The Department of Sociology offers a fully online Master of Science (MS) degree in criminology. With supportive faculty and an asynchronous learning model, you can complete the program on your own time, from anywhere.
The online master’s degree in criminology has a strong foundation in sociology. You’ll focus on the following:
Coursework
The MS degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of master’s-level courses, including 12 credit hours of mandatory core coursework and 18 credit hours of sociology and criminology electives.
Core Requirements
Electives
Semester 1: Social Statistics, Social Research Methods, Criminological Theory, one criminology elective, portfolio guidance.
Semester 2: Sociology elective, three criminology electives, portfolio guidance.
We are accepting applications for Spring 2024!
Master's Portfolio
The MS degree also requires the completion of a Master's Portfolio. The portfolio summarizes and displays the student's criminological and sociological knowledge, skills, and problem-solving capabilities beyond an academic audience. It includes a statement of professional goals, a resume, a public-facing professional profile, and a written product, such as 2-3 policy briefs, a white paper, or a short research paper based on informational interviews with 2-3 people working in an industry or field of interest to the student.
The Criminology MS is ideal for learners who plan to enter or advance in careers requiring a strong background in crime or law, including:
We encourage prospective students to get in touch with us directly by emailing Susie Sheron, our graduate coordinator, Ashley Barr, our Director of Graduate Studies, or Jared Strohl, our Director of Criminology MS. You may also complete an information request form or email criminologyms@buffalo.edu to learn more about UB or pursuing graduate work in other departments. Current UB students may also contact their faculty advisor.