With the dual degree program, you’ll earn your bachelor’s degree and Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice in just five years or less.
Today's criminal justice professionals face increasingly complex challenges, from emerging technologies and cybercrime to criminal justice reform and public policy. Sacred Heart University's Bachelor's–Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice dual degree program prepares students to become ethical, evidence-based leaders equipped to analyze crime, shape policy, and strengthen communities.
Students admitted to the dual degree program are guaranteed admission to the Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice, provided they continue to meet program-specific progression requirements while completing their undergraduate degree.
You’ll save time and tuition as you earn your bachelor's degree and master’s degree in criminology & criminal justice in just five years. Students begin graduate coursework during their senior year and transition seamlessly into the master's program after earning their bachelor's degree.
Graduates benefit from:
Students complete undergraduate degree requirements while working closely with faculty advisers.
Beginning in Module 4 (the second half of senior year), students take six graduate credits that count toward both their bachelor's and master's degrees.
After earning their bachelor's degree, students begin full-time graduate study. Students complete the remaining master's requirements in less than one year, finishing in Module 3 (end of February).
Students in SHU's undergraduate sociology, criminology & criminal justice programs may participate in the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice, an initiative that connects students with individuals who have experienced the criminal justice system.
Through immersive learning experiences, faculty-led research, and dialogue focused on incarceration, rehabilitation, reentry, and criminal justice reform, students gain valuable insight into today's justice system while developing leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills.
Participation in the Frederick Douglass Project occurs during the undergraduate portion of the dual degree pathway, before students begin full-time graduate study.
As undergraduates, students have an academic adviser, as well as other faculty and counseling resources to help them stay on track and progress toward their graduate degree. Industry-specific events and student clubs are also available for undergraduate students to become more deeply involved in their graduate field.
Graduate coursework completed during senior year counts toward both degrees, reducing the overall cost of earning your master's degree.
Complete both degrees in just five years while beginning graduate coursework during your senior year.
Students work with undergraduate and graduate advisers to ensure a smooth transition into graduate study.
Students who meet progression requirements move directly into the master's program without applying separately during senior year.
Graduates are prepared for careers including:
Students apply to the Bachelor's–Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice dual degree program through the Common Application. Once admitted to the dual degree program, students must continue to meet program-specific progression requirements while completing their undergraduate degree.
Students must:
Undergraduate Admissions
203-371-7880
joinshu@sacredheart.edu
Graduate Admissions
203-365-7619
gradstudies@sacredheart.edu
