Master of Science in Applied Criminology

Program Description/Overview

This program combines theory, the latest research and innovation, and knowledge of scientifically-supported best practices to provide advanced criminal justice, security, and victim services knowledge and skills. The curriculum draws on numerous disciplines, with heavy emphasis on criminology, criminal law, and forensic psychology. The study of Applied Criminology teaches student to scientifically study crime, preparing them for careers in: criminal justice, law enforcement (local, state, or federal), victim and social psychological services, border security, education, fire and medical services, and corrections, probation, and parole.

Emphasis/Concentration/Tracks

This program offers three (3) concentrations as follows:

Criminal Behavior: Designed for students interested in understanding offenders from a motivational, psychological, social perspective. Designed to enhance the knowledge base for students aspiring to law enforcement, correctional, investigative or consulting careers.

Victimology: Designed for students interested in understanding crime and its impact on victims, this concentration aims to enhance the knowledge base for students aspiring to careers law enforcement, advocacy, policy and prevention, or consulting.

Conflict Resolution and Crisis Management: Designed for students interested in understanding and mitigating the impact of various crises, such as hostage or other barricade situations, and conflicts that may give rise to volatile and potentially violent situations. The courses in this concentration focus on reducing the potential for violence; engaging in quick, strategic assessment and problem-solving, and responding to and managing threats to personal or public safety.

Program Learning Outcomes/Goals

Upon completion of the program students will be able to:

1. Apply criminologic theory to real-world problems related to crime and victimization
2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the various branches of the American criminal justice system with an understanding of basic procedures and precepts.
3. Research, synthesize, and critically evaluate laws and policies related to violence and criminal behavior and to the amelioration of their domestic and global impact.
4. Evaluate and apply scientific findings related to practices in criminal justice.
5. Conceptualize and evaluate programs aimed at reducing the impact of crime on society.
6. Demonstrate an awareness of the role of culture in criminogenic issues.

Professional Behavior Expectations/Ethical Guidelines

Respectful Speech and Actions: As an institution of higher education, the University has the obligation to combat racism, sexism, and other forms of bias and to provide an equal educational opportunity. Professional codes of ethics and the academic code shall be the guiding principles in dealing with speech or actions that, when considered objectively, are abusive and insulting.

Professional Behavior: This program is a graduate-level professional program, and each member of the program, both students and faculty, are expected to engage in professional behavior and conduct. Students should always display empathy, self-control, friendliness, generosity, cooperation, helpfulness, and respect in all of their interactions with other students, staff, and faculty. Students will strive to exemplify professional behavior in all aspects of their participation in this program, to be on time in all engagements, to thoughtfully and diligently complete activities and assignments, and to treat all other program members with respect and dignity.

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline from an accredited university
2. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0; applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 may still be considered upon submission of a GPA Exemption Request
3. Two letters of recommendation addressing the applicant’s potential for academic/professional success. Letters will only be accepted from individuals in a position to directly observe and evaluate the applicant’s performance in an academic, professional (paid or unpaid), or service oriented setting. Faculty and/or supervisor recommendations will carry the most weight.
4. A current resume or curriculum vitae
5. A personal statement in essay form
6. An interview

Credit Units

Total Credit Units: 40

Total Core Credit Units: 28

Total Elective Credit Units: N/A

Total Concentration Credit Units: 12

Emphasis/Concentration/Track Requirements

Curriculum Plan

Gainful Employment

For important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program, please visit https://www.alliant.edu/media/gainful-employment-disclosure/Masters_Applied_Criminology_MS.html.