Master of Arts in Criminology & Criminal Justice (MCCJ)

The criminal justice landscape is more complex than ever. Technological advances, evolving crime patterns, and growing demands for accountability require professionals with sharp analytical minds, a deep understanding of policy, and the leadership skills to drive meaningful change.

Sacred Heart University's Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice (MCCJ) prepares you to meet that challenge. Through a multidisciplinary approach that bridges criminological theory and criminal justice practice, you'll develop the expertise to analyze crime, shape policy, and advance your career across a wide range of professional and academic pathways.

Delivered fully online, the program is designed for working professionals, career changers, and recent graduates who are ready to take their next step.

Why Choose Sacred Heart for Your Master of Arts in Criminology & Criminal Justice?

SHU's Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice offers an integrated study of criminology, criminal justice, research, ethics, and public policy, which prepares you to meet today’s complex criminal justice landscape. Today's criminal justice professionals do more than respond to crime—they shape public policy, strengthen communities, analyze emerging threats, and lead meaningful change.

You’ll learn from experienced faculty who combine scholarly expertise with real-world practice, helping you to build the analytical, research, and leadership skills needed to make a meaningful impact across the criminal justice system.

When you earn your master’s degree in criminology & criminal justice from SHU, you’ll know how to:

• Analyze complex criminal justice issues using research and evidence-based practices
• Evaluate public policy and develop recommendations that strengthen justice systems and promote public trust
• Address emerging challenges, including technology-driven crime, intelligence analysis, and evolving public safety needs
• Lead organizational and community change through ethical decision-making, effective communication, and collaborative problem-solving
• Prepare for careers in government agencies, law enforcement, corrections, nonprofit organizations, advocacy, policy research, or continued doctoral or legal studies

Curriculum for the Master of Arts in Criminology & Criminal Justice

Sacred Heart’s criminology & criminal justice curriculum helps students develop the analytical, leadership, and communication skills needed to address complex justice challenges.

Students explore:

Thesis or Exam Capstone

Students choose to complete either a thesis focused on a criminology or criminal justice topic or a comprehensive exam at the end of the program.

Experiential Learning Through the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice

Sacred Heart University students can engage in transformative learning through the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice, an initiative that connects them with individuals who have experienced the criminal justice system. Through dialogue and collaboration, students gain deeper insight into incarceration, corrections, rehabilitation, and criminal justice policy.

Students participate in immersive learning experiences at correctional facilities, including the Cheshire Correctional Institution's T.R.U.E. and H.O.N.O.R. Units, where they engage in meaningful conversations about justice, reentry, and rehabilitation. These experiences deepen their understanding of crime and justice while encouraging critical reflection on policy, law, and reform.

Faculty-led research opportunities further extend this learning, enabling students to contribute to projects that amplify incarcerated voices and advance justice reform through advocacy, research, and policy analysis.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Sacred Heart University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable. Criminology & criminal justice students may qualify for a range of financial support options, including:

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Lifetime Career Support

Students and alumni enjoy lifetime access to the Center for Career & Professional Development, where expert coaches with industry experience provide personalized support with résumés, interviews, and job placement. This dedicated career team provides SHU’s criminology & criminal justice students with professional development training and support that help graduates translate the skills they’ve learned into the jobs they want. The center’s employer partnerships connect top talent to area municipalities and companies.

Criminal Justice Career Paths

Sacred Heart’s MCCJ program prepares graduates for a range of justice-related jobs. Career opportunities include:

A Distinctive Advantage

Sacred Heart’s Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice combines interdisciplinary learning, practitioner expertise, and research opportunities to prepare students to address evolving challenges in justice and public safety.

Through a focus on ethical leadership and applied learning, students develop the skills needed to make meaningful contributions to communities and justice systems.

Faculty Highlights

Learn from experienced faculty who combine real-world experience with cutting-edge research in criminal justice, public policy, sociology, research methodologies, and community engagement.

Degree Options for Incoming Students & Current SHU Undergraduates

Incoming First-Year Students: 4+1 Dual Degree Program

Students can apply to the Bachelor’s-Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice dual degree program as incoming first-year students. You may be admitted directly into the graduate program upon admission to the University as an undergraduate student, giving you a clear path to earn your Master of Arts in criminology & criminal justice and to potentially save time and money.

Current SHU Undergraduates: 4+1 Combined Degree Program

Sacred Heart undergraduates can fast-track their future by earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years. You’ll work with your adviser to develop your seamless 4+1 plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

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