Pursuing a master’s in criminal justice and community corrections can provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to advance their careers and make meaningful contributions to the field of community corrections. By completing core courses, networking with classmates and faculty, and advancing skills in the field, students who earn a criminal justice and community corrections master’s degree are positioning themselves for new career opportunities and a higher earning potential.

A Master’s in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections is a graduate-level degree program focused on the study of the theory, programs, practices, and personnel who work in the criminal justice system and the community corrections programs that serve offenders and communities as alternatives to incarceration, and during re-entry and re-integration after incarceration. The goal of a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections program is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diversity and interrelationship of programs, personnel, policies, and procedures within the criminal justice and community corrections field and to build skills for positions of leadership.

While every individual’s reasons for pursuing an advanced degree may be different, there are a few common reasons that people choose to pursue a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections. Many people who choose this master’s degree have already started their careers and want to pursue the degree for career advancement. Others may decide to take this path for skill development and networking opportunities. There are also those who seek to improve the lives of offenders and help provide safety and security to their communities that are stronger with rehabilitated individuals.

A master’s degree is a pathway for career advancement within the criminal justice and community corrections field. Many supervisory and management positions in the criminal justice and community corrections fields require advanced education. In many cases, individuals with a master’s degree in criminal justice and community corrections may also command higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s degree, particularly in leadership, training, or specialized roles.

Graduate programs provide excellent opportunities to network with professors, professionals, and peers in the fields of criminal justice and community corrections , which can lead to job opportunities, internships, and professional collaborations. Prospective students should keep in mind that online programs can provide rich opportunities for networking with class participation, engagement with synchronous learning programs such as video chats, and both official and unofficial offline events.

The purpose of any master’s degree is to further your knowledge in a specific field. In the case of earning a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections, this often means building on the foundation of a criminal justice or human services bachelor’s degree or an undergraduate degree in a related discipline. To complete this master’s degree, you must complete required course work, electives, and a culminating project or internship.

Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections Courses Include:

Are you ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in criminal justice? Russell Sage College’s Master’s in Criminal Justice and Community Corrections program could be the perfect option. With asynchronous online courses, working professionals can complete their Master’s degree with just 36 credits and start the next phase of their careers. Reach out for more information or start an application today. Contact us to speak with an admissions officer or our Criminal Justice and Community Corrections program director.