This master's program is built for professionals ready to shape how communities and courts respond to youth involved in the justice system. Students examine juvenile justice policy at the state and federal level, the design of youth services programs, and the systems-level reform work needed to align family courts, schools, and community agencies around better outcomes for young people.
Graduates typically move into leadership roles such as juvenile justice program director, family court services administrator, or policy advisor to youth-serving agencies. The one-year format is designed for bachelor's-holding professionals ready to move from direct youth services into program design and policy leadership.
CJ 075Criminal Justice and Society
Examines the reciprocal relationship between criminal justice institutions and the social structures they serve.
- Analyzing how social inequality shapes justice system outcomes
- Evaluating the role of public perception in policy legitimacy
- Assessing cross-cultural models of justice administration
CJ 244Crime Management
Explores strategic approaches to managing crime trends across jurisdictions and agency types.
- Applying data-driven crime analysis to resource deployment
- Evaluating proactive versus reactive crime management models
- Coordinating multi-agency responses to emerging crime patterns
CJ 271Investigation Management
Focuses on the administrative and procedural oversight of investigative operations.
- Structuring case assignment and workload management
- Establishing quality-control standards for investigative work
- Managing interagency information sharing during investigations
CJ 353Psychology of Different People
Studies the psychological and behavioral factors that influence offenders, victims, and practitioners within the justice system.
- Examining developmental and cultural influences on behavior
- Applying psychological assessment principles to case work
- Understanding trauma-informed approaches to victims and offenders
CJ 449Current Issues in Criminal Justice
Surveys contemporary challenges and emerging debates shaping the future of criminal justice practice.
- Evaluating the impact of emerging technology on justice practice
- Analyzing legislative and judicial trends affecting agencies
- Debating reform proposals through an evidence-based lens
2
Specialist Courses
5 Courses
JUJ 007Research Methods in Criminal Justice
Introduces research design and analytical methods applied to juvenile justice questions.
- Designing studies suited to juvenile justice populations
- Applying quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques
- Addressing ethical considerations in research involving minors
JUJ 157Juvenile Justice
Provides a graduate-level overview of the structure, philosophy, and function of the juvenile justice system.
- Tracing the historical development of juvenile justice policy
- Comparing juvenile and adult justice system processes
- Evaluating system effectiveness in addressing youth offending
JUJ 430Juvenile Law
Examines the statutory and constitutional law governing the treatment of juvenile offenders.
- Interpreting juvenile rights within legal proceedings
- Analyzing landmark case law shaping juvenile law
- Applying procedural protections unique to juvenile court
JUJ 487Juvenile Justice and Ethics
Explores the ethical considerations unique to working with justice-involved youth.
- Balancing accountability with developmental considerations
- Addressing confidentiality and privacy for minors
- Applying ethical standards to youth-serving decision-making
JUJ 735Juvenile Delinquency
Analyzes the causes, patterns, and correlates of juvenile delinquent behavior.
- Applying developmental theory to delinquency causation
- Evaluating risk and protective factors across populations
- Assessing intervention strategies for at-risk youth
$60,000
Total Program Cost
Fees are billed per term and are subject to change. Financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans are available to students who qualify.
Explore Financial Aid
Admission requires Bachelor's Degree or equivalent.
01
Submit Your Application
Complete the online application with your basic and academic details.
An admissions advisor reviews your application and any transfer credit.
Receive your decision, complete enrollment, and start your first term.
Apply Now