Criminal Justice Degrees
Become a more effective, innovative law enforcement leader
Important Upcoming Dates
Term Start Dates
Fall 2025 Term
September 2
Spring 2026 Term
January 6
Summer 2026 Term
May 5
PRIORITY APPLICATION Deadline
July 7
Industry Overview
Criminal Justice Leadership
Law enforcement today is more complex than ever, with issues ranging from dynamic community relations to international terrorism and rapidly evolving technologies requiring a greater level of critical thinking, problem-solving and analysis than ever before. Recognizing the benefits of a college-educated force, an increasing number of states are looking at ways to incentivize or even require a college degree in their recruitment and promotional processes.
Even the Task Force on 21st Century Policing cited improved training & education as its primary recommendation, asserting that “The skills and knowledge required to effectively deal with these issues requires a higher level of education as well as extensive and ongoing training in specific disciplines.” For early-career officers as well as those looking to promote within their departments, there has never been a better time to consider an advanced degree, especially one that focuses on core leadership competencies that are specifically relevant to today’s law enforcement agencies.
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
35.1%
Percentage of law enforcement CEOs who hold a graduate degree
17,985
Number of police agencies in the United States
2.39
Number of sworn officers per 1,000 US residents
5 to 7.5%
Typical pay increase with a master’s degree
Success Stories
BROWSE CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAMS
EXPERT FACULTY, CUTTING-EDGE CURRICULUM, FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES
A Degree to Be Proud Of
University of San Diego is consistently ranked one of the Top 100 universities in the United States.
A Smart Investment
Your career-building degree pays for itself in the workplace.
Career Advancement
Move forward in your current field or blaze a new career path.
Scheduling Freedom
Study on your own schedule – balancing school, work and life.
Start
Your Future Now
Earn your master’s degree on a schedule that’s convenient for you.