MSCJ Fact Sheet

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Why a master’s degree in Criminal Justice?

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) is a great choice for individuals who need the MSCJ degree as an entrylevel credential for a supervisory or leadership position in criminal justice. The MSCJ degree is also a valuable credential for practitioners looking to advance professionally or for students interested in further preparation for law school or a doctoral program.

Why an MSCJ at Bowling Green State University?

The MSCJ program provides convenience and flexibility by offering students the option of completing the degree online in 18 months or on campus in one year. The program also has a low student-to-faculty ratio, providing regular opportunities for personalized attention and quality interaction between students and faculty. In addition, all courses are typically taught by full-time faculty. Our faculty are recognized nationally for their research and expertise, and several consult with leading organizations in the profession such as the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Learning outcomes

Graduates of the MSCJ program will be able to apply theory and research to criminal justice practice. They will also be able to thoroughly research issues related to crime and criminal justice and use this information to develop and implement evidence-informed responses. Graduates will also develop the skills needed to assess the general quality of criminal justice research and to offer suggestions for improving this research. Finally, graduates will be able to write and communicate at a level expected of someone holding a leadership position in criminal justice.

Professional opportunities

Individuals earning the MSCJ go on to work and/or advance in federal, state, county, or local law enforcement agencies. They also find employment and/or advance in pre-trial and victims’ services, public and private security, loss prevention and asset protection, and correctional administration. Graduates have also been hired as case managers, parole and compliance officers, liaison counselors, and college instructors. Some graduates pursue a law or doctoral degree. 

Admission requirements

A minimum of a 2.75/4.0 undergraduate grade point average or a 3.0 in at least nine credit hours of graduate coursework is required. Applicants must submit scanned copies of official or unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended and submit final official or notarized copies of transcripts upon admission. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required. All applicants must submit a personal statement that details their interest in the MSCJ program and how the degree will help them advance professionally. Applicants must also submit a resume and two letters of recommendation from individuals with knowledge of the applicant’s qualifications and ability to complete a graduate degree. International applicants are also required to submit scores from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Pearson Test of English Academic (PTEA), or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Successful completion of ELS 112 will also be accepted for this requirement.

Financial assistance

A limited number of tuition scholarships and work stipends are available on a competitive basis for full-time students who qualify in the on-campus program. For more information, please contact the Graduate Coordinator. Domestic students enrolled in four (4) or more credit hours are eligible to apply for financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to calculate student contribution and financial need. You may apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Curriculum

The MSCJ degree is 30 total credit hours of which 18 are required hours and 12 are elective or specialization hours. The choice of completing the Forensic Investigation or Victims and Offenders specialization is only available to on-campus students. Online students complete the courses made available through eCampus.