The MS in Law and Justice program is designed to serve two distinct groups: (1) those in law and justice fields with professional experience, and (2) those without professional experience who aspire to law and justice careers, including research and data analysis.<br><br>The MS program focuses on the concept of empirical and research based practices in criminal justice, criminology, law, social justice, and public policy. Classes are designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of the mechanics of social science research and how research informs best practices in the field. Core classes in the program provide students with the detailed knowledge of social science methods of inquiry in Law and Justice where elective courses allow students understand how the science is applied to practice. During the culminating experience, students use social-scientific inquiry to address current issues and challenges in law and justice option A includes a comprehensive examination as the culminating experience and option B includes a thesis or research project as the culminating experience. Both options are 60 credits to complete. Option B is primarily designed for those interested in research or pursuing further graduate level work.<br><br>The Department of Law and Justice's 4 plus 1 program is designed to allow students, who meet eligibility criteria, to enroll in select 500 level courses during their senior year to allow them to potentially complete the MS in law and justice the following year. Ultimately, this allows students to complete their MS degree in law and justice in one year following completion of the bachelor's degree.