Criminal Justice Degrees
Become a more effective, innovative law enforcement leader
Important Upcoming Dates
Term Start Dates
Spring 2025 Term
January 7
Summer 2025 Term
May 6
Fall 2025 Term
September 2
Spring Application Deadline
December 2
BROWSE CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE PROGRAMS
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
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.