Criminology, Master of Science
Investigate the factors behind criminal behavior
What causes crime? How can we better prevent it? These are the pressing questions at the center of University of Idaho’s Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminology program. You’ll gain tools to uncover the complexities of crime, victimization and justice through research, experiential learning and real-world applications with this interdisciplinary degree.
Graduate ready to shape a safer society
Throughout the criminology master’s degree program, you explore evidence-based methods for crime prevention, analyze the social, cultural, political and economic reasons behind criminal behavior, and study the broader impacts of crime on society. Why choose U of I?
- Tailor your academic experience to align with your ambitions, whether in law enforcement, corrections, criminological research, policy analysis or advancing your education toward a doctorate.
- Take the thesis or non-thesis track depending on your academic goals.
- Collaborate with faculty on groundbreaking research addressing topics on policing, violence, homicide and victimization, or intern with criminal justice agencies.
- Gain global perspectives through international study abroad programs.
University of Idaho also offers the M.S. in Criminology program online — learn more about earning your criminology master’s degree online.
Your path to advancement in criminology
U of I’s criminology master’s degree program is a good fit if you:
- Seek to understand the causes and consequences of crime and victimization.
- Want to prevent crime and improve the way justice institutions operate.
- Are interested in pursuing leadership roles in criminal justice or plan to earn a doctoral degree.
- Already work in criminal justice and want to elevate your career.
The master’s in criminology degree is a 30-credit program that provides a deep understanding of crime and justice through a mix of core courses and electives. Whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis track, you gain critical insights and practical experience to advance your career in criminology.
The curriculum covers advanced theories of crime, data analysis and applied practices. Core courses include:
- Advanced Criminological Theory
- Criminology in Practice
- Data Analysis in Criminology
- Justice Institutions
Become an in-demand expert in the field of criminal justice. An M.S. in Criminology from U of I positions you to succeed in a range of influential roles and enhances your ability to address complex societal challenges, shape policy and contribute to growing criminological knowledge.
The College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) at University of Idaho awards over $1.4 million in scholarships annually. Email class@uidaho.edu for more information on specific scholarships.
Enrich your criminology education by participating in activities that connect your coursework to the real world. From engaging in hands-on experiences to building professional networks, University of Idaho’s M.S. in Criminology program offers various ways to get involved and prepare for leadership roles in the future.
- Participate in Idaho’s only Inside-Out program with the Idaho Correctional Institution–Orofino.
- Collaborate with the Moscow Police Department in our jointly run “Citizen’s Police Academy” and “Police Cadet Program.”
- Support U of I’s Prison Education Initiative.
- Attend the Idaho Criminology Abroad spring break experience to explore international justice systems.
- Work directly with your professors on research projects that address critical issues in criminology and present your findings at regional and national conferences.
- Join Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society, or participate in department organizations like the Criminology Club.
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Hands-on internships
At University of Idaho, over 75% of criminology students gain real-world experience through internships or experiential learning projects. Put theory into practice and explore different career paths in criminology and criminal justice through these immersive opportunities. Our partners include:
- Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse
- Idaho Department of Corrections
- Idaho Courts
- Idaho Fish and Game
- Idaho State Police
- Latah County Probation
- Latah County Youth Services
- Moscow Police Department
Whether you're assisting law enforcement, providing community support or analyzing data, internships prepare you to step confidently into your career.
Embark on your journey toward a master’s in criminology degree. U of I seeks students with a strong academic background and a commitment to solving criminal justice issues for the greater good. You must meet the following admission requirements to apply:
- Education level: Bachelor's degree in criminology or a related field
- Undergraduate GPA: 3.0 (applicants with a lower GPA may be considered under specific circumstances)
- GRE: Optional but recommended
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants): 79/6.5
- Number of references: Three
- Writing sample: One writing sample from a prior criminology-related course
Review the entire application process for the M.S. in Criminology degree program.
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Request more information about criminology
Have questions?
Dedicate yourself to advancing justice with University of Idaho’s Master of Science in Criminology degree program. Our team is here to answer your questions and assist you through the application process.