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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.

Program at a Glance

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.

  • Degree Level
    Master's
  • School & College
    School of Public Affairs
  • Application Deadline(s)
    December 15, 2025
  • Total Credit Hours
    39
  • Class Type
    Online
  • Time Commitment
    Full-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.

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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

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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
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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.

Make an Impact in Your Community
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In-Depth Learning Experience
Focus on theory, systems and practical skills within criminology and criminal justice.
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Expert Faculty Guidance
Learn from industry-experienced professors and business leaders.
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Flexible Learning
Complete the program on your own schedule, 100% online.
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Grow in Your Career
Individuals that complete this program serve in roles such as Crime Analysts, Victims Services Managers, Managers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, and related nonprofits.

Hear from Our Students & Alumni

  • My experience at the School of Public Affairs at CU Denver was transformative and deeply impactful. The extraordinary professors there expanded my worldview and nurtured my passion for advocacy by teaching me about critical issues and communities often omitted from traditional education. Their mentorship provided me with the knowledge and confidence to champion human rights and represent forcibly displaced and underrepresented communities on a global stage. CU Denver was not just an academic institution for me—it was the catalyst for my lifelong commitment to making meaningful change in the world.

    Nga Vương-Sandoval
    MCJ ’23
  • As a proud alum of CU Denver’s School of Public Affairs, my education has been instrumental in shaping my career and mindset. My Statistics classes were transformative, giving me a data-driven perspective and sharpening my critical thinking skills. One of my favorite memories was presenting my research at a conference, where I had the chance to analyze my own data, travel out of state, and connect with inspiring individuals. I also cherished the supportive community of students and faculty, who became invaluable mentors to me. My advice to the current and prospective students is to take full advantage of CU Denver’s resources, like the library and Writing Center, and never hesitate to seek guidance from the incredible faculty.

    Maria Diaz Mize
    BACJ ’20 and MCJ ’23
Nga Vương-Sandoval
Maria Diaz Mize
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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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