Special Notification
Please see the bottom of this page for information about the cost of attendance.Program Description
The MS in Criminal Justice is a 48-unit program which emphasizes behavioral health interventions to address the prevention, early intervention, treatment and rehabilitation needs of persons at risk for or who have already been incarcerated. Students pursuing this degree work learn to work with social services, law enforcement, courts, public defenders, probation and parole to support at risk, incarcerated and recently released inmates. Students learn the importance of an integrated approach to behavioral health that supports restorative justice and community reintegration.
Students exploring this degree are encouraged to consider a dual degree with the School of Behavioral Health's MSW program to maximize their career options.
Program Length
2 YearsPossible Careers
Forensic mental health therapist (combined with a licensable mental health degree), Family reunification advocate, Juvenile justice/criminal court social worker (combined with a BSW/MSW), Victim/witness advocate, Correctional Counselor, Juvenile or Criminal Rehabilitation Specialist, Administrator/program director.
Application Deadlines
| Quarter | Application Open | Priority Deadline | Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn of 2025 | Oct 24, 2024 | Nov 15, 2024 | Feb 15, 2025 |
Admissions Requirements
- A four-year baccalaureate degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited college or university.
- Applicants must submit a completed application, including a personal statement; application fee; all college and/or university transcripts; and at least three letters of recommendation—preferably one of which is from an academic source and one from a work supervisor.
- Applicants must meet the minimum academic and professional compatibility criteria established by the program. These criteria include:
- A cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale). Applicants with lower grade point averages will be considered if the last 45-quarter credits (30 semester units) of non-field practica coursework shows significant improvement or if they have additional attributes that demonstrate preparedness and an appropriate fit for graduate education in the area of Criminal Justice. Work and volunteer experiences must be verified by employer/supervisor statements on official agency stationery. Further consideration will also be given to individuals who provide evidence of additional graduate coursework, certifications, and/or training that illustrate preliminary preparation for a career in Criminal Justice. Students who are admitted to the Criminal Justice Program with a cumulative G.P.A. below 3.0 may be required to participate in individualized academic assessment and a targeted learning assistance program.
- Demonstration, through the application and interview processes, of compatibility with professional standards set by the program including the ability to develop and nurture interpersonal relationships, communication skills, self-awareness, professional comportment, critical thinking skills, fit with the mission and values of Loma Linda University and the Department of Social Work and Social Ecology, and the capacity to successfully complete the Master of Science in Criminal Justice curriculum.
Prerequisites
The MS in Criminal Justice degree curriculum is built on a liberal arts perspective. Individual applicants whose undergraduate degree does not reflect this perspective may be asked to enroll in additional courses.Please note: Any prerequisite requirements must be completed before admission to the MSW degree program.
State Accrediting Agency
Loma Linda University is regionally accredited by the WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges [WASC] Senior College and University Commission).
Expected Cost of Attendance
The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.
Required Program Costs
Academic Year 2024-2025
| Year of Program Months Enrolled |
Year 1 9 |
Year 2 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $23,974 | $27,146 |
|
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance (May or may not be purchased through the school) |
$1,100 | $859 |
Other Educational Costs
Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.
Notes
- Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
- Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
- To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.