Criminology and Criminal Justice

Overview

The Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Northeastern University concentrates both on the problem of crime as a form of deviant behavior, and on the criminal justice and private security systems that deal with it. The program emphasizes a systems approach to criminal justice, stressing policy development and analysis, as well as the impact these policies have on the individuals and organizations charged with delivering justice in a fair and equitable manner. Broad in concept and scope, it encompasses such related disciplines as law, sociology, political science, psychology, criminology, and public administration.

A key part of the master's education is to develop and grow intellectually and ethically in order to make communities safer and to ensure justice. Students learn the skills necessary to impact policy and practice by becoming producers and critical consumers of research and scholarship.

Program Objectives

• To demonstrate mastery of foundational knowledge in the field of criminology and criminal justice
• To develop and grow intellectually and ethically, as demonstrated by an ability to be a critical consumer of research and scholarship
• To develop a keen appreciation for the complexities of crime, criminal behavior, and responses to crime
• To develop an understanding of, and an ability to contribute to, public and private efforts to make communities safer and to ensure justice