Department of Criminal Justice
Chair: Philip L. Reichel, Ph.D.
Location: Candelaria Hall 2285
Telephone: 970.351.2186
FAX: 970.351.1527
Faculty: Alex Drayer, M.A.; Colleen Fitzpatrick, Ph.D.; Brittany Groot, ABD; Brian Iannacchione, Ph.D.; Philip L. Reichel, Ph.D.; Brian Smith, M.A., J.D.; Mary West-Smith, Ph.D.
Criminal Justice M.A.
The master’s program in Criminal Justice is designed to be completed in two years by working professionals. It emphasizes the importance of furthering society’s ideals of a fair-minded and unbiased system of justice as embraced by the rule of law. The concept of "best practices" is an overarching theme in all core classes. Students will be informed of current research regarding effective practices in all aspects of criminal justice, will develop the ability to make informed decisions regarding practices for their particular areas within the system, and will acquire the knowledge and skills to be more capable supervisors in criminal justice organizations and agencies by making use of research findings that support effective policy planning and programming.
Students receiving the M.A. in Criminal Justice will be competent in research methodology and writing skills and will possess an increased understanding of the theoretical foundations for crime causation. The M.A. may be the foundation for further advanced graduate work or may serve as a terminal degree.
In addition to meeting the requirements of the Graduate School, the applicant must submit a letter of application outlining his or her career and educational goals. Two letters of recommendation must be provided.
For degree and program requirements, see:
Criminal Justice M.A.