Skip To Content
REQUEST INFO
Apply Now Log In
Request Info Apply Now

Criminal Justice

Degree Overview

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

South University's Online Programs College of Nursing and Public Health 2023 Commencement
South University Criminal Justice Graduation

Earn your master’s in criminal justice online from South University. The Master of Science in Criminal Justice program dives into the historical and contemporary criminal justice system, examining relationships among law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. Prerequisites for the graduate criminal justice program are limited so that qualified students with bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as criminology, psychology, business or public administration, anthropology, political science, sociology or related social sciences may enroll, along with students who have undergraduate degrees in criminal justice.

Upon completion of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program, you can choose to enter doctoral programs in related fields or seek a leadership position within law enforcement, corrections, local and state government, or legal institutions*.

Please note: While you may be able to take some general education courses at the campuses, all other courses, including specialized courses, will be taken online.

*South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

 
REQUEST INFO

Available Locations

Austin, TX Columbia, SC Online Richmond, VA Savannah, GA Tampa, FL Virginia Beach, VA West Palm Beach, FL
REQUEST INFO
Locations

South University Campuses

Discover the benefits of an education from all South University locations. Since 1899, South University has committed to the professional, social, intellectual, and personal development of our diverse students by providing a faculty that lends professional experience to the learning experience, and a student body that shares a goal of professional fulfillment.

Select a location to learn more

* Not all programs at campuses are offered Online.

success stories

Outstanding Education for Remarkable Careers

We're committed to helping our graduates make an impact in their professional and personal lives. We applaud our alumni and the difference they make. Check out what some of our Criminal Justice & Legal Studies graduates have to say.

Vicki Tucci 1997
Vicki Tucci Grad Alumni
Class of '96
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies-South University, West Palm Beach

“Ultimately, I would like to use my experience and law degree to become a judge. As a young, single mom still fleshing out a career, I felt so clueless about many things. It was that hunger for knowledge that led me to South University’s program in paralegal studies. I got so much more than a classroom education. I found friends, professional contacts, and a world of inspiration from being around people who wanted to see me at my best.”

Steve Knafelc 2013
Steve Knafelc Grad Alumni
Class of '13
Master of Science in Criminal Justice-South University, Columbia

“All of my classes were conducted online, and with my work schedule at the sheriff's office this was the best move for me to make.”

Crystal G Peebles 2013
Crystal G Peebles Grad Alumni
Class of '13
Bachelor Science in Legal Studies-South University, Online Programs

“South University changed and shaped my life in many ways. I am more mature, responsible and independent than I was before attending college. The classes allowed me to build knowledge, skills and discover new passions in the legal field. My degree has helped me obtain three promotions at Richardson Plowden & Robinson, P.A. With my work experience, degree and newly found confidence to reach for the stars, there are no limitations for me.”

Tami Stuart 2011
Tami Stuart Grad Alumni
Class of '11
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies-South University, Montgomery

“I knew I would need to pursue a career I could be passionate about, and something I would be happy doing for a long time. My father was an attorney and he taught me respect for the justice system. I remembered spending many happy hours in his office, when he would point to his statue of Lady Justice and explain the importance of justice being blind and the scales being fair. The fact that the Paralegal Studies program at South University is approved by the American Bar Association was a big part of my decision.”

Fritzlade Narcisse 2011
Fritzlade Narcisse Grad Alumni
Class of '11
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies-South University, West Palm Beach

“I always wanted to help people, and I always loved the law and immigration matters. When I took that immigration law class, I fell in love; I was hooked.”

What's New

Latest News and Blogs

person sitting at a desk and laptop typing on the keyboard

Aug 19, 2025

3 Paths You Can Choose from in Our IT Program

Discover what emphasis options you can choose from as part of South University's Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program.

young lady with brown hair in blue scrubs sitting on the floor with a laptop in her lap

Aug 12, 2025

7 Areas You’ll Study in Our Allied Health Science Program

Discover seven areas that you can study as part of the Allied Health Science program.

Group of healthcare workers in their scrubrs sitting at a table having a discussion

Aug 05, 2025

Anesthesiologist Assistant Program Milestones and Highlights

Discover some of the milestones that students may achieve as part of the Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia Science program.

person in medical safety scrubs looking at test tubes

Jul 29, 2025

10 Public Health Movements That Changed America

Discover some of moments where public health workers contributed to the history of the USA.

West Palm Beach South University College of Health Professions campus

Jul 24, 2025

West Palm Beach Accreditation Announcement

South University's West Palm Beach Physician Assistant program has been granted Accreditation-Continued status.

female counselor supervising a mom and her son while they play together with blocks at a table

Jul 09, 2025

Want to Be a Counselor for Kids and Teens? Here's What It Takes

Learn what makes a counselor for children and teenagers and learn what skills are needed to become one.

Request Information

Fill out the form and a representative will contact you today to better understand your academic goals plus answer any questions you may have.

Campuses offer flexible learning formats* including: on-campus, virtual instructions, and online courses.

*Clinical, practicum, and externship requirements exist in certain programs and require field experiences. Learning formats may not be flexible.

By clicking the button below as my official signature, I consent to representatives of South University contacting me about EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES via email, text or phone including my mobile phone if provided above, using an automatic dialer. I understand that my consent is not a requirement for purchase. Message and data rates may apply. I understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time. I understand that if I am submitting my personal data from outside of the United States, I consent to the transfer of my personal data to, and its storage in, the United States, and I understand that my personal data will be subject to processing in accordance with U.S. laws.

Success! Your request was submitted. We'll be in touch soon!

In the meantime, you can view some of our FAQs.

If you want to talk to an admissions representative ASAP, please contact us at 1-888-444-3404.