Chapman University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous social‑science theory with applied methods to study crime, victimisation and the institutions that respond to offending. Core study typically covers criminological theory, quantitative and qualitative research methods and advanced statistics, crime analysis, and policy evaluation. Students can expect modules on policing and community safety, corrections and rehabilitation, juvenile justice, violence and victimology, and contemporary topics such as cybercrime, organised crime and restorative justice.

Teaching mixes seminars, research workshops and applied practica. Most students complete a capstone requirement that can be fulfilled by a supervised research thesis, an applied policy project, or a practicum/internship with a criminal‑justice agency or community organisation. Elective options and independent study allow you to build specialisms in areas such as forensic psychology, data analytics for crime, immigration and crime, or programme evaluation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in criminology, sociology, psychology, political science, criminal justice or a related discipline. Admissions typically consider academic achievement, letters of recommendation, a personal statement outlining research and career goals, and a CV. Relevant professional or volunteer experience in criminal‑justice settings strengthens an application. International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence; specific score expectations are set by the university.

Some applicants may be asked to submit examples of written work or participate in an interview. The programme may consider applicants with non‑traditional backgrounds on a case‑by‑case basis where there is evidence of preparation for graduate‑level study.

Career prospects

Graduates go into a wide range of careers across public, private and third‑sector organisations. Common destinations include roles in law enforcement, probation and parole services, corrections, victim and offender support organisations, and juvenile justice agencies. Graduates also work as policy analysts, crime analysts, research assistants and evaluators for government departments, think tanks and NGOs, or in corporate security and compliance roles.

The programme also prepares students for further academic research and doctoral study in criminology, criminal justice or related social sciences, and provides a foundation for students considering professional routes such as law or forensic practice.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman combines small cohort teaching with opportunities to engage with applied research and local criminal‑justice partners in Southern California. Students benefit from close faculty mentoring, interdisciplinary resources across social science and law programmes, and access to internship and practicum placements with regional agencies. The university emphasises experiential learning and prepares students to apply evidence‑based approaches in practice and policy settings.

Located within a metropolitan region with diverse communities and criminal‑justice institutions, Chapman offers a combination of academic rigour and practical exposure that supports both career entry and further research training.