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A healthy, prosperous community is one that keeps its residents safe and features a thoughtfully designed criminal justice system. The Master of Science in Criminal Justice with an Emphasis in Legal Studies at Grand Canyon University is designed for professionals in government positions, as well as decision-makers in the fields of public policy and justice administration.
Students who are preparing to enter law school may also benefit from this legal studies degree program. The evidence-based curriculum aligns with current community demands. The goal of these legal studies courses is to empower working professionals to develop the practical skills that are needed in modern communities.
Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the legal studies emphasis examines key concepts in crime analysis and strategic planning. Carefully designed learning experiences guide criminal justice students in applying theoretical knowledge to workplace situations.
The degree covers contemporary legal issues pertaining to public policy, social research and justice administration, with an emphasis on the importance of ethical decision-making.
This master's in criminal justice degree, offered through GCU's online learning platform, provides working professionals with the opportunity to pursue their educational objectives while meeting their current career demands. All online legal studies courses are taught by knowledgeable faculty members.
The coursework for this master’s in criminal justice degree evaluates best practices in legal research and takes a close look at current legal topics. You will explore methodological evaluations of criminal justice policy and the development of legal programs.
Some of the course topics covered in this online master’s in criminal justice include:
There is an emphasis on the integration of moral values and ethics into legal decision-making. You will be encouraged to challenge yourself by engaging with current questions in legal ethics. Additionally, you will examine the role of values, conflict management, personality and power dimensions in organizational behavior and leadership.
Other core competencies of this MS in Criminal Justice include the following:
Legal Research
The use of hardcopy and electronic resources to perform legal research into regulations, court orders, statutes and court decisions
Ethical Decision-Making
The refinement of ethical decision-making skills when working with ethically complicated situations in the legal field
Research Applications
The development of research design and use of statistical analysis, with a focus on practical applications of research
Communication Methods
Practical applications in legal communication methods for the purposes of information sharing with various agencies and individuals within the legal community
For students who are currently working within the government field, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Legal Studies emphasis may lay a foundation for the pursuit of a leadership or management position that can allow you to serve with integrity. While working toward your master’s in criminal justice, you will be expected to develop advanced critical thinking, analytical reasoning and communication skills that may transfer well to an array of career paths. Careers that may be related to this master’s degree include:1
Additional academic accomplishments or professional licensure or certification may be required for certain career paths.
GCU is proud to be an institutionally accredited university, which is a reflection of our commitment to quality education and industry-aligned curriculum. The Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968 and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
The decision to enroll in a graduate-level program should be made with careful consideration for your future career path and career qualifications. Use the following frequently asked questions and answers as you reflect upon your choices.
Both a master’s degree in criminal justice: legal studies emphasis and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree will prepare students to work in the area of law. However, the program requirements, courses and career outcomes are different. A JD degree is for those who want to practice law. Graduates with a JD are eligible to sit for the bar exam and become licensed attorneys.2
A master’s in criminal justice with an emphasis in legal studies is geared for those who need to have legal expertise in order to perform their job duties, but without the requirement of becoming a licensed attorney. This degree does not prepare students to sit for the bar or formally represent clients.
The answer to whether or not this master’s degree is hard to obtain depends on your professional motivations and goals. At GCU, this degree is available via online or on-campus evening classes to make higher education more accessible and easier to fit into your schedule.
Although some of the course competencies may be more challenging than others, you’ll receive the benefit of clear, helpful guidance and instruction from your knowledgeable professors. This degree can benefit those who work closely with the law, but who don’t intend to become practicing lawyers.
To be eligible to sit for the bar exam and become a licensed, practicing attorney you will need either a Juris Doctor (JD) or other similar law degree. While a master’s degree with a legal studies emphasis can provide opportunities to expand your knowledge of the law, the degree alone does not qualify you for practicing law.3
There are no specific degrees required for law school, although a bachelor’s degree is a typical requirement. People come to law school with all types of academic backgrounds, such as degrees in history, economics and philosophy.4 However, earning a relevant degree in legal studies, criminal justice or political science, for example, can offer you foundational classes that may help you prepare for law school entrance exams and coursework.
Immerse yourself in legal research methodologies, criminal behavior analysis and more at GCU. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about earning your MS in Criminal Justice: Legal Studies emphasis.
1 Grey, S. (2024, Jan. 1). Earning a Master’s of Legal Studies: Common Courses and Careers. Forbes Advisor. Retrieved Jan. 24, 2024.
2 Indeed. (2023, June 30). Master of Legal Studies vs. Law degree: Key Differences. Indeed. Retrieved Nov. 17, 2023.
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to Become a Lawyer. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Nov. 17, 2023.
4 American Bar Association. (n.d.). Pre-law: Preparing for Law School. American Bar Association. Retrieved Nov. 17, 2023.
Online: $600 per credit [More Info]
Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
