The Master of Science in Criminal Justice advances the knowledge, skills, and career prospects of early-to-mid-career criminal justice professionals and those seeking their first jobs in the criminal justice field. Criminal justice problems demand leaders and decision-makers who are well-prepared to make good choices about what to do and how to do it. In courses taught by cutting-edge criminal justice practitioners and faculty who are leading researchers in evidence-based policy and practice, our students receive the scientific knowledge and real-world insights necessary to evaluate, select, and implement criminal justice policies and practices that are effective, efficient, and fair. Students also learn data analysis skills that equip them with the practical knowledge required for many policy-oriented and front-line operational positions. The MS program in Criminal Justice prepares graduates to be leaders and change agents in the criminal justice field. The university's proximity to many justice organizations at the federal, state, and local level in the Capital Region provides unique opportunities for our students. Students in the MS program regularly interact with nationally-acclaimed guest speakers and leaders in the field who are eager to share their experiences and ideas about improving criminal justice in the United States and abroad. The MS program also takes advantage of research centers in the department that host a variety of workshops and events about criminal justice policy and practice. A unique feature of the MS program is the resume-building research practicum project. In this culminating experience, students partner with a justice agency to translate research into practice, and present their work before a panel of criminal justice experts.