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Overview

Explore Public Policy, Social Research and Justice Administration

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.

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students viewing crime scene at forensic science day.
Why GCU

Earn Your Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice From GCU

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.

Pursue an Online Master’s in Criminal Justice

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.

All Criminal Justice Emphases

Law Enforcement Emphasis
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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