Graduate Catalog 2003-2004

Degree: Master of Science

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (M.S.C.J.) program offers educational opportunities for professionals who seek a broader understanding of the criminal justice process and the link between research and policy. The M.S.C.J. program also serves those seeking additional credentials for promotion and career enhancement, students interested in pursuing doctoral work in criminal justice, and those in allied fields who are interested in criminal justice issues or careers.

Prerequisites to Graduate Work

As a general rule, students admitted to the program will hold an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, criminology, or other closely related field. Individuals who possess an undergraduate degree in other academic fields will be considered for admission to the M.S.C.J. program if they have experience as employees in the criminal justice fields, or demonstrate other qualifications and interest pertinent to the course of study.

Specific admission criteria for all regular-status students include (1) a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), (2) three letters of recommendation, (3) a written statement of interest and expectations, and (4) official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). For students whose native language is not English, an additional requirement is official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores.

GPA: An applicant whose undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 may be considered for “conditional admission” status on the strength of other criteria. Students admitted conditionally must achieve an overall graduate GPA of 3.0 for their first 12 credit hours of graduate study. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the program.

Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation should be addressed to the Coordinator of the Graduate Program. Letters should be from individuals who have knowledge of the applicant’s qualifications and ability to successfully complete graduate study. Typically, letters are written by the applicant’s undergraduate professors, or by supervisors or colleagues who hold graduate degrees themselves.

Written Statement: The written statement is a short piece of writing (from one to three pages) that states the applicant’s reasons for wanting to study Criminal Justice at Bowling Green State University, future goals, and any relevant professional preparation, where applicable.

GRE Scores: GRE scores should be submitted as early in the process as possible. Though the admission decision does not hinge on the GRE scores alone, they are a factor in awarding assistantships. By rule, funding for new students is contingent upon the students submitting valid GRE scores.

Degree Requirements
Master of Science

Candidates must complete a total of 33 hours of graduate course work, and may elect to complete the degree by writing either a comprehensive examination or a master’s thesis.