Master of Criminal Justice
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 (February)
180
Overview
Master of Criminal Justice
Introduction
UC’s Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) offers you an advanced working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
Master of Criminal Justice
Entry requirements
Entry to the Master of Criminal Justice requires either:
- a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a B+ Grade Point Average or better in 90 points of 300-level courses
- a Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better
- a Postgraduate Diploma in Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better
- another approved equivalent degree.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Criminal Justice or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Master of Criminal Justice
How do I plan my degree?
The Master of Criminal Justice involves 180 points of courses, including three compulsory taught courses, a dissertation (60 points), and an elective course of choice (which includes internships and project courses).
It can be completed in 18 months full-time, or up to 3 years part-time.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Criminal Justice.
Master of Criminal Justice
Subjects and courses
And one of either:
- CRJU604 Internship
- CRJU605 Professional Cultures
- PACE495 Professional and Community Engagement Internship
- POLS449 Wicked Problems, Politics, and Justice
Domestic students
2024 tuition fee estimate: $11,998 (180 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $12,718 (180 points)
International students
2024 tuition fee estimate: $53,100 (180 points)
2025 tuition fee estimate: $55,200 (180 points)
Master of Criminal Justice
Further study
You may choose to continue on to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminal Justice at UC.
Master of Criminal Justice
Career opportunities
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student stories.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what can you do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
