Master of Arts in Criminal Justice/Master of Public Administration (MA/MPA)

The Master of Arts in Criminal Justice/Master of Public Administration (MA/MPA) is a dual degree program designed for students interested in public policy in the context of criminal justice. Students explore the implementation of contemporary crime, justice, and law enforcement policies and practices by government and nonprofit agencies and apply social science research methods. The dual degree program is being offered jointly by the School of Criminal Justice (SCJ) and the School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA) at Rutgers University–Newark.

In the MA in Criminal Justice, students will complete 21 credits of MA coursework and have nine (9) credits of MPA coursework accepted to fulfill the 30 required program credits. In the MPA, students will complete 30 credits of MPA coursework and have 12 credits of MA-CJ coursework accepted to fulfill the 42 required program credits.

Degree Information

To Apply / Admission Requirements

Students apply for the dual degree program.

Program Requirements
Application fee, two letters of recommendation (academic or professional only), personal statement, and resume. 

Test Requirements

  • GRE is not required for admission
  • If applying as an international student, TOEFL scores (minimum IBT-internet based TOEFL is Writing 22, Speaking 22, Reading 21, Listening 17); IELTS scores (minimum 7); or Duolingo English Test scores (120-130 range) – For more information, visit https://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/information/international-students

Personal Statement Instructions
Please address each of the questions below in a typed narrative. You may add any additional information that may be helpful to the admissions committee. The personal statement must be typed and be close to the approximate word counts for each question.

  1. (approx. 250 words) What are your reasons for applying to the School of Criminal Justice at Rutgers University? Discuss how your personal, professional, and/or community experiences and values affected your decision.
  2. (approx. 750 words) Select and describe a crime or justice problem and explain how social or criminal justice policies and practices can help alleviate the issue.
  3. (approx. 250 words) What skills and strengths do you expect to gain from the Master's Program at the School of Criminal Justice at Rutgers University that would help advance the fields of criminal justice and public safety and improve society?

Program Deadline
Applications are due May 1. The program is only available for fall semester start.

     

    Questions?

    If you have questions about a program or the application process, contact Aaron Gibbs, associate dean of student and academic services, at algibbs@rutgers.edu.