Master's in Criminal Justice

Governors State University has evolved into a dynamic center for learning, emphasizing innovation and accessibility. As a public university, it serves a diverse student body, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. One of the distinguishing features of GSU is its dedication to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment. The faculty, composed of accomplished scholars, encourages students to think critically and engage with real-world challenges. The university's commitment to community impact is evident in its outreach programs and partnerships, reflecting a belief that education extends beyond the classroom. GSU stands as a testament to the transformative power of higher education, empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.

You can help create a more just society through careers in crime prevention, criminal rehabilitation, and justice for victims. Governors State’s Master of Arts in Criminal Justice is a graduate degree for the everyday heroes who serve communities in need. Gain valuable insight from professors who have served in the field as you study the larger context of crime and its impact on society. Bring your studies to life as you combine theory with practice, culminating in a final graduate project that has the ability to create real-world impact on today’s justice system. Experience-based learning prepares you for advanced-level positions in your field. You will learn from faculty with experience on the front lines of service, just like you. With the program motto “knowledge is power,” our faculty have all used education as a catalyst to promote ethics and empower change in the criminal justice system. With a Criminal Justice M.A., you can contribute to a more just society as you work in a variety of settings, including federal and state agencies, corrections facilities, local and private law enforcement agencies, and educational institutions. Receive training on leading-edge technology in digital forensics and computer security, opening doors to opportunities in investigative careers. Or, focus your studies on increasing administrative effectiveness through research and innovations in public policy. Our Criminal Justice M.A. focuses on building your leadership skills and creative problem-solving strategies that put you in the best position to move up the ranks in your career in criminology.