The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (CJ) provides a comprehensive understanding of the integration of theory, policy, and research within leadership and administrative roles in criminal justice systems. The MS cultivates critical thinking in examining the synthesis of social and legal systems, structures, and institutions in implementing and evaluating outcomes.
The CJ degree prepares students for careers as administrators in public and private criminal justice settings including advocacy, probation and parole, re-entry, prosecution and enforcement, correctional facilities, and court systems.
The degree program in Criminal Justice offers students a unique, comprehensive learning experience designed to adeptly prepare them for a career in criminal justice. The program is an innovative educational experience not currently offered at UK or other institutions in the state. The program serves as an impetus for community engagement and collaboration in the criminal justice space, contributing to improving the lives of the most vulnerable in our state, region, and nation.
The MS in Criminal Justice is offered as an online program that will use Canvas as the Learning Management System. Lectures, assignments, examples, and engagement occur online through Canvas. This creates accessibility for all students regardless of location or job or personal demands and is intended to broaden the program appeal as it will broaden student access. The College of Social Work also requires that online courses have a minimum of four student-optional synchronous meeting times over the course of each semester so students have the opportunity to engage with their instructor related to the content if desired.