenders with mental illness are over-represented in the criminal justice system. Effectively managing, supervising, and treating this unique correctional subpopulation is a policy-relevant concern. In this course, students will evaluate extant theories concerning the relationship between mental illness and crime, critique the empirical evidence supporting and refuting these theories, and examine the challenges and approaches for treating, supervising, and managing this population in correctional settings. | ||
| CJ8072 | Seminar in White-Collar Crime | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the definition, measurement, extent, and costs of White-Collar and organizational crime. The characteristics of "upperworld" offenders are described and contrasted to those of "street" criminals. Criminological theories proposed to explain individual and organizational forms of White-Collar crime are reviewed and assessed. Special attention is paid to the use of the criminal law in the control of organizationally based White-Collar crime. | ||
This degree gives you an incredible competitive advantage… – Thomas Lynch, Investigator
| Core courses (15 semester hours/5 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take all five of the courses listed as part of the Core Curriculum. | ||
| CJ7010 | Seminar in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the criminal justice system, including the police, courts, prosecution, and corrections. Special attention is given to the structural, organizational, and micro-level aspects of the criminal justice system and their interactions. A major goal of the course is developing an understanding of how criminal justice operates in the United States. | ||
| CJ7020 | Seminar in Criminology | 3 credit hours |
| This course presents an overview of the nature of crime in American society. Special focus is given to the major theoretical approaches to the explanation of criminal behavior at both the micro-level (why individuals commit crime) and the macro-level (why crime rates vary across communities). | ||
| CJ7040 | Applied Statistics in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course focuses on the evaluation of criminal justice policies and practices. Topics that will be covered include the development of evaluation plans, process and impact evaluations, evaluation designs, and causal inference. | ||
| CJ7041 | Basic Research Methods in Criminal Justice | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an introduction to research design as applied to crime and criminal justice research. There is an analysis of the scientific method, sampling, and basic research design. | ||
| CJ7098 | Demonstration Research Project | 3 credit hours |
| Using the theoretical and methodological skills developed in the program, students undertake an individual research paper. The paper will focus on a contemporary issue in criminology or criminal justice that will be selected by the supervising professor in his or her area of expertise. Students will be expected to assess the theoretical background and empirical research relevant to the issue chosen by the professor. The purpose of the project is to enable students to demonstrate their independent ability to apply their knowledge to a contemporary criminal justice or criminological issue or problem. | ||
| Corrections & Offender Rehabilitation Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take both required courses for this concentration, and at least one of the electives. | ||
| CJ7060 | Correctional Theory and Policy (Required) | 3 credit hours |
| This course explores the major justifications for corrections, with a special focus on rehabilitation, deterrence, incapacitation, and restorative justice. Each theory's central principles, empirical adequacy, and policy implications are examined. Special consideration is given to the social and political contexts that have shaped correctional policy and practice in the past and in recent times. The purpose of the course is to enable students to develop a research-based theory of corrections. Required course in the Corrections and Offender Rehabilitation concentration. | ||
| CJ8060 | Seminar in Correctional Rehabilitation (Required) | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines theories, techniques, and policies of correctional treatment from applied, planning, and evaluation perspectives. Special focus is given to the classification of offenders, to how criminological theory informs rehabilitation programming, and to the principles of effective correctional intervention. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students, using the existing research, on what "works" and "doesn't work" in the treatment of offenders. Required course in the Corrections and Offender Rehabilitation concentration. | ||
| CJ8061 | Applied Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to the application of assessment and cognitive-behavioral treatment with offender populations. As such, this course emphasizes the practical and applied (i.e., hands-on) application of the principles of effective intervention to "routine programs" in corrections. Students will gain exposure to some of the latest advancements in offender classification and assessment, case management, core correctional practices, and measures of program fidelity. | ||
| CJ8062 | Seminar in Community Corrections | 3 credit hours |
| This course is designed to provide an overview the origins, nature, and effectiveness of various criminal justice programs found under the term "community corrections." Emphasis is given to recent developments in community corrections, such as intermediate sanctions, drug courts, and effective treatment interventions. The characteristics of effective programs and effective correctional agencies are also discussed. | ||
| CJ8065 | Offenders with Mental Illness and the Correctional System | 3 credit hours |
| Offenders with mental illness are over-represented in the criminal justice system. Effectively managing, supervising, and treating this unique correctional sub-population is a policy-relevant concern. In this course, students will evaluate extant theories concerning the relationship between mental illness and crime, critique the empirical evidence supporting and refuting these theories, and examine the challenges and approaches for treating, supervising, and managing this population in correctional settings. | ||
| General Electives (9 semester hours/3 courses) | ||
|---|---|---|
| You must take three additional courses of your choice, from within or outside your concentration, to fulfill this requirement. | ||
| CJ7011 | Seminar in Law and Social Control | 3 credit hours |
| This course provides an overview of the theory and research on the nature of law, legal institutions, and related mechanisms of social control. Special attention is paid to critical perspectives on social control, to issues of race, class, and social justice, and to the intersection of criminal justice with other systems of social control. | ||
| CJ7070 | Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course will explore the various approaches to reducing crime and the theories that inform those approaches. The course aims to provide understanding of the empirical evidence regarding the distribution of crime across offenders, victims, and places/spaces; various theoretical explanations for these patterns, with most emphasis on those theories that form the underpinnings of situational crime prevention; practical techniques for preventing crime using situational approaches, community-based approaches, social developmental approaches, and criminal justice system-based approaches; key issues involved in the implementation of crime prevention strategies, including competency, ethics, and displacement; and key issues involved in the rigorous evaluation of crime prevention strategies. | ||
| CJ7080 | Theory and Practice of Law Enforcement | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the development and function of policing in contemporary American society. The impact of social, economic, and political forces on the structure and definition of contemporary police agencies are employed through a review of classical and contemporary literature on policing. Contemporary problems and issues in law enforcement are analyzed within the context of recent research. | ||
| CJ8013 | Seminar in Juvenile Justice | 3 credit hours |
| A major task of the juvenile justice system is responding to various social problems that involve children and adolescents, including abuse, neglect, and violent behavior. Much public debate surrounds the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in addressing these concerns and in curtailing the misbehavior of youths. In this context, this course examines the empirical literature on the juvenile justice system, especially as it relates to effective interventions. Special attention is paid to the intersection of what is known about the causes of serious delinquent behavior and how the juvenile justice system responds to those causes. | ||
| CJ8028 | Biosocial Factors in Serial Offending | 3 credit hours |
| Why are some individuals predatory, dangerous, even psychopathic, while others, exposed to the same environmental factors, are not? This class will examine the role biology plays in crime causation, with a special emphasis on understanding serial offending. It will also examine how biological factors interact with and correlate with environmental variables to produce social pathology. Studies on twins, adoption studies, studies from molecular genetics, as well as studies from psychology, neuroscience, and sociology will be examined. No prior experience or training in biology is necessary. | ||
| CJ8029 | Sex Offenders | 3 credit hours |
| This course introduces students to research on the prevalence and characteristics of sex offenders. It also discusses theoretical models of treatment, and reviews evidence-based practices with respect to assessment and intervention with this special population. Furthermore, this course will explore implications for the community supervision of sex offenders, cooperation between law enforcement and state/county agencies, and applicable laws pertaining to sex offenders. | ||
| CJ8072 | Seminar in White-Collar Crime | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines the definition, measurement, extent, and costs of White-Collar and organizational crime. The characteristics of "upperworld" offenders are described and contrasted to those of "street" criminals. Criminological theories proposed to explain individual and organizational forms of White-Collar crime are reviewed and assessed. Special attention is paid to the use of the criminal law in the control of organizationally based White-Collar crime. | ||
| CJ8074 | Applied Crime Prevention | 3 credit hours |
| This course covers the theory, research, and application of opportunity blocking techniques to reduce crime. Opportunity blocking is widely used by police agencies to prevent crime, disorder, and many other problems. It has been applied to such problems as homicide, street robbery, assaults, burglary, terrorism, maritime piracy, internet crimes, child abuse, and crowd violence. This course describes the basic principles of crime prevention, how crime problems are analyzed to develop appropriate interventions, techniques for prevention, and the mobilization of third-parties to implement prevention. | ||
| CJ8082 | Seminar on Police Effectiveness | 3 credit hours |
| This course examines alternative criteria by which the effectiveness of police strategies can be assessed and critically reviews empirical studies of police effectiveness. Principal emphasis is placed on contemporary police innovations, such as community policing, problem-oriented policing, and "hot spots" policing. A primary purpose of this course is to inform students on policing strategies that "work" and "don't work" in law enforcement. | ||
Every course was applicable, in my role as a Probation and Parole Officer… – Ryan Labrecque, Former Probation and Parole Officer and Current Ph.D. Student
UC professors aren’t just teaching about the criminal justice field. They are helping shape it – one student at a time. In this highly ranked master’s degree program, you will learn from full-time faculty who are creating theories and publishing the books used in other criminal justice academic programs. Need proof? The UC faculty is ranked #1 nationally by The Journal of Criminal Justice for having the most published articles. If you are ready to become a leader and change the criminal justice field, you have found the right place.
A background in criminal justice is not required for this program. Admission is available to all qualified applicants based on the following requirements:
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There are four steps to complete the application for admission into the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice program.
UC offers three convenient start dates per year. The following academic calendar is for current and upcoming semesters:
| Term | Summer 2013 | Fall 2013 | Spring 2014 |
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| Application Deadline | 04/05/2013 | 07/26/2013 | TBD |
| Registration Deadline | 05/05/2012 | 08/25/2013 | TBD |
| Classes Begin | 05/06/2013 | 08/26/2013 | TBD |
If you have already completed some graduate-level criminal justice courses, it may be possible to transfer up to 9 credit hours. These credits can only be applied to the general elective requirement and must meet the following two stipulations:
As many of our graduates have discovered, the investment you make in your education right now may begin paying off for you in as little as one year. UC’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice boasts one of the most highly regarded programs in the criminal justice field at a cost competitive with similar graduate level programs. What’s more, you may be eligible for federal student aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and educational loans. There is no cost to apply for financial assistance, and you may qualify for a student loan regardless of your income or credit history.
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| Tuition listed above is based on the 2012-2013 tuition schedule. Tuition and fees are subject to change. You will also be responsible for any additional costs towards the purchase of textbooks and course material (estimated between $100 – $200 per semester). | |||||||||||||||||||||
Financial aid for your education is available from a variety of sources, such as Federal Direct Loans, private scholarships, or alternative student loans for those who qualify. For more assistance, please contact the University of Cincinnati Office of Financial Aid or contact an Enrollment Advisor by calling 800-645-5078.
You are ready.Ready for growth. Ready for knowledge. Ready to be a leader. Ready for the next step in your life. By filling out the form to the right, you are completing the first part of the application process and taking the first step toward changing your life. Your Enrollment Advisor will contact you soon to review the entire process and assist with any questions you may have. Congratulations on your decision!We look forward to welcoming you to the UC family. |
University of Cincinnati (UC) celebrates a rich and unique history tracing back to 1819. With a number of major contributions to society in the realms of science, music, education, and more, UC is on the forefront of higher education. Ranked #3 by U.S. News & World Report (2010), the School of Criminal Justice is nationally-renowned and proudly boasts the most published faculty in the nation. The college relishes its role as a thought center and impetus for change in the criminal justice field.
The University is categorized at the highest level of higher education, as a Doctoral/Research University – Extensive by the Carnegie Commission, which recognizes the notable achievements of its faculty, research, novel curriculum, and program accreditations. UC encompasses 4 campuses totaling 473 acres in Cincinnati, Ohio. Each year, this urban, public, research university graduates 5,000 students, adding to more than 200,000 living alumni around the world. UC is the largest employer in the Cincinnati region, with an economic impact of more than $3 billion.
The University of Cincinnati embraces diversity as a core value in preparing students for a global society. The talents and perspectives of people from different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, economic statuses, family structures, disabilities, and religions enrich and empower the community of our vibrant university. To learn more about our commitment to diversity, please click here.
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University of Cincinnati is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).*Regional accreditation is the type of accreditation awarded to the nation’s largest and most prestigious public and private colleges and universities. All public, state-funded universities in the United States, including the University of Cincinnati, are regionally accredited.UC’s accreditation and rankings make the University of Cincinnati the most highly regarded criminal justice schooloffering an online master’s degree in criminal justice.*The Higher Learning Commission, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504 Phone: 800-621-7440; Fax: 312-263-7462. |
The Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and the nationally-renowned faculty are dedicated to producing leaders in the criminal justice field.
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The University of Cincinnati is recognized for its commitment to education and research:
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UC has put a multi-level support team in place to assist you with both your academic questions and technical support needs.
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5042
Email: ybello-admissions@cjonline.uc.edu
Ysaac grew up in the Dominican Republic and moved to the states in 1996. He has had some fairly “cool” experiences: playing minor league baseball for the Colorado Rockies and selling refrigeration and air conditioning repair. With a genuine talent for customer service, he wanted to find a job where he could help people change their lives. Working for the University of Cincinnati has fulfilled that dream. Ysaac has worked for the UC off-site admissions center since 2003. Matching excellent students to an excellent program is incredibly rewarding.
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5154
Email: dgaugh-admissions@cjonline.uc.edu
It has been a career dream come true for Dennis, from private school ownership and management in 1983 to representing the most incredible master’s degree in criminal justice with the University of Cincinnati. He has maintained two very simple philosophies: treat everyone the same as he expects to be treated and have a passion and belief in what you do, or step away. With Dennis’ passion for students, he has no plans of stepping away and looks forward to helping you reach your dreams, too!
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5054
Email: l.jones@cjonline.uc.edu
Lauren is not only an Enrollment Advisor in the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice at UC; she’s also a graduate! Lauren completed the online program in 2011. With her own experience in the program, as well as her extensive experience in student advising and customer support, Lauren is ideally suited for a role as an Enrollment Advisor. She has a unique ability to clearly define processes and communicate them effectively to her potential students. She has worked for the University of Cincinnati for more than four years. She has been recognized numerous times for performance and customer service.
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5120
Email: m.hartman@cjonline.uc.edu
Megan Hartman has worked with the University of Cincinnati since 2010, on a myriad of programs and joined the team of the Criminal Justice Distance Learning program in December 2011. Megan earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL. Megan has a passion for the higher education field which stems from her own collegiate experience at USF where she served in many leadership roles during her undergraduate years.
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5136
Email: b.staton2@cjonline.uc.edu
Brandye Staton began her role on UC's Criminal Justice Distance Learning team in February 2012, but she is certainly not new to the field of higher education. Brandye earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Communication from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS. She also worked for the Southern Mississippi Office of Admissions on the Student Recruitment Team and was selected as a member of the University Ambassador Team, through which she had the opportunity to facilitate recruitment activities, campus visits, and orientation for freshman and transfer students. She has also worked in various Admissions roles with other nationally-recognized universities.
Phone: 800-645-5078 ext. 5161
Email: j.daniel2@cjonline.uc.edu
Jessica Daniel officially became a member of the growing MSCJ team in January 2013, where she supports students with the last name S-Z. She has been a part of the College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services (CECH) team since 2012; she has worked with students in the Masters of Education in Curriculum Instruction, Educational Leadership and Special Education online programs. Jessica earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Florida. She is also a South Florida native who enjoys a day on the beach with family and friends and appreciates a great outdoor barbeque!
Title: Academic Director
Phone: 513-556-1849
Email: winninl@ucmail.uc.edu
Luahna Winningham Carter received her B.S. in psychology from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and her M.S. in criminology from Indiana State University. As the Associate Director for Distance Learning, she oversees the daily operations of the Online Master of Science Degree Program. Luahna has been an active contributor to Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management; co-authored papers and presented at academic conferences for The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, the American Society of Criminology, and the Midwestern Criminal Justice Association; and served as an adjunct instructor for the University of Cincinnati.
Title: Associate Academic Director
Phone: 513-556-5933
Email: wrighkt@ucmail.uc.edu
Kathleen A. Wright received her B.S. in Education from Oklahoma State University followed by an M.S. in Speech Pathology from the University of Oklahoma. She also received an M.A. in Criminal Justice from Wichita State University followed by coursework in the Ph.D. program at the University of Cincinnati. Kathleen has served as an adjunct instructor at Northern Kentucky University. She is currently an Associate Academic Director for the School of Criminal Justice Distance Learning Program at the University of Cincinnati in which she oversees the admission and graduation processes for Master-level students.
Title: Associate Academic Director
Email: padensl@ucmail.uc.edu
Shelley Paden is an Associate Academic Director managing technology and instructional design for the School of Criminal Justice Distance Learning Program at the University of Cincinnati.
Phone: 513-556-5933
Email: pleimat@ucmail.uc.edu
Teresa is the Records Coordinator for the Master's Degree Distance Learning Program.
We’re proud of the achievements of our students and alumni, and our graduates take great pride in having earned their master’s degree from UC. Our graduates come from all walks of life, with alumni working in prestigious positions, such as White House Staff, Police Chiefs, Attorneys, Nuclear Security, Environmental Protection Agency staff, and US Naval Law Enforcement. The distance learning program has graduated more than 1,750 students in its ten year history online. No matter what path you take, the knowledge and skills learned from the online Master of Science in Criminal Justice can open more doors than you can ever imagine. But don’t just take our word for it. Read what graduates from a myriad of backgrounds have to say about the program.
Crystal Gregory
Crime Victims Advocate and Forensic Interviewer
Crystal Gregory is a Crime Victims Advocate and Forensic Interviewer who has worked in the field for more than five years. She also has experience working with both a Judge and a District Attorney. Helping victims testify in court is an incredibly difficult job, but incredibly rewarding. Crystal has aspirations of becoming a crime victim lobbyist in Washington, D.C., and is confident the knowledge she has obtained with her master’s degree in criminal justice has given her a great chance to achieve that dream.
Being able to explain the entire scope of the court system to a victim is invaluable. The online Master’s degree in Criminal Justice helped me improve my communication, writing, and time management skills. The professors had such a good reputation that I knew they would be great at passing their knowledge on to me. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
Bryan Tye
Marine
Bryan Tye graduated with his MSCJ degree while in the Marine Corps officer program. He is using his degree to obtain a position in the federal government, where he wants to be involved in protecting his country and combating terrorism.
Apart from the excellent curriculum, the theory-based program helps you to assess every perspective in a given situation—an invaluable tool in making quick, accurate decisions. The professors are incredible at helping you discover answers to tough questions. This is an excellent degree if you are planning on advancing yourself in a new career.
Danielle Cheers
State Probation Officer
Danielle Cheers is a State Probation Officer who graduated from UC’s online Criminal Justice Master’s degree program. She has previous experience working as a probation officer for a large private company, but after obtaining a job with the state, she wanted a degree to help her get promoted within that system. Having devoted her life to helping offenders find a better path in their lives, she now plans to work toward her Ph.D. and may potentially take her talents to the federal government.
I wanted an online degree and was impressed that UC had the #3 Criminal Justice school in the country. I was hooked after speaking with my Enrollment Advisor, Ysaac, who was incredibly helpful and encouraging. With my degree—and the knowledge I gained in my law enforcement and corrections classes—I was able to get a higher position within the state. This is a wonderful program.
Lance Heard
Professor
After nearly 20 years in law enforcement, Lance Heard decided to get his MSCJ to achieve a promotion in his department. While in the program, however, he realized that this degree provided an opportunity to teach. He is now a full-time professor who loves being around students and helping them achieve their life-long goals.
The UC MSCJ program was an excellent learning experience — as good as anything you will ever find. The program has given me unique techniques for online instruction in my own classroom, where I am keeping my students at the forefront of technology.
Michael Ramon
US Marshal
Michael Ramon joined the United States Marshals Service (USMS) after a 3 year stint in the U.S. Air Force. During his career, he made hundreds of arrests, including a USMS Top 15 fugitive. Michael was in charge of a region for the Witness Security Program and handled dozens of protected witnesses. He was also in charge of a region for the Court Security Program and helped protect federal judges and U.S. courthouses. Michael was politically appointed as the U.S. Marshal for C/CA, the largest Marshal’s office in the country and later appointed as the Deputy Director for the USMS, the first career person in the 221-year history of the agency to be appointed to that position.
One of the most surprising things to me was to find out how much I learned from the UC program even though I had spent 30 years in law enforcement. I would recommend UC to anyone who needs a deeper understanding of management and leadership for their job or wants to attain a degree that will be meaningful and valued by other universities.
John Doe
FBI
A recent graduate of UC's online Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, "John Doe" has worked in Homeland Security and as an intelligence analyst for a large company. He now works for the FBI where he enjoys researching trends and patterns, and deciphering how everything fits into the larger puzzle. Washington, D.C. is a very competitive market, and his degree allows him to be competitive for any position in the future. He liked the online program because he had the ability to work at his own pace, from anywhere he could access the Internet. But he most enjoyed the excellent curriculum.
I love the prestige, honor, values, and history of the FBI. Being able to present specific solutions with credible supporting information is paramount in the FBI. Without this program I would not have that knowledge, and I wouldn't be where I am today. Being online was such a great situation for me because it gave me the flexibility and freedom to work on my schedule. Even with no federal government experience, an MSCJ degree from UC makes you competitive with everyone.
Careers in the criminal justice system encompass everything from law enforcement to the court system to the penal system — and everything in between. Our students have their own aspirations and ideas of what they will do with their degrees in criminal justice. Many find positions in law enforcement, corrections, federal jobs, investigations, and social services, as well as positions in higher education such as teachers of criminal justice. The choices are almost endless. What you decide to do with your degree is entirely up to you.
The career path most commonly associated with law enforcement is the police officer, however there is a wide range of exciting career opportunities available for law enforcement professionals.
Some career opportunities include:
Corrections professionals are a diverse group of men and women who embody the physical and emotional strength to deal with the stress of regularly dealing with criminals who may be dangerous or incapable of change. There is a brotherhood amongst corrections professionals and a shared pride of improving public safety and the welfare of their community. A career in corrections, while demanding and challenging, can be extremely rewarding because of the chance to make a positive change in the lives of convicted men, women, and juveniles.
Some career opportunities include:
Federal employees represent a diverse group of men and women, who bravely bring their passion for the United States to work with them every day. Traditionally, federal jobs will require an in depth screening process and a higher level of education or specialized training. While law enforcement plays a large role in many branches of the federal government, there are plenty of positions in and out of the field, including more traditional careers in accounting, finance, electrical engineering, computer science, foreign language, and inspection.
Career opportunities at the following organizations could include:
There are two primary types of investigators — public and private. Public investigators are detectives, crime scene investigators, fire inspectors, and other specialized officers that work for the police, fire, or other government agency. Private investigators assist individuals, businesses, and attorneys by finding and analyzing information, providing protection, investigating crimes, finding people, and gathering evidence.
Some career opportunities include:
Demand is high for passionate and supportive social service professionals. Counselors must possess high physical and emotional energy to handle the array of problems they must address, including: behavioral issues, mental health problems, marriage and family trauma, criminal and substance abuse rehabilitation, and many others.
Some career opportunities include:
At a post-secondary level, criminal justice and law enforcement professionals lead courses in criminal justice, criminology, corrections, and law enforcement administration. These individuals will often focus on both teaching and research to stay current on recent trends in criminal justice. At other levels of the educational system, criminal justice professionals can use their knowledge to teach a variety of classes on instructing at-risk students, helping to motivate unresponsive or troubled students, and keeping general order and discipline.
Some career opportunities include:
