Criminal Justice and Criminology University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

Overview

The Criminal Justice and Criminology programme at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee offers an advanced academic foundation for students pursuing leadership roles or doctoral studies. This curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications to address the complexities of the modern justice system.

Students gain a sophisticated understanding of the causes of crime and the operational mechanics of social control. The programme explores diverse perspectives, including legal, political, and behavioural frameworks, to evaluate how the United States criminal justice system functions and evolves in response to societal shifts.

The flexible delivery format allows learners to choose between full-time and part-time tracks, with the option to complete the degree entirely online.

Why Criminal Justice and Criminology at University of Wisconsin Milwaukee?

The institution stands out as the first in the state to offer dedicated coursework in crime analysis, a rapidly expanding field. Students benefit from the expertise of the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, which provides unique interdisciplinary opportunities and specialised graduate certificates.

Distinctive features include the ability to pursue joint degrees in Public Administration or Social Work, allowing for a multifaceted professional profile. The department also offers field placement options, enabling students to develop career-ready skills through direct engagement with criminal justice agencies and community organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 27090 per year
• National fee: USD 27090 per year
• Local fee: USD 13659 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

To earn the degree, students must complete 30 graduate credits, maintaining a high academic standard in core subjects. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad conceptual foundation while allowing for individual specialisation through a wide range of elective choices.

Modules may include:

• Criminological Perspectives
• Administration of Criminal Justice Systems
• Analysis of Criminal Justice Research
• Measuring Crime and Analyzing Crime Data
• Criminal Justice Master’s Capstone Seminar
• Cybercrime
• Cybercrime, Law & Policy
• Investigating the Dark Web
• Sex Crimes, Human Trafficking and the Internet
• Criminal Evidence & Investigation
• Drugs, Crime & Criminal Justice
• Spatial Data Analysis; Crime Mapping; ArcGIS
• Juvenile Justice
• Jails
• Race, Crime & Criminal Justice
• Issues in Law Enforcement Practice & Policy
• Intervention Strategies for Correctional Clients
• Philosophical Foundations of Policing
• Issues in Correctional Practice & Policy
• Women & Criminal Justice
• Violence & Criminal Justice System

Careers with Criminal Justice and Criminology

Graduates are prepared for influential roles across local, state, and federal levels of government. Many find success within the non-profit sector or transition into specialised positions within the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Common career paths for alumni include serving as crime analysts, victim advocates, or federal probation and parole officers. Others advance to high-level administrative positions, such as police chiefs, corrections directors, or programme administrators within the broader legal and social welfare systems.