phd criminology massachusetts

Academic Catalog 2023-2024

Criminology and justice policy, phd.

The doctoral program in criminology and justice policy at the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Northeastern University seeks to prepare students for professional and research careers in criminal justice, criminology, and related fields by applying multidisciplinary and comparative social science to understand, predict, and explain crime and contribute to the development of public policy within urban communities. Using an active-learning approach, the school seeks to develop its students intellectually and ethically, while providing them with a keen appreciation for the complexities of crime and public and private efforts to make communities safer and to ensure justice. 

The program is full time and is small and student centered. Students may enter the program with either a bachelor's degree or a master's degree. It is expected that students will be able to complete the program in four to five years, and students entering with a master's degree will be able to complete the program in three to five years.

Year one in the doctoral program offers students an opportunity to obtain a broad foundational knowledge in the discipline: one semester on theories of criminal justice process, two semesters of criminological theory, two semesters of statistics, and one semester of advanced research methods. To ensure that all students have mastered the foundational material emphasized across the required courses for the PhD program and can successfully integrate theory, research, and policy, all PhD students take a “foundations” qualifying examination at the end of their first year in the doctoral program.  

After demonstrating mastery of the foundational knowledge in year one, students devote themselves to a more specific area of research in years two and three. Students demonstrate this commitment through the second and third qualifying examinations: an area exam and a publishable paper.

Following successful completion of the three qualifying examinations, and required and elective course work, the students proceed to a formal dissertation proposal defense.

Doctoral Degree Candidacy

A student achieves candidacy when they have successfully completed all course work (54 semester hours for students entering with a bachelor's degree or 42 semester hours for students entering with advanced standing), passed all three qualifying examinations, and deposited the final version of their dissertation proposal (approved by their full committee) with the school’s graduate program office. Candidacy is certified, in writing, by the college.

Bachelor's Degree Entrance

Complete all courses and requirements listed below unless otherwise indicated.

Annual review Three qualifying examinations—foundations exam, area exam, and publishable paper Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal PhD candidacy Dissertation defense

Core Requirements

Dissertation, program credit/gpa requirements.

54 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

Advanced Degree Entrance

Annual review Three qualifying examinations—foundations exam, area exam, and publishable paper Dissertation committee Dissertation proposal Candidacy achieved Dissertation defense

42 total semester hours required Minimum 3.500 GPA required

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The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice

We prepare students intellectually and ethically to understand the complexities of crime, make communities safer, and ensure justice.

Our Mission

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice prepares students for professional and research careers in criminal justice, criminology, and related fields by applying multidisciplinary and comparative social science to understand, predict, and explain crime and contribute to the development of public policy within urban communities. Using an active learning approach, the School seeks to develop its students intellectually and ethically, while providing them with a keen appreciation for the complexities of crime, and public and private efforts to make communities safer and ensure justice.

Featured Programs

BS in Criminal Justice

Explore our curriculum and unique combined majors

MS in Criminology & Criminal Justice

Optional concentration in cybersecurity

PhD in Criminology & Justice Policy

Full-year funding packages and summer research opportunities

Latest News

Addressing youth violence throughout the city of boston | race and community dialogue series, “shopping while black,” crj’s schulman speaker explores the impact of racial profiling in retail settings, both sides of the wall: empowering incarcerated families through healing & wellness , dr. shaun gabbidon to visit northeastern as 2024 schulman speaker, we recognize that criminal justice, at its foundation, is about dealing with individuals and communities with humanity., schools, departments, and programs.

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• University of Pennsylvania
• School of Arts and Sciences
• Penn Calendar

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Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

The Ph.D. in criminology is designed to prepare students to produce theoretically informed empirical scholarship related to issues of crime and justice policy. After completing graduate courses in criminological theory, criminal justice policy, and empirical methods, Ph.D. students take advanced graduate coursework consistent with their research focus. The program trains students to produce scholarly research that is disseminated to researchers and policymakers through refereed publications.

Advanced coursework typically involves courses in data science, econometrics, law, and sociology. The dissertation is completed under the supervision of faculty in the Department of Criminology. Normally Ph.D. students complete the degree within four academic years. Details on individual faculty research interests can be found here . Details on recent Ph.D. graduates of the program can be found below.

PROGRAM FEATURES

• Students are admitted directly into the Ph.D. program.
• Each student is assigned two faculty mentors and works with the graduate chair to design a hand-tailored curriculum. Typically Ph.D. students take several “core” criminology courses in the first and second year. These include two courses in criminological theory, two courses in criminal justice policy, and two semesters of graduate level statistics or data science.
• The “comprehensive exam” for the program consists of a working paper that may be part of a future dissertation proposal.
• The Ph.D. dissertation typically includes three publishable papers.

DOCTORAL ADMISSIONS

Who is eligible to apply.

We expect a successful applicant to have earned a Bachelor’s degree by the time she/he begins the doctoral program. A strong background in research is highly recommended. Admission is very competitive.

Should I apply to the master’s program or doctoral program in criminology at Penn?

The master’s program is designed for individuals interested in furthering their knowledge of criminology and criminal justice policy in preparation for a range of professional opportunities in government, research, and academia. The doctoral program is designed for individuals with demonstrated excellence in academic research interested in generating scientific research on the causes of crime and the consequences of criminal justice policy.

How should I decide if the Penn doctoral program is a good fit for me?

Visit Penn criminology faculty member web pages to find out what projects faculty are currently working on. Read their published studies. If you are excited by the research questions and/or methods being used, then Penn could be a good choice for you. You should be able to identify one or more faculty research areas that align with your own interests. 

Who makes admissions decisions?

Doctoral admissions decisions are made by the graduate admissions committee, which is composed of criminology faculty members.

How does funding normally work?

Admitted students will be given four years of fellowship funding. This includes tuition and stipend support during term time. Summer stipend support for three years is also included in the fellowship. 

Recent Doctoral Program Alumni

Colleen Berryessa (Rutgers University)

David Mitre Becerril (University of Connecticut)

Mary Cavanaugh (Hunter College, CUNY)

Ruiyun (Frances) Chen (Georgia State University)

Olivia Choy (Nanyang Technological University)

Reagan Daly (CUNY, Institute for State and Local Governance)

Ellen Donnelly (Delaware University)

Charlotte Gill (George Mason University)

Ben Grunwald (Duke University)

Seunghoon Han (Chung-Ang University)

Jordan Hyatt (Drexel University)

Jacob Kaplan (Princeton University)

Alex Knorre (Boston College)

Carla Lewandowski (Rowan University)

Shichun (Asminet) Ling (CSU Los Angeles)

Wendy McClanahan (McClanahan Associates)

Caroline Meyer Angel (University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing)

Ruth Moyer (University of Pennsylvania)

Ben Nordstrom (Behavioral Health Group)

Viet Nguyen (Center for Justice Innovation))

Evelyn Patterson (Georgetown University)

Jill Portnoy Donaghy (RAND Corporation)

Meredith Rossner (Australia National University)

Jane A. Siegel (Rutgers University)

Rebecca Umbach (Google)

Daniel Woods (U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

Yuhao Wu (Peking University)

Best Criminology Schools

Ranked in 2021, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

Criminology programs combine

Criminology programs combine principles of sociology, law and psychology to prepare students to deal with criminals, understand the justice system and work to prevent crime. These are the top graduate schools for criminology. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

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2024 Best Colleges with Criminology Degrees in Massachusetts

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1-8 of 8 results

Stonehill College

Easton, MA •

• • Rating 3.59 out of 5   603 reviews

Alum: Stonehill College is a very good university. They have a wide variety of majors and pretty good career placement post grad. This is a very small tight knit community where you will know most people around you if you are a sociable person. Athletics are not bad, I participated on the Track and Field team and had a wonderful time. There are good scholarship opportunities in athletics as well. I would recommend the university to anyone college searching as they do have a strong commitment to student success. ... Read 603 reviews

• grade  B Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 72%

Net price $31,467

SAT range 1030-1230

#22 Best Colleges in Massachusetts .

Blue checkmark.

EASTON, MA ,

603 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Stonehill College is a very good university. They have a wide variety of majors and pretty good career placement post grad. This is a very small tight knit community where you will know most people... .

Read 603 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B ,

Acceptance Rate : 72% ,

Net Price : $31,467 ,

SAT Range : 1030-1230 ,

Lasell University

Newton, MA •

• • Rating 3.62 out of 5   569 reviews

Other: As an upcoming Fashion Design student at Lasell University and I know it will be the best school for me. Lasell is a school I will thrive in, not only educationally but also socially. Lasell provides a safe environment for their students where everyone will feel comfortable, uplifted and supported throughout their education. Their programs provide amazing opportunities. I am extremely excited to visit their Runway Fashion show. This opportunity was given to me by Lasell Admissions as a future Fashion Design Student. Lasell, unlike other schools with fashion design programs, gets you started working from day one. I have already received so many opportunities from the administration to visit campus, sit in on classes and attend their fashion show, before even committing to the school. I know that next year at Lasell University I will be receiving the best opportunities, education and involvement with real world experiences, things I know will help me to thrive in my journey ahead. ... Read 569 reviews

Acceptance rate 85%

Net price $29,401

SAT range 1080-1210

#26 Best Colleges in Massachusetts .

NEWTON, MA ,

569 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says As an upcoming Fashion Design student at Lasell University and I know it will be the best school for me. Lasell is a school I will thrive in, not only educationally but also socially. Lasell provides... .

Read 569 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 85% ,

Net Price : $29,401 ,

SAT Range : 1080-1210 ,

Suffolk University

Boston, MA •

• • Rating 3.48 out of 5   1,081 reviews

Freshman: As a first-year, Student- Athlete at Suffolk University, my experience of college has had its ups and downs. I moved from Michigan to Boston for the city life, great educational opportunity, and for the commitment to play volleyball. While transitioning into college, I found studying more demanding and class work more rigors. At first it was a challenge and an intimidation. Finding a balance between athletics, class-work and my social life was overwhelming. However, the community of Suffolk offered many resolutions and opportunities for help. The ability to have access to Tutoring was a great advantage in my eyes and thoroughly helped me excel academically. Suffolk's ability to be inclusive and resourceful shined bright this year. I also enjoyed being a part of the Honors Program. The program held multiple events that brought together Honors students through fun crafts to educational opportunities. These events allowed me to navigate my through college effectively and progressively. ... Read 1,081 reviews

• grade  B minus Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 88%

Net price $32,393

SAT range 1080-1280

BOSTON, MA ,

1081 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says As a first-year, Student- Athlete at Suffolk University, my experience of college has had its ups and downs. I moved from Michigan to Boston for the city life, great educational opportunity, and for... .

Read 1081 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : B minus ,

Acceptance Rate : 88% ,

Net Price : $32,393 ,

SAT Range : 1080-1280 ,

Hult International Business School

CAMBRIDGE, MA

• • Rating 3.95 out of 5   97

Bard College at Simon's Rock

GREAT BARRINGTON, MA

• • Rating 3.3 out of 5   347

Bridgewater State University

BRIDGEWATER, MA

• • Rating 3.48 out of 5   1,233

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

North Dartmouth, MA •

• • Rating 3.49 out of 5   1,176 reviews

Sophomore: As a student at UMass Dartmouth, I've found the university to offer a mix of pros and cons. On the positive side, the campus has a welcoming atmosphere, and there's a sense of community among students. The faculty are generally knowledgeable and supportive, although there are occasional instances of overworked professors. The campus facilities are decent, but some could use updates. Social life can be hit or miss, depending on one's interests. On the downside, like many universities, there are bureaucratic hurdles and some issues with administrative communication. Overall, UMass Dartmouth provides a solid education with room for improvement in certain areas. ... Read 1,176 reviews

Acceptance rate 92%

Net price $21,708

SAT range 1030-1260

NORTH DARTMOUTH, MA ,

1176 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says As a student at UMass Dartmouth, I've found the university to offer a mix of pros and cons. On the positive side, the campus has a welcoming atmosphere, and there's a sense of community among... .

Read 1176 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 92% ,

Net Price : $21,708 ,

SAT Range : 1030-1260 ,

Assumption University

Worcester, MA •

• • Rating 3.59 out of 5   586 reviews

Sophomore: I have honestly loved Assumption since my time here. It has such a great sense of community, and everyone's knows everyone here. Everywhere you walk on campus there is someone to say hi to, even if you aren't even that close. There is also an event being run for students to be a part of and bring people together. I also love how the professors take time out of their mornings before class to get to know their students. I feel valued as a student and my concerns are listened to. One of my professors, my Spanish professor, takes time out of his morning by showing up early and engaging with each student before class. He asks each students how their weekend was, what they did, or what their plans this week may be. Assumption demonstrates a strong idea of community. ... Read 586 reviews

• grade  C+ Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 86%

Net price $26,513

SAT range —

WORCESTER, MA ,

586 Niche users give it an average review of 3.6 stars.

Featured Review: Sophomore says I have honestly loved Assumption since my time here. It has such a great sense of community, and everyone's knows everyone here. Everywhere you walk on campus there is someone to say hi to, even if... .

Read 586 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : C+ ,

Acceptance Rate : 86% ,

Net Price : $26,513 ,

Western New England University

Springfield, MA •

• • Rating 3.67 out of 5   833 reviews

Freshman: Joining Western New England University was the best decision I made in my life. I learned from the best professors who think about the students. It's really easy to reach out to professors and learn what you don't know. University is cool because it's not too small or not too big, it's the best place for students. ... Read 833 reviews

Acceptance rate 90%

Net price $30,403

SAT range 1090-1280

This school participates in Niche Direct Admissions

SPRINGFIELD, MA ,

833 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says Joining Western New England University was the best decision I made in my life. I learned from the best professors who think about the students. It's really easy to reach out to professors and learn... .

Read 833 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 90% ,

Net Price : $30,403 ,

SAT Range : 1090-1280 ,

• Will you get in? Understand your chances of getting accepted into any college in the country, and it's completely free

Emmanuel College - Massachusetts

• • Rating 3.49 out of 5   707 reviews

Freshman: As a first year student at Emmanuel College, I have enjoyed my time here so far! I really love the small community that Emmanuel has to offer. I have had the greatest and most easy going professors, and since our student:faculty ratio is 13:1, I find it incredibly easy to make long lasting connections with them. Emmanuel is also in a great area; Boston is the best college town! There is always so much to do, and I never feel bored or restless. There is so much to explore and so much to learn! ... Read 707 reviews

Acceptance rate 74%

Net price $28,133

SAT range 1150-1280

707 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Freshman says As a first year student at Emmanuel College, I have enjoyed my time here so far! I really love the small community that Emmanuel has to offer. I have had the greatest and most easy going professors,... .

Read 707 reviews.

Acceptance Rate : 74% ,

Net Price : $28,133 ,

SAT Range : 1150-1280 ,

Framingham State University

Framingham, MA •

• • Rating 3.27 out of 5   768 reviews

Alum: Professors and programs offered were outstanding. I was able to apply the knowledge earned immediately at work. ... Read 768 reviews

• grade  C Overall Niche Grade

Acceptance rate 84%

Net price $16,900

SAT range 990-1140

FRAMINGHAM, MA ,

768 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Professors and programs offered were outstanding. I was able to apply the knowledge earned immediately at work. .

Read 768 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : C ,

Acceptance Rate : 84% ,

Net Price : $16,900 ,

SAT Range : 990-1140 ,

Dominican University

RIVER FOREST, IL

• • Rating 3.68 out of 5   755

Mary Baldwin University

STAUNTON, VA

• • Rating 3.43 out of 5   636

Emerson College

• • Rating 3.51 out of 5   1,158

Showing results 1 through 8 of 8

• Legal Careers
• Law Degrees

10 Best Criminal Justice Schools in Massachusetts

The best criminal justice schools in Massachusetts start with several colleges in the big city of Boston.

In addition, many private universities throughout the state offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs for criminal justice majors.

You can also earn a graduate certificate online or pursue your PhD in criminal justice in Massachusetts.

Get started with a degree in criminal justice from one of these top-rated online and on-campus programs.

1 Boston University

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice / Safety Studies

Graduate certificate in corrections and criminal justice.

Boston University is a four-year private research college for undergraduates working toward a certificate or bachelor’s degree.

The university is located in Boston, Massachusetts.

The biggest city in MA, BU is one of the most popular schools in the state.

The school offers on-campus classes, as well as online courses.

In fact, in 2023, Newsweek reported Boston University working with Metropolitan College was ranked 4th in the US for online criminal justice courses.

There are three Boston University campuses in total.

These campuses are located in the South End of Boston and on the Charles River in the Allston and Kenmore communities.

Criminal justice majors have two options at Boston University.

The four-year degree route leads to a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Corrections and Criminal Justice.

You can also pursue a graduate certificate in Corrections and Criminal Justice.

The certificate course is 8 to 12 months long and is offered online and on-campus.

Tuition for in-state students at Boston University is $79,606 per academic year.

If the price tag is too high consider financial aid, which brings the annual tuition down to $26,170 a year.

This tuition is for the traditional bachelor’s degree at BU.

Therefore, you must multiply the annual figure by four years for a more realistic total.

Expect to pay anywhere from $100,000 with aid to $320,000 for a BA at BU.

If you are accepted into the graduate certificate course, the cost is $8,680 to $10,180.

Contact Information

• Address: 233 Bay State Rd., Boston, MA 02215
• Phone: 617-353-2000
• Website: Visit School Website

2 Northeastern University

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Master of science in criminology and criminal justice, phd (doctorate) in criminology and justice policy.

Another private four-year school in MA teaching criminal justice is Northeastern University.

This college is also located in Boston. Northeastern University has 13 campuses in Massachusetts, out of state, and abroad in the UK.

Their flagship campus is in Boston.

The School of Criminology and Criminal Justice has three programs of study for criminal justice majors.

Choose to earn a four-year degree with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

From there, pursue a Master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice.

With an optional minor in Cybersecurity, an MS will set you up for success.

Diehard students go on to earn a Doctoral degree in Criminology and Justice Policy.

A PhD provides criminal justice experts with a pathway toward teaching in the field.

Tuition at Northeastern University is around the same price as Boston University.

Look at paying around $78,000 for an academic year if you do not have financial assistance.

With aid, the total comes down to around $34,000.

• Address: 360 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02115
• Phone: 617-373-2000

3 University of Massachusetts – Lowell

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice

The University of Massachusetts – Lowell or UMass Lowell has three campuses.

These campuses offer in-person and online courses.

In fact, the school was ranked the Second Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Program in the US by US News and World Report.

Students can pursue a four-year Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

This BS degree is typically followed by a two-year Master of Arts in Criminal Justice at UMass Lowell.

One of the more affordable schools in Massachusetts, UMass Lowell is $31,892 a year before financial aid.

Those students with financial aid packages can reduce the cost of tuition to $14,071 per academic year.

• Address: 220 Pawtucket St., Lowell, MA 01854
• Phone: 978-934-4000

4 American International College

Located in Springfield, Massachusetts is the American International College.

The private school was established in 1885 and has one main campus.

Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in four years at AIC.

Classes available for the criminal justice major include Probation and Parole; Legal Aspects of the Criminal Justice System; and Information and Technology.

Tuition is $57,240 annually before financial aid, and $22,698 after financial aid–for in-state MA students.

• Address: 1000 State St., Springfield, MA
• Phone: 413-737-7000

5 Anna Maria College

Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Attend the private Catholic school of Anna Maria College to earn a degree in criminal justice.

The undergraduate co-ed school is located in Paxton, MA.

While the school has been co-ed since 1973, the school was established as a women’s college in 1946.

At Anna Maria College, students can pursue both a Bachelor’s and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

Each of these programs has a standard length of four and two years respectively.

However, at AMC, you are able to go to college on campus or online.

This can save you time and money on getting a degree in criminal justice.

The average price for tuition at Anna Maria College is $57,532 a year.

If you have financial aid, the cost of tuition is approximately $24,185 yearly.

• Address: 50 Sunset Ln., Paxton, MA 01612
• Phone: 800-344-4586

6 Westfield State University

Criminal Justice Minor

Graduate certificate in homeland security.

Westfield State University was the first New England university to offer a criminal justice degree.

Since 1968, the public institute has provided a four-year undergraduate education in criminal justice.

An internship is also a part of the Westfield State University BS degree in Criminal Justice.

Students can also excel with a criminal justice minor, or go on to pursue a Master of Science in Criminal Justice.

Westfield State University also has a graduate certificate program in Homeland Security available to criminal justice majors.

Before aid, tuition to Westfield State University was $26,978.

After aid, in-state students typically pay around $19,589 per school year for tuition and fees.

• Address: 577 Western Ave., Westfield, MA 01086
• Phone: 413-572-5300

7 Western New England University

At Western New England University, students in Massachusetts can get an immersive hands-on education in criminal justice.

Students at Western New England University who study criminal justice must focus on one area out of three.

These areas of related study include victim studies; homeland security and terrorism; and criminal investigation.

Students in the criminal justice department can study abroad in Sorrento, Italy.

This is a focused program that touches on law and order and how to make gelato in the Italian countryside.

Tuition to WNEU is $57,870 before financial aid for in-state students and $29,806 after financial assistance is applied.

• Address: 1215 Wilbraham Rd., Springfield, MA 01119
• Phone: 413-782-3111

8 Curry College

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Certificate in restorative justice practices.

In Milton, MA is Curry College, a private four-year institute.

The college was originally the School of Elocution and Expression in 1879 but was renamed six years later into Curry College.

The school provides a four-year Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice.

Students with a BA can go on to earn a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice, as well as a certificate in Restorative Justice Practices.

Criminal justice majors can also minor in many related subjects.

Choose from critical inequality studies, cyber crime, forensic science, law enforcement, law and society, and white-collar crime.

Tuition at Curry College costs $63,505 a year, which is before financial assistance is applied.

Students with financial aid can expect to pay approximately $28,000 a year.

• Address: 1071 Blue Hill Ave., Milton, MA 02186
• Phone: 617-333-0500

9 Endicott College

Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies

Attend Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts to set yourself up for success in criminal justice.

This private four-year school was established in 1939 and was previously called Endicott Junior College.

The school has a four-year Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree.

In addition, students who are in the BS program can enroll in a 5th year Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies.

This is a supplemental master’s degree for specializations in criminal justice.

Tuition at Endicott for the BS and MS in the field of criminal justice is $56,373 a year before aid and $36,000 on average after financial assistance.

• Address: 376 Hale St., Beverly, MA 01915
• Phone: 978-927-0585

10 Bridgewater State University

In Bridgewater, MA is Bridgewater State University, a public four-year educational institution.

Here students can excel in criminal justice in a variety of areas.

Choose to earn a traditional Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

Majors in the BS in Criminal Justice program can minor in a number of specialized areas.

This includes earning a minor degree in racial and social justice; victimology; and youth and juvenile justice.

The Master of Science in Criminal Justice is also available in a number of concentrations.

Focus your MS degree on administration of justice; crime and corrections; trauma and victim studies; or restorative and transformative justice.

The cost of tuition for one academic year at Bridgewater State University is $28,664 prior to financial aid.

After assistance, students typically pay about $14,000 per academic year.

• Address: 131 Summer St., Bridgewater, MA 02324
• Phone: 508-531-1000

Schools Summary Table

Criminal justice salary information.

In Massachusetts, criminal justice majors who have recently graduated can look for entry-level wages at around $28,000 a year.

Experienced criminal justice experts earn over $51,000 annually.

Compare this to the salary of a criminal justice job in the US.

Entry-level CJ positions bring in $32,000 a year on average, reaching up to $80,000 yearly as an expert.

Average Salary in Massachusetts

Regional salary, criminal justice schools by state.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
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• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
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• South Dakota
• West Virginia

About Chelsea Wilson

2 responses to 10 best criminal justice schools in massachusetts.

Great list! As someone considering a career in criminal justice, this definitely helps narrow down my options.

Interesting to see how these rankings have shifted over the years. It’s a reminder of how dynamic the field of criminal justice education can be.

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School of criminology, psychology, social justice, and public policy.

The School of Criminology, Psychology, Social Justice, and Public Policy serves over 1000 full and part time student and over 250 graduate students. We offer seven majors, eight degrees, and 14 concentrations, 12 minors, and 10 graduate degree programs. Thirty percent of our undergraduate students are persons of color, as are 24 percent of our graduate students. 

Our faculty and staff are committed to preparing our students to become leaders and innovators in their chosen fields. Our graduates are renown throughout the region and nationally. With internship programs, engaging practicums, and capstone projects, our students are always prepared for the demands of an ever changing workplace landscape. 

We are are devoted to social, political, and criminal justice reform as well as addressing the prevalence mental health challenges facing our community, the commonwealth, our region, and nation. We pride ourselves in serving our community and preparing our students to serve and lead a diverse work place.  We are the place were students start their journey to fulfill their truest potential.  

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PhD in Criminal Justice Programs in Massachusetts

As part of New England, Massachusetts has undergone significant changes in recent years as part of sweeping criminal justice reforms throughout the region. Change is never complete, though; there are always more ways to promote fair treatment of suspects and offenders while keeping residents as safe as possible. Committing to a PhD program can give you special insight in these areas.

Find out more about your education opportunities by contacting criminal justice PhD programs in MA.

What Can I Do With My PhD in Criminal Justice in Massachusetts?

Whether you currently work in criminal justice or you are just starting to get involved, learning about the advances being made in this field can show you some of the possibilities that may come with a PhD in criminal justice. Massachusetts legislators and researchers are striving to create an age-appropriate justice system for juvenile offenders, which would increase the age of juvenile jurisdiction from 18 to 21 ( Bay State Banner , 2018). Through these efforts, they hope to stop the cycle of recidivism that is common for juvenile offenders.

Across offenders of all ages, recidivism is a serious problem in Massachusetts ( Daily Free Press , 2018). Current laws and bills aim to shorten incarceration periods while helping offenders readjust to life in society by offering educational options.

The impact you have in this industry may depend on the career path you choose. Through 2026, job openings for criminal justice professors are expected to increase 17% ( CareerOneStop , 2017). The average salary for a Massachusetts criminal justice professor is $72,500 per year ( Bureau of Labor Statistics , 2017). The job outlook for administrative law judges, who earn an average of $140,690 per year, is expected to increase 5% during this time period ( CareerOneStop , 2017).

What Will It Take to Earn My Criminal Justice Graduate Degree in Massachusetts?

As an aspiring PhD student, you must do some serious thinking about your career goals and what you hope to achieve with your doctoral degree. Some programs in Massachusetts focus heavily on research and post-secondary teaching skills, while others are targeted toward those who hope to work in management or legislation. If you want to work in a specialized area of criminal justice, look for schools with various options. One option in Massachusetts is terrorism studies.

In general, criminal justice PhD programs last between four and six years. During this time, you take traditional classroom courses, internship courses, research seminars, and dissertation coursework.

To discover what you may get out of your education, look at each school’s learning outcomes. They should outline specific competencies and activities included in the program.

Common inclusions are listed below:

• Conduct interdisciplinary research and gain teaching experience at the graduate and undergraduate levels
• Prepare for analytical and administrative management positions
• Excel in policy analysis
• Explore the growing field of criminology and its potential in this industry

To meet these high expectations, you may take between 40 and 70 credits of courses. You may find courses like those listed below in your curriculum:

• Administration of Criminal Justice
• Managing Criminal Justice Organizations
• Courts and Sentencing
• Juvenile Justice and Youth Crime
• Economic Crime
• Forensic Psychology
• Contemporary Security Studies

Teaching experience is a crucial part of criminal justice doctorate programs, since many PhDs go on to become professors. Many schools strive to provide full or partial funding for PhD candidates in exchange for teaching hours. Other resources may provide grants and scholarships, including the Massachusetts Association of Women in Law Enforcement .

Although your actual dissertation may only require two or three years of work, you should be thinking about it before you even begin your education. Before you start work on your dissertation, you must select an advisor, come up with theories and topic ideas, and get your initial dissertation plan approved.

Whether you are looking to earn a PhD criminology or another criminal justice specialty, Massachusetts programs may have the opportunities you need. Get in touch with advisors now by requesting information below.

Online programs may not be available in all areas.

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Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice

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Gain practical, hands-on experience to tackle 21st-century challenges in criminology and criminal justice.

Finish in as little as 12 months.

Graduate Admission Virtual Information Session

Wednesday, july 17, 2024 , from 5:30 pm .

Learn about Merrimack's graduate programs, full- and half-tuition graduate fellowship opportunities, scholarships and financial aid, how to apply, and more!

Criminology and Criminal Justice Master’s Degree: Why Merrimack College?

Our criminal justice master’s degree stands out for its flexible scheduling and comprehensive, practical approach to the study of crime and justice. Choose Merrimack if you seek:

Robust professional development.

Whether you’re just entering the workforce or seeking career advancement, our master’s degree in criminology and criminal justice equips you with marketable skills that employers prioritize. You’ll become proficient in research, data analysis, program evaluation, and oral and written presentation, with the ability to collaborate on interdisciplinary teams and serve diverse, multicultural communities. You’ll complete a capstone project that showcases your ability and lets you build specialized knowledge in criminology and criminal justice.

Real-world experience.

Merrimack’s criminology and criminal justice master’s program offers multiple ways to gain hands-on experience, including internship and  fellowship opportunities . Our competitive, highly sought fellowships provide a year-long placement in a criminal justice agency or organization, along with a 100% tuition discount.

Interdisciplinary, innovative coursework.

Our criminology and criminal justice master’s degree places the subject matter within a broad societal framework. You’ll acquire the tools to advocate for social justice and criminal justice reform while understanding the economic and socio-cultural forces that affect crime trends and criminal behavior.

Outstanding faculty.

At Merrimack you’ll learn from veteran criminal justice practitioners, policy experts and academics who are on the forefront of research in criminology and criminal justice. Our small class sizes and supportive culture guarantee that you’ll interact closely with and receive individual attention from your instructors.

Career connections.

The Winston School of Education and Social Policy maintains active community partnerships with law enforcement agencies and nonprofit criminal justice organizations throughout Greater Boston. You’ll have opportunities to build your network by interacting with professionals in law enforcement, social services, community development, education and other fields related to criminology and criminal justice.

Program Format

Scholarships.

• Presidential Fellowship
• Dean Scholarship
• Alumni Scholarship

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Criminology and Criminal Justice Career Opportunities

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts rapid growth for numerous careers in the criminal justice system. Demographic changes, new technologies and sociocultural trends have led to rapid change in criminology and criminal justice, creating high demand in specialties such as counseling, data science, forensic social work and information security.

At Merrimack, you’ll acquire the expertise you need for criminology and criminal justice careers in law enforcement, victim assistance, crime analysis, juvenile justice, corrections and other fields. Our graduates stand out in the job market for their research and data skills, multicultural competence, communication ability and substantive knowledge of crime and the justice system.

Recent alumni of our master’s degree in criminal justice and criminology now work for employers such as:

• U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
• Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF)
• Massachusetts Department of Corrections (DOC)
• Essex County Sheriff’s Department
• Local police departments
• Massachusetts State Police
• McLean Hospital
• General Electric corporate security
• AdCare Criminal Justice Services
• Youth Villages
• The Key Program
• YWCA domestic violence services

Master’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice: What You’ll Learn

Merrimack’s unique curriculum  focuses on current trends in criminology and criminal justice through the integration of theory and practice. You’ll start with core coursework in criminological theory, criminal justice system processes and advanced research methods, then customize your studies to fit your interests and career goals.

You can choose from a broad range of criminology and criminal justice electives, specializing in subjects such as:

• Criminal justice administration and management
• Criminal law and procedure
• Forensic behavioral analysis
• Victimology
• Juvenile justice
• Race, ethnicity and social control
• Girls, women and crime

The program culminates in a semester-long capstone project that focuses on a topic you’re passionate about. You’ll conduct supervised research that integrates theory and applied practice, resulting in an original paper and presentation that demonstrates your skills.

Want to Learn More about the Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice?

Review our  FAQs for additional information, or schedule a call with Karen Hayden, Program Director of the M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Schedule an Informational Call with the Program Director

Criminal justice scholarships offer extensive cost savings, while fellowships cover your full tuition.

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Criminology and Criminal Justice - M.A.

The Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice program provides a deep understanding of the social and psychological factors that contribute to crime and criminal behavior. With courses taught by experienced faculty and a focus on research, this program equips you with the skills needed to succeed in a wide range of criminal justice careers.

• Program Coordinator: Will Kalkhoff | [email protected] | 330-672-3712
• Connect with an Admissions Counselor: U.S. Student | International Student

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Program Information

Full description.

The Master of Arts degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice is designed to challenge experienced and aspiring professionals who want to expand their scope of knowledge and move into career and leadership positions. The program prepares graduates as next-generation leaders in this complex, global, and interconnected field. The flexible online program is structured  to fit the lives of full-time working professionals.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice major comprises the following concentrations:

• The Global Security concentration focuses on issues related to global security, U.S. national security policy and strategy, as well as transnational issues and the concerns of other countries or regions. It provides students with a strong foundation to confront the ever-changing, fast-paced, and challenging international security environment. With an emphasis on traditional and emerging transnational security threats, students are prepared for analytical, operational and leadership careers in global security in the public and private sectors. The goal is to produce a new generation of analysts, policymakers and scholars knowledgeable about the wide range of international and national security problems and foreign policy issues of the 21st century.
• The Policing concentration examines the historical ideas of police service and the lessons that can be learned from those ideas. Students learn about the research that has challenged traditional ideas and the implications of that research for revision. The program provides students the tools to analyze the implications of contemporary research to guide new innovations in policies, management, strategies and tactics of police service delivery.
• The Victimology concentration provides specialized knowledge about the scientific study of crime victims, their treatment within the criminal and juvenile justice systems, the legal rights of victims and victim assistance and restorative justice programs. This concentration will prepare students to develop and lead initiatives that help prevent victimization, to engage in victimological research and evaluation, and to respond to victims in culturally appropriate ways.

For more information about graduate admissions, visit the graduate admission website . For more information on international admissions, visit the international admission website .

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university 
• Minimum 2.750 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000 point scale 
• Official transcript(s)
• Goal statement
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably academic)
• Minimum 587 TOEFL PBT score (paper-based version)
• Minimum 94 TOEFL IBT score (Internet-based version)
• Minimum 82 MELAB score
• Minimum 7.0 IELTS score
• Minimum 65 PTE score

For more information about graduate admissions, please visit the Graduate Studies admission website . For more information on international admission, visit the Office of Global Education’s admission website .

Application Deadlines

• Rolling admissions

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Demonstrate a practical understanding of criminological theory by using it to better understand crime and criminal behavior, pose and attempt to answer research questions and see its connection to crime policy.
• Demonstrate mastery of the significant empirical findings in the major areas of criminology and criminal justice.
• Demonstrate an appreciation for the use of the scientific method in the study of crime, a practical understanding of research methods used in the field and a practical understanding of statistics in social science research.
• Develop basic skills in planning and conducting research projects, including evaluation research in particular.
• Describe the role of race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and social class as they relate to crime and victimization.
• Effectively communicate criminological knowledge and write a clear and concise analysis of issues, policies and research in the field.

Program Requirements

Major requirements, global security concentration requirements, policing concentration requirements, victimology concentration requirements.

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Criminology & Criminal Justice (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice is a sociological criminology program that highlights social inequality and public policy in the study of crime and justice issues. The program produces scholars with strong backgrounds in the substantive areas of criminology, criminal justice, theory, inequality, and policy as well as in research methods and statistics. Designed primarily for students who are interested in pursuing careers in higher education, the course offerings also provide students the education and skills needed to be employed as researchers in public and private agencies. Graduates are prepared as scholars able to conduct research, teach college and university courses in their areas of specialization, and to provide service to the discipline and community.

Program Highlights

UNDERGRADUATE MAJORS 1000+

FULL-TIME FACULTY 23

PH.D STUDENTS CURRENTLY ENROLLED 12

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) . A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.

Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other

All postsecondary social sciences teachers not listed separately.

Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in criminal justice, corrections, and law enforcement administration. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other

All social scientists and related workers not listed separately.

Alumni Careers

Requirements.

A completed master’s degree (or its equivalent) in criminology, criminal justice, or in an appropriate field (e.g., administration of justice, sociology, or political science) from a regionally accredited institution of higher education – a thesis is generally expected; 

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required of all applicants; 

Successful completion of prior coursework in research methods and statistics at least equivalent to that required by the ODU B.A. in sociology/criminal justice and M.A. degree in applied sociology (research methods, statistics, computer and data analysis); 

Three letters of reference from sources capable of commenting on the applicant’s readiness for advanced graduate study in criminology & criminal justice; 

A writing sample of at least 20 double-spaced pages on a topic related to the applicant’s expertise or area of interest; 

A typed statement of approximately 1,000 words summarizing the individual's motivation for applying to the program as well as the professional contributions s/he intends to make assuming successful completion of the degree; 

If the applicant’s native language is not English, a current score for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) of at least 540 and/or an interview in which the applicant’s comprehension and fluency in English can be assessed.     

For Admission to the Criminology & Criminal Justice Program

A minimum of 3.25 (on a 4.0 scale) overall for the master’s degree;

At least 540 and/or an interview in which the applicant’s comprehension and fluency in English can be assessed.

Featured Courses

This course is an examination of criminological theory for the advanced student. The focus is on critical analysis of both contemporary and historical criminological theories. In order to aid in the development of a critical understanding of theory, beyond understanding the content of central theories, the class focuses on discussion of theory development and testing. In addition, the class focuses on an understanding of the relationship of one theory to another as well as the state of empirical evidence surrounding each theory.

This course examines the linkages between social characteristics and crime. The course concentrates on what is known about the impact of gender, age, race and social class on crime and criminal justice.

This course provides students with advanced understanding of issues in criminology/criminal justice research including: history, philosophy, sociology, epistemology, politics and ethics of social science research; methodological questions of reliability, validity, conceptualization, operationalization, scale construction, data collection methodologies, sampling.

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU.  For more information visit University Student Financial aid

We offer competitive assistant-ships to qualified applicants

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Jarrel De Matas, PhD '24, Named Graduate Student Speaker at 2024 Commencement

Jarrel De Matas, PhD '24, will represent the graduate class of 2024 as the Graduate Student Speaker at this year's Commencement on Friday, May 17.

Jarrel's dissertation dived into the genre and culture of science in the Caribbean, Latin America, and the United States. Following graduation, he will start as an assistant professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Learn more from Jarrel in his recent interview for the English website .

You can also learn more about this year's Commencement speakers from UMass university news .

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Four from MIT named 2024 Knight-Hennessy Scholars

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MIT senior Owen Dugan, graduate student Vittorio Colicci ’22, predoctoral research fellow Carine You ’22, and recent alumna Carina Letong Hong ’22 are recipients of this year’s Knight-Hennessy Scholarships. The competitive fellowship, now in its seventh year, funds up to three years of graduate studies in any field at Stanford University. To date, 22 MIT students and alumni have been awarded Knight-Hennessy Scholarships.

“We are excited for these students to continue their education at Stanford with the generous support of the Knight Hennessy Scholarship,” says Kim Benard, associate dean of distinguished fellowships in Career Advising and Professional Development. “They have all demonstrated extraordinary dedication, intellect, and leadership, and this opportunity will allow them to further hone their skills to make real-world change.”

Vittorio Colicci ’22

Vittorio Colicci, from Trumbull, Connecticut, graduated from MIT in May 2022 with a BS in aerospace engineering and physics. He will receive his master’s degree in planetary sciences this spring. At Stanford, Colicci will pursue a PhD in earth and planetary sciences at the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability. He hopes to investigate how surface processes on Earth and Mars have evolved through time alongside changes in habitability. Colicci has worked largely on spacecraft engineering projects, developing a monodisperse silica ceramic for electrospray thrusters and fabricating high-energy diffraction gratings for space telescopes. As a Presidential Graduate Fellow at MIT, he examined the influence of root geometry on soil cohesion for early terrestrial plants using 3D-printed reconstructions. Outside of research, Colicci served as co-director of TEDxMIT and propulsion lead for the MIT Rocket Team. He is also passionate about STEM engagement and outreach, having taught educational workshops in Zambia and India.

Owen Dugan, from Sleepy Hollow, New York, is a senior majoring in physics. As a Knight-Hennessy Scholar, he will pursue a PhD in computer science at the Stanford School of Engineering. Dugan aspires to combine artificial intelligence and physics, developing AI that enables breakthroughs in physics and using physics techniques to design more capable and safe AI systems. He has collaborated with researchers from Harvard University, the University of Chicago, and DeepMind, and has presented his first-author research at venues including the International Conference on Machine Learning, the MIT Mechanistic Interpretability Conference, and the American Physical Society March Meeting. Among other awards, Dugan is a Hertz Finalist, a U.S. Presidential Scholar, an MIT Outstanding Undergraduate Research Awardee, a Research Science Institute Scholar, and a Neo Scholar. He is also a co-founder of VeriLens, a funded startup enabling trust on the internet by cryptographically verifying digital media.

Carina Letong Hong ’22

Carina Letong Hong, from Canton, China, is currently pursuing a JD/PhD in mathematics at Stanford. A first-generation college student, Hong graduated from MIT in May 2022 with a double major in mathematics and physics and was inducted into Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society. She then earned a neuroscience master’s degree with dissertation distinctions from the University of Oxford, where she conducted artificial intelligence and machine learning research at Sainsbury Wellcome Center’s Gatsby Unit. At Stanford Law School, Hong provides legal aid to low-income workers and uses economic analysis to push for law enforcement reform. She has published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals, served as an expert referee for journals and conferences, and spoken at summits in the United States, Germany, France, the U.K., and China. She was the recipient of the AMS-MAA-SIAM Morgan Prize for Outstanding Research, the highest honor for an undergraduate in mathematics in North America; the AWM Alice T. Schafer Prize for Mathematical Excellence, given annually to an undergraduate woman in the United States; the Maryam Mirzakhani Fellowship; and a Rhodes Scholarship.

Carine You ’22

Carine You, from San Diego, California, graduated from MIT in May 2022 with bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering and computer science and in mathematics. Since graduating, You has worked as a predoctoral research assistant with Professor Amy Finkelstein in the MIT Department of Economics, where she has studied the quality of Medicare nursing home care and the targeting of medical screening technologies. This fall, You will embark on a PhD in economic analysis and policy at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. She wishes to address pressing issues in environmental and health-care markets, with a particular focus on economic efficiency and equity. You previously developed audio signal processing algorithms at Bose, refined mechanistic models to inform respiratory monitoring at the MIT Research Laboratory of Electronics, and analyzed corruption in developmental projects in India at the World Bank. Through Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow, she taught computer science to Israeli and Palestinian students in Jerusalem and spearheaded an online pilot expansion for the organization. At MIT, she was named a Burchard Scholar.

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Press Release  Local Police Officers Graduate from the MPTC Police Academy

Media contact   for local police officers graduate from the mptc police academy, kayla rosario-muñoz, director of communications.

ATTLEBORO — The Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) Executive Director Robert Ferullo and Randolph Academy Director Jaclyn B. Hazeldine announced the graduation of 35 police officers from the MPTC Randolph Police Academy’s 19th Recruit Officer Class (ROC). The graduates successfully completed over 20 weeks of intensive, standardized training in all aspects of law enforcement and will now serve as full-time officers representing 23 police agencies across Massachusetts.

“The latest MPTC graduating class represents our investment in the future generation of public safety leaders who are well-prepared to protect and serve their communities and advance public safety across the Commonwealth,” said MPTC Executive Director Robert Ferullo (Ret. Police Chief). “I commend their commitment to meeting our statewide professional training standards, which has prepared these officers to provide communities with exceptional policing services by putting into practice the advanced skills, values, and principles engrained throughout their training.”

In a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Attleboro High School, members of the 19th ROC took an oath and received their badges for service. The new officers represented several police departments and agencies, including Attleboro, Bedford, Boston College, Bourne, Brockton, Canton, Cohasset, Dedham, Fall River, Freetown, Holbrook, Mansfield, Medway, Milton, Needham, New Bedford, Norton, Plymouth, Provincetown, Scituate, University of Massachusetts Boston, Wellesley and West Bridgewater. They join over 500 officers who have graduated from MPTC-operated academies in training year 2023-2024.

As part of the MPTC’s commitment to academic excellence and world-class police training, the Recruit Officer Course (ROC) provides over 800 hours of course curriculum designed to prepare student officers for the safe and effective performance of their duties. In keeping with mandates established by the landmark 2020 police reform law, the MPTC curriculum includes de-escalation training based on new use-of-force policies and regulations. Student officers also receive uniform training based on best practices related to essential modern-day policing needs, including effective communication skills, victim-centered and trauma-informed incident response, missing persons and human trafficking investigations, mental health-related emergency response, active shooter and hostile event response, patrol duties, and officer safety and wellness.

Upon successful completion of the Academy, student officers have met all training requirements to be eligible for Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission certification.

About the Municipal Police Training Committee:

The Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) develops and delivers world-class training across the Commonwealth to 23,000 officers at every stage of their careers, ranging from basic training for new officers to mandatory and specialized professional development training. An agency within the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS), MPTC is responsible for the statewide standardization of police training, delivering a modernized training program that aligns with national best practices, public expectations, and legislative mandates put forward by the 2020 police reform law. MPTC operates a network of convenient regional academies and authorizes independent academies that meet the Agency’s standard of excellence. 

In addition to municipal officers, MPTC ensures the highest training standards for MBTA Police Officers, Environmental Police Officers, UMass Campus Police Officers, Campus Police Officers, and Deputy Sheriffs performing Police duties and functions.

The MPTC operates Police Academies in Boylston, Haverhill, Holyoke, Lynnfield, Plymouth and Randolph. The MPTC also authorizes full-time academies with the Boston Police Academy, Cambridge Police Academy – Northeastern University, Fitchburg State University Police Program, Lowell Police Academy, MBTA Police Academy, Merrimack College Police Academy, Springfield Police Academy, Worcester Police Academy, Quinsigamond Community College, and the MA National Guard Civilian Academy.

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