A career in criminal justice is no small feat. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive master’s degree in Applied Criminology to prepare you for every challenge. At A&M-Commerce, we’re proud to offer a convenient and sought-after program ranked among the most cost-effective graduate degrees in Texas. Our highly qualified faculty will be with you through each five-week course, helping you thrive along the way. Whether you’re just starting your journey in criminology or you’re a professional looking to level up, this fully online degree has what you need. The detectives, security analysts and forensic scientists of the future start here. Begin your journey by applying today!
Applied Criminology (MS) :: 1.3 SEE YOURSELF SUCCEED WITH A DEGREE IN…
SEE YOURSELF SUCCEED WITH A DEGREE IN APPLIED CRIMINOLOGY
Dedicated Faculty
Work alongside our faculty as you study the complexities of criminal, delinquent and deviant behavior. You’ll learn the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for success.
Quality Learning
Our programs are designed to equip you with problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Learn what it means to be an engaged citizen and globally aware scholar through studying social theory, constructs and the criminal justice system.
An Academic Experience
Gain a deeper understanding of the historical, geopolitical and sociological issues that surround our culture. You’ll learn to recognize the need for social justice and what we can do to make our society better.
Career Readiness
Thinking critically and communicating effectively. That’s what employers are looking for. The College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts is dedicated to providing you the knowledge and resources for excelling in the workforce
The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice offers three different tracks towards earning your master’s degree. Explore what option works best for your career interests and research goals.
General Criminology
Gain a broad understanding of the discipline with our General Criminology track. You will take courses in criminal causality, criminal law, police management and correctional settings. We pride ourselves in providing the comprehensive information you need to succeed. Total credit hours: 36
Criminal Justice Administration & Management
Are you ready to lead your team to success? The Administration and Management track not only tests your skills but prepares you for the challenges ahead. Learn how to effectively manage your resources, analyze complex policy issues and make informed decisions. Total credit hours: 36
Forensic Accounting
Apply your accounting knowledge to the criminology profession. This track will prepare you for careers in forensic accounting within risk consulting firms, accounting services, law offices, law enforcement agencies, insurance agencies, government organizations or financial institutions. Whether you are new to criminal justice or currently working in the field, this track is designed for you. Total credit hours: 36
Homeland Security
Learn how to work on a grand scale with our Homeland Security track. You will gain a broad understanding of homeland security issues while enhancing your leadership capabilities and hands-on expertise. You will leave this track armed with the critical thinking skills needed to address security challenges within the United States. Total credit hours: 36
Internship experience provides the foundation employers are often looking for. Although not required for your degree, internships are an important part of your education experience. These are just a few of the companies that offer opportunities for applied criminology students.
Become a highly respected and valuable member of any team. Our graduate program prepares you for careers in criminal justice management, homeland security, investigations and much more.
Career Possibilities and Current Median Salaries
Private Detective and Investigator
$50,510
Police and Detective
$65,170
Information Security Analyst
$99,730
Forensic Science Technician
$59,150
Emergency Management Director
$74,590
US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2018
This course will introduce the students to the concept of counterintelligence (CI) and its importance in the U.S. today. This course will examine various aspects of CI including what is CI, CI operations (both offensive and defensive), case studies and CI in the age of the internet.
Drugs and SocietyCJ 534
Our focus in the course will be on the social reality of drug use and drug users within contemporary society. It will include a historical analysis of the social construction of drug use, drug users, abuse and addiction.
Gender and CrimeCJ 533
This course is designed to explore the important and under-studied intersection between gender/women and crime. We will explore the nature and extent of women as victims, offenders and workers in the criminal justice system.
Applied Criminology (MS) :: Course Delivery and Resources
Course Delivery
Designed for full-time students and working professionals, our flexible degree is offered 100% online. Each course lasts only five weeks so you can complete the program in as little as 18 months.
A&M-Commerce proudly hosts the Alpha Phi Sigma Criminal Justice Honor Society and the Sociology and Criminal Justice Society (SACS). Both organizations strive to promote academic excellence, community service, educational leadership and unity. Joining a student organization opens doors to networking, presenting at conferences and more.
Select “Create a new graduate school admissions application.”
Select “Texas A&M University-Commerce (Commerce)” as your “Target University.”
Select “Applied Criminology, MS” as your “Major.”
Pay the $50 application fee.
Wait to receive an application confirmation email before proceeding to the next step.
After you submit your application, the Graduate School will send a confirmation email within two business days to the personal email account you used for ApplyTexas.
Step 2. Submit Documents
Submit the following documents after you receive an application confirmation email.
Contact your previous institution(s) and request that they send your official transcripts to [email protected].
We recommend that you request transcripts for all of your academic work.
Postal Alternative
If your institution is unable to submit a digital copy, hard copies may be mailed to:
Texas A&M University-Commerce Attn: Graduate School PO Box 3011 Commerce, Texas 75429-3011
We will need official/original documents. If those documents are the only copies you have, the Graduate School can mail them back to you upon request. Contact [email protected] for more information.
One Letter of Recommendation
Request one signed letter of recommendation, on letterhead, from a professional who can attest to your goals and ability to succeed in the program. That individual should:
If you are unable to submit a digital copy, hard copies may be mailed to:
Texas A&M University-Commerce Attn: Graduate School PO Box 3011 Commerce, Texas 75429-3011
Statement of Goals
Submit a personal essay that describes who you are, where you are in life (professionally and educationally), what your future goals are, and how earning a master’s in Applied Criminology will help you to achieve your future goals.
Writing Sample
Submit an academic piece (no more than 10 pages) that demonstrates your ability to write at a graduate level.
Resume or CV
Submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) which includes your academic and professional history and achievements.
Test Scores (if required)
You do not need to submit GRE scores if you have:
a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with an overall GPA of at least 3.00 or at least a 3.00 GPA on the last 60 hours of the degree
a completed master’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a 3.00 GPA overall or higher
a completed Criminal Justice Management, Criminal Justice Studies or Homeland Security graduate certificate
If you do not meet the GPA exemption criteria, request that your GRE® scores be sent to Texas A&M University-Commerce (6188) when you register for the test. If you have already taken the GRE®, you can order additional score reports.
Look for application updates in myLeo > Apps > Check Application Status
Once an admission decision has been made, you will receive an email to your student email account at myLeo > Apps > Leomail.
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