Criminology and Criminal Justice, M.A.
College of Arts and Sciences
The Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice provides advanced instruction in criminal justice system operation, criminology, research methods and statistics.
The program supplies professionals with advanced instruction using evidence-based practices in the criminal justice system. In addition to career advancement for working professionals, this master’s program also provides rigorous social science training for continued doctoral study.
Program Highlights
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Hands-on Experience
Practice skills in real-world law enforcement and law-related settings in the greater Columbia region.
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Individualized Studies
Build a targeted program of study that's tailored to your personal area of interest.
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Professional Research
Work with research faculty members to design more effective interventions and criminal justice system practices.
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Expansive Network
Build connections with other USC-educated professionals and practitioners working in criminal justice.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
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Leadership
Inspiring and guiding others to achieve common goals and reach their full potential
Data Analysis
Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
Attention to Detail
Being meticulous and thorough in all aspects of a task or project
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Collaboration
Working with others to achieve a common goal or objective
Innovation
Introducing new ideas, methods or products to improve performance or achieve a specific goal
Writing
Creating professional written content for inclusion in scholarly journal articles, books and reports
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.
Potential Careers
- Local, State or Federal Law Enforcement Officer
- Corrections, Probation or Parole Officer
- Researcher
- Victim Assistance and Advocacy
Job Titles of Alumni
- Special Agent
- Police Officer
- BSA/AML Senior Investigator
- Instructor
- Fraud Investigator
- Sheriff
Average Alumni Salary
Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $84,703
Workplace Settings
- Law Enforcement
- Corrections
- Research
- Academia
- Law
Employers of Alumni
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Defense Criminal Investigative Service
- Columbia Police Department
- South Carolina Department of Corrections
- NC Department of Justice
The Criminal Justice and Criminology program has benefited me in so many ways. I have had the opportunity to accept a position in law enforcement, while also attending school part time. It has allowed me to continuously learn and apply my knowledge in a practical way.
