M.A. in Criminal Justice

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees: US$ 50

1. Academic Requirements:

• International students applying for postgraduate programs at UMass Lowell are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent. This typically translates to a percentage of 70% and above in their previous academic studies.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• For non-native English speakers, UMass Lowell requires proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum required scores are as follows:
  • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.
  • TOEFL iBT: An overall score of 79.
  • DET: An overall score of 105.

UMass Lowell recognizes the importance of attracting and supporting talented international students, and as such, offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria to deserving international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the university.

1. Chancellor's Scholarship: The Chancellor's Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based scholarship offered to exceptional international students with outstanding academic records and leadership potential. Recipients of this scholarship receive substantial financial support to cover a significant portion of their tuition expenses.

2. Dean's Scholarship: The Dean's Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic achievements and contributions to their communities. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional potential in their chosen field of study.

3. International Student Merit Scholarship: The International Student Merit Scholarship is designed to support academically talented international students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs at UMass Lowell. The scholarship amount varies and is based on the student's academic performance and overall profile.

4. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence and have a strong commitment to contributing positively to the UMass Lowell community. This scholarship recognizes students who embody the values of global citizenship and leadership.

5. UMass Lowell Merit Scholarships: Apart from specific scholarships for international students, UMass Lowell also offers a range of merit scholarships that international students may be eligible for. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria.

6. Donor-Funded Scholarships: UMass Lowell has various donor-funded scholarships that provide financial assistance to international students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships may be awarded based on the country of origin, academic achievements, or other specific criteria defined by the donors.

Application and Eligibility: International students are automatically considered for scholarships upon applying for admission to UMass Lowell. Scholarships are awarded based on the students' academic records, achievements, and potential contributions to the university community. It is essential for international students to review the specific scholarship criteria and deadlines to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Criminal Justice program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) prepares graduates for a wide range of rewarding and impactful careers in the criminal justice field. Through a comprehensive curriculum, practical training, and research opportunities, students develop the necessary expertise and skills to contribute to the improvement and reform of the criminal justice system.

1. Law Enforcement Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as law enforcement officers in local, state, or federal agencies. They play a vital role in maintaining public safety, investigating crimes, and upholding the law.

2. Probation or Parole Officer: Graduates may become probation or parole officers, working with individuals on probation or parole to help them reintegrate into society successfully.

3. Criminal Investigator: With specialized training in criminal justice, graduates can work as criminal investigators, solving complex cases and gathering evidence for legal proceedings.

4. Corrections Officer: Graduates may pursue careers as corrections officers, overseeing inmates in correctional facilities and promoting rehabilitation and community reintegration.

5. Juvenile Justice Specialist: With a focus on juvenile justice, graduates can work with young offenders and at-risk youth to provide guidance and support for positive behavioral change.

6. Homeland Security Specialist: Graduates with a background in criminal justice can work in homeland security, protecting the nation from terrorist threats and other security risks.

7. Policy Analyst: With knowledge in policy analysis, graduates can work as policy analysts, contributing to the development and evaluation of criminal justice policies and programs.

8. Victim Advocate: Graduates may pursue careers as victim advocates, providing support and assistance to crime victims through legal proceedings and recovery processes.

9. Criminologist: With expertise in criminology, graduates can work as criminologists, studying crime trends and contributing to the development of crime prevention strategies.

10. Research Analyst: Graduates can work as research analysts, conducting studies and analyzing data to inform evidence-based practices in the criminal justice system.

11. Legal Consultant: With a strong understanding of criminal justice, graduates can work as legal consultants, providing expertise and guidance in legal cases.

12. Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may become community outreach coordinators, working with communities to address crime prevention and promote safety.

13. Academic or Policy Researcher: Graduates can pursue careers as researchers in academia or policy institutions, contributing to advancements in criminal justice knowledge and practices.

14. Non-Profit Sector: Graduates may work in non-profit organizations focused on criminal justice reform, social justice, and advocacy for marginalized communities.

The M.A. in Criminal Justice program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell provides graduates with a diverse range of career prospects in the criminal justice field. Whether working in law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, or policy analysis, graduates play crucial roles in promoting public safety, upholding justice, and advancing evidence-based practices within the criminal justice system. With the program's focus on research, practical training, and interdisciplinary learning, graduates are well-prepared to address complex societal issues and contribute positively to criminal justice reform. As the demand for skilled and ethical criminal justice professionals continues to grow, graduates of this program are positioned to make a meaningful impact in improving the lives of individuals and communities impacted by the criminal justice system.