Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice

Hours: 30 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in criminal justice. This program is ideal for those seeking leadership roles or looking to deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system. It covers various topics, including criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and contemporary law enforcement and corrections issues.

Students will benefit from a blend of theoretical and practical learning experiences, equipping them with the tools necessary to address real-world challenges. The program's flexible format allows for online and on-campus learning, making it accessible to working professionals. Graduates are well-prepared to advance in their careers, whether in public service, administration, or related fields.

Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice at Fort Hays State University?

Our program stands out because of its flexible learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive curriculum tailored to current industry needs. Unlike similar programs, we offer a unique blend of practical and theoretical coursework, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles. The program also integrates the latest advancements in criminal justice, keeping students abreast of contemporary issues and trends.

Additionally, our program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. Whether you study online or on campus, you will receive the same high-quality education and support. This flexibility, combined with our strong focus on practical application, sets our program apart from others in the field.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice curriculum is designed for individuals passionate about criminal justice and looking to advance their careers. This program caters to diverse students with a variety of professional backgrounds and aspirations. It is ideal for:

Current criminal justice professionals aiming for leadership roles
Individuals looking to transition into the criminal justice field
Those interested in criminal justice policy and administration
Professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in contemporary criminal justice issues
Students aiming for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields

Learning Outcomes

The MPS in Criminal Justice is designed to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the complexities of the criminal justice system. The program emphasizes a deep understanding of theoretical concepts and practical applications, preparing students to become leaders in their field. The following are the key learning outcomes:

Evaluate Contemporary Criminal Justice Issues

Students will develop the ability to critically analyze and address various issues within the criminal justice system. This includes understanding the implications of policies, laws, and societal changes on criminal justice practices.

Develop and Implement Policies

Graduates will be skilled in designing and applying effective policies and procedures within criminal justice organizations. This involves ensuring ethical standards, promoting justice, and enhancing the efficiency of operations through well-informed policy decisions.

Lead and Manage Criminal Justice Organizations

The program prepares students to assume leadership roles within various criminal justice environments. This includes managing teams, overseeing operations, and making strategic decisions that align with organizational goals and public safety priorities.

Conduct Research and Analyze Data

Students will gain proficiency in advanced research methods, allowing them to gather, analyze, and interpret data relevant to criminal justice. This skill set is crucial for contributing to the academic body of knowledge and informing practical applications within the field.

Real-World Applications

Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to cover various topics relevant to the criminal justice field. Students will explore criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and contemporary law enforcement and corrections issues. You will develop the skills needed to excel in various criminal justice roles through practical coursework and real-world applications.

The program includes practical projects and research and conference participation opportunities. These experiential learning components ensure that you gain valuable experience and insights, making you a competitive candidate for advanced positions in the field.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

We continuously update our curriculum to reflect the latest advancements and trends in criminal justice. This includes incorporating cutting-edge research, contemporary case studies, and emerging law enforcement and corrections issues. By staying current with industry developments, our program prepares you to tackle modern challenges effectively.

For example, courses may cover the impact of technology on crime and law enforcement, new approaches to corrections and rehabilitation, and evolving policies in criminal justice administration. This forward-thinking approach ensures that you are well-equipped to lead and innovate in your career.

Hands-on Activities

Fort Hays State University's Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice emphasizes experiential learning. You will engage in various practical activities, including research projects. These opportunities allow you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing your understanding and skills.

Students have the opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops, gain exposure to current trends, and network with professionals in the field. This experience provides the tools and confidence to excel in your career.

What You’ll Learn:

Advanced criminal justice concepts
Policy development and analysis
Leadership and administrative skills
Contemporary criminal justice issues
Research methods in criminal justice

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online courses
Practical coursework and real-world applications
Case study analysis
Expert faculty guidance
Flexible scheduling

Courses

The MPS in Criminal Justice program's core curriculum includes Advanced Criminological Theory and Research Methods. The concentration curriculum covers topics such as criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and ethics.

Elective courses allow students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Options include law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, and more. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for various advanced roles in the field. Students select from a range of elective courses that may include:

CRJ 605 Crime and Mental Health

This course examines the intersection of criminal justice and mental health, evaluating issues that arise for law enforcement, courts, and correctional administrators to develop and incorporate policy to effectively manage offenders with mental illness.

CRJ 655: Correctional Administration

This course examines the evolution of the American correctional system, covering its explanations, theories, policies, and practices while also exploring issues faced by correctional managers and the administrative processes for addressing them.

CRJ 660: Police Administration

This course examines theories of policing underlying law enforcement response to community issues as well as the empirical literature assessing the effectiveness of each response for controlling crime and disorder and improving public perceptions of the police.

Discover the full Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice can pursue various career paths, each offering the opportunity to make significant contributions to the criminal justice field. The following are some of the potential career prospects:

Criminal Justice Administrator

Criminal justice administrators oversee the operations and management of criminal justice organizations, ensuring that policies and procedures are followed and that the organization runs efficiently. They are crucial in maintaining ethical standards and promoting justice within their organizations. Administrators are responsible for budgeting, staffing, and policy implementation, often working closely with law enforcement, courts, and correctional facilities.

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts in the criminal justice field develop and evaluate policies that impact the criminal justice system. They research, analyze data, and provide public safety and justice recommendations. This role is vital for influencing decision-making and driving reforms. Policy analysts may work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations, focusing on criminal justice reform, sentencing policies, and community policing.

Law Enforcement Officer

Advanced roles within police departments or federal agencies require specialized knowledge and skills. Law enforcement officers with a master's degree are well-equipped to handle complex investigations, lead specialized units, and implement community policing strategies effectively. These roles often involve advanced training in cybercrime, forensic science, and counter-terrorism, making graduates valuable assets in ensuring public safety and justice.

Corrections Manager

Corrections managers oversee the administration of correctional facilities and programs, focusing on rehabilitation and effective inmate management. They are responsible for developing policies, managing staff, and ensuring the safety and security of the facility. Their role also includes implementing programs that aid in rehabilitating inmates, reducing recidivism, and preparing inmates for reintegration into society. Corrections managers work in various settings, including prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers.

Researcher

Researchers in criminal justice conduct studies on various aspects of the field, including crime trends, the effectiveness of criminal justice policies, and the social impact of crime. They gather and analyze data, publish their findings in academic journals, and provide evidence-based recommendations for policy and practice. Researchers may work in educational institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations. Their work is crucial for advancing knowledge in the field and informing public policy decisions.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the MPS in Criminal Justice, prospective students must meet the following criteria:

Academic Achievement

A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework. This demonstrates the applicant's ability to handle the program's rigorous academic demands.

Professional Experience

While relevant work experience in criminal justice or a related field is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, applicants with professional experience may find it beneficial as this experience provides practical insights and enhances learning outcomes.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a personal statement detailing their career goals, reasons for pursuing the degree, and how the program aligns with their professional aspirations. This personal statement is an opportunity to showcase their passion for the field and readiness for graduate-level studies.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, ideally from academic or professional references who can attest to the applicant's qualifications and potential for success in the program. These letters should provide insights into the applicant's skills, work ethic, and suitability for advanced study.

Official Transcripts

Applicants must provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. These transcripts are essential for verifying academic history and completing all prerequisite coursework.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,475.09* (on-campus) or $3,047.58* (online)* per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($275.01/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (338.62/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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FAQ

What’s the curriculum in the MPS in Criminal Justice program?

The curriculum includes courses in criminal justice administration, policy analysis, research methods, and contemporary law enforcement and corrections issues. This blend of theoretical and practical learning prepares students for leadership roles and advanced positions in the field.

How long is the MPS in Criminal Justice program?

The program consists of 30 credit hours and can be completed in approximately two years, depending on the student's pace. The flexible scheduling allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments.

Can this program be completed online?

The Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice program offers online and on-campus learning options. This flexibility makes it accessible to working professionals and those with busy schedules.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles as criminal justice administrators, policy analysts, law enforcement officers, corrections managers, and researchers. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for advanced positions and leadership roles.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology

FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology brings together a diverse range of programs dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and social sciences. Our integrated approach allows students to develop critical skills across these disciplines, fostering an environment where future leaders and professionals are equipped to address complex societal challenges. The Criminal Justice programs offer flexible online and on-campus options, focusing on law enforcement, corrections, and legal systems with a strong emphasis on leadership and integrity. The Leadership programs develop essential organizational skills through interactive coursework and internships, supported by the Leadership Studies Association and VALUE program. Sociology programs delve into social life, behavior, and community issues, emphasizing research and critical thinking. Together, these programs foster cross-disciplinary learning, empowering students to lead and innovate within their communities and beyond.

Together, these programs create a robust educational experience that encourages cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether you are passionate about justice, leadership, or sociology, FHSU’s School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

Criminal Justice Club:Open to students pursuing a major, minor, or certificate in Criminal Justice, or majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club engages students in career specific opportunities for service, networking, and social activities. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities varying by semester based on student interest.
Delta Tau Omega: As a member of the Criminal Justice Club, students can join the FHSU Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega, which allows members to participate in regional and national conferences. Attendance at these conferences includes competitions in written testing, mock crime scene, physical agility, scholarly research posters, the national research paper and scholarship competitions, and others. Students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA in criminal justice coursework to be active in this organization.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club encourages research on topics that can improve the community. The club collaborates with the FHSU community and local Hays residents, hosts events for student engagement, and participates in community service projects. The mission is to deepen interest in sociology and its role in understanding society and improving the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Students majoring in sociology may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the sociology honorary society. The society promotes scholarship and fellowship for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Membership requirements include junior standing and a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, with at least 12 hours of sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association exists to allow students to grow their leadership capacity through building relationships, developing skills, and challenging themselves to practice leadership. The association promotes opportunities for students to lead through various events and activities.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Program and University Police joined the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) in August 2020 as Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a regional center, FHSU facilitates the only Level 3 de-escalation training available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional techniques of procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention.
Level 3 augments traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention with rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is evidence-based and has increased officer confidence in utilizing de-escalation skills in working with the public.

FHSU facilitates NDTC’s three training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, two-day face-to-face training, and a 32 to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Due to significant federal financial support, all trainings can be provided at little to no cost to agencies. Scholarships may be available for agencies to train officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence is a regional hub of collaborative research and service, housed in the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University. The Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence aims to reduce the constraints facing survivors, to promote the freedom of economic independence, and to empower survivors to seize opportunity freely.

The center commits to providing sustainable support and improvement to help survivors break the cycle of violence and transform themselves from victims/survivors to social entrepreneurs.

The Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research focusing on the causes and control of gender-based violence in rural areas. It leads and facilitates collaborative networks for researchers to apply evidence-based approaches and to investigate best practices addressing gender-based violence in rural communities.

The Center establishes and develops academic-community collaborations through service-learning, research, assessment, and educational opportunities and policy recommendations that enhance the well-being of rural communities.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is designed to develop the most promising undergraduates into powerful agents of change. This year-long program offers curricular and co-curricular experiences with three tracks: corporate leadership, civic/non-profit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs emphasize real-world impact through training in projects designed to help those in need. A notable project involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals recognized for their exceptional work in nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, composed of these national heroes, provides insights and advice to students based on their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

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