Department of Sociology-Anthropology, University of Minnesota Duluth, 228 Cina Hall, 1123 University Drive, Duluth, MN 55812 (218-726-7801; fax: 218-726-7759)

Note: This program is not currently accepting new students. Please contact the Department of Sociology/Anthropology for more information about the status of the criminology M.A. The core courses for the master of arts (M.A.) in criminology feature relevant theoretical perspectives in understanding criminal behavior, methods of research and data analysis, and critical analysis of the criminal justice system. The curriculum is based on the premise that a liberal education in the social sciences includes the development of a student's ability to 1) define problems effectively by asking appropriate questions; 2) understand and respect people with diverse opinions, backgrounds, characteristics, and lifestyles; 3) respect the right to freedom of inquiry, willingly challenge conventional wisdom, and be intellectually flexible when challenged by factual information; and 4) understand the significance of inequality in the way that criminal justice is administered. The theme of inequality is incorporated into the graduate program as it is in the undergraduate program. In particular, structural forms of oppression are examined, and emphasis is placed on issues of social justice, human rights, and treatment rehabilitation. The framework of the program provides students with opportunities to develop a knowledge base that enhances understanding of criminal behavior and the workings of the criminal justice system. Core requirements give students experience in using various methods of research, analyzing and interpreting data, understanding and critiquing the main theoretical traditions in the field, and examining the organization of the criminal justice system. Furthermore, course electives enable students to focus on more specific interests (e.g., policing, courts, youth justice, etc.). The M.A. in criminology provides an opportunity for both intellectual and professional development. The program serves those students with undergraduate degrees in criminology (or a related social science) who are interested in pursuing the advanced study of crime and justice. The program also serves those who have been employed in organizations and agencies and who wish to expand their knowledge and understanding in ways that may enhance their professional careers.

Other requirements to be completed before admission:

Admission to the program is competitive. Applicants must have successfully completed an introduction to criminology or criminal justice course, the equivalent of one semester of research methods and/or statistics beyond the introductory level, and a course devoted primarily to social/behavioral theory.

Applicants must supply three letters of recommendation evaluating their scholarship and potential for graduate study (at least two letters should be from academic faculty familiar with the applicant); an essay explaining why an advanced degree in criminology is of interest; why the applicant merits serious consideration; and a personal statement of the applicant's short- and long-term professional goals, and commitment to and preparation for graduate study in criminology.

The M.A. is offered under both Plan A and Plan B; each requires 38 credits. The Plan A option involves thesis work; the Plan B option involves a special project based upon a student's practicum work. The Plan B project combines theories, concepts, principles, and/or best practices from at least one course in the student's program of study with work being done in a practicum. All students must take CRIM 8100 (3 cr), CRIM 8200 (3 cr), CRIM 8201 (3 cr), CRIM 8140 (1 cr), and CRIM 8300 (3 cr). Plan A students must enroll in CRIM 8777 - Master's Thesis Credits (minimum of 10 credits required). Plan B students must enroll in CRIM 8600 - Criminology Practicum (minimum of 10 credits required). In addition to the credits listed above, all students must choose at least 9 additional credits in criminology courses, 5xxx or above. Students are expected to include additional elective courses (6 cr) outside the major (in a minor or related field) as part of their program of study. The related field courses must be chosen in consultation with, and approved by, the student's advising/examining committee. Upon the advice and approval of the director of graduate studies, students may use 4xxx courses in related fields as appropriate. Sociology 4xxx courses may be included in either the Plan A or Plan B options for the M.A. in criminology.