Applied Behavioral Science, MA

 Return to: Programs of Study

Program Description

The Applied Behavioral Science program currently offers a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Social Problems.

The Criminal Justice and Social Problems track emphasizes methodology and theoretical courses and topics-focused workshops aimed at improving the research and intellectual foundations for employment and professional advancement in the criminal justice fields. Students in the program typically work for, or plan to work for, the courts, probation offices, police agencies, prison administrations, or private and public programs for juvenile offenders.

The training received in basic social science skills and knowledge is also a useful foundation for those who wish to proceed to doctoral-level study in a number of fields. An optional practicum provides field experience for those without prior experience in a criminal justice field. The program culminates in an applied research effort that, at the student’s option, takes the form of either a journal article project or a traditional thesis. Courses are offered primarily in the evenings and workshops primarily on the weekends to accommodate employed students.

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the admission requirements of the Graduate School, students applying for admission into the Criminal Justice and Social Problems M.A. degree program are generally expected to have an undergraduate degree in criminal justice, social work, or a social science (such as sociology, psychology, or political science). Significant experience working in a criminal justice field can substitute for this expectation for students with degrees in other fields. Admission is generally for Summer or Fall Semesters, but students can be admitted year round.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will master graduate level knowledge concerning computer based  research skills.
• Students will master graduate level quantitative and qualitative skills as appropriate to the study of criminal justice. 
• Students will master formal graduate writing skills appropriate for the creation  of graduate theses/projects and research articles. 
• Students will master the skills of reviewing applied programs (e.g., a program for felons whose crimes are tied to alcohol abuse) in terms of the extant literature, logical cohesion and current empirical knowledge.
• Students will be able to use their skills in the creation and administration of applied programs in both public and private agencies.

For More Information

• Applied Behavioral Science, Criminal Justice and Social Problems, MA
• Department of Sociology and Anthropology
• College of Liberal Arts

Program Requirements:

Dept Core and Electives

I. DEPARTMENTAL REQUIREMENTS: 15 HOURS

CORE COURSES

• ABS 7100 - Research Methods I Credit Hour(s): 3
• ABS 7110 - Research Methods II Credit Hour(s): 3
• ABS 7120 - Applied Methodology Credit Hour(s): 3
• ABS 7220 - Seminar on Criminal Justice Credit Hour(s): 3
• ABS 7230 - Modern Social Theory Credit Hour(s): 3

ELECTIVES: 6-9 HOURS

• Choose from various topic workshops:

• ABS 7600 - Graduate Seminar in ABS Credit Hour(s): 1 to 2
• ABS 7601 - Seminar in Criminal Justice Research Credit Hour(s): 1 to 2
• ABS 7602 - Seminar on the Criminal Justice System (from law to incarceration) Credit Hour(s): 1 to 2
• ABS 7603 - Seminar on Criminal Justice Issues & Policy Credit Hour(s): 1 to 2
• ABS 7604 - Seminar in Social Problems Credit Hour(s): 1 to 2
• Other approved courses/electives

THESIS OR PROJECT: 6 HOURS

• ABS 7910 - Graduate Thesis Research Credit Hour(s): 1 to 6 or
• ABS 7900 - ABS Graduate Project Credit Hour(s): 1 to 6

PRACTICUM

(*Optional-3 hours maximum towards graduation)

• ABS 7790 - Practicum in Applied Behavioral Science Credit Hour(s): 1 to 3

Total: 30 Hours