M.A. in Criminology

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Your degree should be relevant to your intended field of study at the postgraduate level.

2. Academic Performance: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred. This translates to approximately 60% or a 'C' grade.  

3.  English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: An overall score of 79 or higher is required.
   • DET: A minimum score for DET around 100 is required.
      
4. WES Evaluation required.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help them pursue their education in the United States. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Trustee's Scholarship for International Students: This is a highly competitive scholarship awarded to a limited number of incoming international undergraduate students. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition and fees. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.

2. Global Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship is available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. It is based on academic merit and can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

3. IUP International Student Emergency Fund: This fund is designed to assist international students who face unexpected financial crises during their studies. It provides temporary financial support to help students overcome emergency situations.

4. Graduate Assistantships: IUP offers graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions often include a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable work experience in various academic departments.

5. Foundation for IUP Scholarships: The Foundation for IUP administers a variety of scholarships available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific areas of study.

6. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments and colleges within IUP offer scholarships to students majoring in their respective fields. These scholarships can be highly specialized and may require applicants to meet specific criteria.

7. Athletic Scholarships: IUP offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for these scholarships.

8. External Scholarships: IUP encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. The International Education Office can provide guidance on finding these opportunities.

9. International Student Work Opportunities: International students on F-1 visas are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during school breaks. This provides an opportunity to earn income to support their studies.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

Earning a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) opens the door to a wide array of exciting and rewarding career opportunities in the field of criminology and criminal justice. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to address complex issues related to crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. 

1. Criminal Justice Research Analyst: As a research analyst, you will gather and analyze data related to crime and criminal justice policies. You will assist law enforcement agencies, government organizations, and research institutions in making data-driven decisions to improve public safety and criminal justice practices.

2. Policy Analyst: Policy analysts focus on evaluating and creating policies related to crime and justice. They work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutes to influence and shape public policies, contributing to more effective and equitable criminal justice systems.

3. Probation or Parole Officer: Probation and parole officers play a crucial role in helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration. They supervise and support individuals on probation or parole to ensure they adhere to the conditions of their release, access resources, and reduce the risk of recidivism.

4. Criminal Investigator: With a solid foundation in criminology, graduates can pursue careers as criminal investigators within law enforcement agencies. Criminal investigators are responsible for solving crimes, gathering evidence, and ensuring justice is served.

5. Corrections Officer or Case Manager: Working in correctional facilities, graduates may serve as corrections officers or case managers, helping incarcerated individuals with rehabilitation, reentry planning, and addressing their needs while in custody.

6. Victim Advocate: Victim advocates support and advocate for crime victims, providing essential services, information, and assistance during the criminal justice process. They may work for government agencies, non-profits, or social service organizations.

7. Security and Risk Management Specialist: Graduates can apply their knowledge of criminology to careers in security and risk management in various sectors, including corporate security, private investigation, or homeland security.

8. Criminal Justice Educator: For those interested in academia and teaching, pursuing a career as a criminal justice educator at the college or university level is an option. Educators in this field prepare the next generation of criminal justice professionals.

9. Law Enforcement Administration: Graduates with an M.A. in Criminology can advance their careers within law enforcement agencies, taking on administrative roles that involve policy development, strategic planning, and leadership.

10. Private Sector Opportunities: The knowledge and skills gained through the M.A. in Criminology program are also valuable in the private sector. Graduates can explore opportunities in security management, risk assessment, and fraud prevention for businesses and corporations.