The Department of Sociology and Criminology at the University of Miami is proud to offer Master of Science (M.S.) and Graduate Certificate programs in Criminology and Criminal Justice.
Our programs focus on both criminology and criminal justice, and elements from both disciplines are combined. Students who complete our interdisciplinary programs will have advanced knowledge of the U.S. criminal justice system including tools to evaluate policy and practice through training in criminological and criminal justice theory and in quantitative research methods. We aim to provide a well-rounded understanding of the etiology, control, and prevention of crime. While the programs are based in the Department of Sociology and Criminology, elective courses offered across the university allow M.S. students to support their professional goals through selection of specialization tracks in various areas including leadership and management, criminal law, research methods and statistics. Students can draw upon and take classes from the distinguished faculty across a variety of Departments and Colleges at the University of Miami, including Sociology and Criminology, Political Science, Geography, and Psychology within the College of Arts and Sciences as well as the Schools of Education and Human Development, Business Administration, Communication, and Law.
Our programs are primarily geared toward individuals already employed within criminal justice as well as those seeking employment in the wide range of criminal justice professions across the areas of law enforcement, courts, and corrections. The M.S. degree will be especially useful for criminal justice professionals seeking graduate degrees to advance in their current career as well as individuals seeking a master’s degree required for entry into professions in criminal justice. In addition, the M.S. program is intended for those interested in bolstering their knowledge and understanding of criminology and criminal justice as a means for entering Ph.D. programs or teaching in criminal justice at the community college or high school levels. The Certificate enables students to gain additional knowledge in criminology and criminal justice without completing the full requirements of the M.S. program. In addition, applicants who do not meet all admission requirements for the M.S. program may be initially admitted to the Certificate program.
Our programs are comprised of seven core and several affiliated faculty members in the Department of Sociology and Criminology as well as the broader University of Miami community of outstanding scholars from whom students may take courses. Specialization and completion tracks are designed to be tailored to ensure that students meet their individual professional objectives and goals. As a smaller program, we can offer small classes and work closely with students to assist them in achieving their educational and career goals. We look forward to working with you to achieve yours!
