Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ)
Why a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice?
Data-driven and intelligence-led approaches to crime have become standard among criminal justice organizations. Effective leaders in criminal justice must be able to analyze data from a variety of sources to develop ethical, effective, sustainable policies to address a variety of problems. McKendree's Master of Arts in Criminal Justice curriculum helps prepare students for this complex role by providing a strong foundation in ethical problem analysis, strategic response, and process evaluation. Further, completion of these courses will help prepare students to sit for the certification exam for the International Association of Crime Analysts (iaca.net).
Why McKendree University?
The MACJ program at McKendree University combines academic excellence with the high level of flexibility necessary for working adults to pursue an advanced degree. Our low faculty to student ratio, combined with a variety of student services, ensures that students receive the personal attention and support they need to succeed.
Curriculum Requirements
This 30-hour program that can be completed in five semesters.
Interesting Courses
CRJ 604 Criminology and Crime Policy (3 hours) - In this course, the major theoretical perspectives of classical and modern criminology and criminal justice will be examined. This course is designed to help students become critical thinkers by examining the assumptions underlying criminological theories and how those assumptions have held up to empirical tests as well as common practice
CRJ 612 Terrorism, Security, and the Modern World (3 hours) - This course is designed to help students gain a better understanding terrorism at an international and domestic level. Students will learn what terrorism is and how to respond to it. This course also teaches students the interactions and intersections of the law and individual rights.
CRJ 615 Cybercrime (3 hours) - This course provides an overview of the nature and extent of computer crime as well as the laws developed to address it. Students will use criminological theories to develop and explore different strategies for law enforcement investigations of cybercrime.
CRJ 623 Class, Race, and Gender in Criminal Justice (3 hours) - Research indicates that the justice system is not always as equal as we would like to believe. During this course, students will learn about three areas that structure different experiences within the criminal justice system. Students will explore class, race, and gender; looking at these groups as both victims and culprits.
Format
This program is offered 100% online with classes starting every eight weeks.
Tuition
2020-21 Academic Year
Tuition for the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program is $510 per credit hour.
All online courses have a $70 per credit hour fee. Financial aid is available.
McKendree Worldwide Tuition Discounts
Admission Requirements
McKendree University admits students who present evidence of their potential to complete graduate level work. Applicants are considered on an individual basis without regard to sex, race, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, or religion. The following documentation is required for consideration of admission:
1. A completed graduate admission application (no fee).
2. A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
3. Official transcripts from each college or university attended. Official transcripts are those sent from institution to institution.
4. A minimum 3.0 GPA on a four-point scale in undergraduate studies.
5. A current resume or vita.
6. Three professional references.
7. An essay describing the personal and professional goals that will be met by completion of the degree.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Master of Arts in Criminal Justice find employment in:
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Law enforcement
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Correctional supervision
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Intelligence analysis
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Private security
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Criminal justice administration
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University instruction
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Program/policy evaluation
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Lobbying
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Victim advocacy
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Crime prevention specialist
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Private consulting
Student Testimonials
“My experience with the MACJ program at McKendree has been phenomenal. The professors and subject matter have been excellent and being a part of the program has bolstered my ability to serve my community and understand society on a much deeper level.” - Tom Hamil ’20
“McKendree is more than a textbook University. Since beginning the MACJ program, I have been impressed by the professional, yet personal, learning environment. The academic coursework has assisted me in my Counseling career within the prison system, and the professors genuinely care about my success and growth.” - Jessica Thornton ‘20
"The online Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program at McKendree University provides the flexibility to take courses, while maintaining a full time job. My professors are knowledgeable, approachable and vested in the success of their students." - Cassandra Goldman '21
Next Step...
Contact your student services specialist below and get details on the admission process and our next start date.
Patty Aubel
Student Services Specialist
(618) 537-6943
1-833-317-7236 (toll free)
plaubel@mckendree.edu
Key Faculty
Director of Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, University of Cincinnati
M.S. in Criminal Justice, University of Cincinnati
B.A. in Criminal Justice, East Tennessee State University
Webster has published six book chapters and journal articles, made several conference presentations, and received five grants. One of Webster’s articles received the “Most Outstanding Article of the Year” award for 2013 by Emerald Publishing.
Ph.D. in Sociology, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
M.A. in Sociology, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
B.A. in Sociology, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Hagan is an active member of the Midwest Sociological Association, American Society of Criminology, and the ASC Division on Critical Criminology. He is a reviewer for Critical Criminology, Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy, and Sociological Imagination.
Ph.D. in Criminology, University of Kentucky
M.A. in Sociology, University of South Florida
B.A. in Sociology Western Kentucky University
Quisenberry has published articles in journals such as Deviant Behavior, Sociological Quarterly, and Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency. His most recent article focused on texting while driving and was published in The American Journal of Criminal Justice.
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