Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I need to earn the Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and who is best served by enrolling in this degree program?

   The Master of Science in Criminal Justice is designed for criminal justice and social service professional who wish to continue graduate education or who need additional knowledge and skills to advance to higher-level positions in their profession. Students can choose from three areas of emphases. The criminal justice theory emphasis is appropriate for those who wish to continue graduate education in a Ph.D. program, teach at a two-year college, or embark on a career in government research. The criminal justice management emphasis is appropriate for those seeking promotion or supervisory or administrative positions. The victim and offender services emphasis is designed for those interested in working with crime victims, juveniles, probation and parole clients, or providing services in institutional or community-based settings.




2. What is the difference between the Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice?
   

   The Master of Science in Criminal Justice is earned upon the successful completion of 30 credits. The core requirement will be the 15 credits required for the Graduate Diploma in Criminal Justice. In addition to the 15-credit core, students will take 15 credits of graduate-level courses in a selected area of emphasis (as mentioned above), in consultation with an advisor.




3. Is UW-Platteville accredited?
   

   Yes, UW-Platteville is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. UW-Platteville is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.




4. Do I ever have to physically appear on campus?
   

   No, both the degree and diploma are offered entirely online. We do, however, invite our students and graduates to visit campus. Graduating distance learning students may participate in on-campus ceremonies.




5. What is the cost of tuition? Are payment plans offered? Is financial aid available?
   

   For current tuition rates, click here. UW-Platteville does not offer payment plans. All tuition and fees must be paid before you begin a course. MasterCard and VISA are accepted. Financial is available. To determine eligibility, contact the Financial Aid Office at 608-342-1836 or trotter@uwplatt.edu. Please specify that you are a prospective distance learning student.




6. May the GI Bill be applied to UW-Platteville's distance education programs?
   

   You should talk to your education officer about the restrictions and requirements and also specify that you are interested in taking distance education courses. Your education office will evaluate the circumstances for your unique situation and provide you with the information and materials you will need to begin. After talking with your education officer, you should contact the UW-Platteville Registrar to learn how to process your benefits. You may reach the Registrar's office at 608-342-1321 or email deneen@uwplatt.edu.




7. How do I apply for admission to the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Degree Program?
   

   For detailed information on how to apply to the program, follow the Admission Requirements link.




8. How long does the admission process take?
   

   You will receive notice regarding your admission approximately four weeks after your official transcripts have been received at the Distance Learning Center and all other required materials received by the coordinator of the Criminal Justice program. Allow two weeks for all of your transcripts to arrive at UW-Platteville. It is your responsibility to request transcripts.




9. Where should previous schools I have attended send my official transcripts?
   

   Distance Learning Center
   University of Wisconsin-Platteville
   1 University Plaza
   Platteville, Wisconsin 53818-3099
   




10. How do I register for a course?
    

    Once admitted, online students or special students may register for class here.
    
    Special students must specify that they are special students when registering for a course.
    
    For help when registering, contact the Distance Learning Center at 1-800-362-5460.




11. How do I receive my textbooks and course material?
    

    Use this link "Textbook Info" for online course ordering information.




12. How long does it take to earn my degree?
    

    The time required to earn a degree varies based on the number of transfer graduate credits a student receives, how much time a student is able to devote to coursework, and individual financial considerations.




13. Will I have an academic advisor throughout the program?
    

    Yes, you will be assigned to work with an advisor to guide you throughout the degree program.




14. Will I have access to library resources?
    

    Yes, all students have access to UW-Platteville's Karrmann Library. For library access assistance, use the HELP/Library Access link.




15. Do you have a question that isn't answer here?
    

    Try our "Help" section at http://www.uwplatt.edu/disted/textonly/txthelp.html, phone the Distance Learning Center at 1-800-362-5460, or email us at disted@uwplatt.edu. The Distance Learning Center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST Monday through Friday.