Criminal Justice
The Criminal Justice Master of Science program at the University of North Carolina provides students with advanced knowledge in law enforcement, criminology, and the criminal justice system. The curriculum emphasizes crime analysis, legal frameworks, and evidence based strategies for crime prevention and intervention. Students develop criminology expertise, legal analysis skills, research proficiency, and critical thinking abilities, equipping them to evaluate and address complex issues in public safety and justice administration.
Throughout the program, learners engage in coursework, applied research, and practical projects that integrate theoretical understanding with real world criminal justice applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in conducting case studies, evaluating crime data, and developing policy recommendations. By combining theory with applied experience, students strengthen analytical reasoning, investigative skills, policy evaluation competence, and applied problem solving abilities, ensuring they are prepared for professional roles in criminal justice and public safety.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Criminal Justice
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 August 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Criminal Justice
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 Foundations in Criminal Justice
• Criminology Theory and Practice
• Criminal Law and Legal Systems
• Research Methods in Criminal Justice
• Crime Analysis and Data Interpretation
Semester 2 Advanced Justice and Policy Applications
• Criminal Justice Policy and Administration
• Ethics and Professional Standards in Law Enforcement
• Applied Criminal Justice Research
• Capstone Project in Criminal Justice
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in criminal justice, law enforcement, and policy analysis. Many pursue careers as crime analysts, law enforcement officers, policy advisors, and public safety consultants, applying research and analytical skills to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Others work in government agencies, correctional facilities, or community organizations, evaluating criminal justice programs, analyzing crime trends, and developing effective intervention strategies. The programs emphasis on applied research, policy evaluation, and practical skills equips graduates to succeed in diverse criminal justice settings.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of criminal justice with practical skills in policy analysis, law enforcement, and research. Its curriculum emphasizes criminology, applied research, and ethical practice, providing learners with the tools to address crime, evaluate programs, and implement evidence based interventions. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing analytical reasoning, investigative skills, policy evaluation competence, and applied problem solving abilities. Through applied research projects, case studies, and capstone initiatives, learners strengthen criminology expertise, law enforcement knowledge, policy analysis skills, and applied research capabilities, preparing them for impactful careers in criminal justice, public safety, and policy advisory roles.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
