The Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) program at the University of Colorado Denver School of Public Affairs is ranked among the top 20 programs in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs rankings for 2024.

The MCJ program combines research, theory, policy, and praxis, allowing students to explore a wide variety of topics in law enforcement, courts, and corrections. With nationally renowned faculty and expert practitioners, students gain a comprehensive graduate education in criminology and criminal justice. Additionally, students have the option to pursue concentrations in crime analysis; disasters, hazards, and emergency management; and emergency management and homeland security. The program, designed for maximum flexibility, can be completed online, in-person, or a combination of both formats.

“The collaborative nature of our program means our students often share their own knowledge and experience, alongside our excellent faculty researchers and teachers, which makes for a richer experience” said Paul Teske, dean of the School of Public Affairs.

U.S. News selects factors, known as ranking indicators, to assess each online graduate criminal justice program in the categories of engagement, faulty credentials and training, peer assessment, services and technology, and student excellence. A program's score for each ranking indicator is calculated using data that programs reported to U.S. News in a statistical survey and a peer reputation survey completed by 98 schools with online programs in criminal justice.

“The online MCJ Program's ranking is a testament to its high-quality students, faculty, and staff,” said Professor Mary Dodge, director of the Master of Criminal Justice program. “The program’s collaborative nature contributes to new generations of life-long learners. Our graduates excel as academics and practitioners in criminology and criminal justice.”

The MCJ program prepares students to work in various agencies and leadership roles in the criminal justice field. Alumni are employed in areas such as policing, investigations, crime analysis, probation, parole, re-entry organizations, advocacy positions, think tanks, and more. Notable alumni of the program include Colette Peters, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons; Natriece Bryant, Public Private Partnership (P3) Director, Colorado Department of Personnel & Administration (DPA); Doug Stephens, Chief of Police, Littleton Police Department; Jason Mollendor, Chief of Police, Auraria Campus Police Department; Steve Addison, Commander, Denver Police Department; Kate Jimmerson, Crime Scene Investigator, City and County of Denver; and Michael Phibbs, Senior Director of Specialized Business Group, Colorado Department of Revenue.

Learn more about the Master of Criminal Justice program, including admission and application requirements. Applications are accepted for the fall, spring, and summer terms, with deadlines of August 1, December 1, and May 1, respectively. To learn more about the MCJ program, contact spa.admissions@ucdenver.edu.