Graduate Admissions
Ready to advance your expertise in justice, policy and public safety? Here's how to apply to our MSCJ and PhD programs.
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Graduate Admissions
Ready to deepen your understanding of justice, policy and public safety? Our graduate programs offer mentorship from active researchers and practitioners, rigorous academic training and a collaborative community dedicated to your scholarly and professional success.
Learn from Leading Researchers and Practitioners
Our faculty are active scholars and practitioners engaged in cutting-edge research across criminology, justice policy, law and society, and beyond. As a graduate student, you'll work closely with faculty mentors whose expertise spans a wide range of specializations. Outside the classroom, faculty support your professional development, research opportunities and career advancement.
How to Apply
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1Apply to the Graduate School
All applicants submit the following through the Graduate School application portal:
- Completed application and $65 fee
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Letters of recommendation addressing your academic or professional capabilities (2 for MSCJ; 3 for the doctoral program)
- Personal statement identifying your background, professional interests and goals, and motivation for graduate study
- CV or résumé
Apply to the Graduate School about -
2Meet Program Requirements
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ)
A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 is required. Applicants who do not meet this threshold may inquire about conditional acceptance. The department uses a holistic review process — strong letters of recommendation, research experience, community engagement, leadership, and other documented strengths are all considered.
Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Applicants must also show completion of graduate-level statistics and research methods courses on their transcript. As with the MSCJ, the department takes a holistic approach to admissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
As the Director of Graduate Studies of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) program, Viviana Andreescu will be your academic advisor. Upon acceptance, all MS students will receive a program plan that should help them keep track of the courses they need to take to finish the program.
Master’s (MS) students at the University of Louisville must complete all degree requirements within six years of starting their program of study. However, if additional time is needed, students may request a leave of absence (no more than one year). Time spent on an approved leave of absence does not count toward this 6-year limit. Students should register at least for one course (one in spring and one during the fall semester) to maintain a good academic standing.
The primary point of contact for military, veteran, and graduate students at the University of Louisville is the Center for Military-Connected Students (CMCS), located in Brodschi Hall. CMCS staff may assist students with benefits, enrollment, and support services, and are reachable at 502-852-2482 or milconstu@louisville.edu. Ms. Kim Hendricks, the Director of Student Services in our department, can also assist MS students with course registration, if needed.
Application Deadlines
Questions?
Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) Contact Viviana Andreescu, Director of the Master of Science Program – viviana.andreescu@louisville.edu
Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice Contact Alex Widdowson, Director of the PhD Program – alex.widdowson@louisville.edu
Graduate School Admissions gradadm@louisville.edu | 502-852-6495
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Connect with our Graduate Directors to learn more about program requirements, the application process or to discuss research interests.