Master of Professional Studies in Criminal Justice - Fort Hays State University (FHSU)

Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice)

Hours: 30 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Professional Studies (MPS) with a concentration in Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive and advanced curriculum designed for professionals seeking to expand their expertise or move into leadership roles within the criminal justice field. The program explores key areas such as criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and current issues in law enforcement and corrections.

Combining theoretical foundations with practical applications, the program equips students to address complex, real-world challenges. Its flexible format—offered both online and on campus—caters to working professionals balancing career and academic goals. Graduates emerge well-prepared to advance in public service, administration, or related sectors within the criminal justice system.

Why pursue a Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) at Fort Hays State University?

The Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program distinguishes itself through flexible learning options, experienced faculty, and a comprehensive curriculum aligned with current industry needs. It offers a unique combination of practical and theoretical coursework, preparing graduates for leadership roles in criminal justice. The curriculum also integrates the latest advancements, ensuring students stay informed about contemporary issues and trends.

Designed to accommodate the demanding schedules of working professionals, the program provides consistent, high-quality education and support whether pursued online or on campus. This flexibility, coupled with a strong emphasis on practical application, sets the program apart within the field.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Professional Studies with a concentration in Criminal Justice curriculum is designed for individuals passionate about criminal justice and looking to advance their careers. This program caters to diverse students with a variety of professional backgrounds and aspirations. It is ideal for:

Current criminal justice professionals aiming for leadership roles
Individuals looking to transition into the criminal justice field
Those interested in criminal justice policy and administration
Professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in contemporary criminal justice issues
Students aiming for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or related fields

Real-World Applications

The curriculum is carefully designed to cover a wide range of topics relevant to the criminal justice field, including criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and contemporary issues in law enforcement and corrections. Through practical coursework and real-world applications, students develop the skills necessary to excel in diverse criminal justice roles.

The program also offers opportunities for practical projects, research, and conference participation. These experiential learning components provide valuable experience and insights, preparing graduates to be competitive candidates for advanced positions in the field.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum is regularly updated to incorporate the latest advancements and trends in criminal justice, including cutting-edge research, contemporary case studies, and emerging issues in law enforcement and corrections. By maintaining alignment with current industry developments, the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program prepares students to effectively address modern challenges.

For instance, courses may explore the impact of technology on crime and law enforcement, innovative approaches to corrections and rehabilitation, and evolving policies in criminal justice administration. This forward-thinking approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to lead and innovate in their careers.

Hands-on Activities

Fort Hays State University's Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) emphasizes experiential learning through practical activities such as research projects. These opportunities enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, deepening their understanding and skill set.

Additionally, students have an opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops, gaining exposure to current trends and the chance to network with professionals in the field. This hands-on experience equips graduates with the tools and confidence needed to excel in their careers.

What You’ll Learn:

Advanced criminal justice concepts
Policy development and analysis
Leadership and administrative skills
Contemporary criminal justice issues
Research methods in criminal justice

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive online courses
Practical coursework and real-world applications
Case study analysis
Expert faculty guidance
Flexible scheduling

Courses

The core curriculum of the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program includes Advanced Criminological Theory and Research Methods. The concentration coursework covers key areas such as criminal justice administration, policy analysis, and ethics.

Elective courses offer students the flexibility to customize their education according to their interests and career objectives, with options including law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, and more. This comprehensive structure ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse advanced roles within the criminal justice field. Elective offerings may include:

CRJ 605 Crime and Mental Health

This course examines the intersection of criminal justice and mental health, evaluating issues that arise for law enforcement, courts, and correctional administrators to develop and incorporate policy to effectively manage offenders with mental illness.

CRJ 655: Correctional Administration

This course examines the evolution of the American correctional system, covering its explanations, theories, policies, and practices while also exploring issues faced by correctional managers and the administrative processes for addressing them.

CRJ 660: Police Administration

This course examines theories of policing underlying law enforcement response to community issues as well as the empirical literature assessing the effectiveness of each response for controlling crime and disorder and improving public perceptions of the police.

Discover the full Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) can pursue various career paths, each offering the opportunity to make significant contributions to the criminal justice field. The following are some of the potential career prospects:

Criminal Justice Administrator

Criminal justice administrators manage the operations of criminal justice organizations, ensuring efficient policy implementation and ethical standards. They oversee budgeting, staffing, and collaborate with law enforcement, courts, and corrections to promote justice.

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts in criminal justice develop and evaluate policies affecting the system. They research data and offer recommendations to improve public safety and justice. Their work shapes decisions and drives reforms. These analysts often work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profits, focusing on reform, sentencing, and community policing.

Law Enforcement Officer

Law enforcement officers with a master's degree are equipped for advanced roles in police or federal agencies. They handle complex investigations, lead specialized units, and apply community policing strategies. Their training often includes cybercrime, forensics, and counter-terrorism, making them vital to public safety and justice.

Corrections Manager

Corrections managers oversee correctional facilities, focusing on inmate rehabilitation and safety. They develop policies, manage staff, and implement programs to reduce recidivism and support reintegration. They work in prisons, jails, and juvenile detention centers.

Researcher

Criminal justice researchers study crime trends, policy effectiveness, and social impacts. They analyze data, publish findings, and offer evidence-based policy recommendations. Working in academia, government, or private research, they advance knowledge and inform public policy.

Admission Requirements

To apply for the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice), prospective students must meet the following criteria:

Academic Achievement

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credit hours, demonstrating readiness for the program’s academic rigor.

Professional Experience

While relevant work experience in criminal justice or a related field is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, applicants with professional experience may find it beneficial as this experience provides practical insights and enhances learning outcomes.

Personal Statement

Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their career goals, reasons for pursuing the degree, and how the program supports their professional aspirations. This statement highlights their passion for the field and readiness for graduate study.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required, preferably from academic or professional references. These letters should attest to the applicant’s qualifications, work ethic, and potential for success in the program.

Official Transcripts

Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended to verify academic history and confirm completion of prerequisite coursework.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,559.42* (on-campus) or $3,139.02* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (348.78/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

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FAQ

What’s the curriculum in the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program?

The curriculum includes courses in criminal justice administration, policy analysis, research methods, and contemporary law enforcement and corrections issues. This blend of theoretical and practical learning prepares students for leadership roles and advanced positions in the field.

How long is the Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program?

The program consists of 30 credit hours and can be completed in approximately two years, depending on the student's pace. The flexible scheduling allows students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments.

Can this program be completed online?

The Master of Professional Studies (Criminal Justice) program offers online and on-campus learning options. This flexibility makes it accessible to working professionals and those with busy schedules.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles as criminal justice administrators, policy analysts, law enforcement officers, corrections managers, and researchers. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for advanced positions and leadership roles.

Information about the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology

The School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology at FHSU offers a diverse range of programs designed to prepare students for meaningful and impactful careers in law enforcement, leadership, and the social sciences. Through an integrated, interdisciplinary approach, students develop critical skills that equip them to address complex societal challenges and become effective leaders and professionals.

The Criminal Justice programs provide both online and on-campus options, focusing on areas such as law enforcement, corrections, and the legal system, with a strong emphasis on leadership, ethics, and integrity. Leadership programs cultivate essential organizational and interpersonal skills through interactive coursework and hands-on internships, supported by initiatives like the Leadership Studies Association and the VALUE program. Sociology programs explore human behavior, social structures, and community issues, encouraging analytical thinking and research-based problem-solving.

Together, these programs create a robust and collaborative educational environment that promotes cross-disciplinary learning. Students are empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader society. Whether focused on justice, leadership, or social change, students in the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership and Sociology gain the knowledge and experience needed to make a lasting impact.

Student Organizations

While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.

Criminal Justice Club: Open to students majoring, minoring, or pursuing a certificate in Criminal Justice, as well as those majoring in Criminalistics, the Criminal Justice Club offers career-focused opportunities for service, networking, and social engagement. The club meets weekly during the academic year, with activities that vary each semester based on student interests.
Delta Tau Omega: Students in the Criminal Justice Club have an opportunity to join the FHSU chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, Delta Tau Omega. Membership in this organization allows students to participate in regional and national conferences, where they can engage in a variety of competitions, including written exams, mock crime scene investigations, physical agility tests, scholarly research poster presentations, and national research paper and scholarship contests. To remain active in the organization, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in their criminal justice coursework.
Sociology Club: Open to all students and majors, the Sociology Club promotes research on topics aimed at improving the community. The club actively collaborates with both the FHSU campus community and residents of Hays, hosting student engagement events and participating in a variety of community service projects. Its mission is to foster a deeper interest in sociology while highlighting the discipline’s importance in understanding society and enhancing the human condition.
Alpha Kappa Delta: Sociology majors may be eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the honor society for sociology. This organization promotes academic excellence and fosters scholarship and fellowship among undergraduate and graduate students. To qualify for membership, students must have junior standing, a minimum 3.0 GPA in sociology, and at least 12 completed credit hours in sociology coursework.
Leadership Studies Association: The Leadership Studies Association provides students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills by building meaningful relationships, engaging in skill-building activities, and applying leadership in real-world settings. The organization encourages student growth through a variety of events and activities designed to foster personal and professional development.

Additional Information

Criminal Justice Centers

National De-escalation Training Center:

In August 2020, Fort Hays State University’s Criminal Justice Programs and University Police partnered with the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC) to become the Region 2 Central Region Training Center. As a designated regional center, FHSU offers the only Level 3 de-escalation training currently available in the United States.

Level 1 training includes traditional de-escalation techniques grounded in procedural justice.
Level 2 provides basic crisis intervention strategies.
Level 3 enhances both traditional de-escalation and crisis intervention methods by incorporating rapid personality identification.

The NDTC De-escalation: Principles & Practice course is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase officer confidence in applying de-escalation techniques when working with the public.

FHSU facilitates all three of NDTC’s training modalities, including an 8-hour online training, a two-day, in-person training, and a comprehensive 32- to 40-hour train-the-trainer program. Supported by substantial federal funding, these training opportunities are available to agencies at little to no cost. In addition, scholarships may be available to help agencies enroll officers in the online course.

NDTC training is approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS), and certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST).

Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence:

Located within the Criminal Justice Programs at Fort Hays State University, the Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-Based Violence functions as a regional hub for collaborative research and community service. Its mission is to alleviate the barriers faced by survivors, promote economic independence, and empower survivors to embrace new opportunities with freedom and confidence.

The Center commits to providing sustainable support aimed at helping survivors break the cycle of violence and transform from victims/survivors into social entrepreneurs.

Focusing on gender-based violence in rural areas, the Center facilitates cross-disciplinary research that explores its causes and effective control measures. It leads collaborative networks of researchers committed to applying evidence-based approaches and identifying best practices to address gender-based violence within rural communities.

Additionally, the Center fosters academic-community partnerships through service-learning, research, assessment, education, and policy development, all designed to enhance the well-being and resilience of rural populations.

VALUE Program:

The Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) is a year-long program designed to cultivate promising undergraduates into effective agents of change. It offers a combination of curricular and co-curricular experiences across three specialized tracks: corporate leadership, civic/nonprofit leadership, and scholarship/leadership research.

CNN Heroes Advisory Board:

The Sociology Programs focus on creating real-world impact through projects aimed at supporting those in need. A key initiative involves collaboration with CNN Heroes, individuals nationally recognized for their outstanding contributions to nonprofit organizations. The CNN Heroes Advisory Board, made up of these distinguished leaders, offers students valuable guidance and insights drawn from their successful experiences in the nonprofit sector.

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