Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice: Legal Studies Emphasis
Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice: Legal Studies Emphasis
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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:(See disclaimer 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.
What is the difference between a JD and a master’s degree with a legal studies emphasis?
Is a master’s degree in criminal justice: legal studies emphasis hard to obtain?
Do you need a master’s degree in criminal justice to practice law?
Do you need an MS in Criminal Justice before law school?
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.
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).
