M.S. in Criminology

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 310 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.S. in Criminology program at California State University, Fresno, are well-prepared for diverse and meaningful career opportunities in the field of criminology, criminal justice, and related areas.  

1. Criminal Justice Administrator: Graduates can pursue leadership roles within criminal justice agencies, overseeing operations, policy implementation, and strategic planning.

2. Criminologist: Criminologists study patterns of criminal behavior, analyze data, and conduct research to inform criminal justice policies and practices.

3. Policy Analyst: Policy analysts assess the impact of criminal justice policies and propose evidence-based solutions to address issues such as recidivism, juvenile justice, and sentencing reform.

4. Corrections Officer/Probation Officer: Graduates can work in corrections or probation departments, supervising individuals on probation or parole and assisting with rehabilitation efforts.

5. Law Enforcement Officer: Some graduates may choose to become police officers, detectives, or investigators, working to prevent and investigate criminal activity.

6. Forensic Analyst: Forensic analysts use scientific techniques to analyze evidence in criminal investigations, contributing to the resolution of criminal cases.

7. Victim Advocate: Victim advocates provide support and resources to victims of crime, helping them navigate the criminal justice system and access needed services.

8. Researcher: Graduates interested in research can work in academia, government agencies, or research institutions, conducting studies on criminal justice issues.

9. Nonprofit/NGO Professional: Graduates can work for nonprofit organizations or NGOs focused on criminal justice reform, restorative justice, and social advocacy.

10. Academic/Professor: Some graduates may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in criminology or a related field, entering academia and teaching future generations of criminologists.

11. Private Sector Consultant: Private companies often seek criminology experts to provide security consulting, risk assessment, and investigative services.

12. Legal Consultant: Graduates with a strong understanding of criminal law may serve as legal consultants to law firms, providing expertise on criminal cases.

13. Public Policy Analyst: Public policy analysts work with government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy groups to develop and evaluate criminal justice policies.

14. Restorative Justice Facilitator: Restorative justice facilitators work to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation between victims and offenders, focusing on repairing harm and fostering community healing.