At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
nl
Language
Master's
Level
- Focus on international and comparative criminology.International Focus
- Multidisciplinary approach including psychology, sociology, and law.Diverse Disciplines
- Three specialization tracks: Crime and Insecurity, Person- and Community-Oriented Criminology, or Law Enforcement.Specializations
- Opportunity for international exchange programs.Study Abroad Options
- Strong link between theory and practical application.Theory-Practice Link
- Master's thesis as a significant research contribution.Independent Research
The Master of Criminological Sciences program at KU Leuven trains you to become a scientific practitioner in the field of criminology. You will deepen your theoretical knowledge of criminology, focusing on national, international, and comparative law. The program examines crime phenomena through various scientific disciplines, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, forensic medicine, and criminal law. You will specialize in a specific criminological topic, culminating in a master's thesis. The program emphasizes the connection between theory and practice, allowing you to link concrete situations and empirical observations to theoretical frameworks. Optional practical courses are available to further enhance your practical skills and prepare you for the job market. You can also choose to complete part of your studies abroad at one of KU Leuven's partner universities in Europe, the USA, or Canada. An English-taught version, the Master of Criminology, is also available, with the option to study the first semester at Maastricht University.
Curriculum
The Master of Criminological Sciences program is structured around core criminological knowledge and a chosen specialization. The program culminates in a master's thesis, where you conduct independent research.
- Master Year 1
- Master Year 2
Careers
A degree in Criminological Sciences equips you with valuable analytical, synthesis, reporting, and reflection skills, along with strong language proficiency, making you a strong candidate in a diverse job market. Graduates are highly valued in justice systems, police forces, youth care, government agencies, the private sector, and international and EU organizations.
- Justice sector roles
- Police roles
- Youth care positions
- Non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
- Private sector roles
- International and EU organizations
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for the Master of Criminological Sciences?
- You need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 overall. Other accepted tests include Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a C1 or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) with a C2.
- What prior academic qualifications are needed for this Master's program?
- A relevant bachelor's degree is required. Depending on your previous qualifications, you might need to complete a preparatory or bridging program.
- What is the duration of the Master of Criminological Sciences program?
- The program consists of two years of study, typically referred to as Master Year 1 and Master Year 2.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Criminological Sciences?
- The application period for the 2026-2027 academic year opens on October 16, 2025. The deadlines are March 1, 2026 for non-EEA citizens, June 1, 2026 for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens residing in Belgium, and September 1, 2026 for recent KU Leuven degree holders.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Criminological Sciences?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles in the justice system, police forces, youth care, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, both nationally and internationally.
- Can I study part of the Master of Criminological Sciences abroad?
- Yes, there is an opportunity to complete part of your studies abroad at partner universities in Europe, the USA, or Canada.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeDirect admission is possible with certain academic bachelor's degrees. Other degrees may require completion of a preparatory program, bridging program, or shortened bachelor's program.
IELTS Academic6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT79 overall
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)C1
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)C2
ITACEC1 or C2 (only available in Belgium)
Applicants who have not obtained a previous diploma in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States of America must provide proof of English proficiency. Specific program requirements might necessitate higher scores or subscores. MyBest™ scores for TOEFL and IELTS One Skill Retake™ scores are not accepted.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please consult the tuition fee tool for the exact amount.
Tuition (home)Please consult the tuition fee tool for the exact amount.
LivingInformation on study and living costs can be found on the KU Leuven student services (Stuvo) website.
Tuition fees are calculated based on the type of contract and the number of study points. Payment is due within two weeks of receiving the invoice. Cash or credit card payments are not accepted.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements. Some prior qualifications may require a preparatory or bridging program.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, diplomas, and English proficiency test results.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application online through the KU Leuven application portal. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year typically open on October 16, 2025.
4. Meet Application DeadlinesBe aware of the application deadlines: March 1, 2026 (non-EEA citizens), June 1, 2026 (EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens residing in Belgium), and September 1, 2026 (recent KU Leuven degree holders). Late applications may be considered but candidates are responsible for timely travel and registration.
5. Await Admission DecisionThe Admissions Office will review your application.
6. Accept Offer and RegisterIf admitted, follow the instructions to accept your offer and complete your registration. An invoice for tuition fees will be issued upon registration.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for the Master of Criminological Sciences?
+
You need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, or a TOEFL iBT score of 79 overall. Other accepted tests include Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) with a C1 or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) with a C2.
What prior academic qualifications are needed for this Master's program?
+
A relevant bachelor's degree is required. Depending on your previous qualifications, you might need to complete a preparatory or bridging program.
What is the duration of the Master of Criminological Sciences program?
+
The program consists of two years of study, typically referred to as Master Year 1 and Master Year 2.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Criminological Sciences?
+
The application period for the 2026-2027 academic year opens on October 16, 2025. The deadlines are March 1, 2026 for non-EEA citizens, June 1, 2026 for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens residing in Belgium, and September 1, 2026 for recent KU Leuven degree holders.
What are the career prospects after completing the Master of Criminological Sciences?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles in the justice system, police forces, youth care, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, both nationally and internationally.
Can I study part of the Master of Criminological Sciences abroad?
+
Yes, there is an opportunity to complete part of your studies abroad at partner universities in Europe, the USA, or Canada.