Master’s Degree Programs

The School of Criminal Justice and Criminology offers a Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) degree in one of three tracks: Thesis, Non-Thesis, or the online-only Executive track. 

Program Overview

This is an exciting time to be at Texas State University’s School of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Our School boasts several nationally and internationally known faculty, and closely cooperates with multiple University-level research centers, such as the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center and the Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC). We are excited about the prospect of you joining us to further your education.

a black female police offer talks with two students at a career fair

Thesis Track

  • Competitive degree option for those seeking research analyst jobs or to pursue a doctoal degree
  • Minimum GPA of 3.25, GRE not required
  • 30 credit hours
  • 5 core courses and 3 electives
  • Thesis (6 credit hours)
  • In-person instruction
  • 16-week courses in Fall / Spring, 10-week courses in Summer

Non-Thesis Track

  • Versatile degree option for those seeking to further their knowledge and skills in criminal justice
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE not required
  • 36 credit hours
  • 5 core courses and 7 electives
  • Written and oral comprehensive exam
  • In-person instruction
  • 16-week courses in Fall / Spring, 10-week courses in Summer

Executive Track

  • Flexible degree option for working professionals seeking to advance in their CJ agency or organization
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE not required
  • 30 credit hours
  • 6 core courses and 4 electives
  • Written and oral comprehensive exam
  • Online instruction only
  • 8-week courses in Fall / Spring, 10-week courses in Summer
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Course Work

Our curriculum addresses a wide range of social issues and research areas, providing a foundation of knowledge necessary to excel in a challenging world.
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Have Questions? Contact Us!

MSCJ Program Coordinator
Sean Patrick Roche, Ph.D.
sean.roche@txstate.edu

MSCJ Program Administrative Assistant
Michael Soderstrom
mmsoderstrom@txstate.edu

MSCJ Program Mailbox
cjmasters@txstate.edu