Is This Program Right for You?
This fully online, accelerated program is built for those seeking leadership roles in law enforcement, corrections, reentry, victim services, public policy, or higher education. Students come from diverse roles but share a common goal: to lead more effectively and serve more meaningfully.
This program is made for:
📈 Professionals seeking promotions or specialized roles
🎓 Those looking to transition into research, policy, or higher education
⚖️ Individuals passionate about social justice, public safety, and ethical leadership
💻 People balancing work, family, and education who need a flexible, online format
Note: Applicants should have a bachelor's degree and a strong interest in advancing within the criminal justice field. To see if you meet the eligibility criteria, click here to view the full admission requirements.
What You’ll Learn
The MSCCJ curriculum combines criminological theory, legal studies, data analysis, and ethics with practical applications across the criminal justice system. Through coursework grounded in real-world challenges, you'll explore the causes of crime, the structure of justice systems, and the tools needed to evaluate policy, conduct research, and support ethical leadership.
Core Learning Outcomes:
- Understand and apply criminology theory and social control
- Analyze data using research methods and statistical tools
- Examine legal and policy issues within the criminal justice system
- Lead with integrity in diverse, ethically complex environments
- Choose a thesis or comprehensive exam as your final requirement
- NEW: Optional concentration in Crime and Intelligence Analysis
Career Opportunities in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Professionals with a master’s degree in criminology and criminal justice are well-prepared for leadership roles across the justice system. Many graduates advance into supervisory or administrative roles in law enforcement, corrections, probation, or parole, while others transition into specialized positions in crime and intelligence analysis. The degree is also highly valuable for professionals pursuing careers in public policy, victim services, reentry and rehabilitation programs, or community-based safety initiatives.
For those interested in education or research, the MSCCJ program provides a strong foundation for teaching at the college level or for pursuing doctoral studies. The program’s optional concentration in Crime and Intelligence Analysis also prepares graduates for analyst positions in local, state, and federal agencies, as well as in the private sector.
Why Choose MSCCJ at CSULB?
The MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice degree at CSULB stands out as a high-quality graduate program tailored for working professionals who are ready to drive change in the justice system. With a fully online format, courses taught by expert faculty, and a curriculum grounded in real-world application, this program provides the tools and support you need to advance your career.
What Sets This Program Apart:
🏆 Consistently ranked among the Best Online Criminal Justice Programs
🎖 Taught by faculty with real-world criminal justice experience
💼 Offers practical learning without the need to pause your career
🤝 Connected to CSULB's Center for Criminal Justice Research & Training
🧠 Provides the option for advanced data analysis and intelligence coursework
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The MS in Criminology and Criminal Justice program at Cal State Long Beach gives you the flexibility to earn your degree online, the credibility of a nationally recognized program, and the real-world preparation needed for leadership in law enforcement, public safety, research, or education. Whether you're seeking a promotion, a new direction, or a deeper impact in your work, this program is designed to move your career forward.
Prefer to learn more first?
Visit the Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice page