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Degree Overview

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

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 employment.

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Available Locations

Tampa, FL Virginia Beach, VA Richmond, VA Austin, TX Columbia, SC Savannah, GA Online West Palm Beach, FL
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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.”

Christopher Butler 2010
Christopher Butler Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice-South University, West Palm Beach

“I started my studies in Criminal Justice prior to my military service and needed to complete my degree. Criminal Justice allowed me to be of service to the community and this nation. South University gave me the educational credentials I needed to get the job advancements and opportunities that have gotten me where I am today in my career field.”

Alicia Parler 2010
Alicia Parler Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies-South University, Columbia

“The comradery among service men and women exists due to hardships and discipline soldiers confront together on a regular basis. More than anything, military life has taught me to appreciate my freedom as an American, something I took for granted before I joined. I learned self-discipline, which made me a better student, and ultimately, helped me realize my career aspirations. As soon as I stepped foot onto campus, and started contacting professors like Carolyn Horner, the whole experience from start-to-finish has been welcoming and encouraging.”

Linda Hunter 2010
Linda Hunter Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies-South University, Savannah

“I can go just about anywhere and say I have a bachelor's degree in Legal Studies from a university whose program is approved by the ABA, and professionals know what that means. I know my hard work and the degree will be noticed.”

blue cap and gown graduate icon
Peter Gross Grad Alumni
Class of '10
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies-South University, West Palm Beach

“My classes at South University were inspiring, not just informative; a thorough curriculum absolutely gave me the background I needed to be hired immediately at my law office.”

What's New

Latest News and Blogs

Denesha Stanley

Jul 08, 2022

Alumni Spotlight: Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Online learning allowed Denesha Staley to balance work, school and home. Now, she’s putting her knowledge and skills to work in the South Carolina Court of Appeals.

Janyl Smith, Esq.

Oct 08, 2021

Alumni Spotlight: Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

See how South University’s Legal Studies program prepared Janyl Smith, Esq. for attending law school and starting her own law firm specializing in estate planning.

Charity Smith

Oct 01, 2021

Alumni Spotlight: Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies

Find out why 2018 grad Charity Smith chose to enroll in the Paralegal Studies (AS) program at South University and how our faculty and staff helped her to succeed in school and beyond.

FAFSA application with pen and money

Aug 11, 2021

9 Fast Facts about the FAFSA

Did you know that over $120 billion in student financial aid is awarded annually? Learn more about federal financial aid and the FAFSA with these 9 fast facts.

Group of people with hands stacked

Jun 23, 2021

Alumni Spotlight: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Learn how Terris Green advanced his career in law enforcement by completing his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree at South University!

Graduation cap and tassel

Jun 16, 2021

Join South University in Celebrating the Class of 2021

This Saturday, June 19, at 12:00 PM ET, South University celebrates the Class of 2021 and Class of 2020 with a live virtual graduation event! Join us as we celebrate this milestone in our graduates’ lives.

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