If you already work in criminal justice, you might wonder whether a master’s degree is worth the time, cost, and effort. It’s a big decision, and like most big decisions, it depends on what you want out of your future. Let’s walk through some of the potential benefits of earning a master’s degree in criminal justice and what to consider before taking the leap.
How a Graduate Degree in Criminal Justice Could Help You
1. Prepare for advancement within a criminal justice agency
Many people pursue a master’s degree to move up in their careers. If you want to climb the ladder inside a criminal justice agency, having a graduate degree can show that you’re serious about your goal. It can also help you be more competitive when applying for advanced positions in corrections, crime reduction, intelligence, law enforcement administration, investigations, and related areas.
2. Deepen your understanding of criminal justice theory
If you’ve been in the field for a while, you probably have plenty of hands-on experience. But a master’s program could help you connect that experience to the “why” behind criminal justice practices and policies. You can examine historical and contemporary criminal justice systems along with various facets of justice, crime, criminality, and the ethical dilemmas that arise in the field.
3. Build knowledge in criminal justice administration
Want to manage a law enforcement department or team of corrections officers? What about leading an investigative operation or an intelligence initiative? A Master of Science in Criminal Justice can include courses in organizational leadership, ethics, planning, and other aspects of criminal justice administration. These are all crucial if you’re looking to take on an advanced role and make strategic decisions that impact entire teams or communities.
What to Consider Before Getting Your Master’s Degree
Your personal and professional goals
Think about what you want out of your career in the long term. Are you trying to get promoted? Switch career paths? Do you want to lead a team, or would you rather work more independently? Would you like to become an expert in a specific area?
Knowing your goals can help you figure out if a master’s degree in Criminal Justice is the right fit or if there’s another degree or pathway that makes more sense. If you’re certain that you want a criminal justice graduate degree, you’ll probably start by finding your preferred school. When you do, make sure that the curriculum and courses offered match your goals.
Time commitment and scheduling needs
Going back to school takes time and commitment. Classes, reading, assignments, and projects all add up. If you’re already working full-time or have a family, you’ll want to look for programs that offer flexibility, such as evening or online classes.
Financial investment
Graduate school is an expense, but it can also be an investment in your future. As you create a financial plan, you’ll want to think about tuition costs, fees, and other possible expenses (like gas if you’re driving to a campus). If you want to temporarily cut back on your work hours, factor that into your plans as well. To help make school more affordable, be sure to look for or ask about grants, financial aid for those who qualify, and employer tuition assistance programs. If you are an eligible active military personnel, reservist, veteran, or family member, you may also qualify for military benefits.
It’s smart to do research on your field and location to understand what you might gain by earning your degree.
Your work ethic and willingness to grow
Earning a master’s degree can challenge you in unexpected ways. It can even push you to rethink your current ideas and professional practices. But if you’re the kind of person who’s motivated to learn, solve problems, and grow in your career, that challenge could be exciting. A strong work ethic will go a long way in helping you succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Explore South University’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice
A master’s degree in criminal justice isn’t for everyone, but if you’re ready to grow, lead, and make an impact, it could be exactly what you need to take the next step. South University’s Master of Science (MS) in Criminal Justice is designed for professionals who want to move their careers forward. The program covers topics like:
- ethics and moral behavior
- criminological theory
- organizational leadership
- administrative and managerial practices
- research methods and analysis
- communication within and between criminal justice agencies.
Students also have the opportunity to customize their studies by choosing electives that align with their goals. Together with the foundational courses, these classes may help you build the knowledge and confidence to step into advanced roles. South University’s (MS) in Criminal Justice graduates can apply their skills within law enforcement1, correctional, political, and legal arenas as well as pursue related doctoral programs.
With flexible2 online options and support from knowledgeable faculty, South University could help you balance school with everything else in your life. Ready to learn more? Explore our Criminal Justice graduate program today.
South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
1 Additional training is required.
2 Online Programs, including all Clinical/Medical programs, have a required ground clinical, practicum, or externship requirement. We cannot guarantee flexibility in these components of the program.
