Online Master's Degree in Criminal/Social Justice—Frequently Asked Questions

The key to seeking both criminal and social justice, and to unlocking your maximum career potential, is to ask the right questions. When searching for the ideal online master's degree program, we know you have many important questions, and the team at Lewis University is here to provide answers and advice. Below are answers to some of the questions most often asked by new Lewis University online students. If you have other questions, don't hesitate to contact an Admissions Advisor anytime at (866) 967-7046 or you can request more information and we'll reach out to you.

• What makes the online MSCSJ different from other criminal justice master's degrees?
• How long will it take to earn the online MSCSJ?
• What are the admissions requirements?
• How do I attend online classes? Do I have to be at my computer at a certain time every day?
• Is Lewis accredited?
• How much does it cost? Is financial aid available?
• How do I get started?

What makes the online Master of Science in Criminal/Social Justice (MSCSJ) different from other criminal justice master's degrees?

Lewis University takes the study of criminal justice administration to a new and more socially relevant level by combining world-class criminal justice education with a unique perspective on the complex ethical and social issues faced by law enforcement, public safety and social service personnel on a daily basis. With the online MSCSJ from Lewis University, you'll learn the leadership, administration and critical thinking skills you need to achieve success at the highest levels of public and private sector law enforcement and intelligence while gaining valuable skills to preserve social justice and human rights.

How long will it take to earn the online MSCSJ?

The online Master of Science in Criminal/Social Justice from Lewis University is an accelerated 12-course, 36-credit-hour program. If you stay on the recommended online course schedule, you should earn the degree in two years. Lewis University academic advisors will be with you every step of the way to keep you on track.

What are the admissions requirements?

To be admitted into the online MSCSJ program, you must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university with:

• A major in a social or behavioral science, OR
• Be currently serving as a criminal justice practitioner, OR
• If the bachelor's degree is not social or behavioral science related, and if not currently serving as a criminal justice practitioner, successfully complete two criminal justice courses selected by the program director with a grade of "B" or better prior to admission as a degree candidate.

Full admission to the MSCSJ program requires an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Provisional admission is available for students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher and who complete nine credit hours in the MSCSJ program with a GPA of at least 3.0.

To apply, please submit the following items:

• Completed online application
• Completed statement of purpose
• Official academic transcripts from all colleges attended
• Two letters of recommendation
• Application fee

How do I attend online classes? Do I have to be at my computer at a certain time every day?

As an online student at Lewis University, you'll log on to a user-friendly online learning system to complete assignments and exams, just like a traditional college course. Dedicated professors are never more than a call or an email away for questions or support, and lively discussion forums give you the chance to interact frequently with instructors and other students. Coursework can be accessed online anytime, day or night, but assignments must be completed by the due dates assigned by each instructor.

Is Lewis accredited?

Yes. Lewis University is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools¹, and the online MSCSJ degree is identical to the degree offered on campus.

How much does it cost? Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available to those who qualify through a variety of public and private sources. To find out more about available financial aid options, qualifications and the application process, please see our financial aid page. To discuss tuition rates and various payment options, just call (866) 967-7046 to speak with an Admissions Advisor or request more information.

How do I get started?

Your journey to greater personal and professional success begins with a call to (866) 967-7046 to speak directly to an Admissions Advisor. Or, you can request more information, and we'll reach out to you. If you already know Lewis University is the right place to earn your Master of Science in Criminal/Social Justice degree, you can go ahead and begin the online application process.

¹Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604, 800.621.7440, www.ncahlc.org