The graduate program provides students with a solid foundation of knowledge about criminology, victimology, and the criminal justice system. The required course work emphasizes the study of research methods and statistics, providing students with the skills necessary for conducting and evaluating research. 

Graduate students have the opportunity to learn in both classroom and community settings and to work closely with faculty in all facets of research.

Program objectives are: 

(1) fundamental understanding of criminological principles, theories, and concepts; 

(2) development of independent research skills, including data analysis and oral and written communication of research; and 

(3) competitive for professional positions in the criminal justice field.