Criminology and Criminal Justice

Overview

This Criminology and Criminal Justice program from University of Maryland combines an intensive background in a social science discipline such as criminology, criminal justice, sociology, psychology and public policy with graduate-level study of selected aspects of crime and criminal justice.

In addition, the Department offers a joint J.D./M.A. degree with the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, located in Baltimore.

A recent study of Department M.A. and Ph.D. alumni reveals that master’s degree graduates have found employment in both public and private institutions in virtually every kind of activity associated with the criminal justice system: research; teaching; federal, state and local law enforcement; courts; corrections; private security; and funded programs. Ph.D. graduates have found employment mostly in teaching, research, and government agency administration.

Facilities and Special Resources

The Department has various opportunities for graduate students to participate in current projects. Recent students have worked in research centers at the Maryland State Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy, National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START), and the National Institute of Justice. In addition, our faculty maintain an array of ongoing, funded research projects where students can assist. These resources provide numerous opportunities for students to engage in policy development, research, and professional activities.