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Master of Criminal Justice | MCJ

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  2. Criminal Justice and Public Policy
  3. Grad Programs

Degree

  • MCJ (Master of Criminal Justice)

Program Type

  • Coursework

Delivery

  • Online

Entry Terms & Deadlines

  • Fall (September): February 15

Duration

  • Full Time: 12 months
  • Part Time: 24 months

Admission Average

73% - 76%**Additional Requirements

Practical leadership training for today's criminal justice sector

The Master of Criminal Justice at the University of Guelph is a one-year online degree that will equip you with the competencies needed to advance your career in criminal justice.

Employers have a growing need for criminal justice professionals with critical thinking skills and a deep understanding criminal justice institutions and policy, and the MCJ is designed to meet that demand.

The program combines theoretical foundations in criminology, sociology, law and public policy with applied training in data-driven decision-making, policy development, program evaluation, and organizational leadership.

Whether you're early in your career or you're a seasoned criminal justice professional, the MCJ will strengthen your critical, applied, and self-reflective capacities to meet evolving challenges in the criminal justice system.

Prospective students are advised that the program is still subject to formal approval and is scheduled to launch in September 2027.

How to Apply
Meet the Faculty
Questions?
One of a Kind
The Master of Criminal Justice is Ontario's only online master's degree focused on training criminal justice leaders.
100% Online
Flexible full- and part-time options mean you can complete the program from anywhere and on a schedule that works for you.
Complete in 12 Months
The full-time option runs from September to August, meaning you can get back to working in the field sooner.
Learn from Experts and Professionals
The program offers mentorship from criminal justice practitioners-in-residence alongside the expertise of U of G faculty.
Understand Systems
Our program incorporates critical perspectives on the criminal justice system and encourages students to reflect on systemic inequities.
Real-World Capstone Experience
Your journey in the program will culminate with an applied research project that bridges classroom learning and professional practice.

Program Format and Courses

  • Full-time option: Fast-track the program in 12 months, from September to August.
  • Part-time option: Complete the program in a 2- or 3-year format, giving you the flexibility to meet work and family commitments while earning your master's degree.

The first semester of the program is your foundational coursework, setting you up for technical and applied experiences later in the program.

Courses:

  • Criminal Justice System
  • Criminological Theory
  • Personal Leadership and Team Dynamics
Meet the Faculty
Student working on laptop at a cafe

What Sets the Master of Criminal Justice Apart?

The MCJ builds on the University of Guelph's strengths in sociology, criminology, and political science to deliver a new program focused on teamwork, program evaluation, and the practical application of criminal justice theory and policy.

As an MCJ student, you'll learn to:

  • Critically evaluate criminological theories and criminal justice policies to inform evidence-based decision-making in diverse contexts.
  • Apply data analysis methods and use program evaluation approaches to assess outcomes and inform strategic decisions in real-world settings.
  • Communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to stakeholders through policy briefs, visual data, and applied research outputs.
  • Analyze the impact of systemic inequities in the criminal justice system and reflect on your evolving role as a criminal justice professional.
  • Enhance your leadership capabilities, including collaborative decision-making, effective communication, integration of technology, and the ability to manage staff.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for:

  • Professionals working in policing, corrections and probation, border security, community criminal justice services, legal professions, and related sectors.
  • Recent undergraduate students interested in launching a career in criminal justice.
  • Prospective students looking for an academically rigorous yet flexible learning pathway to earning a high-quality applied graduate credential.

Applying to the Master of Criminal Justice

To be considered for admission to the MCJ program, you should have, at minimum, either:

  • A four-year undergraduate degree in criminal justice, criminology, sociology, political science, psychology, law, or a related field from a recognized university with a minimum B (73-76%) average in the last two years of full-time study (or equivalent).

OR

  • 3-5+ years of relevant professional experience in criminal justice or a closely related field. Your education and work experience will be assessed in combination with your application package.

In the MCJ, tuition is charged per course, so the total cost of the program will be a flat fee regardless of how long you take to complete the program.

Domestic Students:

  • Per 0.5 credit course: $3,575
  • Total: $28,600

International Students:

  • Per 0.5 credit course: $3,825
  • Total: $30,600

Note that final tuition rates are pending Ministry approval.

Students enrolled in the Master of Criminal Justice may be eligible for financial support through the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).

Application Guide

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're ready to step into leadership roles with critical skills in knowledge mobilization, communication, and ethical decision-making in complex criminal justice environments, the MCJ is for you.

Questions about the Master of Criminal Justice program? Contact the Graduate Program Team at csahs.admissions@uoguelph.ca.

Questions?
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