M.S. in Criminology

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 60% or equivalent, depending on the grading system of the country where the degree was earned.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall band score of at least 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 90 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) internet-based test.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120 is required.                                                                                                                                   
3. WES evaluation is required.

The University of Tampa is committed to making education accessible to students from around the world, and these scholarships help ease the financial burden for international students pursuing their academic goals at UT.

1. International Student Scholarship: The University of Tampa offers competitive merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments. The amounts vary but can significantly reduce tuition costs.

2. Honors Program Scholarships: Exceptional international students may be eligible for the Honors Program at UT, which comes with additional scholarships and academic benefits. These scholarships are highly competitive and aim to attract top-tier students.

3. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students pursuing master's degrees may have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships. These positions provide a stipend and often include a tuition waiver. Graduate assistants work closely with faculty or in administrative roles.

4. Alumni Legacy Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international undergraduate students who have a parent or grandparent who graduated from the University of Tampa. It offers financial assistance to the next generation of UT students.

5. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarships: Transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and helps reduce the cost of attending UT.

6. Sports Scholarships: UT has a successful athletics program, and international students with exceptional athletic abilities may be considered for sports scholarships. These scholarships are typically awarded to student-athletes who excel in their chosen sport.

7. External Scholarships: While not directly offered by UT, international students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities. Various organizations, foundations, and governments provide scholarships for students studying in the United States. UT's financial aid office can assist in identifying these opportunities.

8. Graduate Program Scholarships: Some individual graduate programs at UT offer scholarships or assistantships specific to their field of study. Prospective graduate students should check with their respective departments for available funding options.

9. Tampa Scholars Program: This scholarship program is designed for high-achieving Florida residents, but a limited number of scholarships may be available for out-of-state and international students. It provides a comprehensive financial aid package.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship opportunity. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is often a requirement for scholarship renewal.

The M.S. in Criminology program at the University of Tampa prepares graduates for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the criminal justice field. With a strong foundation in criminological theory, research methods, and practical skills, graduates are well-equipped to make a positive impact on crime prevention, law enforcement, and criminal justice administration. This program is an excellent choice for individuals passionate about understanding and addressing the complex issues related to crime and criminal behavior.

1. Criminal Investigator: Graduates can pursue careers as criminal investigators, working with law enforcement agencies to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and solve crimes. They may specialize in areas such as homicide, fraud, or cybercrime.

2. Probation or Parole Officer: Probation and parole officers supervise individuals who have been released from prison or placed on probation. They monitor their compliance with court-ordered conditions and provide support for rehabilitation.

3. Correctional Officer: Correctional officers work in prisons and jails, maintaining security, supervising inmates, and ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates.

4. Crime Analyst: Crime analysts collect and analyze data to identify patterns and trends in criminal activity. They provide valuable information to law enforcement agencies for crime prevention and resource allocation.

5. Victim Advocate: Victim advocates provide support and assistance to crime victims, helping them navigate the criminal justice system and access resources such as counseling and legal aid.

6. Community Outreach Specialist: Graduates can work as community outreach specialists, collaborating with community organizations and law enforcement agencies to develop crime prevention and community safety programs.

7. Private Investigator: Private investigators conduct investigations for private clients, attorneys, and businesses. They may specialize in background checks, surveillance, or fraud investigations.

8. Security Consultant: Security consultants assess and improve security measures for businesses, organizations, and individuals. They may work on projects related to risk assessment, security planning, and emergency response.

9. Research Analyst: Research analysts work for government agencies, think tanks, or research organizations, conducting studies and research on crime-related topics. They contribute to the development of evidence-based policies and practices.

10. Federal Law Enforcement: Graduates may pursue careers with federal law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

11. Legal Professional: Some graduates choose to pursue legal careers as attorneys or legal assistants, specializing in criminal law and representing clients in criminal cases.

12. Criminal Justice Administrator: Criminal justice administrators oversee the operations of correctional facilities, probation offices, or law enforcement agencies. They manage budgets, personnel, and policy development.

13. Crime Prevention Specialist: Crime prevention specialists work to reduce crime in communities by developing and implementing crime prevention strategies, public awareness campaigns, and educational programs.

14. Homeland Security Specialist: Graduates may work in homeland security roles, focusing on protecting the nation from threats such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and natural disasters.

15. Academic and Researcher: Some graduates choose to pursue doctoral degrees and become academics or researchers in the field of criminology, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the discipline.