CSULB's fully online Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice (MSCCJ) is an accelerated program designed for working professionals ready to advance in law enforcement, corrections, policy, or social justice. Ranked among the Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs by U.S. News & World Report, the MSCCJ prepares you to lead with research-based expertise and applied skills.

In partnership with CSULB's School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management, the program blends rigorous coursework with real-world application — exploring criminological theory, research methodology, and policy analysis while you continue to work in your field.

Applications for Fall 2026 are due by June 1, 2026.

Why This Program

  • Fully online: Complete your degree without leaving your current career.
  • Top-ranked: Named a Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Program by U.S. News & World Report (2025), Top 40.
  • Expert faculty: Learn from scholars and practitioners actively shaping criminal justice policy.
  • Applied research skills: Build expertise in data analysis, policy evaluation, and organizational leadership.

Not sure if this program is the right fit? Our team is happy to talk through your background and goals.

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This program gave me the research skills and theoretical grounding I needed to move into a supervisory role. The online format meant I never had to step away from my career — I applied what I was learning immediately.

– MSCCJ Graduate, °µÍøÊÓƵCPaCE
Law Enforcement Professional

Who This Program Is For

This program is designed for working professionals who want to advance in criminology and criminal justice, including:

  • Law enforcement officers seeking supervisory or command roles
  • Corrections and probation professionals pursuing advancement
  • Social service workers and advocates in justice-adjacent fields
  • Policy analysts, researchers, and government employees
  • Professionals preparing for academic or research careers

Program Features

  • Fully online — no campus visits required
  • 36-unit curriculum: criminological theory, research methods, and policy
  • Designed for working adults with flexible scheduling
  • Ranked Top 40 nationally, U.S. News & World Report (2025)
  • Culminating experience: comprehensive exam or applied research project

The MSCCJ consists of 36 units organized around criminological theory, research methodology, and applied practice. Each course is 3 units.

Core Curriculum Areas

Criminological Theory
Foundational through contemporary perspectives on crime, deviance, and social control.

Research Methods and Statistics
Qualitative and quantitative research design, data analysis, and evidence-based practice.

Criminal Justice Policy and Administration
Policy analysis, organizational leadership, and evidence-based approaches to public safety.

Special Topics and Electives
Focus areas including corrections, law enforcement, juvenile justice, cybercrime, and victimology.

Culminating Experience
Comprehensive examination or applied research project.

For the full course list, visit the or contact the program advisor.

The MSCCJ is taught by °µÍøÊÓƵfaculty from the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management — scholars and practitioners with expertise across law enforcement, corrections, criminal law, juvenile justice, cybercrime, and criminological theory.

Students benefit from direct access to faculty who are:

  • Active researchers and published authors in criminology and criminal justice
  • Former or current professionals in law enforcement, government, and policy
  • Connected to criminal justice agencies across California and nationally

For a full faculty directory, visit the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management.

Where MSCCJ Graduates Work

Graduates advance into leadership and specialized roles across the criminal justice system, including:

  • Law enforcement agencies (supervisory, command, and specialized units)
  • Correctional institutions and probation/parole departments
  • Federal agencies (FBI, DEA, ATF, DHS, U.S. Marshals Service)
  • Courts, legal services, and public defense organizations
  • Nonprofit organizations in social justice, advocacy, and reentry services
  • State and local government policy and research divisions
  • Colleges, universities, and research institutions

The fully online format means you can continue building your career while earning the credentials to take the next step.

Join a free online information session to learn more about the Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice at °µÍøÊÓƵand get your questions answered in real time.

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How long does the online MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice at °µÍøÊÓƵtake to complete?

The program is designed for completion in 24 months of full-time attendance but can be finished in as few as 16 months for students who take three courses per semester.

Is the MSCCJ offered fully online?

Yes. The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice is delivered entirely online, allowing you to complete the degree while continuing to work in your field.

What is the application deadline for the MSCCJ program?

Applications for Fall 2027 admission are due June 1, 2027. The program admits students in the fall only.

Does the MSCCJ require a dual application?

Yes. Applicants must submit one application through Cal State Apply and a second directly to the MSCCJ program housed in the School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management.

What will I study in the MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice?

You will build skills in criminological theory, research methods, statistics, criminal justice policy, and law and social control. Students may also concentrate in Crime and Intelligence Analysis.

How much does the MSCCJ cost?

The total program cost is $24,300 based on 36 units at $675 per unit for the 2026–27 academic year.