School of Criminal Justice

Welcome to the School of Criminal Justice, one of the top-ranked schools for criminal justice in the country. With a range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees; highly experienced faculty; impactful centers; and study abroad opportunities, University of Cincinnati’s School of Criminal Justice continues to make a positive impact on the world around us.

Empowering Leaders, Advancing Justice

At the School of Criminal Justice, we are committed to offering a comprehensive range of degree programs to help you build a successful career in the dynamic field of criminal justice. Our top-ranked school is home to highly experienced faculty, impactful research centers, and exciting study abroad opportunities that continue to make a positive impact on the world.

Where justice meets education, the University of Cincinnati School of Criminal Justice is a beacon of excellence, nurturing the leaders and scholars of tomorrow.

The School of Criminal Justice offers degrees in:

As a premier institution for education in Criminal Justice, we take pride in providing a wide array of degree programs designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic profession. Our commitment to excellence extends to the following degree offerings:

With Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Paralegal Studies, as well as Minors and Certificates, we are dedicated to providing the knowledge to be a successful professional in the Criminal Justice field.

Bachelor's Degree:

Minor Programs:

Browse Undergraduate Programs

Offering a Master's Degree both online and on-campus, as well as a PhD program ranked 4th in the nation, our Graduate degrees will prepare you to make a difference in the exciting field of Criminal Justice.

Master's Degree:

Doctoral Degree:

Browse Graduate Programs

Discover our undergraduate and graduate certificate options designed to expand your expertise within your desired field. These programs provide valuable insights and specialized knowledge to enhance your career.

Undergraduate Certificates:

Graduate Certificates:

Browse Certificate Programs

Centers and Institutes

Criminal Justice Centers

Elevate your studies through engagement with our top-rated centers and programs. Our nationally renowned research center actively supports students and professionals in the Criminal Justice field. Our research excellence has a tangible impact on national criminal justice policy, making our institution a driving force for positive change.

Learn more about our centers.

Faculty and Staff

Criminal justice faculty member

The commitment of our Faculty and Staff to teaching and research excellence has earned them the ranking of 1st in Faculty Scholarship. Their dedication to student success ensures our school makes an impact around the world.

Learn more about our faculty.

News & Features

1

A criminal justice degree prepares some grads for private-sector work

April 16, 2026

While law enforcement is a common career path for criminal justice alums, it's hardly the only option after graduation. Asset protection and loss prevention, for example, are closely related career paths that allow criminal justice graduates to bring their education and experience to the private sector. Corporations value the academic depth and practical experience UC criminal justice alums bring to their roles within an organization.

2

University of Cincinnati recognized with 16 rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs

January 29, 2026

U.S. News and World Report (the global authority in education rankings) published its 2026 Best Online Programs rankings on January 27, 2026, recognizing the University of Cincinnati with 16 spots in the list of degree-granting university programs that affordably serve the educational needs of distance learners in a reasonable timeframe. Programs within the College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, and Information Technology (CECH) represent seven of these rankings.

5

CPD Assistant Chief Matthew Hammer reflects on a career in policing

December 19, 2025

The two-time UC alum – he has a master's and PhD in criminal justice – was promoted to Assistant Chief in early 2025 and reflects on a challenging year in Cincinnati, his 26 years on the force, what led him to UC for graduate and postgraduate studies, and the learnings in place-based violence he's been able to apply to his work serving and protecting the people of Cincinnati.

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