Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical, methodological and applied coursework to prepare students to analyse crime and justice systems critically and to develop effective interventions. Typical modules include:

• Criminological Theory — classical and contemporary explanations of crime, pathways to offending, and critical perspectives.
• Research Methods in Criminology — qualitative and quantitative techniques, research design, survey and interview methods, and ethical considerations.
• Quantitative Analysis — statistics, regression, and data interpretation for crime and justice research.
• Criminal Justice Policy and Administration — organisation of policing, courts and corrections, policy analysis and program evaluation.
• Juvenile Justice and Youth Offending — developmental perspectives, diversion programmes and family-centred interventions.
• Victimology and Restorative Justice — study of victims’ experiences, trauma-informed practice and alternative justice models.
• Specialist electives — options often include white-collar crime, cybercrime, substance misuse and community corrections, allowing you to tailor study to career goals.
• Practicum or Thesis/Capstone — students typically choose between a research thesis or a practicum/capstone project with a local agency, enabling applied experience and professional networking.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. While degrees in criminology, sociology, psychology, criminal justice or related social sciences are directly relevant, candidates from other disciplines with appropriate experience are also considered. Typical application materials include:

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and career goals.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé showing relevant experience, including any work in criminal justice, social services, research or community organisations.
• Letters of recommendation, preferably from academic referees or workplace supervisors who can attest to your suitability for graduate study.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants (such as IELTS or TOEFL) when applicable.

Some applicants may be invited to an interview. Standardised test requirements (for example GRE) and minimum GPA expectations, if any, vary by intake and should be confirmed with the department.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across public, private and third-sector organisations. Common career paths include:

• Policing and law enforcement leadership or specialist units.
• Corrections, probation and community supervision roles.
• Policy analysis, programme evaluation and research positions in government agencies and think tanks.
• Victim advocacy, youth services and community-based intervention programmes.
• Private security, compliance, risk management and corporate investigations.
• Academic and applied research or progression to doctoral study for careers in higher education.

Work placements and practicum components help build practical experience and local professional connections that support job entry and advancement.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a criminology master’s that leverages close ties with regional criminal justice agencies and community organisations, providing hands-on practicum opportunities and internships. The department emphasises applied research and policy-relevant skills, with faculty active in areas such as offender rehabilitation, juvenile justice, community policing and crime data analysis. EMU’s location near a major metropolitan area gives students access to diverse placement sites, courts and law enforcement partners, while class sizes and faculty accessibility support personalised mentoring and preparation for careers or further research.