The accelerated master's program (B.S./M.A. joint degree) makes it possible for highly motivated and qualified undergraduate students who determine early in their postsecondary education that they wish to pursue graduate studies in criminal justice. This five-year joint bachelor of science/master of arts (B.S. /M.A.) program makes it possible to earn a baccalaureate degree from Newark College of Arts and Sciences (NCAS), University College-Newark (UC-N), or other participating institutions throughout the state of New Jersey and a master's degree from the School of Criminal Justice (SCJ).
There are several requirements before one can be considered for admission into this program:
- Completion of 94 undergraduate credits in liberal arts subjects (can include transfer credits).
- Satisfactory completion of the core curriculum requirements of NCAS, UC-N, or SCJ.
- Completion of an undergraduate major in criminal justice or at NCAS or UC-N.
- A cumulative grade-point average of 3.2 or better at NCAS, UC-N, or SCJ.
- A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test score (taken in the junior year) acceptable to the School of Criminal Justice, or written answers to the program essay questions in the admission application.
Careful planning is necessary to complete the undergraduate requirements with just 94 credits.
Students also need to fulfill all general requirements for admission consideration (e.g., GRE scores, personal statement, three letters of recommendation, etc.).
All applications are due May 1 and will be reviewed by the M.A. Academic Oversight Committee.
Students interested in this program should contact the SCJ
Office of Academic Program and Student Services in their first year of undergraduate studies; an official declaration of intent must be filed during the sophomore year. Application for early admission to the School of Criminal Justice is then made at the beginning of the second semester of the junior year.
Master of Arts Program 
