Master of Science in Criminal Justice

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) at Lincoln Memorial University focuses on developing proficiency in the theories of crime and justice, justice ethics, scientific research methodology, policy analysis, leadership, and more. The program also offers a variety of elective courses so students can customize their criminal justice education to meet their interests.

The MSCJ can be completed in just 30 credit hours and is offered 100% online. Students work with and are mentored by faculty, and the program uses small class sizes to support individual attention. Admission includes coursework completion, a minimum undergraduate GPA, letters of reference, and an essay about purpose and goals, with an entrance interview if required.

To qualify, you must have:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution (or of equivalent verification for international degrees). An international degree must follow university policies in existence for certifying international degrees and/or credit.
• Completed all recommended undergraduate coursework, including Introduction to Criminal Justice and Criminology or other courses on policing, corrections and juvenile justice.
• An undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 on a four point grading scale.
• Two letters of reference from your undergraduate instructors or one letter from an instructor and one from a professional source.
• An essay explaining your purpose for attending the LMU MSCJ program, as well as noting your relevant skills, qualifications, preparation, and a statement of your goals after completing the program.
• An entrance interview may be required if one or more requirements are not met.
• A maximum of nine graduate credit hours or the equivalent of graduate work closely related to the MSCJ degree will be allowed in transfer by approval of the program's Admissions Committee.