LASELL COLLEGE · UNITED STATES
MS in Criminal Justice - Self-Designed Option
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- #28Ranked by U.S. News & World Report for Best Online Programs (2026)
- 36Total credits required for the MS degree
- 21Credits in core program curriculum
- 15Credits for self-designed concentration (5 courses)
- 100% OnlineAvailable fully online
- Flexible8 or 16-week modules available
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Self-Designed Option at Lasell College offers a flexible pathway for students to tailor their graduate education to their specific interests within the broad field of criminal justice. This program allows you to design your own concentration, focusing on areas you are passionate about and building expertise through a combination of core courses, concentration-specific electives, and a capstone project. You can explore topics through coursework, group projects, and internships, with the guidance of experienced faculty. The program emphasizes leveraging your existing professional experience and networking opportunities to advance your career or pursue new roles in criminal justice, law, security, and related fields.
Curriculum
The MS in Criminal Justice program requires 36 credits, comprising 21 credits of core coursework (including a 3-credit capstone project), and 15 credits for your self-designed concentration. You will choose 3 courses from a selection of core criminal justice subjects and 2 courses from a broader list that includes criminal justice, communications, and management electives. The capstone project can be a research project or an internship.
- Core Courses
- The Criminal Justice System & ProcessCJ701
- Critical Legal Issues in Crim JusticeCJ702
- Advanced Criminological ThoughtCJ703
- Ethical Theory & Criminal Justice PolicyCJ704
- Criminal Justice Leadership & ManagementCJ705
- Research Methods & Statistical AnalysisCJ709
- Capstone Project
- Capstone Project (Research or Internship)
- Elective Courses (Self-Designed Concentration)
- Advanced Applied ForensicsCJ706
- Crisis & Emergency ManagementCJ720
- Risk Management & PlanningCJ721
- Terrorism & Homeland SecurityCJ730
- Transnational CrimeCJ731
- Theories of Violence & AggressionCJ740
Careers
Graduates of the MS in Criminal Justice program are well-prepared for a variety of roles within criminal justice, law, security, and related sectors. The self-designed option allows students to align their specialization with their career aspirations, positioning them for advancement in their current fields or for new professional opportunities.
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections Officer
- Probation Officer
- Parole Officer
- Court Administrator
- Homeland Security Analyst
- Forensic Specialist
- Criminal Justice Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Security Manager
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
While specific English language proficiency scores are not detailed on the program page, international applicants are typically required to demonstrate proficiency. Please consult the admissions office for specific requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please contact the university for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please contact the university for current domestic tuition fees.
LivingAs the program is 100% online, living costs are not directly associated with the program. However, personal living expenses will vary.
Tuition fees are charged per credit. The program requires 36 credits. Specific per-credit costs and total program fees should be confirmed with Lasell College.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online graduate application.
2. Provide TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all previous institutions attended.
3. Write Personal Statement/EssayPrepare a personal statement or essay outlining your academic and career goals.
4. Obtain Letters of RecommendationSecure letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
5. ResumeSubmit a current resume highlighting relevant experience.
6. Contact AdmissionsReach out to the graduate admissions office for any specific requirements or questions.