The Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Public Safety (MSCJPS) at SPEA Indianapolis combines coursework in criminal justice, public safety and management. Its graduates are increasingly in demand among agencies, organizations and private companies seeking people with a practical and philosophical understanding of criminal justice and public safety. SPEA is the only university in Indiana that offers graduate study in public safety. The program offers experiential learning and internship opportunities for those students seeking additional experience, plus a project-based capstone course in which students demonstrate the kind of knowledge required by state and local agencies.
The MSCJPS can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. Because it is a 36-credit hour program, full-time students can complete the degree in two years or less. Completing the MSCJPS requires 24 core hours in criminal justice and public safety systems and law, planning and management, theory, risk analysis and research methods. Students also choose a concentration (12 hours) in either criminal justice or public safety. People already working in the field may qualify for up to 6 hours of mid-career credit.
Course schedules are designed so students can work full-time and participate in the MSCJPS program part-time. Many classes are offered in the evenings, and online, summer and weeklong intensive course options are also available. Courses taken toward earning SPEA’s graduate Certificate in Homeland Security and Emergency Management may also be applied to the MSCJPS degree.
SPEA Indianapolis alumni with an MSCJPS degree are qualified to work in:
MSCJPS courses are taught by full-time, part-time and associate faculty, many of whom have field experience in criminal justice and public safety. Their areas of expertise include disaster preparedness and emergency management, crime and safety GIS mapping and analysis, homicide, prisoner re-entry, causes of crime and crime prevention, traffic safety, and policy-making in safety and justice.
For a complete list of MSCJPS courses, see Degree Program Checksheet
Application process information: MSCJPS Admission Information
For more information, please contact SPEA Student Services at 317-274-4656.
