Master of Science in Criminology

Penn's unique Master of Science in criminology program aims to shape criminal justice change agents, preparing students to spend their career applying criminological research in public and non-profit domestic and international organizations. It is also designed for those research-oriented students who are preparing themselves for graduate or professional education at leading research universities. Penn's unique interdisciplinary program combines solid academic learning at one of the nation's top research universities with practical knowledge that can enhance careers in research and in criminal justice-related policy and practice settings. Students also gain knowledge of the criminal justice system through meeting weekly with guest visitors who work in the justice system. Students work under a faculty member on a semester-long crime analysis project, using their analytical and research skills, to address a specific crime problem. Students present their final masters projects during a poster session at Penn's Criminology Day in April, through an oral defense of their project, and as a written research article.

Applicants for master\u2019s and doctoral programs must have obtained a bachelor\u2019s degree from an accredited School or University prior to intended matriculation date.

A strong command of the English language is necessary for successful study at Penn. Applicants whose families do not speak English at home, or applicants who have not attended a high school or secondary school where the primary language of instruction is English, are asked to take the TOEFL, the Test of English as a Foreign Language, administered by the Educational Testing Service. In the event the TOEFL is not readily accessible, Penn will accept results from the IELTS, the International English Language Testing System.