As part of the master`s essay option in criminal justice, the
student must complete, under faculty direction, an acceptable master`s
essay. Many models are possible for the master`s essay. An essay can be
an empirical research project, a legal research project, a review of
the literature, a policy proposal, a needs assessment, a grant
proposal, or, with the approval of the essay adviser and reader, any
project having the potential to enhance the practice of, or refine the
theories related to, criminal justice. A written final product (the
essay) always is required.
The essay is assigned 3 credits and
is intended to be the equivalent of a 3-credit course. Faculty
direction is under an essay adviser and a second faculty reader. When
any student begins the master's essay, he or she must select a master's
essay adviser. The student should select an adviser who is particularly
knowledgeable about the area to be investigated in the student`s essay.
The student should work closely with the adviser throughout the period
the essay is being developed.
Required Courses (Credits)
27:202:510 * Criminology (3)
27:202:520 ** The Criminal Justice System (3)
27:202:540 *** Research Methods in Criminal Justice (3)
27:202:541 Foundations of Scholarship (3)
27:202:542 *** Introductory Statistics (3)
27:202:550 Master's Essay (3)
Elective Courses (18)
Total Credits = 36
If this option is selected, a completed master`s essay is needed for
graduation and the student need not take the comprehensive examination.
