FAQs, Criminal Justice, M.S.
Below are a number of Frequently Asked Questions about the Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program at Â鶹ÊÓƵ. If you have a question that is not listed below, please call (815) 836-5610 or email grad@lewisu.edu to contact a Graduate Admission Counselor.
What makes Lewis’ Master of Science in Criminal Justice different from other Criminal Justice Master’s degrees?
- Â鶹ÊÓƵ takes the study of criminal justice administration to a new and more socially relevant level by combining a world-class criminal justice education with a unique perspective on the complex ethical and social issues faced by law enforcement, public safety and social service personnel on a daily basis.
- You'll learn the leadership, administration and critical thinking skills you need to achieve success at the highest levels of public and private sector, law enforcement and intelligence while gaining valuable skills to preserve social justice and human rights.
- Our diverse faculty bring their real world experience to the classroom.
- Our small, personalized learning community provides you with the personal attention you need to succeed.
- Accelerated online and face to face classes are scheduled to accommodate working adults so that you can complete your degree quickly.
How long will it take to earn the Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree?
The online Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Â鶹ÊÓƵ is a 36-credit hour program. If you stay on the recommended course schedule, you should earn the degree in 2 years.
What are the admission requirements?
To be admitted into the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program, you must
- Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with
- A major in a behavioral or social science OR
- Be currently serving as a criminal justice practitioner OR
- If the bachelor's degree is not social or behavioral science related, and if not currently serving as a criminal justice practitioner, successfully complete two criminal justice courses selected by the program director with a grade of "B" or better prior to admission as a degree candidate.
- Submit a completed application
- Submit official transcripts from each institution of higher education attended
- Submit 2 letters of recommendation
- Submit a personal statement
- Hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale calculated on the most recent 60 semester hours
- Gain acceptance from the College of Education and Social Sciences Graduate Council
How do I attend online classes? Do I have to be at a computer at a certain time every day?
As an online student at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, you'll log on to a user-friendly online learning system to complete assignments and exams, just like a traditional college course. Dedicated professors are a call or an email away for questions or support, and lively discussion forums give you the chance to interact frequently with instructors and other students. Coursework can be accessed online anytime, but assignments must be completed by the due dates assigned by each instructor.
Is Lewis accredited?
Yes, Lewis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
How much does it cost? Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available to those who qualify through a variety of public and private sources. To discuss tuition rates and various payment options, please call (815) 836-5610 to speak with a Graduate Admission Counselor.
How do I get started?
Your journey to greater personal and professional success begins with a call to (815) 836-5610 to speak directly to a Graduate Admission Counselor or submit the Request for More Information form below and we’ll reach out to you. If you already feel like Â鶹ÊÓƵ is the right place for you, you can fill out and today.
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