Criminal Justice, M.S. (Online)
Gain a comprehensive understanding of how the criminal justice system works by earning a Master of Science in Criminal Justice at CBU. This fully online program prepares professionals for leadership positions in criminal justice and the legal professions.
Program Intro
CBU's online Master of Science in Criminal Justice is a leadership-focused degree created to equip students with the communication and research skills necessary to lead effectively within the various fields of law and criminal justice.
*with a full-time course load
*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.
Why Earn Your M.S. in Criminal Justice (Online) at CBU?
Learn from professors in the industry
CBU's criminal justice faculty are accomplished leaders in the fields of local law and criminal justice. The online program is uniquely designed for working professionals through a fast paced, asynchronous delivery where faculty are accessible from anywhere in the world.
Gain a biblically rooted education
CBU is the only Christian university in California that offers an online Master of Science in Criminal Justice where you can experience a biblically rooted education and be equipped as a servant leader.
Prepare for leadership positions
The field of criminal justice is an exciting and diverse one. Whether interests point toward the courtroom, the correctional facility or the parole office, there are many ways to serve the country's law and order system on a local or federal level. The advanced degree in criminal justice will further enhance opportunities to ascend to management and leadership roles, whether in law enforcement, as a victim's advocate in the court system or in many other justice system positions. It could lead to serving at a federal level in border patrol or national security or as a forensic investigator or criminologist. The career directions and employment settings are endless.
Learn Flexibly Online, On Your Schedule
- Accelerated, asynchronous courses offered 100% online
Program Details
Consistent with the university student outcomes, upon completion of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice degree, graduates will be able to:
- Develop and facilitate data-driven and evidence-based collaborative strategies while properly managing silo-based operations.
- Design/alter components of organizations to make them conducive to collaboration and accountability.
- Apply advanced criminal justice concepts and methodology as they are employed in the application of criminology in policy formation.
- Manage operational and cultural change to align with new and existing strategies.
- Facilitate empowered participation among members of the public to influence policy, procedure, and strategies (to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and legitimacy).
- Articulate a Christian approach to criminal justice and law enforcement leadership.
CJS 501: Introduction to Law Enforcement Leadership
This course introduces students to the skills necessary for successful leadership in law enforcement organizations. Crucial factors that influence organizational, team, and individual performance will be explored.
CJS 540: Elements of Criminal Intelligence
This course will focus on the fundamentals of crime analysis and provide an introduction to crime intelligence and mapping. Students will examine concepts, theories, practices, data and analysis techniques associated with the field of crime analysis for law enforcement.
MPA 520: Public Sector Leadership
This course is designed to create a deeper understanding of leadership at the cognitive, experiential, and implementation level. Students will integrate and apply theoretical concepts, improve collaborative management skills, and explore their individual philosophies of leadership.
Mark Kling, D.P.A.
Professor of Criminal Justice
Program Coordinator, B.S. in Criminal Justice (Online)
Office Phone: 951-343-3936
E-mail: mkling@calbaptist.edu
Robert Rose, D.P.A.
Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice
Office Phone: 951-343-4610
E-mail: rrose@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: The Point 216
Is financial aid available to help pay for online programs?
Our online degrees offer a reputable and more affordable option for earning your bachelor’s,
master's or doctorate degree. When pursuing an online degree, students are freed from
the financial obligations that accompany some traditional degrees, such as room accommodations,
gas and parking. Additionally, CBU has partnered with select employers to provide their employees with the opportunity to improve their career through their
educational goals and receive a 20% tuition scholarship. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
Are CBU's online programs accredited?
California Baptist University (CBU), which includes all programs offered online, is accredited by the Western Association
of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many prospective
students are uncertain about which college degrees employers or universities will
accept. This regional accreditation by WSCUC means you can be confident that your
CBU degree is recognized and respected by schools and companies across the country.
What resources do I need to complete my degree online?
To complete your online degree, you will need access to a computer, Wi-Fi and a word
processor like Microsoft Word. These are necessary to access the student learning
system and complete your assignments. Some programs may require different resources.
Check with your enrollment counselor for specific expectations upon applying for your
program, or you can view additional information here.
As you make decisions about graduate school, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
| Application Deadlines | Fall | Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Priority | May 15 | November 1 |
| Standard | August 1 | December 1 |
Career Possibilities
- Police and Detective Supervisor
- Compliance Officer
- Police Patrol Officer
- Private Detective
- Investigator
- Corrections Officer
*Some career options may require further education.
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join a growing group of accomplished alumni who earned their degree while balancing career and family goals. To begin your journey at California Baptist University and connect with your God-given calling, request more information or apply today!