phd programs in criminology

Best Criminology Schools

Ranked in 2021, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

Criminology programs combine

Criminology programs combine principles of sociology, law and psychology to prepare students to deal with criminals, understand the justice system and work to prevent crime. These are the top graduate schools for criminology. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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Doctor of Criminology Programs in America

1-14 of 14 results

School of Arts & Sciences - University of Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA ·
• University of Pennsylvania ·
• Graduate School

University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School, PHILADELPHIA, PA.

Liberal Arts and Sciences - University of Florida

• Gainesville, FL ·
• University of Florida ·
• · Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Blue checkmark. University of Florida, Graduate School, GAINESVILLE, FL. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Overall, the University of Florida seems to be a great school as far as rankings and attendance rates go. Despite the political turmoil going on in the state of Florida, there seems to be a... Read 1 reviews.

College of the Liberal Arts - Penn State

• University Park, PA ·
• Penn State ·

Penn State, Graduate School, UNIVERSITY PARK, PA.

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• Masters in Criminology Programs
• Masters in Forensic Science and Technology Programs

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences - University of Maryland

• College Park, MD ·
• University of Maryland - College Park ·

University of Maryland - College Park, Graduate School, COLLEGE PARK, MD.

School of Social Ecology - University of California - Irvine

• Irvine, CA ·
• University of California - Irvine ·
• · Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

University of California - Irvine, Graduate School, IRVINE, CA. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says enrolled as a student within the MAS Criminology program online. It was over all a great experience and as a full time employee, the program fit well with work schedules. I eventually got married and... Read 3 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Delaware

• Newark, DE ·
• University of Delaware ·
• · Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

University of Delaware, Graduate School, NEWARK, DE. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars. Read 1 reviews.

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University of South Florida College of Behavioral and Community Sciences

• Tampa, FL ·
• University of South Florida ·
• · Rating 4.64 out of 5   11 reviews

University of South Florida, Graduate School, TAMPA, FL. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars. Featured Review: Alum says I earned my Early Childhood Education degree from USF in 2002. I was enrolled in an education program with a cohort, full-time. The professors were knowledgeable and caring, and my classmates were... Read 11 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - University of South Carolina

• Columbia, SC ·
• University of South Carolina ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

University of South Carolina, Graduate School, COLUMBIA, SC. 2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. Featured Review: Current Master's student says My academic program has given me many opportunities to become a social worker post-graduation. The College of Social Work is great. Read 2 reviews.

School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences - University of Texas - Dallas

• Richardson, TX ·
• University of Texas - Dallas ·

University of Texas - Dallas, Graduate School, RICHARDSON, TX.

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law

• Phoenix, AZ ·
• Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix Campus ·

Arizona State University - Downtown Phoenix Campus, Graduate School, PHOENIX, AZ. 11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars. Featured Review: Alum says Since 2017, I have developed English studies on the Phoenix College Campus; later, I completed the associate program in Administration of Justice, where I graduated with honors in May 2023. In Fall... Read 11 reviews.

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Missouri - St. Louis

• St Louis, MO ·
• University of Missouri - St. Louis ·

Blue checkmark. University of Missouri - St. Louis, Graduate School, ST LOUIS, MO.

College of Arts and Letters - Old Dominion University

• Norfolk, VA ·
• Old Dominion University ·

Old Dominion University, Graduate School, NORFOLK, VA. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I was in two programs while at ODU, the teacher preparation program and this history program. I loved learning history in my program, as well as the teacher program, but the constant output of money... Read 1 reviews.

• Masters in Criminal Justice and Corrections Programs
• Doctor of Criminal Justice and Safety Studies Programs

College of Liberal Arts - Southern Illinois University Carbondale

• Carbondale, IL ·
• Southern Illinois University Carbondale ·

Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Graduate School, CARBONDALE, IL.

College of Health and Human Services - IUP

• Indiana, PA ·
• Indiana University of Pennsylvania ·

Blue checkmark. Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School, INDIANA, PA.

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Criminology (PhD)

Program info, unlock your future with a leading-edge phd in criminology at troy.

Do you want to inspire the next generation of criminologists? Are you interested in conducting groundbreaking research and shaping public policy that makes a meaningful contribution to the criminal justice field? At Troy University, our PhD in Criminology will help you better understand the complexities of crime and justice in society. Whether you want to pursue research, policy or teach, our online PhD in Criminology will prepare you to address complex issues within our criminal justice system.

Learn from Top-Notch Faculty Who Are Experts and Mentors

Take your learning into the field with troy's phd in criminology, criminology phd curriculum.

• Seminar in Theory and Practice of Crime Prevention
• Seminar in Sentencing and Punishment
• Advanced Seminar in Criminology
• Justice in Policy and Crime

PhD in Criminology Locations

Are you looking for online PhD programs in criminology ? Get the flexibility you need at TROY, where you can take classes completely online and on your schedule. For more information about program availability and delivery options, call 1-800-414-5756 .

Drive Change as You Tackle a PhD in Criminology Research Project

At TROY, you'll gain valuable expertise as you work alongside a faculty member on an advanced criminology research thesis.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Criminal Justice or Criminology?

TROY's PhD in Criminology will open doors to many criminology career opportunities, including in roles such as:

• Criminal justice administrator
• Criminology professor
• Forensic research specialist
• Law enforcement consultant
• Policy advisor
• Public policy analyst
• Research director

Faculty Profiles

Dr. Halil Akbas

Dr. Andrew Tatch

Dr. Soheil Sabriseilabi

Dr. Jolene Vincent

Dr. Amanda Heitkamp

Dr. Gary P. Daniel

Faq about the phd in criminology program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in criminology, which fall under the category of sociologists, are projected to grow by 7% through 2033. This rate is faster than the average for all occupations, reflecting a steady demand for expertise in sociological research, including areas related to crime and criminal behavior.

To apply for the criminology PhD programs , you must hold a master's degree in criminal justice, criminology or sociology from a regionally accredited university. Additionally, you need a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6 in all of your graduate coursework. The application process also includes submitting a writing sample, a statement of intent, and providing three letters of recommendation.

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Interested in applying to troy.

2025 Best Online PhD in Criminology Programs [Guide]

Are you interested in earning an online PhD in Criminology?

Online doctorate programs in criminology educate students in the sociology of crime. You can learn what social factors contribute to increasing crime rates and how to conduct scientific research on crime.

Experts in the field can help draft laws to prevent crime, assist in the rehabilitation of criminal offenders, or conduct academic research. The field of criminology plays an important role in making communities safer for everyone.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Universities Offering Online PhD in Criminology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

California University of Pennsylvania

California University of Pennsylvania offers an online Doctorate in Criminal Justice program. It can typically be completed in 2 years. Those interested in the program must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Students must submit a personal statement and a writing sample when applying.

The California University of Pennsylvania  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Texas A&M International University

Texas A&M International University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice. The program requires students to complete a semester on campus before moving to online classes. Applicants with a master’s degree are required to complete 49 semester hours, while those with a law degree need to complete 52 hours. Texas A&M International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a Doctor of Psychology with a specialization in Criminology and Justice Studies. Each course is 6 to 9 weeks long. Students are required to complete 62 credits to graduate. Applicants must submit official transcripts from a master’s degree program that they completed with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of North Georgia

The University of North Georgia offers an online PhD in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Intelligence. To graduate, students must complete 54 credit hours, including two teaching practicums. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.2 or higher and official GRE test scores. UNG is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Washington State University

Washington State University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice and Criminology.

To graduate, students must complete 72 credit hours, with 33 of those hours dedicated to dissertation research. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, 3 letters of recommendation, official GRE test scores, and a personal statement. Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Online PhD in Criminology Programs

Criminology is the branch of sociology that deals with crime and criminals. You may want to look into doctoral programs in criminology if you have already studied sociology or a related field at the bachelor’s or master’s level and would like to develop more specialized knowledge.

Criminology PhD programs, much like masters programs in criminology , can help prepare you for a variety of career paths. Professionals with a PhD tend to pursue careers in research or academia. Advanced knowledge of criminology could also be beneficial if you work in a rehabilitation or correctional facility for criminal offenders.

It’s also applicable to government agencies and private nonprofits that work to lower crime rates and increase public safety.

Here are some subjects that are typically covered in doctoral criminology programs:

• Criminal law
• Criminal psychology
• Statistical analysis
• Research methods

A doctorate in criminology is usually a very research-intensive degree program. You will likely learn a lot about how to collect data and analyze research methodology.

As part of a PhD program, you will probably be expected to complete a dissertation. A dissertation demonstrates that you know how to conduct methodologically correct research and contribute new knowledge to the field for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Ideally, this knowledge would have practical applications that could help to improve society.

Criminology Careers & Salaries

Advanced knowledge of criminology could be useful for career paths in which people attempt to understand and mitigate criminal behavior.

Criminology expertise could be applied to a career in sociology, social and community service management, research, correctional treatment, or counseling. A doctoral degree can also help you qualify for a career in academia or for senior or leadership positions in the field.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , here are some careers related to the advanced study of criminology.

Social and community service managers can work in a variety of industries, but they are most often employed by individual and family services. They may also work for the local government or for religious, grantmaking, civic, professional, and similar organizations.

Other employers of social and community service managers include nursing and residential care facilities as well as community and vocational rehabilitation services. Most sociologists work in research and development.

Criminology Doctorate Curriculum

Here are some examples of courses you might take while earning your doctoral degree in criminology:

• Theories of Crime : You’ll study sociological theories about why people commit crimes.
• Criminology and Public Policy : You’ll learn how the study of crime and criminals can influence public policy to be more effective.
• Applied Statistics : You’ll learn how to correctly analyze and interpret data that you have collected while conducting research.
• Philosophy of Law, Justice, and Social Control : This course covers the legal and criminal justice systems from a philosophical perspective.
• Race and Ethnicity in Crime and Criminal Justice : You’ll study systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
• Civil Liability for Criminal Justice Professionals : This course covers the legal obligations of criminal justice professionals as well as situations in which they could face civil lawsuits for misconduct.
• Advanced Criminal Law : You’ll study laws that define criminal offenses and regulate the penalties of convicted offenders.
• Police and Society : This course explores the role of police, the ways in which police can affect society positively or negatively, and the ways police can be more effective at their work.
• Criminal Justice Policy and Administration : You’ll study policies within the criminal justice system and how they affect the judicial process and corrections system.
• Analysis of Crime Data : You’ll study the numbers collected in crime research and learn how to interpret them.

Exact course requirements can vary from one university to another. It’s common for doctoral programs to require the completion of a dissertation or capstone project as well.

How to Choose an Online Doctoral Program in Criminology

Here are some factors you may want to take into account when choosing an online doctoral program in criminology:

• Affordability . Some schools may charge higher tuition than others.
• Available concentrations . Some programs allow you to choose a concentration within the field of criminology, such as cybercrime or juvenile justice.
• Synchronous or asynchronous coursework . In a synchronous online format, online classes meet at a specific time, just like traditional classes. In an asynchronous course, you may be able to complete all assignments according to your own schedule.
• Job placement rate . You may want to attend a program that is known for being able to place most of its graduates in jobs after completion of the degree.
• On-campus requirements . Some online programs offered by traditional universities may require that you come to campus occasionally to meet with your adviser or attend seminars. Other programs may be fully online.

Since there are many different types of programs, it’s beneficial to explore your options so you can find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Admissions Requirements

What qualifications should you have before you even apply to an online doctoral program in criminology? Here are some common admissions requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university
• Minimum grade point average of 3.0
• Previous professional experience
• Background in research

Admissions requirements can vary at different universities. Some universities may consider GPA to be the most important qualification, while others might prefer candidates with previous work experience. Some universities require that you have a master’s degree, especially if you do not already have work experience in the field.

Accreditation

Regionally accredited universities are regularly evaluated by an outside agency to ensure the quality of their educational programs and student services. The name of the agency that provides a university’s accreditation can usually be found on the university’s website.

Before you apply to an online criminology degree program, you may want to check to make sure it is accredited. A university’s accreditation status can affect how easily you can transfer course credits to other universities and whether you can qualify for federal financial aid.

A degree earned from an accredited institution is also widely respected by employers and universities alike. To learn more about regional accreditation, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) .

Criminology Licensure and Certifications

In addition to pursuing a terminal degree in the field of criminology, you may also be interested in earning a certification from a professional organization.

The American Correctional Association (ACA) offers professional certifications for corrections workers, such as the Certified Corrections Executive (CCE) certification. Earning a certification often requires passing an exam that corresponds with specialized knowledge or training.

Certifications are not always required for criminal justice careers, but they can indicate your expertise in the field and your commitment to continuing education.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

There are many financial aid opportunities available for qualifying students, even for those in online doctoral programs.

Scholarships exist for students in nearly every field and at every level of education. Some professional organizations and nonprofits have scholarship opportunities for students who are studying criminal justice or a related field, such as criminology.

You may also be able to receive financial assistance from your current employer, especially if furthering your knowledge of criminology would benefit your work. To apply for federal financial aid, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Criminology Professional Organizations

Professional organizations sometimes host in-person networking events. They can also provide members with access to job listings, continuing education opportunities, online trade journals, and other professional publications.

Here are some professional organizations for people who work in criminology and the broader field of criminal justice:

• American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA)
• American Society of Criminology (ASC)
• National Criminal Justice Association (NCJA)

These organizations may be able to provide you with useful resources while you complete your PhD program and after you graduate.

Is There a PhD in Criminology?

Yes, there are PhD programs in criminology. These doctoral programs teach students how to use rigorous scientific research to inform public policy and practice within the criminal justice system.

You can also take advanced interdisciplinary coursework in subjects such as law, statistics, and sociology. Most PhD programs also require the completion of a dissertation under the guidance of a supervisor.

Similar to what you may find in top criminal justice PhD programs , a PhD in Criminology can help you develop advanced research skills that are highly applicable in academia or in organizations that utilize criminological research.

What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Criminology?

Doctoral degrees in criminology are primarily intended for students who want to teach or conduct research. Some professionals who hold a criminology PhD work as postsecondary teachers, criminologists, or survey researchers.

Doctoral degrees are a standard requirement for postsecondary teachers and researchers. This type of degree could also be useful for careers in the criminal justice and corrections systems. A doctorate may also help qualify you to take on leadership roles in institutions that aim to rehabilitate criminal offenders.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Criminology Online?

PhD programs generally take 3 to 5 years to complete, but your time to completion can vary depending on the length of the program and how many hours of coursework you take on each semester.

Programs that require a dissertation generally take longer to complete than non-dissertation programs. Without a dissertation requirement, you may be able to complete your PhD in as little as 3 years if you attend full-time.

What Jobs Can You Get with a Doctorate in Criminology?

There are many challenging and rewarding jobs you can pursue with a doctorate in criminology. Exactly what jobs you can qualify for once you have completed your doctorate depends on a variety of factors, such as your work experience and area of specialty.

Criminology-related occupations include postsecondary teacher, social and community service manager, sociologist, survey researcher, probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, and rehabilitation counselor.

What Does a Criminologist Do?

Criminology is one of the branches of sociology. So, a criminologist is technically a type of sociologist. Criminologists conduct scientific research regarding criminals and the types of crimes they commit.

They may look for the answers to questions such as:

• What factors lead people to commit crimes?
• Which types of people are most likely to commit which types of crimes?
• What are the most effective methods society can use to prevent crimes?
• How can we help offenders become productive members of society?

There is much research to be conducted in this field, and the knowledge that could be gained from criminological research might help make communities safer for everyone.

What’s the Difference Between a Doctoral Program in Criminology vs. Criminal Justice?

Here are some key differences between the fields of criminology and criminal justice:

While criminology and criminal justice do overlap somewhat, they are two distinct fields.

Is a PhD in Criminology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Criminology is worth it for many students. Job growth is expected for a number of occupations related to criminology. Employment of postsecondary teachers is expected to grow 9% over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Meanwhile, employment of social and community service managers is expected to grow 17%, and employment of sociologists is expected to grow 4%. Criminology is a fascinating area of study for many people, and doctoral studies can help you expand your knowledge and career opportunities in this growing field.

Getting Your PhD in Criminology Online

If you’re interested in analyzing crime from a sociological perspective, you may have decided that getting a PhD in Criminology is the next step for your education and career.

A number of accredited universities offer this doctoral program on campus as well as online. Online programs, whether it’s an online degree in criminology or a broader online criminal justice degree , are typically known for their convenience and flexibility. Plus, you would likely save time by avoiding the commute to campus.

With so many options available, you can compare programs to discover which ones best match your learning preferences and your professional interests. You can start your doctoral journey today by exploring accredited universities!

School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences

Graduate programs in criminology, doctor of philosophy in criminology.

75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree

Program Faculty

FACG> epps-criminology-phd

Professors: Bruce A. Jacobs @baj034000 , Lynne M. Vieraitis @lmv071000 , John L. Worrall @jlw064000

Associate Professor: Tomislav Kovandzic @tvk071000

Assistant Professor: Michelle Harris @mnh200001

Clinical Professor: Elmer Polk @peo091000

The mission of the Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology at The University of Texas at Dallas is threefold in nature, in order to:

1) Deliver high-quality education to a diverse body of graduate students regarding the etiology, control, and variation of lawbreaking across space and time.

2) Serve local, regional, and national communities through professional development programs, public policy analyses, evaluation research, program and policy design, and a forum for new approaches to the study of crime.

3) Advance the understanding of criminology through a multidisciplinary mix of theoretical and applied research.

The doctoral program in Criminology is an interdisciplinary, research-oriented degree offered in conjunction with other graduate programs in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences at UT Dallas. The objective of the PhD program is to provide students a coherent, yet intellectually challenging degree that adequately prepares them to conduct research among the many aspects of criminology and criminal justice, varying with individual interests and areas of specialty. Graduates of the PhD program will be qualified to teach at the university level as professors. Graduates will also be competent to enter into analytic and administrative posts within the vast array of research and policy institutions, criminal justice organizations, and in the private sector.

Students have access to the computing facilities in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences and the University's computer labs. The school has four computing laboratories which have 24-30 computers that are network linked and equipped with major social science software packages, including EViews, R, RATS, PASW, Stata, LexisNexis database, and Westlaw for student use. The University's computer labs provide personal computers and UNIX Workstations. Data and reference materials are also available online via the library and the school's memberships in numerous organizations.

NOTE> Please be advised, the admissions section below feeds in from a separate page. Any changes made to the admissions section below will not be retained. Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

Application and Admission Requirements

The University's general admission requirements are discussed on the Graduate Admission page.

The PhD Program in Criminology requires that applicants have completed a Master's in Criminology or similar discipline from an institution of higher education. A graduate GPA (grade point average) of 3.50 and a GRE combined verbal and quantitative score of 300 are desirable, but students may be admitted at the program's discretion. All transcripts must be submitted, along with three letters of recommendation (preferably academic) and a one-page essay describing their background, education, and professional objectives. To be considered for funding opportunities, applications must be submitted in full by January 15. Students can apply as late as May 1, per University policy, but they will likely not be considered for funding opportunities. Students should note their desire to be considered for graduate funding in their letter of intent at the time of application.

Degree Requirements

On admission to the PhD in Criminology Program, a student must earn a minimum of 75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree, pass a qualifying examination covering research methods/statistics, pass the criminology comprehensive examination, and successfully complete independent research. Students must fulfill the following requirements:

• Coursework: 75 credit semester credit hours of graduate study (minus transferred master's credit of 36 semester credit hours)

Qualifying Examination

• Doctoral Dissertation

A grade of "B-" or lower in any core graduate class requires that the class be retaken with only one retake allowed per course. If the retake results in a final grade of "B-" or lower, the student will be dropped from the program. Students are allowed to retake no more than two core courses. In addition, all students must meet the University's minimum required GPA of 3.0 or higher. See the Criminology Graduate Program Handbook located on the Criminology website for more specific requirements.

Course Requirements

Coursework: 75 semester credit hours of graduate study (includes required master's degree credit of 36 semester credit hours).

I. Criminology core classes (15 semester credit hours)

CRIM 7307 Measures and Correlates of Crime

CRIM 7300 Advances in Criminology Theory

CRIM 7301 Seminar in Criminology Research and Analysis

CRIM 7305 Professional Development in Criminology

CRIM 7315 Evidence-based Crime Prevention

II. Methodology/Statistics core classes (9 semester credit hours)

CRIM 6301 Research Design I 1

EPPS 7313 Descriptive and Inferential Statistics

EPPS 7316 Regression and Multivariate Analysis

A grade of "B-" or lower in any core graduate class requires that the class be retaken. Only one retake is allowed per course. If the retake results in a final grade of "B-" or lower, the student will be dropped from the program. Students are allowed to retake no more than two core classes. In addition, all students must meet the University's minimum required GPA of 3.0 or higher. See the Graduate Program Handbook located on the Criminology website for more specific requirements.

III. Methodology or Advanced Statistics Elective (3 semester credit hours)

Students must select one additional research methods or advanced statistics course. Students may select this course from any number of methodology or statistics courses offered through the School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences (EPPS).

Sample of Methodology or Advanced Statistics Courses:

EPPS 6346 Qualitative Research Orientation

EPPS 6352 Evaluation Research Methods in the Economic, Political and Policy Sciences

EPPS 7304 Cost-Benefit Analysis

EPPS 7318 Structural Equation and Multilevel (Hierarchical) Modeling

EPPS 7344 Categorical and Limited Dependent Variables

EPPS 7368 Spatial Epidemiology

EPPS 7370 Time Series Analysis I

EPPS 7386 Survey Research

EPPS 7390 Bayesian Analysis for Social and Behavioral Sciences

IV. Independent Study (minimum of 3 semester credit hours)

Students take at least 3 semester credit hours of independent study (i.e., Qualifying Exam Preparation or Independent Advanced Research) in the spring semester upon completion of required substantive coursework in order to prepare for doctoral qualifying exams. Funded students will be required to take at least 9 semester credit hours in that semester in order to retain funding, as is the case in any other semester during which funding is awarded. These hours may be a combination of Qualifying Exam Preparation hours and electives.

V. Dissertation Research (minimum of 9 semester credit hours)

A dissertation or a three-paper option requirement must be completed in order to successfully complete the Criminology doctoral program. Students will select a dissertation chair and a supervising committee to advise them through the research component of the doctoral requirement.

The dissertation is an original work initiated and completed by the doctoral candidate that demonstrates research competence and substantially adds to the knowledge in the candidate's field. The three-paper option is composed of a set of articles that together represent a significant and coherent contribution to our knowledge in the field of Criminology.

Regardless of the option selected, students will enroll in CRIM 8V99 during each semester until the research is completed and defended. The final dissertation defense is completed when the dissertation chair and supervising committee agree that the research has been satisfactorily completed.

Students will sit for the Criminology Qualifying Examination once all substantive coursework is completed and upon approval of the Criminology Program Head and/or Ph.D. Advisor. The Qualifying Examination will test students' knowledge in topical areas related to the discipline. Student performance will be evaluated as pass or fail on each section. Those failing one or more sections of the examination will be allowed one retake in accordance with UTD policy ( policy.utdallas.edu/utdpp1052 ). Those students who fail any section of the retake examination will be dismissed from the Criminology program in accordance with policy.

Master of Science in Criminology

36 semester credit hours minimum

FACG> epps-criminology-ms

The mission of the Master of Science in Criminology program at The University of Texas at Dallas is threefold, to:

1) Deliver high-quality education to a diverse body of students regarding the etiology, control, and variation of law-breaking across space and time.

2) Serve local, regional, and national communities through professional development programs, public policy analyses and evaluation research, program and policy design, and as a forum for new ideas and approaches to the study of crime.

3) Advance the understanding of criminology through a multidisciplinary mix of theoretical and applied research, as well as to provide a forum for new ideas and approaches to the study of crime.

The Master of Science (MS) in Criminology provides students with a coherent yet intellectually challenging degree that prepares them to conduct interdisciplinary research among the many aspects of criminology and criminal justice, varying with individual interests and areas of specialty. Graduates of the MS program will be competent to teach at the community college and at the university level as adjunct lecturers. Graduates will also be ready to enter into analytic and administrative posts within a vast array of research and policy institutions, criminal justice organizations, and in the private sector.

Students have access to the computing facilities in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences and the University's computer labs. The school has four computing laboratories which have 24-30 computers that are network linked and equipped with major social science software packages, including EViews, R, RATS, SPSS and Stata. A computerized geographic information system, the LexisNexis database, and Westlaw are also available for student use. The University's computer labs provide personal computers and UNIX workstations. Many important data and reference materials are also available online via the library's and the school's memberships in numerous organizations.

The Master of Science in Criminology seeks applicants from a baccalaureate in Criminology, Sociology, or a relevant discipline. A 3.2 undergraduate GPA and a combined GRE verbal and quantitative score of 300 are desirable, but students may be admitted at the program's discretion. All transcripts must be submitted, along with three letters of recommendation (preferably academic) and a one-page essay describing their background, education, and professional objectives. For more information, please see our Graduate Handbook on our website.

Prerequisites

For the Master of Science in Criminology, students with an undergraduate degree in Criminology or a related field will have the necessary academic foundation to begin their graduate coursework. For more information on Prerequisites and Transfer Policies, please see the Graduate Program Handbook which is posted on the EPPS website .

Program of Studies Policy

Each student admitted to a graduate program will have a specific program of studies agreed upon in consultation with the Graduate Studies Committee or graduate advisor for Criminology per the degree plan for the program. A complete Program of Studies Form will be filled in and approved prior to the student's registration for his/her 19th semester credit hour to be counted toward a master's degree.

Writing Requirement (MS in Criminology)

All Doctoral track students must complete a writing requirement while enrolled in the MS Program. Students must take a minimum of six semester credit hours of CRIM 6V96 or CRIM 6V98 , complete an independent paper, and present their findings in a colloquium setting to be eligible for graduation with the MS.

Non-Writing Requirement Option for the MS in Criminology

MS students on a terminal track who do not wish to be considered for admission into a doctoral program have the option of taking 6 semester credit hours of any graduate classes as electives in lieu of the writing requirement.

Coursework: 36 semester credit hours of graduate study

I. Criminology Core Required Courses: 15 semester credit hours

CRIM 6300 Proseminar in Criminology

CRIM 6301 Research Design I

CRIM 6303 Etiology of Crime and Criminality

CRIM 6311 Crime and Justice Policy

EPPS 6313 Introduction to Quantitative Methods

II. Elective Courses: 21 semester credit hours

9 semester credit hours in Elective Criminology graduate courses

and 6 semester credit hours in any program or school outside Criminology

and 6 semester credit hours of CRIM 6V98 Analytical Writing Research (for PhD track students)

or 6 semester credit hours of graduate-level course electives (for students wishing to terminate at MS)

Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership

30 semester credit hours minimum

FACG> epps-executive-justice-administration-and-leadership-ms

Professors: Robert W. Taylor @rwt092000 , John L. Worrall @jlw064000

The mission of the Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership program at The University of Texas at Dallas is to:

• Deliver high-quality education to working professionals who in turn will examine the role of leadership within justice agencies and organizations.
• Prepare students to evaluate and apply relevant research findings on leadership and administration to lead, influence, and manage others in an increasingly diverse workforce and work environment.
• Advance the understanding of the consequences of change within justice organizations, and lead and manage personnel in periods of organizational change.
• Prepare students to apply relevant techniques of leadership, management, conflict resolution, and negotiation when confronted with change and subsequent conflict in justice and related organizations.

The Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership (MS-JAL) is housed in the Criminology Program and provides students with a coherent and intellectually challenging degree that prepares a new generation of leaders to manage and administer justice and other social service organizations. The program will deliver an innovative and integrated curriculum that connects such key components of leadership and administration in the justice setting as policy implementation and analysis, organizational behavior and change, planning and decision-making, and legal issues and conflict resolution to prepare students for supervisory and executive positions.

Students have access to the computing facilities in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, and the University's computer labs. The school has four computing laboratories which have 24-30 computers that are network linked and equipped with major social science software packages, including EViews, R, RATS, SPSS and Stata. A computerized geographic information system, the LexisNexis database, and Westlaw are also available for student use. The University's computer labs provide personal computers and UNIX workstations. Many important data and reference materials are also available online via the library's and school's memberships in numerous organizations.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate teaching and research assistantships will not be available.

Admissions Requirement

The Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership (MS-JAL) seeks applications from students with a baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher education or college. Although applications will be reviewed holistically, in general, entering students have earned a 3.0 undergraduate grade point average (on a 4.0 point scale). Students should also submit an online application, all transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume, and a one-to-two page essay outlining the applicant's background, education, and professional objectives. No GRE is required for admission, and no thesis is required for completion of the degree. Applications are reviewed by the MS-JAL Program Director and appropriate faculty in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences.

For the Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership, students with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Public Administration, or general business will have the necessary foundation for the master's degree. Students who lack this foundation should complete the following undergraduate courses at UT Dallas or their equivalents at another institution: CRIM 3302 Advanced Criminology, CRIM 3303 Advanced Criminal Justice, and CRIM 3304 Research Methods in Crime and Justice Studies. Prospective students with concerns about their preparation for the program are encouraged to consult with the program director.

Students seeking an Executive Master of Science in Justice Administration and Leadership degree must complete 30 semester credit hours of coursework in the program. The Core curriculum includes 12 semester credit hours in criminal justice policy and criminology, 9 semester credit hours in public administration and practice courses, 6 semester credit hours in legal aspects of administration and dispute resolution, and 3 semester credit hours of independent research acting as a capstone project to satisfy a writing requirement. Students must achieve at least an overall grade point average of 3.0 to graduate.

Core Courses: 27 semester credit hours

Criminology (12 semester credit hours)

CRIM 6390 Administration of Justice Agencies

CRIM 6395 Contemporary Issues in Justice Administration

One 3 semester credit hour CRIM elective (6000 level course)

Public Administration (9 semester credit hours)

PA 6316 Leadership in Public and Nonprofit Management

PA 6345 Human Resources Management

PA 6351 ( CRIM 6351 ) Introduction to Homeland Security

Legal Aspects and Dispute Resolutions (6 semester credit hours)

CRIM 6312 Legal Aspects of Justice Administration

PA 6319 Topics in Public Affairs [when topic is Negotiation and Dispute Resolutions]

Capstone Course Requirement: 3 semester credit hours

CRIM 6399 Capstone in Justice Administration

Other courses may substitute for those listed with the approval of the Executive MS-JAL Director or the Criminology Program Head.

1. If a student has completed this course at UT Dallas with a "B" or better this course will need to be substituted with an additional advanced statistics or methods course.

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