The Master of Science in Criminology degree program provides graduate students at Missouri State University the opportunity for advanced knowledge and understanding of issues involving criminal behavior, the operation of the criminal justice system, crime control policy initiatives, and using theory and research methods for criminal justice program evaluation, all within the framework of the University's public affairs mission.  The program provides credentials for moving into management positions in criminal justice agencies, assuming jobs in criminology/criminal justice research centers, and serves as a springboard to Ph.D. programs at other universities.

The degree is designed to be earned in two academic years, assuming full-time student status.

The M.S. in Criminology involves these objectives:

• Proficiency in understanding classic and contemporary theories of criminal behavior.
• Ability to see the relationship between theories of crime and crime policy initiatives.
• Proficiency in selecting and applying appropriate methodology and data-gathering techniques for answering research questions.
• Capacity to analyze data when researching an empirical question regarding a criminology/criminal justice issue.
• Understanding substantive knowledge from research conducted in various areas of criminology/criminal justice.
• Competence in utilizing criminological theory and research methods to evaluate the effectiveness of particular criminal justice treatment programs and initiatives.
• Ability to use knowledge gained in coursework for the M.S. in Criminology to either analyze experiences in a professional practicum setting (non-thesis option) or conduct original research on a criminology/criminal justice empirical question (thesis option).

For any questions, contact Dr. Karl Kunkel, Graduate Program Coordinator, at either (417) 836-5640 or KarlKunkel@MissouriState.edu.