Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the admissions requirements for the online M.S. in Criminal Justice program?
A: The admissions requirements for the online M.S. in Criminal Justice include:
- $40 application fee (waiver available when you speak with a program manager)
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline
- Résumé
- Personal statement (this is recommended but not required for current law enforcement officials)
- Two professional references
- Mid-Career Track applicants must have graduated from a qualified police academy and work in a relevant field
Q: How long does it take to earn the criminal justice master’s degree?
A: The online master’s degree in criminal justice includes 36 credits and 12 courses. It is delivered in a flexible online format and can be completed in one year or less, depending on your previous academic and professional experience. Review this program’s courses here.
Q: What is the Mid-Career Track?
A: If you’ve graduated from a qualified police academy and work in a relevant field, the Mid-Career Track allows you to waive two courses in the program and finish your degree in 10 months. Review this program’s courses here.
Q: If I am accepted for the Mid-Career Track, which two classes are waived?
A: Once you are accepted to the Mid-Career Track, the program director will assess your experience and determine the appropriate courses to waive.
Q: Do I have to be on campus at any time during the program?
A: All of the coursework in this degree program is delivered entirely online. If you opt to pursue an internship, in-person field hours may be required.
Q: How long is each class term?
A: Each class term is eight weeks.
Q: Are there prerequisites required?
A: No prerequisite courses are required for this program.
Q: Can I transfer credits?
A: Yes, you can transfer up to six credits toward your master’s degree in criminal justice. If you’ve graduated from a qualified police academy and work in a relevant field, you could be eligible for Mid-Career Track. Review this program’s courses here.
Q: What kinds of jobs are available to me upon graduating with this degree?
A: With your M.S. in Criminal Justice, you could advance in your current place of employment. You might also pursue a career in corrections, the courts, or law enforcement. Learn more about potential careers here.
Q: Is this program accredited?
A: This program is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s Police Career Incentive Pay Program (also known as the Quinn Bill) enacted by the state legislature to encourage officers to earn degrees in law enforcement and criminal justice.
Q: Does this program offer specializations?
A: The online master’s degree in criminal justice allows you to customize your program with a specialization or pursue a general track with varied electives. Specializations for this program include:
- Leadership and Administration
- Homeland Security
- Emergency Management
Additionally, if you have a master’s degree, you may also pursue a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Criminal Justice or Justice Administration alongside your master’s in criminal justice degree. Review this program’s courses here.
Q: I have many other questions about online learning, student support, tuition, etc.
A: You’ll find details on our General FAQ page. You can also call 877-265-3201 to speak with a Program Manager right away or request more information, and we’ll contact you.
Anna Maria College was approved by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to participate in SARA, and became a SARA institution in 2021. At this time, only California is not a member state. If you reside in California and are interested in taking an online class at Anna Maria College, or for more information about our participation in SARA, click here.