The fields of public administration and criminal justice are closely connected. While the MPA is a generalist degree designed to prepare graduates for a variety of positions in administration and policy analysis, criminal justice studies prepare graduates to research and work in public service organizations within the substantive policy area. By providing an opportunity for students to complete both a generalist master’s degree as well as a specialist master’s degree, graduates will be equipped with administrative skills applicable to a number of public service settings and deep knowledge of work that pertains to criminal justice settings.

Admission

Students pursuing the joint degree program must apply and be admitted to each of the programs. If one program accepts the student for the dual degree but the other program does not, then the student will not be accepted for the dual degree. It is possible for students currently admitted to one program to learn about the dual degree and choose to apply after admission to the other.

The MPA and MCJ Program Directors serve as advisors for this program.  Interested applicants should consult one of the Program Directors before applying.

Course Requirements

Students enrolled in the dual degree program must complete a minimum of 24 credit hours in each of the two programs (not counting Internship or Field Study if required). Because each program requires 36 (not counting Internship or Field Study) credit hours, the student will be able to complete 48 hours and earn two degrees. This means that the student can earn two degrees by completing 66% of the credit hours that would be required if the student were pursuing each degree separately.

Interested students should contact the School of Public Affairs directly for specific information on course sequencing and requirements.