Welcome to Wiley University’s Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program, a fully online graduate degree designed for students and working professionals who are ready to lead in law enforcement, corrections, courts, community advocacy, policy, and related fields. Rooted in Wiley University’s historic mission of leadership, social good, and service, this program prepares students to examine today’s most pressing criminal justice challenges with ethical leadership, cultural competency, and evidence-based decision-making.
Through advanced study in criminology, criminal law, law enforcement, court systems, corrections, research methods, and administration, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to pursue supervisory and leadership opportunities or continue toward doctoral and other terminal study.
Discover how Wiley University’s Master of Arts in Criminal Justice can help you build a career rooted in justice, leadership, and community impact.
Wiley University’s Master of Arts in Criminal Justice is a 36-credit-hour, 100% online program taught by qualified and experienced faculty. Students on the non-thesis track can complete the program in 12 months, while students on the thesis track typically complete it in approximately 15 months.
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program will be able to:
Apply advanced criminological theories to analyze and address contemporary challenges in the criminal justice system
Demonstrate ethical leadership and sound decision-making when navigating complex legal and moral issues
Assess social justice issues within the criminal justice system and advocate for policies that promote fairness, equity, and human rights
Utilize advanced research methodologies and data analysis to support evidence-based criminal justice practices
Demonstrate cultural competency and inclusive leadership while fostering collaboration between law enforcement, community organizations, and the public
Total Credits: 36 credit hours
Program Format: 100% online
Completion Time: 12 months (non-thesis track) or approximately 15 months (thesis track)
Students complete 24 credit hours of core criminal justice courses and 12 credit hours of electives designed to allow specialization in areas such as juvenile justice, victimology, cyber security, community policing, organized crime, restorative justice, and forensic science.
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to remain in good academic standing and progress toward degree completion.
The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at Wiley University emphasizes leadership, ethical responsibility, and community engagement. As a historic HBCU, Wiley University prepares students to understand the broader social, cultural, and legal contexts that shape the criminal justice system.
Students explore issues of justice, equity, policy reform, and community trust while developing the leadership skills necessary to serve diverse communities. Through research-driven coursework and professional engagement, graduates are equipped to contribute to meaningful improvements in law enforcement practices, corrections systems, and judicial processes.
This focus on leadership, service, and social responsibility is what makes the program uniquely impactful.
This program is ideal for:
Professionals currently working in law enforcement, corrections, courts, or related criminal justice fields seeking advancement
Individuals interested in leadership roles within criminal justice agencies or community organizations
Graduates preparing for doctoral study or specialized careers in criminal justice research and policy
Professionals committed to justice reform, community engagement, and ethical leadership
Applicants to the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice program must submit:
Wiley University Graduate Admissions Application (non-refundable $25 fee)
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
Three letters of recommendation
A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals
An interview as part of the admissions review process
Standardized graduate admission test scores (GRE/GMAT) are not required.
Applications are reviewed holistically, considering academic preparation, professional experience, and leadership potential.
Wiley University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees.
A historic HBCU with a legacy of leadership and academic excellence
Fully online graduate programs designed for working professionals
Faculty committed to student success and real-world application
A mission-driven institution focused on leadership, service, and social impact
Advance your career and contribute to justice, leadership, and community impact.
Apply Now
https://futurewildcat.wileyc.edu/default.asp
For questions about the program or admissions, contact:
Dr. Brandon Lacey
Dean of the Graduate School
blacey@wileyc.edu | 903-923-1657
Dr. Racquel Cunningham
Assistant Dean of the Graduate School
rcunningham@wileyc.edu | 903-927-3300 x2425
