
100% Online Master of Criminal Justice
CU Denver’s online criminal justice degree provides diverse criminology perspectives and crucial analytical skills needed for a wide range of careers in criminal justice.
Discover a curriculum designed by industry leaders and experienced faculty, aligned with current industry trends. Core courses delve into economics, leadership, finance, ethics, and international business, complemented by specialized electives. Engage in interactive case studies and practical learning, mastering effective team management, innovative problem-solving, and forward-thinking organizational leadership.
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Degree LevelMaster's
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School & CollegeSchool of Public Affairs
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Application Deadline(s)December 15, 2025
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Total Credit Hours39
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Class TypeOnline
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Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time
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Shaping the Future of Criminal Justice
CU Denver’s Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree was founded in 1972 and has been offered online for decades. The program is designed for the best and brightest of the criminal justice world to better understand the justice system and, in turn, make a bigger contribution to society.

Highly Ranked in Colorado and U.S.
Ranked no. 1 in Colorado, no. 19 nationwide, for Best Online Master of Criminal Justice programs
-U.S. News and World Report

Specializations
The MCJ degree is designed to provide you with an interdisciplinary perspective on criminology and the criminal justice system. The MCJ program offers five specializations:
- General Track
- Crime Analysis
- Disasters, Hazards and Emergency Management
- Emergency Management and Homeland Security
- Gender-Based Violence

Expand Your Criminal Justice Career with CU Denver
Degree specializations prepare students for a variety of careers intersecting with the criminal justice system, including federal, state, and local law enforcement and criminal justice administration; crime data analysis; victim advocacy and support; juvenile delinquency and juvenile justice; and criminal justice policy and reform. Whether you currently hold a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree, are working in the criminal justice system, or are looking to change your career from something entirely different, the online MCJ degree program will prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities.
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Your Future Begins Online at CU Denver
CU Denver’s online degree programs offer students the flexibility to pursue education from anywhere, at any time, while still receiving a top-tier education. Whether it is advancing current skills, changing careers, or pursuing a passion, CU Denver's online degree programs can help students achieve their goals.
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