Master of Criminal Justice
MCJ
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
UC’s Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) offers you an advanced working knowledge of the criminal justice system.
The MCJ is a cohesive degree with taught courses, a research dissertation, and real-world project or internship opportunities for first-hand practical experience in criminal justice.
It has a strong focus on developing the skills sought by the justice sector, including bicultural knowledge and competence, critical analysis of current and future policy, and professional understanding and theories behind crime and rehabilitation.
Entry to the Master of Criminal Justice requires a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a B Grade Point Average or better in 60 points of 300-level courses, or an approved equivalent degree.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Criminal Justice or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC. Find out how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The Master of Criminal Justice involves 180 points of courses, including three taught courses (at 30 points each), a dissertation (60 points), and a choice of either an internship or a professional cultures project course (30 points).
It can be completed in 1 year full-time, or up to 3 years part-time.
Compulsory courses
- CRJU601 Research Methods in Criminal Justice
- CRJU602 Criminal Justice Systems
- CRJU603 Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
- CRJU680 Dissertation (60 points)
And one of either:
You may choose to continue on to a PhD in Criminal Justice at UC.
The Master of Criminal Justice provides a professional understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand policy within government and public sector, and of the criminal justice system. Skills in research, statistical analysis, writing and presentation, and bicultural engagement within real-world contexts are solid foundations for a career in criminal justice.
Graduates will be particularly well suited for roles in Ngā Pirihimana O Aotearoa | New Zealand Police, Tāhū o te Ture | Ministry of Justice, and Ara Poutama Aotearoa | Department of Corrections. They will also find work in Crown agencies, prisons, policy development and consultation, customs, private investigation and security, forensics, social services, and criminal justice research.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2023 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $11,942 |
| 2022 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $11,622 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) | Fees (NZD) Excl GST |
| 2022 | 180 | $49,500 | $43,043 | |
| 2023 | 180 | $51,000 | $44,348 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Criminal Justice.
Te Kaupeka Ture | Faculty of Law
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 3888
Email law-enquiries@canterbury.ac.nz