The master's degree program in criminal justice offers students the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to examine and analyze the major areas of the field, focusing on the nature of crime, law and social control, as well as the process of planning change in a system as complex as the criminal justice system.The program emphasizes the understanding of the ways in which theory, research and social policy interact, and the utilization of critical thinking skills to better understand this information. Students will be expected to acquire knowledge of the theories and research methods necessary for analysis of issues relevant to the criminal justice field. Within this general framework, students will have an opportunity to pursue special interests in criminal justice, the judicial system, courts and law enforcement, that are consistent with the philosophy of the program.<br><br>Student Learning Outcomes:<br>Students will learn about criminal justice from both academic and professional perspectives in order to prepare for careers as scholars and /or practitioners. Students will demonstrate a high level of understanding of criminal justice theories, statistics, professional writing, and research methodologies. Students will learn how to address critical issues in criminal justice and administration by developing analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Students will learn how to analyze and apply research to a variety of justice issues and settings.<br>Students will learn how criminal justice interacts with other fields of study including, but not limited to addiction, mental health, community well being, and family. Students will successfully complete their theses or comprehensive exams. Students will progress and graduate in a reasonable time frame.